We don't care if Michael Flynn was talking to the Russians. We need to be friends with the Russians. They did the United States a huge favor by exposing the Truth about Hillary and her campaign staff. The entire country owes Russia a debt of gratitude for bringing the truth to the American people. It has gooten to the point that the Russian news reporting about what they find on U.S. politicians' servers is more credible than the spun news we see on CNN. Let's embrace the Russians and work with them to get all truth out of all the politicians e-mails, regardless of political party.
4
At this point I find it interesting that every media report I have seen accepts at face value the claim that Vice President Pence was left out of the loop and innocently appeared to deny the accusations against Flynn. Is it not more probable that Pence and the administration's closest circle of advisors knew that Flynn's denials were untrue but naively concluded that the truth would never come to light? The level of morality might be compared to a toddler who will tell you that they know something is wrong because you get in trouble if you get caught.
7
When Trump became president I predicted he would go down in history as one of the worst presidents in U.S. History. Now four weeks later, I realize how much I over-estimated him. He is totally incompetent as are those who surround him.
5
The American Body Politic is rejecting the Trump Administration like a transplanted organ. We can only hope a healthy replacement is found before the patient dies.
1
Watching the evening news right now, Trump blames Flynn's problems on "fake news". How about FAKE President!
2
This Presidential Apprentice gig is the ultimate CON. How long will it take for Donald to negotiate his severance package??? In cash. Tax-free.
2
Sunshine is the best disinfectant.
4
Trump does not know right from wrong. The only problem come up in being caught and having the deed exposed. Sort of like Sparta.
1
Was Flynn FIRED or did he RESIGN?
1
At some point, elected officials need to realization that party affiliation is not sole obligation to their constituents. Their vote and actions effect nationwide results. Bottom line: Making America Great'... means "country first". Following that logic..it's imperative for both the Congress and the Senate to use all their investigated powers to study the Russian connection between Trump's campaign; transition team: and current administration. What influence does Russia possess? As a citizen and tax payer....I would like to know.
1
Oh, and here I believed that it was a hysterical, frenzied, media attack inspired by Thomas Friedman, Chris Hayes, Rachael Maddow, and Desus & Mero.
Those scamps at Fox News confused me.
Those scamps at Fox News confused me.
3
The intelligence community must know that the White House has been compromised by Russia. No wonder there are leaks. Moles are in charge!
3
We are eagerly waiting for Trump's farewell salute from the entry to his private jet. We will look forward to not having Trump to kick around.
6
Trump knew about the Flynn conversation on December 29, the day President Obama demanded that 35 Russian "diplomats" leave the US within 48 hours.
Trump knew because he told Flynn to call Kislyak and send the message to Putin that the Trump administration would reverse any and all sanctions imposed upon Russia by the United States government.
This is an act of treason on the part of Trump.
Get to know Tomoya Kawakita, the last American convicted of treason against the United States, in 1952. We will be hearing more about him in the near future.
Trump knew because he told Flynn to call Kislyak and send the message to Putin that the Trump administration would reverse any and all sanctions imposed upon Russia by the United States government.
This is an act of treason on the part of Trump.
Get to know Tomoya Kawakita, the last American convicted of treason against the United States, in 1952. We will be hearing more about him in the near future.
4
"Woodslight is absolutely right on target! After months and months of ridiculing Mrs Clinton and other opponents, Democratic and Republican, for being incompetent, it turns out that Emperor Donald is the one not wearing any clothing.
Almost all of his choices for various lucrative positions are white, wealthy males. So much for his "swamp" reference. And what's most disheartening is that most of them seem to think that the only bad apple is Michael Flynn.
We're in BIG trouble.
Almost all of his choices for various lucrative positions are white, wealthy males. So much for his "swamp" reference. And what's most disheartening is that most of them seem to think that the only bad apple is Michael Flynn.
We're in BIG trouble.
5
Flynn is just a hapless Russian pawn. The administration, now in chaos, is loaded with them. Trump is the court fool and, ultimately, dispensable, as well.
A catastrophe of magnificent proportions -- which is to include our government, Congress and people -- are the true targets of the Russian puppet masters. Unleashing an inbalance and instability of an once-proud American nation is the final act.
A catastrophe of magnificent proportions -- which is to include our government, Congress and people -- are the true targets of the Russian puppet masters. Unleashing an inbalance and instability of an once-proud American nation is the final act.
6
I don't know if we will ever know if Flynn was acting on his own. Do I hear "Lock him up" from the Trump Crowd?
4
Trump is his own worst the enemy. Like Nixon, he lies! The leaks are needed because Trump and his advisers were willing to overlook Flynn's lies. The White House is dishonest. Trump is a pathological liar. The country is stuck with him.
4
What's wrong with seeking peace and prosperity?
Hmm - the Trump castigates the "illegal leaks" coming out of the intelligence community. The illegal leaks coming out of Giuliani and the New York FBI Office during the election .... not so much.
4
Thank goodness for the press and for the leaks. It seems it's the only way the public gets the truth! We certainly don't get it from the White House!
8
Anyone likely to see this now that it already has 1631 comments and a day old?
Anyway we were told that Trump demanded Flynn's resignation. He was in charge and Flynn had to go. For lying. To Trump and Pence. Flynn lost Trump's confidence.
It was reported in the Times "Instead, according to three people close to Mr. Trump, the president made the decision to cast aside Mr. Flynn in a flash, the catalyst being a news alert of a coming article about the matter.
“Yeah, it’s time,” Mr. Trump told one of his advisers.
BUT...
Now it seems that Flynn, according to today's Tweets Trump has full confidence in Flynn (except for the getting caught part) and that it wasn't his hand that fired Flynn, no, it was the leakers and the evil media that cause Flynn to resign.
Which is it?
Anyway we were told that Trump demanded Flynn's resignation. He was in charge and Flynn had to go. For lying. To Trump and Pence. Flynn lost Trump's confidence.
It was reported in the Times "Instead, according to three people close to Mr. Trump, the president made the decision to cast aside Mr. Flynn in a flash, the catalyst being a news alert of a coming article about the matter.
“Yeah, it’s time,” Mr. Trump told one of his advisers.
BUT...
Now it seems that Flynn, according to today's Tweets Trump has full confidence in Flynn (except for the getting caught part) and that it wasn't his hand that fired Flynn, no, it was the leakers and the evil media that cause Flynn to resign.
Which is it?
4
Any general, and that to the National Security Adviser, who compromises himself with the Russians, and makes himself vulnerable to be blackmailed and putting our country at risk, deserves no sympathy, but deserves the highest punishment possible. In his own words he should be locked up. Its also shameful that Mr. Trump is more bothered about his ties with Russia and his lovefest with Putin rather than being concerned with the security of this country, making one wonder what does Trump think.Trump needs to stop being the "Donald" and start being the President of this country.
3
Flynn felt perfectly comfortable lying because he is working with a team of people for whom lying is second nature, is accepted and never called into question. This fish sticks from the head down.
4
This starts and ends with Trump who is narcissistic and incompetent. Neither of which serves him well. Flynn's problems are not just with his Russia ties whether for the President or for himself TBD. Anyone who behaved as he did at the RNC and who pushes outlandish conspiracy theories is not fir for th any job in government let alone this one
4
Prior to the election in November and long before Flynn became immersed in the Trumpian mire there was ample proof that Trump is a Russian pawn:
The only thing Trump did about the GOP platform is insist on removing a plank that said the US should provide weapons to Ukraine.
He said he might not defend the Baltics if Russia invaded them.
Trump has also suggested that NATO should reorient itself from defending Europe against Russian aggression
Trump's foreign policy advisor on Russia and Europe, Carter Page, is a man whose entire professional career has revolved around investments in Russia
Trump has teamed up with Russian investors frequently on projects. Trump’s son, Donald Jr., bragged. “We see a lot of money pouring in from Russia.”
About Putin: “In all fairness to Putin, you’re saying he killed people. I haven’t seen that.” “At least he’s a leader.” And not just any old head of state: “I will tell you that, in terms of leadership, he’s getting an A.”
All these signs were plainly visible before Comey launched his artificial bolt of lightning at Hillary in a fierce attempt to reduce her chances of winning. Comey could have launched real bolts of destructive lightning at Trump, but chose to remain silent.
The only thing Trump did about the GOP platform is insist on removing a plank that said the US should provide weapons to Ukraine.
He said he might not defend the Baltics if Russia invaded them.
Trump has also suggested that NATO should reorient itself from defending Europe against Russian aggression
Trump's foreign policy advisor on Russia and Europe, Carter Page, is a man whose entire professional career has revolved around investments in Russia
Trump has teamed up with Russian investors frequently on projects. Trump’s son, Donald Jr., bragged. “We see a lot of money pouring in from Russia.”
About Putin: “In all fairness to Putin, you’re saying he killed people. I haven’t seen that.” “At least he’s a leader.” And not just any old head of state: “I will tell you that, in terms of leadership, he’s getting an A.”
All these signs were plainly visible before Comey launched his artificial bolt of lightning at Hillary in a fierce attempt to reduce her chances of winning. Comey could have launched real bolts of destructive lightning at Trump, but chose to remain silent.
6
If nothing else, Mr Trump is woeful as a public servant, thoroughly incompetent in this role for which he has no experience and preparation, and is in over his head.
Now is the time for this newspaper to demand Mr Trump's immediate submission of a letter of resignation, to avoid starting impeachment procedures, to save the country of even more complex malfeasance, incompetency, and skullduggery.
Now is the time for this newspaper to demand Mr Trump's immediate submission of a letter of resignation, to avoid starting impeachment procedures, to save the country of even more complex malfeasance, incompetency, and skullduggery.
1
No doubt someone has thought this already: Trump ASKED Flynn to call
the Russian ambassador. Flynn is "falling on his sword" but he probably
believed he was protected by Trump. How could a person of Flynn's background
in intelligence work not realize that his phone calls would be monitored or
knowing this, he believed his boss would protect him.
the Russian ambassador. Flynn is "falling on his sword" but he probably
believed he was protected by Trump. How could a person of Flynn's background
in intelligence work not realize that his phone calls would be monitored or
knowing this, he believed his boss would protect him.
2
So the White House lawyer, knowing that Flynn had talked to FBI agents and lied to them, said there was no legal problem.
I would get a new White House lawyer.
I would get a new White House lawyer.
2
Meanwhile the assistant AG gave them a heads up on Flynn and got kissed on both cheeks.
2
If you look at the timeline since nov 8, it was first recount, then hamilton electors, then not letting the electoral votes count, finally Russia
Here we are - supplanting out our religious fervor for political fervor. I cannot understand the strong desire to support politics over people, or a republican machine that has been hood-winked by an interloper that has legions of surrogates proselytizing his 'word'. I have always had a great respect for both parties - but what is this? And I agree with those saying that Flynn's departure will do nothing! This has gone to far and the only ones that can truly fix this will be the Republicans - but get some spine! You are not going to lose anything if you stand up for those of us that have lost their voice.
3
Time to investigate Mr. white supremacist Bannon. Birds of a feather flock together!
2
There is nothing new here. Just another opportunity to blast away at Putin's alleged efforts to unleash right wing bozos on the west.
You are a voice in the wilderness.
If Flynn was forced to resign because of lying, can we expect Spicer, Conway, Bannon, Miller and Trump to follow behind him?
12
Trump knew (for at least 2 weeks) that Flynn lied, but failed to inform his VP, leaving Pence (and his public affirmations of Flynn) hung-out to dry. Might Pence feel that his "trust" in Trump has been "eroded" ! Y' think?
8
"Trump is no Nixon: He doesn’t possess the brains, the discipline, the decades of experience of political and governmental combat, or the laser-focused Machiavellian cunning to sustain a Watergate-style cover-up. By the standards of our impeachment-worthy presidents, Trump is a rank amateur."
--- Frank Rich
NY Magazine
--- Frank Rich
NY Magazine
13
There is no eroding level of trust here, unless it is trust that Flynn could successfully cover-up the interaction with Russia. There is no reason to believe that Trump was not fully aware of everything. There is every reason to believe Trump directed what was going on. Trump needs Flynn not to talk, so he will avoid insulting him. Trump's biggest fear is that Flynn will be given immunity, and therefore will be forced to testify to everything he knows.
The game of supporting a staff member 100% one day and firing them the next, will be familiar to anyone old enough to remember Watergate. The Nixon White House handled it like this 1) President announces full support of staff member. Attacks media, 2) Rumors leak of staff member being interviewed by Senate Watergate Committee President attacks media. 3) Staff member retains separate counsel. WH goes silent. Person (like John Mitchell) is left to hang "slowly in the wind." 4) Staff member is fired. In the case of Erlichman and Halderman President says they are the finest public servants etc. 6) staff member testifies to Watergate Committee and is indicted.
Ah memories.
The game of supporting a staff member 100% one day and firing them the next, will be familiar to anyone old enough to remember Watergate. The Nixon White House handled it like this 1) President announces full support of staff member. Attacks media, 2) Rumors leak of staff member being interviewed by Senate Watergate Committee President attacks media. 3) Staff member retains separate counsel. WH goes silent. Person (like John Mitchell) is left to hang "slowly in the wind." 4) Staff member is fired. In the case of Erlichman and Halderman President says they are the finest public servants etc. 6) staff member testifies to Watergate Committee and is indicted.
Ah memories.
4
It's not a stretch to suggest that the Russians are experts at espionage and have been for 50 years. And their collective, national ego has been utterly humiliated by scandal and disgrace in recent years, from the collapse of the USSR to Olympic doping scandals. They're looking for a fight, a very real and serious fight in a sick effort to reclaim what was always sick. Putin's having rained down missiles on Chechnya years ago is not going to satisfy him now. And the trump administration is, at best, utterly incompetent at everything and, at worst, is actually trying to destroy this country. Trump is a tool and a Russian puppet and all the world sees it. He and his administration have no credibility whatsoever with anyone. And forget the tax return issues as the Russians are far too clever to have left a bright trail straight to their enrichment of trump. They have paid him in much more clandestine fashion.
6
I believe in karma. Flynn showed his true colors many times during the election cycle in a manner not befitting a man chosen for his position. He has shown who he is since being appointed and now good reporting and facts, yes facts, have shown what has happened and who he really is. It is a sad story of a downfall based on paranoia, disloyalty to his country and greed.
I do not believe he lied to Trump. I believe Trump knew these things and that ultimately the truth will come out.
Trump can twitter all he wants about intelligence leaks and fake news but if he wants to save what's left of his presidency he had better come clean with the American people.
If only we could hold the election again. I'm sure there is buyers' remorse among Trump supporters. The rest of us who didn't support him knew that most of what was flung at Clinton was projection and reflects the true nature of Trump and his team to win at any cost, including it looks like breaking laws and colluding with a foreign power.
Bigly sad, SAD.
I do not believe he lied to Trump. I believe Trump knew these things and that ultimately the truth will come out.
Trump can twitter all he wants about intelligence leaks and fake news but if he wants to save what's left of his presidency he had better come clean with the American people.
If only we could hold the election again. I'm sure there is buyers' remorse among Trump supporters. The rest of us who didn't support him knew that most of what was flung at Clinton was projection and reflects the true nature of Trump and his team to win at any cost, including it looks like breaking laws and colluding with a foreign power.
Bigly sad, SAD.
10
"When a reporter on Air Force One heading to Florida on Friday asked him about The Post’s report, Mr. Trump said he had not read it. “I don’t know about that,” he said. “I haven’t seen it.”
I've heard this a few times - that Trumps comments were simply in reference to having not seen the WaPo article. However, watching the actual interview, he isn't referring to the specific WaPo report, he's referring to reports about Flynn/sanctions in general. That would seem to be a clear falsehood on his part. To say he's simply referring to WaPo diminishes this.
Here's a link to the video and a transcription of the relevant conversation. http://www.mediaite.com/online/i-dont-know-about-it-trump-says-hes-unawa...
Reporter 1: "What do you think of reports that Gen. Flynn had conversations with the Russians about sanctions before you were sworn in?"
POTUS: "I don't know about it, I haven't seen it... What report is that"
Reporter 1: "uhhh there are a number of them..."
Reporter 2: "Washington Post is reporting that he talked to the ambassador from Russia before you were inaugurated about sanctions..."
POTUS: "I haven't seen that, I'll look into it"
I've heard this a few times - that Trumps comments were simply in reference to having not seen the WaPo article. However, watching the actual interview, he isn't referring to the specific WaPo report, he's referring to reports about Flynn/sanctions in general. That would seem to be a clear falsehood on his part. To say he's simply referring to WaPo diminishes this.
Here's a link to the video and a transcription of the relevant conversation. http://www.mediaite.com/online/i-dont-know-about-it-trump-says-hes-unawa...
Reporter 1: "What do you think of reports that Gen. Flynn had conversations with the Russians about sanctions before you were sworn in?"
POTUS: "I don't know about it, I haven't seen it... What report is that"
Reporter 1: "uhhh there are a number of them..."
Reporter 2: "Washington Post is reporting that he talked to the ambassador from Russia before you were inaugurated about sanctions..."
POTUS: "I haven't seen that, I'll look into it"
6
Providing aid and comfort to our enemies might also have had something to do with Flynn's dismissal; along with taking money from them.
Officials appointed to positions in the White House -- call them "Executive Branch officers" -- first take an oath to defend the United States from all enemies foreign and domestic. It's the first thing they do. They can't work there unless they do. Yet none of them seem to equate working behind our backs to help Russia execute strategic designs aimed to destroy the NATO Alliance with betrayal and treason -- precisely what it is; including the President of the United States himself.
Confronted by this situation I think I know how George Washington would have reacted, what he would have done. Anyone care to guess?
Officials appointed to positions in the White House -- call them "Executive Branch officers" -- first take an oath to defend the United States from all enemies foreign and domestic. It's the first thing they do. They can't work there unless they do. Yet none of them seem to equate working behind our backs to help Russia execute strategic designs aimed to destroy the NATO Alliance with betrayal and treason -- precisely what it is; including the President of the United States himself.
Confronted by this situation I think I know how George Washington would have reacted, what he would have done. Anyone care to guess?
1
Flynn got taken down in a failed bid by Republicans to cover over their dereliction of duty in guarding the security of our country. This will not stop here. As with Watergate, the rot extends from the top down. We need to prune it off so the plant of democratic government does not die on our watch.
6
My favorite line from all the TV news coverage yesterday came from BBC's Katty Kay.
After discussing the ousting of Michael Flynn, she reported on the North Korean government's poisoning Kim Jong Un's half brother. She wrapped up that story by saying, "Well, I guess General Flynn got off easy."
After discussing the ousting of Michael Flynn, she reported on the North Korean government's poisoning Kim Jong Un's half brother. She wrapped up that story by saying, "Well, I guess General Flynn got off easy."
6
If Flynn lost the trust of Trump because Flynn misled Pence about Flynn-Kislyak call, how does that square with Trump withholding the truth from Pence for 2 weeks? Didn't Trump withhold the same information from Pence that Flynn did?
3
The gushing waters at the dam in Oroville, California are nothing compared to the leaks about to burst from the White House!
2
In all the coverage of Flynn's downfall, I'm not seeing anyone raise the question of how or why Flynn didn't know, given his security background and job title, that the Russian he was talking to was being wire-tapped. This makes his lies over a period of about three weeks--and Trump's inaction--all the more mystifying. Am I missing something?
2
I have experienced a severe erosion of trust for the entire Trump administration.
2
Eroding level of trust? HaHaHaHa. That's a good one. It was stupid to appoint General Michael T. Flynn in the first place. President Trump doesn't have egg on his face, he has the whole hen house there, including the droppings. I can't wait for Sen. McCain to start his hearings.
1
What did he know and when did he know it? Nixon's resignation left the Presidency to Gerald Ford. A recognizable nation survived. Consider the current line of succession: Mike Pence, Paul Ryan, Orin Hatch, Rex Tillerson, James Mattis, Jefferson Beauregard Sessions III, and so forth, and so forth. Be careful what you wish for.
2
Yes, it's important to find the sources of the leaks. But thank God for them; it's the only way we're finding out about these wrongdoings.
We cannot rely on the President to fire one of his staff immediately once he found about coordination that's been occurring with the Russians and the lies that staffer was making. Trump knew about this for weeks and did nothing, forcing his staff to continue defending defenseless behavior by Flynn.
And talk about leaks. As Wilfred Brimley noted in Absence of Malice, "You had a leak? You call what's goin' on around here a leak? Boy, the last time there was a leak like this, Noah built hisself a boat."
We cannot rely on the President to fire one of his staff immediately once he found about coordination that's been occurring with the Russians and the lies that staffer was making. Trump knew about this for weeks and did nothing, forcing his staff to continue defending defenseless behavior by Flynn.
And talk about leaks. As Wilfred Brimley noted in Absence of Malice, "You had a leak? You call what's goin' on around here a leak? Boy, the last time there was a leak like this, Noah built hisself a boat."
3
Funny how leaks were not a good thing when it came to DNC corruption and the selling out of Bernie Sanders. The argument could be made that all of this is just more rotten fruit from the poison tree that Hitlery, Wasserman-Shultz, and the puss-filled DNC planted.
I wonder how Steve Bannon's top security clearance is coming? For that matter, what if NO ONE at the White House passes?
3
I wonder if Putin has Trump's tax returns. It would explain a lot.
This is just the tip of the iceberg.
Do not believe for one second Pence knew nothing about this.
What VP doesn't know what is going on with his party and administration??, not to mention Trump. They all know. it's a plan in the making.....Flynn got caught.
Do not believe for one second Pence knew nothing about this.
What VP doesn't know what is going on with his party and administration??, not to mention Trump. They all know. it's a plan in the making.....Flynn got caught.
1
Flynn wasn't fired (excuse me: allowed to resign) for talking about sanctions with Russia. He was fired because he lied. Talking about sanctions with the Russian ambassador may (or may not -- I haven't seen a transcript of the conversation) have violated a federal law, and Flynn should be prosecuted if he did.
But the fact remains that that's not why Flynn was fired. He was fired because he lied.
But the fact remains that that's not why Flynn was fired. He was fired because he lied.
2
Is there an implication on "the eroding level of trust" between the American public and the trump WH?
1
Flynn’s Downfall Sprang From ‘Eroding Level of Trust’
[ No, the problem stems from Mr. Flynn being unable to exercise proper and necessary restraint. At the least, Flynn should have had explicit instructions from Mr. Trump. ]
[ No, the problem stems from Mr. Flynn being unable to exercise proper and necessary restraint. At the least, Flynn should have had explicit instructions from Mr. Trump. ]
Nancy I am sure Flynn did have explicit instructions from Trump, that is why he did it. He is the one who got caught, but they were all in on it. Wonder what else we are missing?
Let's not forget: Flynn was not long ago reposting Tweets about a pizza parlor in Washington running a child sex ring related to Hillary Clinton. In the end someone went to that place with an assault type rifle and fired a round.
Was Flynn crazy enough to believe the stories or simply evil enough to pass them along for his own purposes?
How did someone with this lack of common morals become our national security advisor. We know what kind of man Flynn is (was?). But what kind of nation is the USA becoming?
Was Flynn crazy enough to believe the stories or simply evil enough to pass them along for his own purposes?
How did someone with this lack of common morals become our national security advisor. We know what kind of man Flynn is (was?). But what kind of nation is the USA becoming?
15
Flynn' son was behind the pizza gate and he helped and supported him.
3
Who recommended Flynn to Trump? Prior to his presidential appointment,
Who recommended Flynn to the president for national security advisor?
Flynn had a reputation of lying prior to his appointment. The people he worked with called many of his pronouncements "Flynn Facts." It is important to know who put Flynn's name forward because that person still represents a malignant force in the White House.
Who recommended Flynn to the president for national security advisor?
Flynn had a reputation of lying prior to his appointment. The people he worked with called many of his pronouncements "Flynn Facts." It is important to know who put Flynn's name forward because that person still represents a malignant force in the White House.
10
I think this is the cue for the floodgates...let the leaks commence!
8
National Security Advisor was simply an empty title, to reward an early supporter.
All one has to do to get all the facts about Russian involvement in the 2016 election is to read a book published before the election, "The Plot to Hack America," by former U.S. Naval intelligence officer, Malcolm Nance. It is chilling. What I am observing via the Trump administration now is playing out right before my eyes, all predicted by Malcolm Nance. Everything is making perfectly good sense. Doesn't mean I like the fact that Nance got everything right; it just means he did. Why wasn't anyone listening to him? I did see him on several news shows--MSNBC, CNN and heard him on public radio several times prior to the election. He told the truth. Why didn't anyone pay attention?
8
" Jared Kushner, the president’s son-in-law and senior adviser, had expressed concern about Mr. Flynn’s appointment even before the inauguration, according to another person briefed on the discussions."
Did I read it correctly, that a young NY real estate developer with no experience in national security or foreign affairs is influencing the hiring and firing in that arena?
We're down Alice's rabbit hole.
Did I read it correctly, that a young NY real estate developer with no experience in national security or foreign affairs is influencing the hiring and firing in that arena?
We're down Alice's rabbit hole.
7
Trump and the alt-right media screaming about leaks - what a joke! They were perfectly happy to exploit the stolen info from DNC and John Podesta, and create dark insinuations about Clinton. Now what is a patriot to do? You have informed the President that his National Security Advisor discussed sanctions and has lied about it to the mainstream Republican establishment (Pence, Priebus). The President doesn't inform his mainstream Republican people, who can continue to address any questions about it in a more misleading fashion. He doesn't engage in any internal investigation, and it appears as though he is doing nothing. So Trump is then informed that the Russians know that Flynn is lying to Pence and everyone else, and could be blackmailed. This doesn't seem to matter to the President either. He is still sitting, and doing nothing about a National Security Advisor who could be blackmailed (and who was also paid by Russians to give speeches). So if you are a patriot and you care, you leak! How effective was that ... that guy is out of here! But he can now meet with the Russians as often as he wants, and Trump can still consult with him!
6
It is remarkable how the Republican Party continues to shift blame and the burden of proof falls squarely in the hands of Democrats and media, rather than the criminal now occupying the oval office, or his fellow-travelers in Congress.
Just this morning, a CNN reporter, in a conversation with Robby Mook, alluded to the idea that Hillary Clinton had lost this election because she ran a poor campaign, and that the possibility of the Trump campaign's conversations with Russian intelligence officers throughout 2016 might just have been "benign" conversations.
The dominant paradigm of Hillary haters without evidence of "scandal", and Trump supporters lying in the manure of actual scandals, remains alive and well and seeming without end. The rationalizations are grotesque.
Republicans have demonstrated that they cannot tell the truth, and they surely cannot govern, even though their gerrymandered districts offer little to lose, deciding instead to stand by a sex-offending, Putin-loving, disgraceful miscreant obsessed with himself, because he will help to advance their wicked agenda against the poor, against women and children, and against the environment.
Sad.
Just this morning, a CNN reporter, in a conversation with Robby Mook, alluded to the idea that Hillary Clinton had lost this election because she ran a poor campaign, and that the possibility of the Trump campaign's conversations with Russian intelligence officers throughout 2016 might just have been "benign" conversations.
The dominant paradigm of Hillary haters without evidence of "scandal", and Trump supporters lying in the manure of actual scandals, remains alive and well and seeming without end. The rationalizations are grotesque.
Republicans have demonstrated that they cannot tell the truth, and they surely cannot govern, even though their gerrymandered districts offer little to lose, deciding instead to stand by a sex-offending, Putin-loving, disgraceful miscreant obsessed with himself, because he will help to advance their wicked agenda against the poor, against women and children, and against the environment.
Sad.
10
Now we clearly see that FBI Comey had all this intercepted calls information When He Decided to Release his Clinton Letter Days Before the Election!
We have a certifiable ILLEGITIMATE president!!!
And what to now do with Comey?
We have a certifiable ILLEGITIMATE president!!!
And what to now do with Comey?
9
Comeys job seems safe, for now.
This Trump's train wreck is hitting the concrete wall any time now. There is nothing moral, nothing truthful, nothing of subsetance coming out of there. all utter chaos!
Thenk you American conservatives. It is all on your total lack of personal responsibility.
Thenk you American conservatives. It is all on your total lack of personal responsibility.
3
Gee, "eroding level of trust" pretty much sums up my attitude towards Trump and his "so called" administration. Let's hope that he follows in the footsteps of his disgraced national security advisor.
1
In my eyes the NY Times has lost all credibility as a reputable news reporting organization. I'm spending more and more of my time at the Wall Street Journal. Your general reporting on Trump is extremely biased......as was your reporting on Obama who could do no wrong. Sad to see the non-stop character assignation of our President on a daily basis with little facts to speak of. Most of the comments below show a startling amount of anger, ignorance and partisanship in it's tone and demeanor.
1
That's a good idea. Go read Murdoch propaganda. You won't learn anything about actual news, but you'll feel much better even as we get into another war and another recession.
1
I'm more curious about how you interpret the Flynn issue as reported by ALL media outlets. What set of facts do you feel are misrepresented in this case ? Are you unhappy about Flynn's actions, duplicity , his resignation or the actions and timing of others in the administration? I would like you to add balance but I'm just hearing a "liberal bias " diatribe and not a factual rebuttal which I'd welcome.
1
Don't look to the Journal to support trump
I have an eroding level of trust in our so called president.
I am asking for his resignation.
I am asking for his resignation.
5
These phrases, "...not entirely forthcoming..." and "The evolving and eroding level of trust ..." are puzzling. I know what they mean, but coming from THIS administration?
No need to say more.
No need to say more.
1
I think everyone involved is at some point lying None of trumps minions can be trusted and I think it goes to the very top. If the president didn't know he should have. Guilty to me.
2
The negative spin and outright hate for President Trump continues daily. The press and media, totally controlled by liberals and 95% opposed to Trump; cannot accept their defeat. They will do anything in their power to destroy him. Hollywood has been enlisted to help, and comedians to poke fun at him, not in a good-hearted way, but outright hate. Democratic operatives and moles in all government agencies are feeding the press secret information (and the Times is openly asking for this) in the hopes that any tidbit can be blown up to embarrass him. This is the shameful state of affairs that exists now. we don't have a free press but political operatives managing news.
2
Oohhh, poor little Trump. So sad. All he wanted to do was spew lies, hate speech and bigotry while enriching himself and his family and destroying our democracy and everyone is mean to him and makes fun of him.
1
Excuse me bill t, every time Trump opens his mouth he reinforces his ignorance, hate and lack of knowledge. He has created this on his own.
Evidently during his campaigning you weren't listening to all of his insults and lies and attacks on everyone. Now because of people like you......we have to live with it.
Evidently during his campaigning you weren't listening to all of his insults and lies and attacks on everyone. Now because of people like you......we have to live with it.
1
What did President Trump know and when did he know it?
Next thing you know, Trump will blame Flynn's phone call with the Russian Ambassador on the Clintons, the media and the "sore losers" who backed Hillary.
Next thing you know, Trump will blame Flynn's phone call with the Russian Ambassador on the Clintons, the media and the "sore losers" who backed Hillary.
4
America is a Legal State not a Moral State. The problem is that at the same time the state requires proof of wrong doing.
It is for this reason that those aspiring to dollar-power become politicians and start climbing the ladder of their chosen Political-Machine (Democratic or Republican). The alternative route is to become a business-man and aspiring to become a Walgreen (read about Walgreen and and prohibition) .
The nimble politicians and businessmen owe their success to bypassing the law. If they get caught they HIRE SMART attorneys and where necessary declare bankruptcies (read about Trump and his many bankruptcies).
Problems are unlikely to disappear from the American scene, for without a Moral Compass, while the Legality of an act may be determinable the raison-d'eter of the law itself is the WILL OF THE PEOPLE. And if Bad dudes start framing the law, God help us all.
It is for this reason that those aspiring to dollar-power become politicians and start climbing the ladder of their chosen Political-Machine (Democratic or Republican). The alternative route is to become a business-man and aspiring to become a Walgreen (read about Walgreen and and prohibition) .
The nimble politicians and businessmen owe their success to bypassing the law. If they get caught they HIRE SMART attorneys and where necessary declare bankruptcies (read about Trump and his many bankruptcies).
Problems are unlikely to disappear from the American scene, for without a Moral Compass, while the Legality of an act may be determinable the raison-d'eter of the law itself is the WILL OF THE PEOPLE. And if Bad dudes start framing the law, God help us all.
1
On the one hand, Flynn acted stupidly and then lied about it.
Certainly grounds to be gone.
On the other hand, whoever leaked the existence - much less the transcript - of the conversation with the Russian ambassador is a traitor.
Exposing "sources and methods" is treason.
The deep state is now reminding Trump (and his "yahoo" voters) who ACTUALLY runs this country and it's NOT the people nor their elected officials.
It's the embedded bureaucracy - fat and happy - who are our real rulers.
Certainly grounds to be gone.
On the other hand, whoever leaked the existence - much less the transcript - of the conversation with the Russian ambassador is a traitor.
Exposing "sources and methods" is treason.
The deep state is now reminding Trump (and his "yahoo" voters) who ACTUALLY runs this country and it's NOT the people nor their elected officials.
It's the embedded bureaucracy - fat and happy - who are our real rulers.
1
Thank goodness, of those voting, a majority did not vote for this mess.
3
Michael Flynn's actions border on treason, in my opinion, but they are symptoms of a deep-seated infection eroding the very fiber of our govrrnment. Donald Trump opened a Pandora's Box wigb his immorality, lack of ethics, and daring to take over the reins of government despite his overall ignorance of anything besides real estate. He empowered every lowlife in this country to rear their ugly heads and create a state of utter chaos. My puppy knows not to trust the Russians and Putin, yet this president seems to revere the totalitarian approach and is in the process of making it his own. Alternative facts. Russian interference in our electoral process. A cabinet possibility discussing policy with Russian operatives before he was legally authorized to do so. Attacking opposition with tweets late at night. What kind of garbage is this. Flynn's ouster should be just the beginning. The president and all the president's men and women must go.
5
There should be open collaboration between nationalist governments around the world. To call this "collusion" demonstrates a fear of Russia on the American left.
That aside, Flynn has a questionable past with the leftist party, and an ugly history of egalitarian beliefs. His resignation should be taken as an opportunity for Trump to replace him with someone more sensible.
Trump also made a mistake in meeting with Trudeau, whose beliefs make him an illegitimate leader. He should have been snubbed until someone on the right comes into power in Canada, but that's a different story.
That aside, Flynn has a questionable past with the leftist party, and an ugly history of egalitarian beliefs. His resignation should be taken as an opportunity for Trump to replace him with someone more sensible.
Trump also made a mistake in meeting with Trudeau, whose beliefs make him an illegitimate leader. He should have been snubbed until someone on the right comes into power in Canada, but that's a different story.
How can we trust a president or administration that lies repeatedly, straight into the camera? Conway, Spicer, Miller, Trump himself: all constantly repeating bold-faced lies. His National Security Advisor lied. That is basically all they do. But Trump knew. Of course he knew. And he didn't mind at all. It's their playbook.
And so the big news is he got caught? Are you kidding me?! They're all constantly caught! By everyeone! Even Fox News!
And so the big news is he got caught? Are you kidding me?! They're all constantly caught! By everyeone! Even Fox News!
3
If this is true, Congress must immediate enact the 25th Amendment, Article 4, and replace Donald Trump. They should then immediately move to impeach and imprison him. This man is traitorous and a danger to this country - he cannot be allowed to hold the office of President any longer.
2
Looks like Flynn should have been subjected to the same vetting that the Syrian refugees are.
3
Pence knew, Trump knew. The idea that Flynn lied to Pence is laughable. Trump's admin is corrupt from top to bottom.
4
Recently the Economist published an article which started with a Russian story about a woman with young children going through the forest on a snow sledge. Attacked by hungry wolves, in desperation she started throwing her children (one at a time) to the wolves.
Something akin to the fable seems to have started with the Trumpian Administration. They are all rotten, and in order to himself escape the inevitable, Mr Trump will try to save himself by sacrificing each one of his FOLLOWERS. I used the word #inevitable# advisedly, for I do not know where he will be the last man standing or the last man to get pushed out, a la Nixon.
Something akin to the fable seems to have started with the Trumpian Administration. They are all rotten, and in order to himself escape the inevitable, Mr Trump will try to save himself by sacrificing each one of his FOLLOWERS. I used the word #inevitable# advisedly, for I do not know where he will be the last man standing or the last man to get pushed out, a la Nixon.
2
Time to Impeach Trump, seize all Trump assets, pull the passports from the kids and get out the bright lights to see what is what and how deep and width this canal of lies, filth and traitorous activity goes. PERIOD!
3
Oh, the irony. A White House that never tells the truth removes Flynn due to erosion of "trust". Sean Spicer, please provide us with your definition of truth and trust so we can understand why "trust" was the deciding factor in Flynn's dismissal.
I really think the Alternative Facts game book needs to be revised to help Spicer and team figure out how to play this in the next few days.
I really think the Alternative Facts game book needs to be revised to help Spicer and team figure out how to play this in the next few days.
2
Eroding level of trust? Nonsense. Eroding level of not getting caught is what this is about. So, Flynn falls on his sword......fine. But, you have to believe that Mexico will be happy to pay for the Wall in order to believe that Trump was not involved in any and all contact with Russian authorities from day one.
Did he resign because he did something wrong? or because he was caught?
2
Flynn did not contact the Russians for his own fun & enjoyment.
Trump is the bigger fish to fry here. Time for the spineless GOP Congress to step up & show they are not as corrupt.
Trump is the bigger fish to fry here. Time for the spineless GOP Congress to step up & show they are not as corrupt.
4
Please, let's get real. The web had become so tangled that they couldn't hide it anymore. Over and done. This is not our country. We need to take it back from Trump and his cronies, as well as the Republican Party that has shielded him, and undoubtedly, will do everything within its power to sweep it all under the rug.
2
Meanwhile over at Breitbart the real criminals are the ones who leaked the Flynn calls.
1
Dennis--Nah--it was people who still have tiny remnants of their consciences left, even after the evil inculcation of the trump crime gang. The leaks are inside the WH. Thank goodness. This is one of the ways we will find out about the rest of it.
3
It had nothing to do with trust, the downfall came because of a Washington Post report.
1
John McCain needs to step up. He can reclaim the mantle of ethical, responsible Republican by insisting that Congress fully, thoroughly and in a non-partisan way investigate what happened. If he does that, he will go down in history as a true hero for his entire career and not as someone who sold out after he lost the Presidency. McCain was reelected by a wide margin and won't be running for reelection for another six years so he doesn't have to worry about any immediate negative fallout. He's got nothing to lose and everything to gain. Will he rise to the occasion? A nation waits to find out.
3
I agree. This is McCain's last chance to go down in history as someone who put the interests of his country first and did the right thing.
1
Having contacted Sen Mc Cain's office on numerous occasions, you can ALWAYS count on him to vote in lock step with the republiCON party. He had an excellent chance to vote against one of the most incompetent people in trump's cabinet, Ms DuVos but he AND Jeff Flake voted for her. Something always pulls him back into the fold of Mitch McConnell, et al. I do not believe he will do anything to bring down these criminals now occupying the White House.
After all, we still need to remember he gave us someone even dumber, Sarah Palin. Yes, one day in the past there was hope for both McCain and Flake. No more, they are locked in boot step with the fascists of the republiCON party.
After all, we still need to remember he gave us someone even dumber, Sarah Palin. Yes, one day in the past there was hope for both McCain and Flake. No more, they are locked in boot step with the fascists of the republiCON party.
Dear trump organized crime gang: Americans don't trust ANY of you. The same kinds of people tend to hang around together. These are ALL self-servers, liars, cheaters, ideologues, DEMAGOGUES. People who want to get rich quick, and Republicans are willing to help them do it. Congress is painted with the same brush. Liars, cheaters, self-servers. RESIST!
5
"Eroding Level of Trust" seems like an oxymoron coming from an administration built on lies, deceit and fakeness.
4
Hmmm, I wonder how VP Mike Pence feels about trust issues with the current administration. His boss didn't seem it was necessary to tell him for several weeks that Flynn had talked to the Russians about sanctions. I'm sure that he has nothing but respect for his president.....even though he was allowed to go in front of the American people and lie to them on Flynn's behalf. Care to comment, Mr. President?
2
what are the chances Mr. Pence, a fine upstanding Christian (first) gent, will resign over the treatment he's been subjected to? would you? or, does he have and endgame in mind, his chance to remake America into a kind of Christian Iran?
inquiring minds want to know.
inquiring minds want to know.
2
"You [news media] guys proved your tenacity in not letting up on the story of Hillary's emails for well over a year. Please do the same for this REAL issue..."
Hillary's emails WERE a big deal. I agree, and always have agreed, that Hillary had no bad intentions and sincerely believed that her use of a private server was not a big deal. That's why I agreed she shouldn't have been prosecuted.
But that doesn't change the fact that it WAS a big deal. Would you feel the same about if, for example, your wife or husband were an agent planted by the US State Department in, say, Minsk, and you learned that emails sent and received by the US Secretary of State (Hillary Clinton) might have been hacked by, say, Russia? What if, for example, Hillary had been emailing back and forth with some aide concerning some issue involving Belarus, and one of them asked the other whether their "friend" in that "large Belarus city" had offered any information on the issue? Probably needless to say, the Russians would promptly start looking, or start looking harder, for that "friend" if they intercepted such an email. If that "friend" were your family member, would you still feel Hillary's sending and receiving 100% of her official emails over a private server was "no big deal?"
Hillary's emails WERE a big deal. I agree, and always have agreed, that Hillary had no bad intentions and sincerely believed that her use of a private server was not a big deal. That's why I agreed she shouldn't have been prosecuted.
But that doesn't change the fact that it WAS a big deal. Would you feel the same about if, for example, your wife or husband were an agent planted by the US State Department in, say, Minsk, and you learned that emails sent and received by the US Secretary of State (Hillary Clinton) might have been hacked by, say, Russia? What if, for example, Hillary had been emailing back and forth with some aide concerning some issue involving Belarus, and one of them asked the other whether their "friend" in that "large Belarus city" had offered any information on the issue? Probably needless to say, the Russians would promptly start looking, or start looking harder, for that "friend" if they intercepted such an email. If that "friend" were your family member, would you still feel Hillary's sending and receiving 100% of her official emails over a private server was "no big deal?"
2
At the end of the day, all roads lead back to DT's taxes. THOSE are the smoking guns. He'll probably fight heaven and earth not to release them, but all of this sound and fury will mostly come to naught until investigators gain access to those records. As things stand now, presumed facts can only be categorized as "hearsay", "supposition", or "allegations" and must dodge a constant barrage of disinformation and "alternative facts".
10
I am amazed that no none in the IRS has leaked them.
4
I have no doubt but that Trump was in on the scheme from the get go. Perhaps Flynn boasted about his contacts and the possibilities they offered. However, it seems undeniable to me that had Flynn pulled off the deal Trump would have touted it as a proud accomplishment that Obama failed at. General Flynn has to fall on his sword to protect even those who have failed to cover his back. As his commander-in-chief would say (and has no doubt said) "sad".
6
We've learned that "alternative facts" is Newspeak for "lies", so I'm guessing "eroding level of trust" is the current euphemism for "treason".
15
Seeing as all "alternative facts" spring directly from the White House (remember the "Bowling Green Massacre"??) -- I'm guessing "eroding level of trust" actually means "let him take the fall.....Next".
3
General Michael Flynn is a decorated war hero and a patriot. He wants better relations with Russia in order to settle the endless Middle Eastern conflicts, especially Syria, keep Iran nuclear free, and curb China's truly global ambitions. Flynn has opposed these endless invasions of Iraq and Afghanistan at the huge cost in American lives and treasure, as well as deaths and destruction to the local population. He also recognizes that the United States cannot continue forever to be the world's policeman/mercenary for special interests and foreign powers and we must drastically curtail military spending and foreign involvement. This honest opposition to their crimes makes him poison to the neo cons and military contractors who want endless wars and massive spending on unneeded weapons that will eventually bankrupt this great nation if not drastically curtailed. The Establishment is going to try and make an example out of Flynn by pillorying and persecuting him in the hopes that any other military brass who are true patriots and loyalists will be deterred from taking similar stands in the future. This whole thing is nothing but a vicious vendetta. This is so reminiscent of the Communist witch hunts in the 1950s that caused innocent people to lose their jobs, wrecked their careers, and ruined them financially. It is outrageous that the White Collar Mafia of the 0.1% can apparently get away with such persecution of a noble warrior trying to serve his nation's true best interests.
1
Trump is quickly finding out the President's job is a little more serious than agonizing over whether to fire Meat Loaf or Carrot Top. He solved that problem by firing Geraldo.
6
The Court of Star Chamber, and a Tudor-style sentencing is due for this level of disgrace against Her Majesty Lady Liberty....For ALL parties involved, that's for sure and certain.
1
Why didn't they trust him anymore? Because he lied. Why did he lie? Because he was covering up his discussions with the Russian Ambassador about sanctions. Why was he talking about sanctions? Just out of the blue? Highly unlikely!
4
A Russian spy as Trump's National Security Advisor?
Lock him up ! ! !
Lock him up ! ! !
6
Is Donald Trump a Russian plant?
7
Mr. Spicer,, It is a legal issue. It is treason.
4
The White House counsel talks to Flynn and concludes nothing illegal happened....before Flynn recants his untruthful story. So much for the basis for that conclusion. Trump sends Conway out to tell the world he has full confidence in Conway, ours before demanding Flynn's resignation. Is she a dupe, a pawn or the vice liar-in-chief (Trump being the chief, inasmuch as he sent her out for that purpose while reportedly already looking for Flynn's replacement)? Trump knows about Flynn - courtesy of FBI and Justice Department- but supposedly doesn't tell Pence for nearly 2 weeks. If true, what kind of "close" working relationship is that? If not true, an additional question must be "what did Pence know and when did he know it"? Contrary to the position of some commenters, this story is far from over.
6
"Asked if Mr. Trump had instructed Mr. Flynn to talk about sanctions with Mr. Kislyak, Mr. Spicer said, “No, absolutely not.” "
So Spicer said that Trump didn't instruct Flynn.
Has anybody seen whether Trump has actually said he did not instruct Flynn? Or is he leaving Spicer to do the talking?
This could become important. If Trump DID instruct Flynn and said he didn't, then we start to see the makings of an impeachment proceeding.
On the other hand, if Spicer said it and Trump didn't, then it will be hard to make a case that Trump lied.
I wonder how slippery this ... creature ... is going to prove to be.
So Spicer said that Trump didn't instruct Flynn.
Has anybody seen whether Trump has actually said he did not instruct Flynn? Or is he leaving Spicer to do the talking?
This could become important. If Trump DID instruct Flynn and said he didn't, then we start to see the makings of an impeachment proceeding.
On the other hand, if Spicer said it and Trump didn't, then it will be hard to make a case that Trump lied.
I wonder how slippery this ... creature ... is going to prove to be.
3
The question still remaining in all of this, is why was Michael Flynn kept onboard for the amount of time that he was -- given the deep suspicions around his activities, and all the while knowing he posed a national security risk?
It sounds like this White House seriously needs to get its priorities straight.
It sounds like this White House seriously needs to get its priorities straight.
6
The FBI and Comey are compromised as they knew all of this before the election. It is time to clean house as the FBI is the real problem
3
You mean bTrump isn't the real problem? His is the only name that keeps coming up. Bannon is way smarter
1
Actually, it is comforting to read that the FBI is carrying out its investigation despite the fact that the White House would undoubtedly prefer that it look elsewhere for things to do. And it is proper that the FBI should not talk about an ongoing investigation until it has all its ducks in a row.
Which, I admit, does not explain Comey's odd pronouncements on Secretary Clinton before the election. Maybe he was honestly confused as to the proper course. In which case, he has learned from those incidents to keep hi mouth shut. Maybe he wanted Trump to win and has now discovered his mistake. I don't know.
Which, I admit, does not explain Comey's odd pronouncements on Secretary Clinton before the election. Maybe he was honestly confused as to the proper course. In which case, he has learned from those incidents to keep hi mouth shut. Maybe he wanted Trump to win and has now discovered his mistake. I don't know.
16
It is a good thing that the FBI is investigating anything that is suspicious in this administration or a previous one.
Perhaps Comey's actions occurred (right or wrong) because the Attorney General was unable to do her job in an unbiased way because of her meeting with former President Clinton on the tarmac while his wife was being investigated.
Perhaps Comey's actions occurred (right or wrong) because the Attorney General was unable to do her job in an unbiased way because of her meeting with former President Clinton on the tarmac while his wife was being investigated.
Unfortunately, the President is a crook and a con and he's the leader of this whole mess. The President lied to the Vice President, he had Flynn lie to the Vice President, most likely Flynn lied to the FBI and will face charges. The only question is what the mechanism will be for the President to leave office.
6
Sacking Flynn is one thing. A career military guy who quibbled and lied, not the culture I knew for nearly 30 years of service. This was behavior that was anathema to the military code and considered betrayal of one’s oath and a professional sacred trust.
In the background here is a National Security Council that is in disarray. A dangerous condition that needs to be corrected immediately. The urgency of this is made all the more so by the . nature of the President.
In the background here is a National Security Council that is in disarray. A dangerous condition that needs to be corrected immediately. The urgency of this is made all the more so by the . nature of the President.
9
G. Sears,
I'm pleased to read that Flynn's behavior was "anathema to the military code and considered betrayal of one’s oath and a professional sacred trust." I wasn't in the military myself, but always have understood that telling the truth is especially important in the military. It's shocking to me, frankly, that someone who's so quick to lie could have made it so far in the military. I'm glad to learn that others in the military find his behavior as disgusting as I do.
I'm pleased to read that Flynn's behavior was "anathema to the military code and considered betrayal of one’s oath and a professional sacred trust." I wasn't in the military myself, but always have understood that telling the truth is especially important in the military. It's shocking to me, frankly, that someone who's so quick to lie could have made it so far in the military. I'm glad to learn that others in the military find his behavior as disgusting as I do.
1
Um, I have an eroding level of trust in Trump. I think Mike Pence might also. Will it lead to Trump's downfall?
"eroding level of trust" new GOP code words for "got found out".
6
Treason, anybody? Maybe he needs to have his retired general status demoted like some other generals have had happen to them.
5
the Russians clearly hold something over Trump.. Flynn was just keeping a lid on it for him
8
It is a known fact that Michael Flynn has had a close relationship with the Russian hierarchy. There is a picture we have all seen in the media, Flynn seated next to the Russian leader. So, Flynn already had a Russian connection. What that connection was and what Flynn had discussed with the Russian government will remain a question. Flynn's mysterious relationship with Russia starts there.
The then Presidential candidate, Donald Trump already knew Flynn's established relationship with the Russian President, and perhaps with others in important places in that country. All along the election campaign, Mr. Trump has had something or the other to say about Russia. Either praising that country's leader, his leadership style to be admired, or even critical of the Obama Administration's relationship with Russia. The already imposed sanctions on Russia was also a part of the criticism.
It is difficult to understand or believe that Michael Flynn acted on his own volition. If he was not told or instructed to have the discussion with the Russian Ambassador, he did have the encouragement. He was emboldened. The source of that motivation is a question we all want to know. Whether the subject of sanctions was part of his discussion with the Russian Ambassador, is unknown. Continuing investigations will reveal all of that.
In the meantime, we are grateful to our Media, NYT included for staying close and continuing to do so in this very intriguing saga.
The then Presidential candidate, Donald Trump already knew Flynn's established relationship with the Russian President, and perhaps with others in important places in that country. All along the election campaign, Mr. Trump has had something or the other to say about Russia. Either praising that country's leader, his leadership style to be admired, or even critical of the Obama Administration's relationship with Russia. The already imposed sanctions on Russia was also a part of the criticism.
It is difficult to understand or believe that Michael Flynn acted on his own volition. If he was not told or instructed to have the discussion with the Russian Ambassador, he did have the encouragement. He was emboldened. The source of that motivation is a question we all want to know. Whether the subject of sanctions was part of his discussion with the Russian Ambassador, is unknown. Continuing investigations will reveal all of that.
In the meantime, we are grateful to our Media, NYT included for staying close and continuing to do so in this very intriguing saga.
3
I join others in praying that the press continues the pressure on this. I do not believe for one moment that this was limited to Flynn. I think Trump and his entire campaign was in on it from the beginning. You guys proved your tenacity in not letting up on the story of Hillary's emails for well over a year. Please do the same for this REAL issue affecting our nation's livelihood.
11
While we are at it let's investigate the FBI officials in New York that pushed for Comey's letter just before the election. And for good measure we need to look into Mr Comey himself. After all this is a Democracy right?
9
I distrust Trump when it comes to serving and promoting America's interests. I fully trust that Trump will give primacy to his personal interests and enriching himself at everyone else's expense and promoting Russian interests.
7
Flyfysher,
I'm with you -- partly. I don't distrust Trump, but it bothers me greatly that he hasn't put all of his assets into a blind trust as all of his predecessors have done. Just handing over operational responsibility to his kids doesn't count for much if what they do will affect the value of his holdings when he leaves office -- and he is in a position (as he is) to improve their chances of doing well.
Even if Trump DID put his assets into a blind trust (and it's not too late for that, Trump), he'd still be left with an irreducible temptation to help out his kids. That temptation has been there for past Presidents, and it's neither fair nor legal to demand that they change their lives just because their father is the President. Trump would still have to bend over backwards not to do anything that could be construed as helping his kids, as previous Presidents have had to do and have done.
Even given this "irreducible temptation to help out his kids," however, it would be better for all of us -- including Trump -- if he at least gave up any possibility of benefitting himself. There's a phrase for that: "blind trust."
I'm with you -- partly. I don't distrust Trump, but it bothers me greatly that he hasn't put all of his assets into a blind trust as all of his predecessors have done. Just handing over operational responsibility to his kids doesn't count for much if what they do will affect the value of his holdings when he leaves office -- and he is in a position (as he is) to improve their chances of doing well.
Even if Trump DID put his assets into a blind trust (and it's not too late for that, Trump), he'd still be left with an irreducible temptation to help out his kids. That temptation has been there for past Presidents, and it's neither fair nor legal to demand that they change their lives just because their father is the President. Trump would still have to bend over backwards not to do anything that could be construed as helping his kids, as previous Presidents have had to do and have done.
Even given this "irreducible temptation to help out his kids," however, it would be better for all of us -- including Trump -- if he at least gave up any possibility of benefitting himself. There's a phrase for that: "blind trust."
“The life of the nation is secure only while the nation is honest, truthful, and virtuous.”
Frederick Douglass
Frederick Douglass
6
Just wondering; It seems that Pres. Reagan would have had to have violated the Logan Act when hostages in Lebanon were released the day of his inauguration. No one has ever raised that possibility.
1
Frenchy,
I assume you meant hostages in Iran, not Lebanon. If so, I've not heard that Reagan or his people did anything to bring that about before he took office. So I'm not sure where you're seeing the Logan Act violation.
I assume you meant hostages in Iran, not Lebanon. If so, I've not heard that Reagan or his people did anything to bring that about before he took office. So I'm not sure where you're seeing the Logan Act violation.
There needs to be an independent investigation PERIOD! The republicans' greed has turned them into a party of corruption colluding with the Trump Administration to push through their agenda by giving the Trump Administration a pass on all of their unethical conduct. The Republicans’ immorality has overtaken all their responsibility to the American people and polluted whatever sense of ethics they may have had. Jason Chaffetz’s infamous line says it all, “I think that situation has taken care of itself.” No one in the Republican Party and certainly none of Trump’s Cabinet members can be part of an investigation into the Trump Administration’s ties to Russia. That’s like picking a few foxes out of the pack to investigate possible attacks to the hen house.
5
well, you've nailed it: Americans are chickens.
bring on those imaginary jobs stolen by heathen foreigners and we'll follow you anywhere that doesn't touch an ocean.
bring on those imaginary jobs stolen by heathen foreigners and we'll follow you anywhere that doesn't touch an ocean.
2
What phenomenal stupidity! It never ceases to amaze me that high ranking government officials (including Flynn who was Director of the Defense Intelligence Agency) would talk to the Russian Ambassador and not assume someone was listening? Let' stand by and watch as this becomes Trump's Watergate.......Senate hearing should be forthcoming and the witnesses will be reminded that they are under oath.
3
We are left with two scenarios: Trump knew about the interactions with Russia and sanctioned them/ignored them, or He knew nothing. Either way we loose: A traitorous and clueless president or just clueless.
4
Anyone who thinks that all these people weren't directed by Trump himself to speak with the Russians in advance of the election is kidding himself. I believe he personally directed these underlings to do just what they did. And even more that we don't know. I wouldn't put it past Trump to have had his staff actually tell Russia to leak what they had stolen from the DNC to Wikileaks. I mean he publicly asked the Russians to hack the Democrats. Impeachment is not good enough because even Pence shouldn't take over as he was elected by the same manipulated and massaged vote. So a new election is definitely called for. Also why didn't Comey say anything about all this that he clearly knew about prior to the election. Between Russian meddling and Comey's deceit, we definitely need to do this again, and cleanly.
38
Please stop using the word "misinformation for lie. A lie is a lie.
5
I have a sibling with 30 years in the military. Their comment at the time of the nomination "Everyone in the Pentagon thinks he's an idiot".
6
The pattern of hiring and soon firing the team mates at wink seen during the campaign makes its way into the administration too with catastrophic consequences for the country, specially its national security aspects and the credibility of the Trump administration itself.
6
What catastrophic consequences have resulted?
1
and we're not even taking into account all those Carrier jobs he saved.
Hopefully the 'eroding level of trust' will also give way to Trump's downfall.
12
Trust? This assumes there is honor among the thieves. More like the White House denizens are jockeying to avoid being eaten.
7
Absolutely shameful that this administration admonishes dishonesty among one another but is duplicitous and mendacious to the American people. From day one, this administration has proven itself incompetent, self-serving and corrupt. In my opinion, the breach of trust between the American people and the Executive brought on by allegations of voter fraud, false massacres, and inherent disregard for truth are much worse than Flynn’s transgressions.
5
What about our "eroding level of trust" in our own president?
12
Trump's "trust account" hit negative balance early in the campaign.
3
Reading between the lines it sounds like Trump, Flynn and Bannon were involved with getting help from the Russians during the campaign.Then by surprise they won. They now have the "bear by the ears," and can't let go. So Flynn has the job of buying time with them while Trump tries to go forward as quickly as he can. Obama had pretty good information and laid the groundwork before he left office for Trump to get caught in the swamp of his own making. Ha. good for him. Of course Pence has to be clean so he can take over when Trump gets impeached. I guess we need to be ready in four years to defeat Pence. geez
10
"The Obama officials asked the F.B.I. if a quid pro quo had been discussed on the call, and the answer came back no,"
Trump die-hards are going to cling to this for dear life. But I'm sure a lot of them will know they are just trying to fool themselves. Of course there was no discussion of "quid pro quo". Nobody would be stupid enough to be explicit about it.
"“It was about the 35 guys who were thrown out.” Mr. Flynn added: “It was basically, ‘Look, I know this happened. We’ll review everything.’ "
Nope, no quid pro quo there. Just an obvious implication not to worry.
Did Trump know? Of course he knew. He's firing Flynn in an attempt to save face. Flynn is the fall guy (probably the first of many).
When Henry II wanted Thomas Becket killed he didn't point his finger at an aid and say, "You there. Go kill Becket." No, he was a politician. He simply said, within ear shot of several aids, "Who will rid me of this troublesome priest?" or words to that effect. No conspiracy to murder there. Just an expression of annoyance by a King. So someone got overzealous and went and murdered the guy. Henry II had nothing to do with it.
Trump die-hards are going to cling to this for dear life. But I'm sure a lot of them will know they are just trying to fool themselves. Of course there was no discussion of "quid pro quo". Nobody would be stupid enough to be explicit about it.
"“It was about the 35 guys who were thrown out.” Mr. Flynn added: “It was basically, ‘Look, I know this happened. We’ll review everything.’ "
Nope, no quid pro quo there. Just an obvious implication not to worry.
Did Trump know? Of course he knew. He's firing Flynn in an attempt to save face. Flynn is the fall guy (probably the first of many).
When Henry II wanted Thomas Becket killed he didn't point his finger at an aid and say, "You there. Go kill Becket." No, he was a politician. He simply said, within ear shot of several aids, "Who will rid me of this troublesome priest?" or words to that effect. No conspiracy to murder there. Just an expression of annoyance by a King. So someone got overzealous and went and murdered the guy. Henry II had nothing to do with it.
3
Flynn's downfall was the result of good old fashioned investigative journalism shining a light on corruption.
We need more of this.
We need more of this.
17
Treason.
8
Did a small cadre of Trumpeteer billionaires see the presidency as a private cash cow begging to be milked?
Congress had better hope they impeach President Trump before word gets out that the election was swayed/rigged by his people and Russia in exchange for lifted sanctions that would mean untold billions for companies such as Trump's and the Tillerson's Exxon. That news would invalidate the election results before they could put Pence in to start over.
I wonder how quickly Hillary can put together a transition team and a cabinet. Regardless of what the GOP in Congress might think, millions of Americans are following this corruption and will not stop persisting when the integrity of our government and our Union is at stake.
Congress had better hope they impeach President Trump before word gets out that the election was swayed/rigged by his people and Russia in exchange for lifted sanctions that would mean untold billions for companies such as Trump's and the Tillerson's Exxon. That news would invalidate the election results before they could put Pence in to start over.
I wonder how quickly Hillary can put together a transition team and a cabinet. Regardless of what the GOP in Congress might think, millions of Americans are following this corruption and will not stop persisting when the integrity of our government and our Union is at stake.
7
This is Chris Christie's big chance. After many months of playing lapdog to Trump during the campaign, he didn't even get tossed a few table scraps.
Given the level of ignorance the majority of the cabinet and white house staff picks have possessed, Christie would be a perfect choice as National Security Adviser.
Given the level of ignorance the majority of the cabinet and white house staff picks have possessed, Christie would be a perfect choice as National Security Adviser.
Are you trying to be funny?
The only thing that surprises me about the Trump administration is that anyone is surprised by these embarrassments. From the beginning of his campaign, throughout the transition, and right up to the present day; this has been a "send in the clowns" operation. With Mr. Trump and Bozo in chief. Really, did anyone expect different????
6
Do we know if there's a 'separation agreement' requiring that Flynn keep quiet about Trump's directions, dealings, and conversations with the Russians? Or is he free to talk about his former employer?
2
Do we trust Congress to investigate Flynn? I don't. We need a totally INDEPENDENT investigator that both sides of the aisle can agree on. With unlimited access. Good luck on that. Americans need and deserve to discover how deep this rot goes. Remember, Congress works for us. We pay their salaries and healthcare costs. At least they used to work for us, many, many years ago.
10
A Republican with some power, vision, and an eye on the big prize, could take advantage of this situation to lead the charge and bring the administration down. The trick would be to recruit enough support within his party. Were he to succeed he would replace McConnell and the whole batch of POTUS wannabes we saw last year as the new power player in DC.
1
When a president and/or administration is corrupt, a functioning Congress and Justice Dept. can fix it. When an entire political party is corrupt, and they represent the ruling party, it remains to be seen how the system can right itself. Perhaps the will of the people can intervene. But when they are the same people who elected the corrupt party to power, it is difficult to see how a beached political system can guide itself back to open water.
10
That Mr. Flynn had the trust of our so-called president to begin with tells you all you need to know about Trump's fitness for the office he now, tenuously, holds. Extreme vetting, indeed.
10
Tempest in a teapot. Blackmail by the Russians? For what?
1
I have to say, members of the Trump administration are quite skilled at coming up with ways to not say "lie". First, it's "alternative facts" and now it's "inadvertently passing along incomplete information." It truly boggles the mind that the American public is not demanding the resignation of the entire administration for their blatant LIES to the people about issues of great consequence. For the sake of our democracy, we cannot let this go on.
14
Who cares if Mike Flynn lied to our temporary elected hired help Don Trump and Mike Pence?
I am outraged and angered that Don Trump and Mike Pence are misleading and lying to the American people about their bowing and begging fealty to Russian President Vladimir Vladimirovich Putin.
Who will rid us of this troublesome Siberian President Don Trump? How will they rid us of this treasonous incompetent ignorant Trump Scheme? When will the foolish Trump jesters be banished?
I am outraged and angered that Don Trump and Mike Pence are misleading and lying to the American people about their bowing and begging fealty to Russian President Vladimir Vladimirovich Putin.
Who will rid us of this troublesome Siberian President Don Trump? How will they rid us of this treasonous incompetent ignorant Trump Scheme? When will the foolish Trump jesters be banished?
12
looks like around the first Tuesday after hell freezes over to me.
I suspect Flynn was perched to be the fall guy in this debacle and designed his resignation to avoid serious charges....and got a nice hush-money deal to boot. Isn't that how things work in our government these days?
3
No, his downfall sprang from someone finding out (Pence) who WASN'T being blackmailed or susceptible to blackmail! Why else do you think Trump sat on this info for 19 days?! If VP hadn't spoken up, Trump would've sat on this info for 4 years!
Release or leak his tax returns, NOW!
Release or leak his tax returns, NOW!
7
Michael Flynn's fall will not be the last one, because Trump surrounds himself with some people, who wouldn't withstand scrutiny. They just happened to emerge at the right time, showering him with praises and being loyal to him. These people are mostly opportunists, lacking the merits and integrity to serve the country.
It's unbelievable that Michale Flynn - a veteran intelligence officer - was so mindless about speaking to the Russian ambassador to the US and discussing the lifting sanctions on the phone without realising the consequences. He must have known that such a call would be intercepted by US intelligence agencies. After denial and mendacity, he has to face the reality, which he in the past had sought to fake. That phone call from a beachside resort in the Dominican Republic, where Flynn and his wife spent their post-election vacation proved his undoing.
It's unbelievable that Michale Flynn - a veteran intelligence officer - was so mindless about speaking to the Russian ambassador to the US and discussing the lifting sanctions on the phone without realising the consequences. He must have known that such a call would be intercepted by US intelligence agencies. After denial and mendacity, he has to face the reality, which he in the past had sought to fake. That phone call from a beachside resort in the Dominican Republic, where Flynn and his wife spent their post-election vacation proved his undoing.
9
Some how I can't believe it is as simple as Flynn's naïveté.
Sounds like they were all in cahoots with the Russians for a long time. But thank goodness they weren't careless with their email!
23
If Trump and the WH were told Flynn lied by the Justice Department, explain to me how it takes 18 more days for the trust to "erode".
10
I didn't like Flynn any more than most of the commenters here, but frankly I would be hard-pressed to remember all details of phone calls I made in December. Especially if the topic was so general that even a review a transcript is ambiguous.
What none of the articles says is if Flynn was told that the call had been taped. If so, the first thing he should have done is ask for the transcript to refresh his memory. He would have been in the clear from there on.
If the WH had the transcript but didn't show it to him and kept grilling him in it, then it merely comes down to a memory test. I mean, how stupid it would be to deny what is clearly documented in tape?! Not that Trump isn't doing it all the time, but 'Quod licet Iovi, non licet bovi'.
What none of the articles says is if Flynn was told that the call had been taped. If so, the first thing he should have done is ask for the transcript to refresh his memory. He would have been in the clear from there on.
If the WH had the transcript but didn't show it to him and kept grilling him in it, then it merely comes down to a memory test. I mean, how stupid it would be to deny what is clearly documented in tape?! Not that Trump isn't doing it all the time, but 'Quod licet Iovi, non licet bovi'.
4
His position surely made him aware of delicate nature of talking to Russian representatives. These conversations were not light talks with diplomats from friendly nations. For Flynn to say he doesn't quite remember and for Trump to say he knew nothing about it just shows the second grader mentality of this administration. You might not remember details of a conversations, but you'd surely remember the crux of a conversation with Russia.
19
That's precisely it, Denise. Apparently, possible sanctions were not the crux of the conversation, because if they had been White House counsel would surely have raised the flag and warned that the conversation had breached the law. On the other hand, when the expulsion of the Russian diplomats that had just occurred and which surely came up during the conversion was mentioned, let's suppose for a moment Flynn then just said "I am confident this will not affect our relationship in the future". Could this be construed as discussing sanctions? Quite possibly, depends very much how one wants to look at it. What for one person is an innocuous exchange of pleasantries may be interference with diplomacy for another.
Impossible to say without reading the transcript ourselves. I prefer to hold my own judgment until I am privy to the details I have base it on.
Impossible to say without reading the transcript ourselves. I prefer to hold my own judgment until I am privy to the details I have base it on.
2
Another self-inflicted wound.
Trump causes anxiety, questions and confusion by always condemning others.
Trump causes anxiety, questions and confusion by always condemning others.
5
Can we just imagine the roar that would come from the GOP if Clinton had done one fifth what this administration has done? They would shut down the government and be calling for her blood. This is a very dark day. So is Russia blackmailing the entire GOP leadership?
14
Most of the American citizens like me are quite convinced that Mr. Trump was behind that infamous call that Mr. Flynn made to the Russian Ambassador regarding the lifting of sanctions on Russia if they didn't expel 35 American diplomats from their country which they always do as a retaliatory tactic after we expel theirs.
Yes,our Government does the same by expelling Russia's or other country's diplomats if they expel any of ours.
So knowing Mr. Trump the authoritarian dictator, who tries to control everything in his business as well as now in White House, it's impossible to think that someone like Mr. Flynn who was as close to Mr. Trump, did not get his instructions from his boss.
The transcript of that phone call that F.B.I. recorded as a normal practice will reveal if and when they're handed over to the Senate and house intelligence committees that Mr. Flynn mentioned in the line like "my boss wanted to know if your Govt. is going to take any retaliatory measures for the 35 diplomats that Obama was expelling. And if the answer is yes,please don't as my boss had assured me to let you know that we'll lift the crippling sanctions on your country if you do us this favor".
So if the conversation went the way I presumed and as I mentioned above, then Mr. Flynn is in big trouble.
Because by talking about sanctions with the Russian Ambassador, he had broken the essence of the 'Logan Act' and by lying to the F.B.I. agents he perjured himself which is a felony punishable by law.
Yes,our Government does the same by expelling Russia's or other country's diplomats if they expel any of ours.
So knowing Mr. Trump the authoritarian dictator, who tries to control everything in his business as well as now in White House, it's impossible to think that someone like Mr. Flynn who was as close to Mr. Trump, did not get his instructions from his boss.
The transcript of that phone call that F.B.I. recorded as a normal practice will reveal if and when they're handed over to the Senate and house intelligence committees that Mr. Flynn mentioned in the line like "my boss wanted to know if your Govt. is going to take any retaliatory measures for the 35 diplomats that Obama was expelling. And if the answer is yes,please don't as my boss had assured me to let you know that we'll lift the crippling sanctions on your country if you do us this favor".
So if the conversation went the way I presumed and as I mentioned above, then Mr. Flynn is in big trouble.
Because by talking about sanctions with the Russian Ambassador, he had broken the essence of the 'Logan Act' and by lying to the F.B.I. agents he perjured himself which is a felony punishable by law.
7
Our nation is in high risk now ... Laws that protect consumers, anti corruption laws, issues with WH advisers, and Russian over our heads. We need to take action now as we are on the brink of possible international crises...
8
It strains credulity to a breaking point to believe that Trump was not involved in contacts with the Russians. We need a leader, probably a Republican in the Senate, to stand up, demand investigations, and seriously consider impeachment.
14
The claim of an "eroding level of trust" is disputable. What seems to have happened is that it was getting too hot for Trump et al, by the investigative reporting. Rather than the story going away, the story gained traction. Then Flynn was thrown under the bus. For all of Trump's claims of being such a great manager, it seems that either he isn't, or he is lying and has colluded with his staff in the dealings with Russia. Is he incompetent or a liar?
9
Incompetent, ignorant, corrupt, liar and racialist trump is even more of a disaster than our worst fears; Flynn is an example for all of us to increase our opposition to trump in every way we can, whenever we can.
4
Intelligence leakers taking down an NSC Chairman in order to attack the new administration is the real story. These are the actions of a police state and the Democrats cheer it on because of their hate for Trump. Anti Democratic deep state political subversion is treasonous by definition, and the Democrats cheer it on because it's not "their guy"!
Trump is not worried about Flynn talking to the Russians; he is worried instead that the information came out. It is clear that he would have let Flynn stay on if he could have kept it quiet. Thank goodness for the leaks.
7
As accusations, denials and recriminations rip across headlines and over social media...
...Let us take a moment to marvel and rejoice over this latest record to be broken by this administration - the shortest tenure before being fired by anyone in any position requiring Senate confirmation. Well done general, well done indeed.
...Let us take a moment to marvel and rejoice over this latest record to be broken by this administration - the shortest tenure before being fired by anyone in any position requiring Senate confirmation. Well done general, well done indeed.
4
Trump's trust or our national trust?
1
Flynn's now in prime position to be named Putin's national security adviser!
5
We need some coverage on Ryan's plan for a 20 percent border tax on incoming goods and a 20 percent subsidy on exports - to pay for the Wall! This turmoil is allowing Congress to take us back to the dark ages.
3
Someone needs to be thrown under the bus and be the scape goat. Now the diversion tactic, so beware, Republicans will investigate why there are leaks in the Whitehouse and not this.
5
IF There are any ethical people left in the white house, they had been start evacuating now. That's another damn that will be leaking more and more till it bursts.
5
How can Mike Pence continue to serve in this Administration, knowing that not only Flynn lied to him, but the President knew about the lie and withheld that information from the VP for more than two weeks? I wouldn't want to work for a boss who had so little respect for me.
33
You are fired for insubordination.
Mike Pence probably suspects that he will be president soon. It's only a matter of time with this Clown Parade...
What would Flynn have to gain - other than to audition for his future role and win the trust of trump. Seriously - the elephant in the room is who gained?
1
Think about that question a tad more. I believe there are lots more possible answers, think in terms of Russia and someone's business interests.
1
“He made a determination late in the day,” Mr. Spicer said, “and he executed on it.” If there were any justice, there would be a lot more excecutions on tap.
3
Now that I look back, maybe Flynn was actually saying,
"Lock Us Up, Lock Us Up, Lock Us Up,...."
"Lock Us Up, Lock Us Up, Lock Us Up,...."
6
Talk about a great script for a movie. In my opinion, the news media acted like the dog chasing the car until the car suddenly stopped. The dog seemed confused. What do I chase now? It seems that many in the media kept pouring gasoline onto Trumps tall tales to keep the fire of sensationalism alive and well instead of looking for the real truth. Now it's up to the media to do their job and expose Donald and his cronies for what they really are. Don't expect the Republican house or senate to do their job and investigate anything unless they're forced to.
3
If not for the leakers, the president and his staff would continue to withhold critical information and mislead the American people to their detriment. This is what happens when you elect an immoral, unethical and pathological liar to office.
And to all those who relied upon their vote for Trump to produce jobs, how do you like all of the attention he's paying to job creation? Your healthcare replacement? Given that the Republicans had eight years to fine tune a workable, affordable, glitch- free Obama care replacement, have you Trump voters wondered why no replacement exists that republicans can even agree upon? Chumps.
And to all those who relied upon their vote for Trump to produce jobs, how do you like all of the attention he's paying to job creation? Your healthcare replacement? Given that the Republicans had eight years to fine tune a workable, affordable, glitch- free Obama care replacement, have you Trump voters wondered why no replacement exists that republicans can even agree upon? Chumps.
7
Chumps, indeed. Well said.
2
I'm relieved that the FBI reported there was no quid pro quo, but Flynn should have been more careful. His lack of judgement has now cost him his position. Trump needs to immediately name a successor, so we can move forward - there is much work to do and these distractions take our focus away from the important tasks.
4
It strains credulity that Donald was unaware of what his campaign aides or Flynn was doing re Russian conversations. The man's huckster style in real estate dealings is his modus operandi in the WH. While Donald himself might not have given Flynn a directive, the question to ask is "Who quietly does this under the table dealing" which allows Sean Spicer to say "No no no...president didn't do it".
The House Republicans are only invested in covering for him w/o explanations because they have their own agendas and positions to guard. Where is all the transparency Donald promised and Republicans craved during the past campaign?
The House Republicans are only invested in covering for him w/o explanations because they have their own agendas and positions to guard. Where is all the transparency Donald promised and Republicans craved during the past campaign?
35
Plausible deniability, a term made popular during the Watergate hearings, is alive and well.
Lots of material for conspiracy theorists here.
Trump likes Putin, respects him, has this vision of a world in which Russia and the US are cooperating in many ways, he and Putin in the role of a couple of strong men, cut from the same cloth, kicking butt, getting things done, Putin at mar-a-lago. Trump at Vladi's place on the Black sea, or wherever.
But Trump doesn't want to campaign on that vision without some feedback from Putin, would Putin like that too? So Trump asks his aides to put out some feelers in Russia to see if Vladi likes the idea. And lo and behold he does! In fact, Vladi likes the idea so much that he starts thinking "How can we help this guy Trump get elected?" Meanwhile the calls from Trump's aides to Russia increase, Trump ramps up the rhetoric in his campaign regarding Russia, and the rest is history.
I wonder if Flynn even knew about the Logan Act.
Trump likes Putin, respects him, has this vision of a world in which Russia and the US are cooperating in many ways, he and Putin in the role of a couple of strong men, cut from the same cloth, kicking butt, getting things done, Putin at mar-a-lago. Trump at Vladi's place on the Black sea, or wherever.
But Trump doesn't want to campaign on that vision without some feedback from Putin, would Putin like that too? So Trump asks his aides to put out some feelers in Russia to see if Vladi likes the idea. And lo and behold he does! In fact, Vladi likes the idea so much that he starts thinking "How can we help this guy Trump get elected?" Meanwhile the calls from Trump's aides to Russia increase, Trump ramps up the rhetoric in his campaign regarding Russia, and the rest is history.
I wonder if Flynn even knew about the Logan Act.
1
What about Comey and the last minute pseudo-investigation of HC? How are we supposed to trust our government or the investigative branch? Was his action part of collusion with Tump and the Russians to ensure that the people didn't get the president they voted for?
So, the President and Vice President seldom talk. 45 knew about Flynn's flap and foible 2 weeks before VP Pence sensed trouble from news reports. This appears worse than Bush-Chaney in their last 2 years together. Can we expect the Vice President to resign because of a demonstrated lack of trust? Is this just another symptom of ruptured government by Agent Orange? If this continues, then it could be deadly!
1
What did Trump know and when did he know it?
Are you kidding me?
Everything.
The guy is a control freak all the way down. His aides have to apologize and get permission to go to the loo.
This Administration is rotten from the head down.
And who do you think has ordered Sessions not to recuse himself from the Russian investigation. Indeed, why has Comey not yet recused himself after his stunt on Clinton?
Are you kidding me?
Everything.
The guy is a control freak all the way down. His aides have to apologize and get permission to go to the loo.
This Administration is rotten from the head down.
And who do you think has ordered Sessions not to recuse himself from the Russian investigation. Indeed, why has Comey not yet recused himself after his stunt on Clinton?
3
Mike Pence was placed in an untenable position by Donald Trump's failure to notify him about Mike Flynn's lying. His avoidable misstatement and subsequent public humiliation raises an existential question, Exactly how bad does Mike Pence want to be Vice President, is it worth scacrificing his integrity?
1
His first pick for NATIONAL SECURITY and it turns out they don't trust him ?
Who knows what top secret intel this untrustworthy "advisor" and close friend of our biggest state enemy was privy to ?
Who knows what top secret intel this untrustworthy "advisor" and close friend of our biggest state enemy was privy to ?
1
A lot has been made about Flynn's dinner with Putin.
What people tend to gloss over is that Jill Stein is also at that table. What is Jill Stein doing with Vladimir Putin ?
How many votes did she siphon away from Hillary in Wisconsin, Michigan, and Pennsylvania ?
What people tend to gloss over is that Jill Stein is also at that table. What is Jill Stein doing with Vladimir Putin ?
How many votes did she siphon away from Hillary in Wisconsin, Michigan, and Pennsylvania ?
Can there be any doubt that Flynn acted with Trump's approval?
Does this mean that Trump himself is in trouble (dealing with a foreign power before he was officially inaugurated)?
Let the can of worms be opened.
Does this mean that Trump himself is in trouble (dealing with a foreign power before he was officially inaugurated)?
Let the can of worms be opened.
3
What was the real reason Michael Flynn was fired? It's exceedingly unlikely he was fired for dishonesty. In the Trump White House is a job qualifier not a job disqualifier. If all of the dishonest people now in the White House were fired, the place would be vacant, except for perhaps the maintenance staff. Flynn came to the Administration with a sterling record of deception. His subordinates parsed Flynn's prevarications from factual fidelity by dubbing the former "Flynn Facts". In fact, that's why got fired from the Pentagon. Trump knew three weeks ago that Flynn had lied about his Russian contacts. So why fire this practiced prevaricator now?
2
My trust in these people has completely eroded. Not that I had any from the start.
1
I started losing trust in the government when Republican Senate chillingly blew off the Garland nomination putting party over country. No one should now trust the Republicans to do a proper investigation into Russian intervention in Republican White House. It felt like another punch in the stomach this morning when I heard a Republican Congressman on NPR actually admit that his main concern was WHITE HOUSE LEAKS and this should be focus of investigations. No one should trust this party to investigate what is going on.
6
Trust...Trust. Seriously? Does anyone trust Willy Loman in the White House?
3
Some irony in the fact that he is loosing his job in part because he did not tell the truth in administration built on untruthful statements.
4
Oh Sweet Jesus. It's a full court press on non...sense. As we are all aware, the NSA collects every pieces of electronic data generated by every American. Does anybody else rember this. That means that as well as having the transmissions made by General Flynn, the NSA has ALL of Hillary Clinton's data as well. Including the data from the 11 cell phones she beat into tin foil with her little hammer. But there seems to be some rather subjective reason why some of this trove is deployed in the service of justice and other data is retired from duty. Oddly enough, double-dipping retired Generals are on the media gossip circuit sounding grave as they report Russian naval activities in international waters and alarming troop exercises within the borders of Russia. Let me make my position clear. Presdent Putin far more credible than the New York Times on issues of foreign policy. President Trump harms himself by playing the media game. The Liberal establishment is out to unseat an elected President. This is as divisive as it gets. There will be no winners in the coming battle.
1
Pence, the patsy. Fallout inevitable.
4
I have one thing to say about Ret. Gen Flynn.
LOCK HIM UP!
LOCK HIM UP!
4
Flynn's downfall was the direct result of the intelligence agency committing a felony by leaking the contents of a wiretapped phone conversation of an
American citizen - So why isn't the mainstream media up in arms about the intelligence community committing felonies?
American citizen - So why isn't the mainstream media up in arms about the intelligence community committing felonies?
Unfortunately not the case. The laws clearly state that if one of the parties in the call is foreign then the wiretapping is legal. And embassies are considered extraterritorial, which makes the call originate or end outside the US. Hence, this was no unconstitutional wiretap.
3
the wiretap was not what I said was illegal, it was the sharing of the content with the press making it public
Interesting.
If this occurred prior to Mr. Trump's inauguration, then what did Obama know
& why did he not go berserk like the majority of posters here?
I truly am amazed at the party on the left, as it is killing themselves off with their angst, destruction of property, damage to commerce and personal injuries inflicted on police and innocents.
If this occurred prior to Mr. Trump's inauguration, then what did Obama know
& why did he not go berserk like the majority of posters here?
I truly am amazed at the party on the left, as it is killing themselves off with their angst, destruction of property, damage to commerce and personal injuries inflicted on police and innocents.
2
For a man that ran as being decisive and a great manager, pres. Trump is lacking in so many ways. He must realize by now that the presidency is not a CEO office. Shameful.
1
Is there any connection between Flynn's resignation and the Russian missile launch?
1
Eroding level of trust! Who do they think we are? It's very clear Flynn didn't act alone, it's pretty clear Trump knew and agreed to Flynn's actions. It's pretty clear Flynn and Trump have been lying all along. It's pretty clear Flynn has been ordered to fall on his sword to cover for Trump.
There is lots of smoke pouring out of the Trump cabinet concerning their amateur cover up over their Russian alliances and we need a independent investigation to answer to the American people. Trumpgate is here.
There is lots of smoke pouring out of the Trump cabinet concerning their amateur cover up over their Russian alliances and we need a independent investigation to answer to the American people. Trumpgate is here.
1
My trust in this administration was already low; now my trust in this administration is gone. The tax return needs to be reviewed now! No tax return, he is not my President. He is a crook who is using the office of President to enrich his corporation. His inexperience and total lack of ability to be a political leader is detrimental to the position of the United States in the world and will cost the citizens of this country their treasure and blood.
And the hypocrites in the Republican caucuses in the House and Senate are beneath my contempt; there has never been such a display of Party over Country in the United States. To find such on a comparable level requires a lesson in European history in the mid-twentieth century. We must get these hypocrites out of our Congress. Pick your candidates for the 2018 election now. Find good people for local, state, and Federal offices. Get them to declare now. Support them with your time and money. Let us take back our Country.
And the hypocrites in the Republican caucuses in the House and Senate are beneath my contempt; there has never been such a display of Party over Country in the United States. To find such on a comparable level requires a lesson in European history in the mid-twentieth century. We must get these hypocrites out of our Congress. Pick your candidates for the 2018 election now. Find good people for local, state, and Federal offices. Get them to declare now. Support them with your time and money. Let us take back our Country.
1
trump's white house is a hornet's nest of curruption, not unlike richard nixon's hellhole.
1
America first - Republican second: that's the slogan the Congress should be chanting. These Republicans are not acting in the interest of their country. Just like their leader, they are acting only for their own petty personal interest, whether it be wealth, power, or reelection. We need a full and thorough investigation NOW into all ties and all contacts of all members of the current administration.
The point another contributor here made, "...our system is larger than the presidency." is a refreshing reminder. Putin may be able to manipulate a bloviating 70 year old baby/neophyte with massive Daddy issues, but that's just one American.
We have something Putin can never conceptualize: the average Americans' collective understanding of social liberty and Freedom. Americans are MEANT to be free. And of course this is true of trump supporters/fans as well. It is in the marrow of every single American (including Americans we as a society unfortunately and routinely racialize; they REALLY know what freedom is and is not).
Putin is a person who does not understand the spirit of Americans. He's got a tiger by the tail if he thinks Americans will stand for his toxic shenanigans. Same goes for our new "president." The citizenry are waking up, and not a moment too soon. Exciting times, these! #resisttrump #impeachtrump #notmypresident
We have something Putin can never conceptualize: the average Americans' collective understanding of social liberty and Freedom. Americans are MEANT to be free. And of course this is true of trump supporters/fans as well. It is in the marrow of every single American (including Americans we as a society unfortunately and routinely racialize; they REALLY know what freedom is and is not).
Putin is a person who does not understand the spirit of Americans. He's got a tiger by the tail if he thinks Americans will stand for his toxic shenanigans. Same goes for our new "president." The citizenry are waking up, and not a moment too soon. Exciting times, these! #resisttrump #impeachtrump #notmypresident
1
"When a reporter on Air Force One heading to Florida on Friday asked him about The Post’s report, Mr. Trump said he had not read it. 'I don’t know about that,' he said. 'I haven’t seen it.'"
Flynn's lying is bad enough. That the President essentially lied on the cameras into the face of the American public on the subject of the Post's reporting is almost treasonable!
Flynn's lying is bad enough. That the President essentially lied on the cameras into the face of the American public on the subject of the Post's reporting is almost treasonable!
1
Bit off topic here but has anyone considered it may be Trumps eyesight rather than his dyslexia ,or being too vain to wear glasses, that makes him reluctant to read? His reported 'phobia of steps and sloping gradients would support this. There can be eye conditions which glasses cannot help. Of course he is also vain and has a short concentration span but since someone else also types his tweets I do begin to wonder. How is his golf??
1
I, and millions of other Americans, profoundly feel, each day, "an eroding level of trust" in the entire dog & pony show which is the current US President TrAmple-the-Constitution. It isn't only Flynn who should be fired! It is Donocchio who should be impeached.
If anyone thinks Trump was not involved in this is naive. Nothing is done in his world without his approval. He needs to be impeached, Can we please start talking about that?
2
Trump is and has always been a con man and a fraud, using manipulation and lies to achieve what some call business success. Anything he has accomplished, however, has been at the expense of others. He is not a leader. When presented with a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to possibly enforce through legislative action unpopular programs and ethical mayhem the Republican Party has sold out hundreds of years of principled and moral history. There is no way that any of the Republican leaders that have met with Trump or the FBI could not have known that the election was stolen through coordination with a foreign power. My entire family have been Republicans for decades. It took less than 20 days for every single one of them to denounce the entire party as greedy, grubby, and corrupt. Much has been said about the effect that the illegitimate election of Trump has had on the heretofore apolitical American and the Democratic Party. No one wants to address the fact that the Republican base is beginning to erupt with the same fierce anger at the lies that Trump told, and the spinelessness of almost the entire Republican Party when they should clearly be defending our country and Democracy. Party over country? They don't get that not even their members are buying that. Grandma and Grandpa have joined #resist. They get to spend more time with their grandkids!
We have surely"been had"but by a bunch of ignorant and totally stupid voters.I just hope their candidate takes away their food stamps and welfare checks.they deserve no less.voting should require an intelligence level test.We wouldn't find ourselves in this mess otherwise.
1
Flynn is no surprise. Amidst this treason by Flynn alongside the corrupt administration and cabinet we see a stock market that's happy and banks that know that "anything goes" as all safeguards are removed. Goldman Sachs alum will call the shots.
Does anyone actually believe that anyone in the cabinet cares about The People?
The curious likelihood is that the blunders in the administration will be endless and awful and so will the flagrant denial of reality and facts as it continues on. The ol accuse the critics, slam the press, protest too much along with the "who cares" attitude of the Trump Team. Sean Spicer was conservative, very smart and even likable but now his dilemma is that his ethics will be compromised beyond what I believe he will tolerate and he'll resign.
For our sake I hope he has a conscience in play. He looks more unhealthy with every briefing. Flynn is a traitor. He will be grilled. There must be some integrity in our Reps. He perhaps felt enabled by Trumps love dance with Putin.
Does anyone actually believe that anyone in the cabinet cares about The People?
The curious likelihood is that the blunders in the administration will be endless and awful and so will the flagrant denial of reality and facts as it continues on. The ol accuse the critics, slam the press, protest too much along with the "who cares" attitude of the Trump Team. Sean Spicer was conservative, very smart and even likable but now his dilemma is that his ethics will be compromised beyond what I believe he will tolerate and he'll resign.
For our sake I hope he has a conscience in play. He looks more unhealthy with every briefing. Flynn is a traitor. He will be grilled. There must be some integrity in our Reps. He perhaps felt enabled by Trumps love dance with Putin.
the authors are clueless. his fall paralleled that of a former, short-term director of the cia, and a former secretary of veterans affairs, both of whom brought in their own teams and witlessly attempted to upturn the established order at both institutions.
the most recent of the fallen had purportedly made the error of telling other secretaries, they were subordinate + would report to him. fat chance.
how the reporters found their way to work this morning is beyond me. collectively, they could undoubtedly screw-up a cup of coffee.
the most recent of the fallen had purportedly made the error of telling other secretaries, they were subordinate + would report to him. fat chance.
how the reporters found their way to work this morning is beyond me. collectively, they could undoubtedly screw-up a cup of coffee.
Using spin statements as headlines perpetuates lies and fake news. It is quite evident that an "erosion of trust" had nothing to do with Flynn's resignation. He lied. Trump knew for weeks that he lied and could easily be subjected to Russian blackmail, but kept him on anyway. Please, NYT, do NOT perpetuate lies via completely misleading headlines/quotes!!!
As much as Trump wants us to think the Flynn affair was a matter of "trust" and not a "legal" issue. this is clearly a "legal" Constitutional issue called Sedition, and includes Trump. the ringleader. We await the courage of the Republican Congress and the Supreme Court. Kudos to the NYTimes reporters!
PUHLEEZE This is truly a lair of liars. they tell the truth about nothing.
on Friday, Trump feigned ignorance when in factg the DOJ had
told him about Flynn three weeks earlier
Conway lies, Trump lies, Spicer lies. and Putin finally fired
Flynn. President Bannon runs a leaky ship.
Comey should be so proud. He is the author of this mess.
on Friday, Trump feigned ignorance when in factg the DOJ had
told him about Flynn three weeks earlier
Conway lies, Trump lies, Spicer lies. and Putin finally fired
Flynn. President Bannon runs a leaky ship.
Comey should be so proud. He is the author of this mess.
Flynn means nothing here! Anyone that thinks he was not operating with Trump's full knowledge and blessing has got to be seriously deluded.
"Eroding levels of trust" - in Trump, not Flynn. Trump was the candidate, and is now the President!
"Eroding levels of trust" - in Trump, not Flynn. Trump was the candidate, and is now the President!
Here's a tasty little bit:
"During his first presidential campaign in 2008, Mr. Obama used a secret back channel to Tehran to assure the mullahs that he was a friend of the Islamic Republic, and that they would be very happy with his policies. The secret channel was Ambassador William G. Miller, who served in Iran during the shah's rule, as chief of staff for the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence, and as ambassador to Ukraine. Ambassador Miller has confirmed... me his conversations with Iranian leaders during the 2008 campaign." https://pjmedia.com/michaelledeen/2014/08/29/latest-big-lie-we-have-no-s...
For those who have trouble comprehending anything that either doesn't trash Trump or tells inconvenient truths about Obama, what that says is that Obama, BEFORE taking office, before even being elected, was secretly treating with Iran to undermine President Bush's foreign policy with an enemy nation. And, as we saw over the course of eight years, Obama bent over to accommodate Iran, awarding them billions in an unratified treaty and secretly sending them hundreds of millions in unmarked cash through secret channels.
All you people on here screaming for President Trump's impeachment or his and Flynn's prosecution for what you think MIGHT be treason, who were only too happy or oblivious to raise so much as a peep at the overt aid and comfort Obama gave to a sworn enemy, should just pipe down. You have abrogated any claim to moral authority on the subject.
"During his first presidential campaign in 2008, Mr. Obama used a secret back channel to Tehran to assure the mullahs that he was a friend of the Islamic Republic, and that they would be very happy with his policies. The secret channel was Ambassador William G. Miller, who served in Iran during the shah's rule, as chief of staff for the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence, and as ambassador to Ukraine. Ambassador Miller has confirmed... me his conversations with Iranian leaders during the 2008 campaign." https://pjmedia.com/michaelledeen/2014/08/29/latest-big-lie-we-have-no-s...
For those who have trouble comprehending anything that either doesn't trash Trump or tells inconvenient truths about Obama, what that says is that Obama, BEFORE taking office, before even being elected, was secretly treating with Iran to undermine President Bush's foreign policy with an enemy nation. And, as we saw over the course of eight years, Obama bent over to accommodate Iran, awarding them billions in an unratified treaty and secretly sending them hundreds of millions in unmarked cash through secret channels.
All you people on here screaming for President Trump's impeachment or his and Flynn's prosecution for what you think MIGHT be treason, who were only too happy or oblivious to raise so much as a peep at the overt aid and comfort Obama gave to a sworn enemy, should just pipe down. You have abrogated any claim to moral authority on the subject.
The photo of Flynn sitting next to Putin at the RT gala dinner is extraordinary. Certainly access to Putin that billionaire businessman Trump never came close to achieving (to give you some context, thats Gorbachev sitting in background I believe). To be fair, Jill Stein is at the table too (seen at right of photo...interesting in its own right...given that her votes as a 3rd party candidate also influenced the election outcome in an anti-Clinton way), as are other speakers at the RT event. But why was Flynn even at the event much less sitting to Putin's direct right? An in-your-face to Flynn/Trump/Putin nemesis Obama perhaps? Is Russia Today (a state-managed news agency) a client of Flynn's consulting business? Ditto as to any other Russian politicians, agencies?
If Flynn provided any confidential information (information taken from or derived from his employment with the US government) to the Russian government (in the guise of RT or otherwise, he is a paid Russian agent, ie (whatever it might be called in Trumpland) a spy. End of. Thats before we even get into questions of him calling senior Russian officials to undermine the impact of US sanctions from a cell phone in the Caribbean.
If Flynn provided any confidential information (information taken from or derived from his employment with the US government) to the Russian government (in the guise of RT or otherwise, he is a paid Russian agent, ie (whatever it might be called in Trumpland) a spy. End of. Thats before we even get into questions of him calling senior Russian officials to undermine the impact of US sanctions from a cell phone in the Caribbean.
3
I gotta hand it to him. This is way better than the Apprentice.
Prosecute Flynn. What he did is treason.
The charge is treason.
The charge is treason.
2
At what point in this ongoing complex, chaotic and dangerous narrative will
the trusting supporters of Trump, the President and person, Trumpism, a toxic perception of targeted people, selected systems, and the world at large, begin to reassess their willful blindness and deafness? What would enable an infectious, dehumanizing, certitudinous Trump WE -supporter to
reconsider, and reach out, to a politically constructed, fellow American, "they?" What would/could it take to move, and reposition, vertical, distorting barriers into horizontal bridges with which to cross over from mantraed-mistrust to manageable, assessable trust between flawed people, their beliefs, principles of faith, interpreted and constructed facts, fictions, phantasies, and system? What would enable a disparate US, including both friends and strangers, to help one another; to take a chance to cope, adapt and function with the ongoing, unceasing, demands of uncertainty, unpredictabilities and impermanence of daily living in a good enough way. Not perfect. Just humanely possible and good enough. In a menschlich manner which goes beyond mantrafied mediocrity.You. Me.Us?
Just nuanced words? Who will measure the potential unnuanced painful, sustained harmful consequences, if the traditional linear, beginning, middle and ending narrative continues, becoming a multidimensional saga over time?
the trusting supporters of Trump, the President and person, Trumpism, a toxic perception of targeted people, selected systems, and the world at large, begin to reassess their willful blindness and deafness? What would enable an infectious, dehumanizing, certitudinous Trump WE -supporter to
reconsider, and reach out, to a politically constructed, fellow American, "they?" What would/could it take to move, and reposition, vertical, distorting barriers into horizontal bridges with which to cross over from mantraed-mistrust to manageable, assessable trust between flawed people, their beliefs, principles of faith, interpreted and constructed facts, fictions, phantasies, and system? What would enable a disparate US, including both friends and strangers, to help one another; to take a chance to cope, adapt and function with the ongoing, unceasing, demands of uncertainty, unpredictabilities and impermanence of daily living in a good enough way. Not perfect. Just humanely possible and good enough. In a menschlich manner which goes beyond mantrafied mediocrity.You. Me.Us?
Just nuanced words? Who will measure the potential unnuanced painful, sustained harmful consequences, if the traditional linear, beginning, middle and ending narrative continues, becoming a multidimensional saga over time?
Call the CIA!!!
Americans 'eroding trust in the trump team'
Impressive, Isn't it?
Trump is using the White House as a real life location to film the second season of "Designated Survivor".
In real time ...
Trump is using the White House as a real life location to film the second season of "Designated Survivor".
In real time ...
With the passage of each day, Russia's special interest in the concluded presidential elections, is growing. It is not clear if Mr.Flynn had disclosed any information to the Russian intelligence. But, being a retired military officer, he should be well aware of the consequences of conversing with intelligence agency of a country which is hostile to the United States. FBI did the right thing of confronting Mr.Flynn even during the initial stage of his job at the White House, which has resulted in his resignation.
1
More like "Eroding Level of Credibility". Putin is promising huuuuuge money if sanctions are lifted. What a business deal. Trump couldn't pass it up.
This is merely the beginning, said Senator Schumer.
So now President Trump does not have to worry about who will pay for the wall, repealing Obamacare , jobs and all the impossible things he promised America. He will be very busy in a lot of other ways.
So now President Trump does not have to worry about who will pay for the wall, repealing Obamacare , jobs and all the impossible things he promised America. He will be very busy in a lot of other ways.
Thanks to the Washington Post for breaking this story but the NYT needs to add resources to thoroughly investigate Flynngate. There's much more to this incident because it's certain that Flynn did not act on his own but was explicitly or implicitly given the approval to assure the Russians that any Obama's orders would be overruled.
One NYTimes "Pick" wrote: we have a scandal of Watergate dimensions. Gee, a tad overkill? A tad too soon with no evidence? Fire, Pull trigger, Aim...
Then, it was uprooted by over 1,000 others.
I suggest NYTimes readers pick up their salad forks to start a revolution! I'm stunned by the general lack of their reserve and calm reflection before assuming the worst in all things Trump, and have come to see liberal Democrats as mirror Tea Party Republicans. I fear for my country.
Then, it was uprooted by over 1,000 others.
I suggest NYTimes readers pick up their salad forks to start a revolution! I'm stunned by the general lack of their reserve and calm reflection before assuming the worst in all things Trump, and have come to see liberal Democrats as mirror Tea Party Republicans. I fear for my country.
It is not clear from the article if it is known that Trump told a bald-face lie to reporters and the public on Air Force One on the way down to Florida that he was unaware of the Thursday night Washington Post article. From reporting, it seems that Pence, Priebus and Bannon urged him to fire Flynn before that, but the article did not delineate the chronology with certainty to the reader.
Most readers probably have little doubt as to the truth of it, but it would be nice to have more certainty to the order of known events.
Most readers probably have little doubt as to the truth of it, but it would be nice to have more certainty to the order of known events.
This is the most dangerous national scandal since Watergate which is dwarfed by it.
Allegedly, Michael Flynn compromised our international security with the Russian Ambassador, before the Trump administration assumed office on January 20th. If true, this is illegal.
Flynn was questioned by the FBI, and in turn, the Acting Attorney General notified Trump about this problem 19 days ago. Trump did nothing about this until this story leaked, which forced his hand.
Our nation's international security is at stake, being successfully driven by Putin and Russia. Neither have ever been our friends. Putin and Russia want to take America down!
Russia hacked our election. Russia's jets have recently buzzed our Naval ships in international waters in the Black Sea. Tuesday the news reported that there is a Russian spy ship off Delaware, OBVIOUSLY SPYING AND POSSIBLY HACKING US NOW.
For the past year, Trump has continually bromanced Putin. No prior President has ever done this. Trump needs to be subpoenaed to release his income tax returns and other information, which may indicate any inappropriate relationships with Putin, Russia, Russian businesses, and its oligarchs.
The American people MUST empower an independent panel equally split between the parties with subpoena powers, and get to the bottom and resolve this matter TO PROTECT US. WE, NOT JUST CONGRESS AND THE PRESIDENT ARE AMERICA. AND WE DESERVE THAT.
Allegedly, Michael Flynn compromised our international security with the Russian Ambassador, before the Trump administration assumed office on January 20th. If true, this is illegal.
Flynn was questioned by the FBI, and in turn, the Acting Attorney General notified Trump about this problem 19 days ago. Trump did nothing about this until this story leaked, which forced his hand.
Our nation's international security is at stake, being successfully driven by Putin and Russia. Neither have ever been our friends. Putin and Russia want to take America down!
Russia hacked our election. Russia's jets have recently buzzed our Naval ships in international waters in the Black Sea. Tuesday the news reported that there is a Russian spy ship off Delaware, OBVIOUSLY SPYING AND POSSIBLY HACKING US NOW.
For the past year, Trump has continually bromanced Putin. No prior President has ever done this. Trump needs to be subpoenaed to release his income tax returns and other information, which may indicate any inappropriate relationships with Putin, Russia, Russian businesses, and its oligarchs.
The American people MUST empower an independent panel equally split between the parties with subpoena powers, and get to the bottom and resolve this matter TO PROTECT US. WE, NOT JUST CONGRESS AND THE PRESIDENT ARE AMERICA. AND WE DESERVE THAT.
48
Quandry, you deserve it but I'm afraid you ain't gonna get it from this odious and corrupt administration. Change will be required at the mid-terms.
1
Truly impressive! In less than 30 days, Donald Trump has earned an investigation that should rival that of the 911 Commission. Before we go and get all excited about that, recall how the 911 Commission never explained why the CIA never told the FBI's terrorism task force that Al Qaeda was already inside the United States. Which is why today, Saudi Arabia a country that gave us 90% of the 911 hijackers is NOT on the travel ban, and why Pakistan a country that provided sanctuary to Bin Laden is also NOT on the travel ban.
Observing the daily implosion of the Trump administration is like watching something Stanley Kubrick would have arguably developed, season 2 of "Dr. Strangelove"--the problem with that is I'm crying more than I'm laughing.
Observing the daily implosion of the Trump administration is like watching something Stanley Kubrick would have arguably developed, season 2 of "Dr. Strangelove"--the problem with that is I'm crying more than I'm laughing.
41
Apparently knowing the White House, regardless of the source, is disseminating false information is not enough reason for the Justice Department to act. No, they have to worry that the source of the lie might be "compromised" by the lie. Wow.
6
With both houses of Congress and much of the Department of Justice dominated by the same party, it's imperative that any investigations NOT be conducted by the House, Senate, or Attorney General Jefferson Beauregard Sessions. Those who determine the investigators must make certain the investigations into the actions of Flynn, Trump, or others be independent of all political affiliation. Much is made throughout the world of the credibility of the US under Trump. More important, one believes, is the credibility of the US Government throughout the people of the US.
A special prosecutor, and an independent investigative committee would serve the country well. And isn't serving the country well what government is all about?
A special prosecutor, and an independent investigative committee would serve the country well. And isn't serving the country well what government is all about?
20
I am not an attorney , only a concerned patriotic American.
Treason: "whoever, owing allegiance to the US levies war against them, or adherence to their enemies, giving them aid and comfort within the US or elsewhere, is guilty of treason.
If Guilty of Treason: : "..death, or shall be imprisoned not less then five years and fined not less then$10,000..."
Just saying'
Treason: "whoever, owing allegiance to the US levies war against them, or adherence to their enemies, giving them aid and comfort within the US or elsewhere, is guilty of treason.
If Guilty of Treason: : "..death, or shall be imprisoned not less then five years and fined not less then$10,000..."
Just saying'
17
Does thinking Americans' "eroded level of trust" in the so-called President, who clearly conspired with the Russians to assist his presidential campaign, mean he must also resign? He clearly believes, because he is told so by his vice president and his Republican gang (since there is no way he is aware of this himself) he is above the law. But surely it is treason to conspire with a foreign power, especially a proven adversary, to manipulate the outcome of an election? As the sem literate President likes to say: So sad!
16
There are no ethics in Trumps team.
His own people contradict each other in their lies and promotions. Kellyanne Conway violated ethics laws per the Office of Government Ethics - OGE. She promoted Ivanka Trumps brand on a news show. Intentional and lengthy. It's the most self serving administration and staff in history.
His own people contradict each other in their lies and promotions. Kellyanne Conway violated ethics laws per the Office of Government Ethics - OGE. She promoted Ivanka Trumps brand on a news show. Intentional and lengthy. It's the most self serving administration and staff in history.
27
No ethics and no moral compass. A frightening cocktail of narcissism, lust for power and greed.
1
Mitch McConnell said that he wouldn't have confirmation hearings on President Obama's Supreme Court nominee, Merrick Garland. McConnell said that the winner of the 2016 presidential election will choose the next justice.
Now that we know that Michael Flynn was up to no good with Russian agents, maybe Mitch McConnell knew a little something extra about what the outcome of the election would be. "Let the American public decide". Why was Mitch McConnell so sure that the American public would choose "correctly" so that the road would be clear to pick a judge who ends up being sympathetic to "dark money" in politics, anti-choice, and pro big business?
Rudy Giuliani went on TV and was so sure that a "little goodie was coming" from the FBI. Then James Comey comes out with the information that more e-mail transmissions were found on Huma Abedin's computer that ultimately turned out to be nothing new.
It is my belief that there were more people than Donald Trump's campaign team that was working overtime in the shadows to get Trump elected. I hope there is an independent investigator selected to find out.
This whole scene stinks. To the Trump voters: Are you tired of winning?
Now that we know that Michael Flynn was up to no good with Russian agents, maybe Mitch McConnell knew a little something extra about what the outcome of the election would be. "Let the American public decide". Why was Mitch McConnell so sure that the American public would choose "correctly" so that the road would be clear to pick a judge who ends up being sympathetic to "dark money" in politics, anti-choice, and pro big business?
Rudy Giuliani went on TV and was so sure that a "little goodie was coming" from the FBI. Then James Comey comes out with the information that more e-mail transmissions were found on Huma Abedin's computer that ultimately turned out to be nothing new.
It is my belief that there were more people than Donald Trump's campaign team that was working overtime in the shadows to get Trump elected. I hope there is an independent investigator selected to find out.
This whole scene stinks. To the Trump voters: Are you tired of winning?
58
Astounding--but not surprising--that Trump was prepared to stick with Flynn, knowing about his lies, for fear of losing face.
18
When you look at the Flynns, you have to wonder whether it's a case of 'like father, like son' or 'like son, like father'.
Keystone Cops. Except they don't have six-shooters, they have nuclear codes and the 82nd Airborne Division. Heaven help us!
14
How terrified of a woman in the Oval Office must this country be that we have allowed a disaster of such epic proportions to unfold while the world is watching.
53
Trump knew Flynn lied about the Russians, kept Flynn as America's national security advisor anyway, didn't inform Vice President Pence that Flynn had lied to him, etc. Tip of the iceberg. Now we know multiple Trump people in the campaign in touch with the Russians. Most likely Trump asked Flynn to talk to the Russians about sanctions and approved the contact of his campaign with the Russians. Russia likely has stuff to blackmail Trump. NEW YORK TIMES, thank you for your relentless reporting to protect American freedom and democracy. The GOP would like to see the whole thing swept under the rug so it doesn't tarnish their party and agenda to kill Obamacare, etc. "There is nothing concealed that will not be disclosed, or hidden that will not be made known." Luke 12:2.
16
What flynn did was give aid and comfort to the enemy - the constitutional definition of treason. What Trump did is cover it up - if not direct it in the first place. Republicans need to act - if outright treason and coverup are not beyond partisan politics, then the Republicans have lost complete sight of their mission.
ps. this does not even come to light but for good investigative reporting. Our free and real press deserves enormous praise.
ps. this does not even come to light but for good investigative reporting. Our free and real press deserves enormous praise.
22
What aid or comfort? Talking about the 35 guys who were kicked out? Saying that things would be reviewed? How is that aid or comfort? How does that compare with, say, giving $1.7B to Iran so they could work on perfecting their nuclear missile systems to use against us and our allies?
People who throw the word treason around should learn what it is, when it applies, and which administration actually crossed that line. Also, which administration routinely overlooked treasonous activities by civil and military personnel. I'll give you a hint: It wasn't Trump's.
People who throw the word treason around should learn what it is, when it applies, and which administration actually crossed that line. Also, which administration routinely overlooked treasonous activities by civil and military personnel. I'll give you a hint: It wasn't Trump's.
Since the inception of his campaign, and continuing in escalating fashion into his administration, Trump has shown a disdain for ethical constraints and a total disregard for telling the truth. The behavior of his minions merely reflects the tone he has set. Whether what is coming out about Flynn and the Russians, or Conway's hawking Ivana's goods, it's likely that more such will be revealed, and that much more is happening that may never come to light.
7
Ignore Logan act. Main question is that was there any treasonous activities? What were Putin's interest to help Trump? How many Trump campaign officials were involved? What kind of financial interest Trump has in Russia? Why he is hiding his Tax Returns? Why Comey and FBI ( known as Trumpland) were so silent about Trump and focused about Hillary?nwill Comey investigate Trump thoroughly and neutrally? Republican Hose and Senate will do nothing. Jeff Session can not investigate. only independent committee should investigate.
16
The Logan Act should not be ignored. The questions you listed should be answered as well.
Flynn contacted the Russian ambassador 7 times...Putin cancelled his threatened responses to Obama's sanctions...Trump followed, praised Putin for being so "smart". It all fits together...Then Trump was informed days before he let his own VP know that Flynn was monitored and Trump let Pence spread some really fake news...while denying it on AirForce 1 ...Trump knows more about this from way back in the campaign than he is afraid to admit and that is what Putin is holding over his head....This is an illegitimate presidency...He and his crew should be turnout of office in disgrace!
30
My, how this does evolve.
First, he contacted the ambassador once. Then it was three times. Then five. Now it's up to seven. A few more days, and the story will have grown to be that he spent a full day on the phone with the guy. But, I guess when you have rogue spies going on fishing expeditions, it's hardly surprising that you wind up with fish stories.
First, he contacted the ambassador once. Then it was three times. Then five. Now it's up to seven. A few more days, and the story will have grown to be that he spent a full day on the phone with the guy. But, I guess when you have rogue spies going on fishing expeditions, it's hardly surprising that you wind up with fish stories.
Even Benedict Arnold, who was also a general officer, would be awed with Neo Ben-Flynn, after all he didn't get sit at the foot of General Washington's desk and tell him how to fight those pesky, Redcoats
That Trump, he sure knows how to pick em. What now? Simple. Appoint Flynn ambassador to Russia---Oh! Wait!
That Trump, he sure knows how to pick em. What now? Simple. Appoint Flynn ambassador to Russia---Oh! Wait!
8
“The evolving and eroding level of trust as a result of this situation and a series of other questionable instances is what led the president to ask for General Flynn’s resignation,” he said. Substitute "American people" for "president" and "Trump's" for "Gen'l Flynn's" and you have a much better quote.
10
Mr. Flynn lost the trust of the President? It seems highly improbable that he was capable enough to have acted alone - even the means by which he communicated suggests his lack of competency.
The bigger issue is can anyone trust this administration when almost everything we have heard from them has been demonstrably false? From crowd sizes, to voter fraud, to imminent threats from certain countries - all falsehoods.
We should stop using the word falsehood - call them lies.
The bigger issue is can anyone trust this administration when almost everything we have heard from them has been demonstrably false? From crowd sizes, to voter fraud, to imminent threats from certain countries - all falsehoods.
We should stop using the word falsehood - call them lies.
18
As usual, it's the cover-up that will take down the most people.
11
Why is it that no news reports or editorials in the NYT have even hinted at the possibility that Trump ordered FLynn and others to contact Russian officials?
8
If the NUT or anyone else, hinted at the possibility that Trump ordered Flynn and others to contact Russian officials at this stage of this unfolding event, they would lose, justifiably, all credibility forever more. You have to have proof otherwise they are unfounded accusations. This needs to be gotten right for all our sakes. All in good time, Grasshopper, it will all be revealed in time.
1
Trump received and ignored multiple warnings not to hire Flynn, particularly because, among other things, he was fired under Obama for cause.
Now Trump is considering picking former General and CIA director Petraeus who intentionally gave classified intel to his mistress and then covered up the crime to the FBI when he hid the evidence in his attic.
Charged with a felony, Petraeus pled guilty to a lesser charge and is on probation.
Trump wants a convicted criminal heading national security whose crime would prevent clearance. Yet he and the GOP tormented the nation with their baseless persecution of Clinton while Chaffetz and his cronies won't pursue Trump or Flynn. Gutless wonders.
Now Trump is considering picking former General and CIA director Petraeus who intentionally gave classified intel to his mistress and then covered up the crime to the FBI when he hid the evidence in his attic.
Charged with a felony, Petraeus pled guilty to a lesser charge and is on probation.
Trump wants a convicted criminal heading national security whose crime would prevent clearance. Yet he and the GOP tormented the nation with their baseless persecution of Clinton while Chaffetz and his cronies won't pursue Trump or Flynn. Gutless wonders.
16
Either Flynn was freelancing in ways that he thought assisted his boss, yet never bothered to mention what he'd said, or he was acting on instruction. Perhaps we need to see those transcripts. (That's assuming we know who his boss was.)
Now time to ask Pence whether he'd ever raised the topic with Flynn or the president, or if he's just drifting along on a wave of plausible deniability.
Now time to ask Pence whether he'd ever raised the topic with Flynn or the president, or if he's just drifting along on a wave of plausible deniability.
5
You can dress the crime up all you want; but, it still looks like a PIG with too much lipstick. I have read stories from several very reputable journalists, over a period of several years. He talks too much, hot-tempered, conspiracy theories, a reputation and for freely spouting seemingly classified information. He was forced to resign--in essence, fired--from the Army for a "poor management style".
So, Trump overlooked the fact that he knew that there was improper communications on Flynn's part, at several times, and failed to terminate his access to classified information. Well, Flynn was loyalist!
So Donald, what do you say to British Prime Minister Theresa May, Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe and Canadian Prime Minister for having a potential Security Risk sit-in on "high-level discussions?"
https://thetruthoncommonsense.com
So, Trump overlooked the fact that he knew that there was improper communications on Flynn's part, at several times, and failed to terminate his access to classified information. Well, Flynn was loyalist!
So Donald, what do you say to British Prime Minister Theresa May, Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe and Canadian Prime Minister for having a potential Security Risk sit-in on "high-level discussions?"
https://thetruthoncommonsense.com
8
Why were Trump's people calling senior Russian spies even before the election? What kind of code did they use to make deals with the Russians? Trump had to know about all this and more. He appears to me to be a traitor. Trump must resign!
13
Please continue to investigate this with a hawk's eye. It is hard to conceive that a high-ranking official would have stepped out of line without the President's knowledge or consent. If he did, wouldn't he be thrown out earlier for putting the new president's administration in danger?
6
I get a feeling Trump's team just don't understand ethics, or how the government works. It's not like some other administrations where people were clever enough to try and circumvent the law. I think this team just doesn't know what they're doing.
17
Paypal supports Trump
2
NO, they are crooks...they are outside the laws in their minds...
2
@Mary- I think Trump and at least some on his team knew exactly what they wanted to achieve. Trump probably saw potential profits to be made from closer ties to Russia and joint projects with Russia such as Exxon drilling for oil in its holdings in Russia. That's why he chose Mr. Tillerson, former Exxon CEO and Mr. Flynn, a Russian admirer, to be part of his cabinet. Unfortunately Mr. Flynn was too eager to do his job and never thought he would be investigated by the law.
In today's press conference, Sean Spicer must have incanted the mantra of "eroded level of trust " or "betrayal of trust" at least a dozen times. And as if to secure our utter and complete belief in this story, he often added "plain and simple". No more discussion needed!
We are not talking about cheating at cards or returning a neighbors car with an empty gas tank. We are firmly in the realm
of a major national security breach. As with any crime, who stood to benefit? Certainly not Michael Flynn.
We are not talking about cheating at cards or returning a neighbors car with an empty gas tank. We are firmly in the realm
of a major national security breach. As with any crime, who stood to benefit? Certainly not Michael Flynn.
22
If this was Hillary, impeachment proceedings would have already begun.
41
Neither Flynn nor anyone under Trump will ever face legal action under Atty Genl Sessions. His appointment was Trump's insurance.
Tax returns...our only hope. Please, will some patriotic IRS soul save this country and leak Trump's tax returns.
Tax returns...our only hope. Please, will some patriotic IRS soul save this country and leak Trump's tax returns.
72
Proving once again: "Patriotism is the last refuge of a scoundrel."
6
National Security Advisor is a position in which the honesty and integrity of incumbent is paramount. Mr. Flynn is severely deficient in both of these virtues and therefore disqualified.
7
Now that Russians ships are in the waters near Delaware, expect new "sanctions" and slightly tougher talk against Putin. Cover provided by frenemies. I am assuming that the material that Russia has on Trump rises to the "impeachable" level.
9
“Intercepted Calls Show Contact During 2016, Officials Say”
It really is amazing that Trump and his aides could be so naïve and arrogant as to think that US intelligence experts would not delve into their Russian contacts.
The US, with its polished intelligence network, has been around for a very long time; Trump, not so long.
The House of Trump will come tumble and they will all fall down.
It really is amazing that Trump and his aides could be so naïve and arrogant as to think that US intelligence experts would not delve into their Russian contacts.
The US, with its polished intelligence network, has been around for a very long time; Trump, not so long.
The House of Trump will come tumble and they will all fall down.
19
ambition and hubris cross the line to treason
13
Welcome to day 26 of our next long national nightmare.
4
None dare call it treason ...
9
I am astounded at the medias willingness to believe that Mr. Pence was unaware of this until last week.
18
Why do I think President Trump (yes, I call him President Trump because I respect the office) supported General Flynn until the very end when he changed his mind? I believe Vice President Pence went into the Oval Office and told the President it's him or me. I'm sure the VP gave POTUS the ultimatum after finding out that POTUS knew Flynn had lied but kept it from him for all those days. The article to the left used the term misled. I think lied is the more accurate term in this case.
7
I'm interested in your knowledge of Mr. Pence's integrity.
2
I don't agree with 99% of his politics and policies, but I have a gut feeling he's by far the most honorable of all those in this situation. He defends his boss. We'll see how much of this crap he's willing to turn a blind eye towards. If he defends his boss while knowing that things are untrue, then I am willing to say he's no better than the rest of them.
To Mitch McConnell,
Do your job and investigate Trump and Flynn. If they are found guilty, Lock Them Up!
/s/ Jack
Do your job and investigate Trump and Flynn. If they are found guilty, Lock Them Up!
/s/ Jack
17
I'm afraid the erosion of trust starts at the stinking head of this rotten fish.
17
"Whoever, owing allegiance to the United States, levies war against them or adheres to their enemies, giving them aid and comfort within the United States or elsewhere, is guilty of treason and shall suffer death, or shall be imprisoned not less than five years and fined under this title but not less than $10,000; and shall be incapable of holding any office under the United States." 18 U.S. Code § 2381 - Treason
18
The truly disheartening thing about this is watching Trump voters and GOP hard-liners continuing to defend someone who is a.) obviously intellectually and emotionally incapable of leading the country and b.) is probably a lying traitorous weasel to boot. If this was a Democrat, the impeachment proceedings would already be underway. Every day Trump and his fellow kleptocrats remain in office the utter hypocrisy and cravenness of the Republican Party becomes more apparent.
44
is probably a lying traitorous weasel to boot.
-------------------
emphasis on "probably." Joe McCarthy smiles.
-------------------
emphasis on "probably." Joe McCarthy smiles.
3
Well, I wish another agency was conducting the investigation. Seeing as how corrupted Comey proved to be.
23
I wonder what who had on Comey?
How does the WAPO get transcripts of the phone call? Anyone concerned about that? Is the Intelegence Community now going to be like Hoover's FBI and threaten others with their insider information? This knife cuts both ways and the Democrats can just as easily be on the receiving end as Republican's.
4
they were..did you not hear Comey on Clinton..
17
Oh wait. Suddenly conservatives and Republicans care more about the illegal getting and releasing of information than the means by which it was got? That sure wasn't the case when an adversarial foreign country was hacking into Democratic email systems in order to help get Trump elected, i.e.: interfere with our democracy and election.
Thanks must go to The New York Times and The Washington Post for their undying commitment to journalistic integrity. It's worrisome to think what would happen to this nation without you practicing your trade and submitting them to the highest of standards. With all the Fake News we are being bombarded with through more sources than one can keep track of a publication such as yours is a godsend. Keep on keeping on.
DD
Manhattan
DD
Manhattan
46
Competent lawyers say the Muslim ban was unconstitutional; competent scientists that climate change is real; competent economists that tax cuts don’t pay for themselves; competent voting experts that there weren’t millions of illegal ballots; competent diplomats that the Iran deal makes sense, and Putin is not our friend. So-called president trump says competence must be not only be ignored but ridiculed and excluded.
16
Flynn is the fall guy. Where is John Dean when we need him? This is starting to smell an awful lot like Watergate.
14
Flynn was career military and former head of defense intelligence agency. he should be acutely aware know how things work. or he thought rules don't apply to him?
he was extremely careless.
he was extremely careless.
1
There's a word: statecraft. This is what its absence looks like.
6
Some bread crumbs for thought ... Steven Bannon, who was/is Flynn's primary cheerleader, and faked his dismay when he saw the writing on the wall regarding Flynn's fate, work at Goldman Sacks, where he was surrounded atheist brokers. Some of those atheists are Russians who transferred funds to Bannon before he set out to undermine American cohesiveness and progress with his far-right agenda, which could only be headed by the showman himself, Trump, who ran around the country promising the sky, scare-mongering, and despicable disgracefulness. So, New York representatives and the State AG should seek out those transfers records within Goldman. Tacitly that came with instructions and hacker aid from Russia to undermine the U.S.. That's the law that has been broken, and someone needs to look into that.
Flynn should be treated no less harshly than Chelsea Mannon did.
Flynn should be treated no less harshly than Chelsea Mannon did.
6
This isn't just Flynn. It's Trump. He just doesn't get that he's under the law. He's used to being a law unto himself and using easy U.S. tax law to make sure he is enriched. That's the game plan he knows, and at 72 he's a dog with only one trick. He can't last much longer as POTUS. The law will get him, and the law will get to him. He doesn't have the patience for it. He can't grandstand his way through a specific job description much longer.
19
Are we to believe that Trump's being super nice to Putin and Russia is just a coincidence? That he has no part in this, and all his aides are spontaneously incriminating themselves because of their deep trust in Trump, or their steadfast loyalty to Trump? Let's face it - this administration is rotten to the core, traitors all top to bottom.
31
Can we assume that now that Ms. Yates is gone that further analysis of the Russia connection will be suppressed by Sessions, Comey and Kelley. It is great investigative reporting that the Washington Post and NYT are doing on this, but it is much easier for an FBI director to look into conversations between the Trump campaign and Russian intelligence. Also, if Trump is found to have directly colluded with Russian intelligence to steal the election does action on this depend on impeachment by the House?
12
What a mess for Putin the Spy Master! Didn't he know that what goes around comes around in the world of espionage? It's time he acted like a statesman, not a devious little KGB guy.
3
This morning -- following the resignation -- KellyAnne Conway went on Today Show and said Flynn made his own decision to resign and he still had the full confidence of the president. Erosion of trust did not seem to come until after the media firestorm today.
8
Spicer is quoted as saying:
“The evolving and eroding level of trust as a result of this situation and a series of other questionable instances is what led the president to ask for General Flynn’s resignation.”
Did anyone in the press notice this gratuitously inserted phrase, "and a series of other questionable instances?" I can't imagine this was a slip of the tongue by Spicer.
So what are these "other questionable instances" involving Flynn?
“The evolving and eroding level of trust as a result of this situation and a series of other questionable instances is what led the president to ask for General Flynn’s resignation.”
Did anyone in the press notice this gratuitously inserted phrase, "and a series of other questionable instances?" I can't imagine this was a slip of the tongue by Spicer.
So what are these "other questionable instances" involving Flynn?
10
Just the tip of the iceberg.
14
The beginning of end of Donald Trump and his coterie of crooks. Now we only need to find out what Pence knew and when he knew it.
14
When will all the newspapers and magazines get together and face Trump and his lies and those of his spokespeople? It has to be a daily roundup shared by all mainstream serious news agencies!
2
The real story is how and why Flynn's conversation with the Russian Ambasssador was recorded and how and why it was revealed and released, against Federal Law, to the NY Times and Washington Post. This appears to have been a politically motivated, illegal release of a classified recording of an American Citizen communicating, lawfully, with the Russian Ambassador by one of our security agencies. As profoundly destablizing this abuse of power by the NSA/CIA operatives is, they have certainly played their last hand. By destroying Flynn's future by releasing overtly classified and protected information they have exposed their political motivations and cleared the path, indeed mandated, a purge at both agencies, allowing the new administration to clean house at both and to then fill the vacancies with only those operatives loyal to them. How will the future look like to Trump's political opponents, old and new, then? What a dangerous and frightening precedent. What hubris!
4
It seems you have the big picture but don't lose heart.Politics always has been like the President says "nasty stuff"a tough business but a necessary evil in sailing safely the ship of State.With God's help our country will prosper and prevail.Remember all men have their faults and sic transit gloria mundi.
2
It was not a legal communication; that is the entire point. Obama was still in office, and Flynn was merely a private citizen when the conversation with Russia took place. And I think it is hypocritical to be dismayed by the release of this information to an American newspaper if you were not appalled by Russia hacking an American presidential candidate's emails, which were then released world-wide. Flynn (and likely others in this administration) appears to have broken the law. The American people have a right to that information.law
5
So the FBI, whose director Comey colluded with with The Russians and Trump to sway the election in his favor is investigating the whole thing.... Boy that's rich ...
Orange, NJ
Orange, NJ
17
Here's a question: Doesn't Flynn's unaccomplished son's facination with child trafficking seem worthy of investigation?
7
Is this the reason why House Republicans tried to get rid of the independent Ethics Committee?
27
Do I hear impeachment?
7
GOP doesn't have the guts.
2
You've been shouting it since late on January 20th.
2
If I prayed I would pray for it.
2
Putin proven to influence election.
Putin proven to influence campaign aides.
Putin proven to influence National Security Advisor.
Putin ignores sanctions and deploys cruise missile.
I thought Obama was exaggerating, but...Putin is proving to be a chess master.
Putin proven to influence campaign aides.
Putin proven to influence National Security Advisor.
Putin ignores sanctions and deploys cruise missile.
I thought Obama was exaggerating, but...Putin is proving to be a chess master.
10
Let's see now, if Hillary Clinton had won the election, with four million less votes than Trump, and her aids had conspired with the Russians during the year to smear his good name and reputation.
Would the House & Senate Republicans already have started impeachment proceedings and changing the Electoral College rules? I believe we all know the answer to that question.
Would the House & Senate Republicans already have started impeachment proceedings and changing the Electoral College rules? I believe we all know the answer to that question.
26
No--they would already have finished impeachment proceedings
To understand why Flynn resigned/ fired one need look no further than the historical precedent of Presidential aides Halderman and Erlichman being fired by Nixon as his last defense against impeachment.
15
The silence from Republicans is blood-chilling.
The President has known for weeks about Flynn's deception.
At least during the days of Watergate, when it became clear that the President was complicit, congressional Republicans put country above party.
To quote from yet another time of crisis, "Have you left no sense of decency . . .?"
The President has known for weeks about Flynn's deception.
At least during the days of Watergate, when it became clear that the President was complicit, congressional Republicans put country above party.
To quote from yet another time of crisis, "Have you left no sense of decency . . .?"
26
ECWB, I like where you're coming from but I don't just believe Trump has known about this for a few weeks. That sounds a little to Nixonian. Like near plausible deniability. Like, "all I did was fib about what I heard after the fact" stuff.
No, I believe that Trump dispatched Flynn to Russia among other aides to ask for help with the election and to promise them a repeal of the sanctions should that help result in a Trump victory. It's just all too making sense now. The Trump Putin praise. The verbal public request to hack out Hillary's emails (Nice direct-indirection). The easy stance on Assad. And so on.
Until there's a full investigation and it possibly proves otherwise, the above is what I believe has happened.
This goes way way deep. And hopefully Flynn is still patriotic enough to be our Deep Throat.
No, I believe that Trump dispatched Flynn to Russia among other aides to ask for help with the election and to promise them a repeal of the sanctions should that help result in a Trump victory. It's just all too making sense now. The Trump Putin praise. The verbal public request to hack out Hillary's emails (Nice direct-indirection). The easy stance on Assad. And so on.
Until there's a full investigation and it possibly proves otherwise, the above is what I believe has happened.
This goes way way deep. And hopefully Flynn is still patriotic enough to be our Deep Throat.
10
I think there are some money loans from Russia and compromising videos to add into your scenario
1
The Republicans should remember that when a fish rots it starts at the head. The rest of us should recall that we've never heard of a brothel where the madam was a virgin.
11
The hottest selling book in the country has been Orwell's 1984. For many reasons.
Trump, beside Flynn in each photo, tells reporters he wasn't aware Flynn spoke with Russian ambassador before the election, then says he'll "look into that." Despite the inner circle receiving information from a senior career national security official to the White House counsel.
Flynn"s all over the map. No recollection, can't rule it out. Yet--- wiretapped conversations.
Trump twists story to it being a big deal no one told Mike Pence.
For sane people, the real issue is covert contacts with a foreign nation. The intrusion on a democracy. Trump's absurd spin is 'this makes Pence look bad.' Poor Pence.
Now phone records/intercepted calls reveal Trump’s 2016 campaign staffers + associates had lots of contacts with senior Russian intelligence officials the year before the election.
Sergei A. Ryabkov, deputy Russian foreign minister, said “there were contacts,
Obviously, we know most of the people from his entourage.”
"We" meaning the Russian government. Contacts implying collusion.
And one of the people in contact, Roger Stone, has a permanent seat at the table on CNN. With a big smile on his face.
Trump, beside Flynn in each photo, tells reporters he wasn't aware Flynn spoke with Russian ambassador before the election, then says he'll "look into that." Despite the inner circle receiving information from a senior career national security official to the White House counsel.
Flynn"s all over the map. No recollection, can't rule it out. Yet--- wiretapped conversations.
Trump twists story to it being a big deal no one told Mike Pence.
For sane people, the real issue is covert contacts with a foreign nation. The intrusion on a democracy. Trump's absurd spin is 'this makes Pence look bad.' Poor Pence.
Now phone records/intercepted calls reveal Trump’s 2016 campaign staffers + associates had lots of contacts with senior Russian intelligence officials the year before the election.
Sergei A. Ryabkov, deputy Russian foreign minister, said “there were contacts,
Obviously, we know most of the people from his entourage.”
"We" meaning the Russian government. Contacts implying collusion.
And one of the people in contact, Roger Stone, has a permanent seat at the table on CNN. With a big smile on his face.
9
The moral of this unfortunate series of events: Mr. President, it weren't at all prudent to undercut and disparage America's intelligence community.
14
When do we decide that a seriously compromised administration is a threat to the security of a free state?
17
Thank goodness for The Washington Post, it is really driving the agenda in DC. It is an exemplary icon of real news.
27
To the best of our knowledge, Flynn didn't do anything illegal, so it doesn't really matter what Trump knew and when. It was a matter that only affected the personal dynamics internal to his administration and as such it was up to him to decide how it should be handled. End of story.
6
He doesn't get to negotiate foreign policy before Trump is sworn in and no matter, cannot neglect to mention it, misspeak or lie about it.
11
Well, we'll see about that.
4
Beyond any doubt, on January 26, Mr. Trump was fully aware of the actions of Mr. Flynn. Yet a few days later he had him present during his discussions with Mr. Putin. Mr. Trump then lied to the press about having any new information about Mr. Flynn a few days later.
Clearly Mr. Trump put this nation at risk by his actions and continues to erode trust in the White House with his blatant lies.
I know a lot of good folks that voted for Mr. Trump. I also know none of them voted for this.
Clearly Mr. Trump put this nation at risk by his actions and continues to erode trust in the White House with his blatant lies.
I know a lot of good folks that voted for Mr. Trump. I also know none of them voted for this.
13
Don't judge the President there is a lot to be considered when FBI and intel disagrees information managers have political clout but the buck stops at the White House yes more heads will roll and powerful Senators may be embarrassed but the truth will come out as in the New Testament nothing that is hidden will remain hidden and secret actions of all will be shouted from the rooftops all in the good time of a courageous President and a loving God.Br ROBERT Deacon Moscow Patriarchate God bless our America peace to men of good will!
1
Apparently the rabid right is now resorting to religion in order to hide their heads in the sand. Guess what, holier than thou evangelicals? You sacrificed your ideals and morals to elect a traitor into office.
"Eroding trust" is the Trump administration's cheap and stupid PR solution to stopping a probe of actual criminal activities. Congress needs an investigation to get to the bottom of this stinking scandal that started before the election and continued into the era of the President-elect.
The Trump administration is rotten to the core, and the parts that are not rotten are incompetent. We have never seen the like.
The Trump administration is rotten to the core, and the parts that are not rotten are incompetent. We have never seen the like.
38
I was troubled by two things #45 said during his campaign: (1) that he admired the way Putin "controlled" his country; and (2) that he would give the military an order to torture and they had to follow his order because he would be the commander-in-chief. I found that disturbing then and I still do.
27
If you do not order an independent investigation into the depth and details of General Flynn's involvement with contacting the Russian Government, YOU Senator/Congressperson _______ will be known and historically logged as failing in your oath under Title 5, Section 3331 of the United States Code, to defend and protect the Constitution. It will be clear to all Americans that anyone covering up, aiding and abetting anyone involved in potential treason and violations of the Logan Act will be held accountable. You who have been entrusted with your office, the more so.
You are put on notice Senator/Congressperson. DO YOUR JOB!!!
Contact those entrusted and liable
https://www.intelligence.senate.gov/
https://intelligence.house.gov/
https://www.mcconnell.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/contactform
https://paulryan.house.gov/contact/
https://oversight.house.gov/subcommittee/full-committee/
You are put on notice Senator/Congressperson. DO YOUR JOB!!!
Contact those entrusted and liable
https://www.intelligence.senate.gov/
https://intelligence.house.gov/
https://www.mcconnell.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/contactform
https://paulryan.house.gov/contact/
https://oversight.house.gov/subcommittee/full-committee/
23
Dear Lord, if Obama or Clinton were accused of this kind of treason, they'd have been hanged long ago. Of course, Flynn and Trump will skate. Thanks again, America, for electing such a corrupt monster.
30
Please, can the replacement for Flynn be someone not predisposed to conspiracy theorizing?
2
Admiral Robert Harward x navy seal, will be an excellent choice
1
This all brings to mind the Nixon scandal. In this modern era, we have many more sophisticated means of getting at the truth. It is imperative that an independent investigation take place, looking at all of the Trump campaign's contacts with the Russian government that took place in 2016.
Our citizens deserve to know exactly what is happening to their government, and who is in charge.
Our citizens deserve to know exactly what is happening to their government, and who is in charge.
8
The gloating ego proclaimed " I know more than the Generals" The biggest Freudian slip in history.
17
I see no Freudian aspect to it at all. Mere bravado, not unlike locker room talk.
4
Do NOT make light of that, Charles.
2
The excuses are wearing thin and the apologists look ever more desperate. Trump is going down and he's taking the alt-right with him.
1
RussiaGate - Have the Republicans learned nothing from Richard Nixon?
12
Candidate Nixon contacted the North Vietnamese to undermine the peace talks. There are persistent rumors that candidate Reagan contacted the Iranians to delay the release of the embassy hostages until after his inauguration. And now candidate Trump contacts the Russians to undermine our sanctions against their hacking. It's a troubling pattern for a political party that claims to represent American values.
25
Given the revelations of the last few minutes (it's 7:50 p.m. in Arizona), I suspect Russia now realizes it chose the wrong stooge to put in the White House.
I'm suspect Putin was furious over Trump's invitation to hack Hillary's email; who knew Trump was actually spilling the beans?
I'm suspect Putin was furious over Trump's invitation to hack Hillary's email; who knew Trump was actually spilling the beans?
18
There is physical erosion, like that at the Oroville dam. Then there is the psychological erosion of trust, as with the Trump administration--both internally and outwardly in relation to the American public. We indeed live in hazardous times.
4
So now we know that FBI Director Comey and Co. did remain silent about Trump's extensive involvement with the Russians during the elections even though there was significant evidence that they had hacked the DNC server to provide information that would benefit Trump.
Nevertheless, at a very critical time before the election Comey made public remarks insinuating criminal behavior on Hillary's part linked to A. Weiner's email account. Just two days before the election Comey then said there was nothing of substance in those allegations.
Given the Electoral College result based on a very close call in the deciding states, and given Hillary's significantly higher popular vote, it is more than obvious that Comey assisted the Russians in electing Trump. He is not our president and must be impeached.
Nevertheless, at a very critical time before the election Comey made public remarks insinuating criminal behavior on Hillary's part linked to A. Weiner's email account. Just two days before the election Comey then said there was nothing of substance in those allegations.
Given the Electoral College result based on a very close call in the deciding states, and given Hillary's significantly higher popular vote, it is more than obvious that Comey assisted the Russians in electing Trump. He is not our president and must be impeached.
35
I wonder how Comey will feel when he has to explain to his children and grandchildren how it is that the lens of history judged him to be the Benedict Arnold of the 21st century.
12
Jefflz** and now the FBI is investigating everything ... what a sick joke
4
After a year-plus of being told we couldn't trust HRC because of her emails, it's taken this clown show less than four weeks to allow near-treason (and possibly worse) to occur on its watch. SAD!
40
Perhaps the long period of time between the knowledge of Flynn's conversation(s) content with Russians and his delayed firing was due to Flynn negotiating a no prosecution deal.
8
Donald Trump always says he knows everything. So if he knew everything, including that his aides were in talks with the Russians during the campaign, then why didn't he fire people then? Why would you trust, to use Spicers words, those aides? Why did he allow those conversations? And if allowed them, perhaps, did he instigate them? "Oh! What a tangled web we weave, when first we practice to deceive"
10
"...Audio recordings implicated the president, revealing he had attempted to cover up activities that took place after the break-in and to use federal officials to deflect the investigation. Facing virtually certain impeachment in the House of Representatives and equally certain conviction by the Senate, Nixon resigned the presidency on August 9, 1974" - Wikipedia
I seriously doubt Trump lasts until August. His Administration has caused three major Constitutional crisis' in just 3 weeks. Congress and the Supreme Court are not going to toss the Constitution out the window, like the White House is doing weekly.
I seriously doubt Trump lasts until August. His Administration has caused three major Constitutional crisis' in just 3 weeks. Congress and the Supreme Court are not going to toss the Constitution out the window, like the White House is doing weekly.
8
Trump's political strategy of being the agent of change, upsetting the entrenched politicians, bureaucrats, and institutions seems to have been determined by the people like Flynn, Bannon, and Miller who have been generating the instability in the administration because there are no professionals in the administration who can keep them from creating more chaos than constructive change. The wise thing for Trump to do would be to remove Bannon, Miller, et al from any say in national security and domestic policy, leave them strictly as political advisors. Then he should rely on professionals who can work with the Congress and the bureaucracies to develop and implement policies. If's one thing to sell oneself as an agent of change, it's another thing for that change to be a total breakdown of the people's government so that it begins to affect the way people live. Obama tried to do the right thing for everyone in this country, despite all the undeserved resentment and obstructionism he received for his efforts. Despite all the complaints and denigration of Obama, the U.S. government functioned well enough that nobody was concerned about it not working at all. The administration of President Buchanan was so dysfunctional that army officers from the South began to take federal munitions and equipment away for the future use of the States who were planning to secede. A dysfunctional administration can lead to all kinds of unfortunate results.
4
Nobody saw this one coming...except everyone not drunk on the Kool-Aid.
17
Wow Putin and friends must be laughing long and hard in Moscow about this Washington train wreck!!
14
Let's see if John McCain has one last great patriotic act in him.
48
No, he won't.
4
Here is the three-card monty performance of Trump/Conway/Spicer/Miller/Bannon that they want the nation to believe.
Trump learned weeks ago that Flynn lied about the details of a telcon with Russians. Trump then learns from the AG that Flynn is Russian blackmail bait.
Pence learns of Flynn's misconduct from the press.
Trump is livid not because of Flynn's scandalous behavior with the Russian's and subsequent lying. Rather, none of this would've happened if no one had "leaked" it to the press. Flynn's dishonestly is the media's fault.
The White House doesn't have a problem. THIS NATION DOES as long as we have these incompetents in control, starting with the lead con man, Trump.
Trump learned weeks ago that Flynn lied about the details of a telcon with Russians. Trump then learns from the AG that Flynn is Russian blackmail bait.
Pence learns of Flynn's misconduct from the press.
Trump is livid not because of Flynn's scandalous behavior with the Russian's and subsequent lying. Rather, none of this would've happened if no one had "leaked" it to the press. Flynn's dishonestly is the media's fault.
The White House doesn't have a problem. THIS NATION DOES as long as we have these incompetents in control, starting with the lead con man, Trump.
37
didn't this sort of thing used to be called TREASON?
32
So if the FBI knew about this, why didn't they release it a few days before the election??
Comey - how about an answer? Oh, never mind, we all know what the real answer is.
Comey - how about an answer? Oh, never mind, we all know what the real answer is.
32
The GOP must pay in every election possible going forward. Until that time every citizen that cares needs to become involved and pressure their elected officials to resist every move of this admin. Nothing will change until DJT is removed.
13
Pay? We're set to easily take 10 of 25 Democrat seats in 2018, in states that voted for Trump, and in the 200 counties that voted for Obama in 2012, and voted My President in 2016. Democrats make it too easy for us, we'd prefer to punch up.
3
@Charles. You forget that they way they win is through redistricting. That has to be resolved as well. We'll just get more of the same garbage in there. How do you think McConnell has survived this long?
6
So you think that what's going on in Washington right now - read the story; not the comments - is sitting well with Trump supporters?
Make America Great is a catchy slogan but right now we are more divided than ever, have a deepening mistrust for the White House and all indications are that the executive is in total disarray making us weaker and more vulnerable than we have been in decades. The one thing I have learned in the last few weeks speaking and engaging with Trump supporters is that they will hold Trump's feet to the fire. If over the next 24 months things don't get demonstrably better, I don't think your prediction will hold much water.
Make America Great is a catchy slogan but right now we are more divided than ever, have a deepening mistrust for the White House and all indications are that the executive is in total disarray making us weaker and more vulnerable than we have been in decades. The one thing I have learned in the last few weeks speaking and engaging with Trump supporters is that they will hold Trump's feet to the fire. If over the next 24 months things don't get demonstrably better, I don't think your prediction will hold much water.
A month and a day ago, White House Press Secretary Sean Spicer categorically denied that Michael Flynn had discussed sanctions with the Russian ambassador.
Today, Spicer categorically denied that Trump had known about Michael Flynn discussing sanctions with the Russian ambassador.
Tomorrow, next week, next month, what else will Spicer categorically deny?
SAD!
Today, Spicer categorically denied that Trump had known about Michael Flynn discussing sanctions with the Russian ambassador.
Tomorrow, next week, next month, what else will Spicer categorically deny?
SAD!
25
Let's hope your Governor Terry (Bundler) McAuliffe is not indicted by then. FBI checking him and Clinton Dynasty donors out closely, as they announced.
2
Next Spicer will be saying: "I categorically deny it, and even if it is true, I still categorically deny it." It's called truth in press-conferencing.
8
Charles, your desperate attempt at a diversion from the topic at hand can be diagrammed as follows:
Look! Over There! ----------------------> A SQUIRREL!
Look! Over There! ----------------------> A SQUIRREL!
8
Trump doesn't trust Mike Flynn because he lied to him... but we are supposed to trust Trump who does nothing but spin and deflect, exaggerate and represent himself through spokespeople who lie so much, that they are now lying about the lies.
18
If one assumes nothing material happens at the White House without Mr. Trump's orders, and we have heard many, many times that he is a micro manager, then can one assume he instructed Mr. Flynn to act as his intermediary and make those calls? And given Mr. Trumps long history of leaking stories to the press, can one reasonably assume he is the leaker?
14
An oily Oligarchy has taken control.
Can they be reined in?
The rein in Spain falls mainly on the plain.
Can they be reined in?
The rein in Spain falls mainly on the plain.
7
"in the plain," it's plain when Rex Harrison sings it. Not reiny at all.
BREAKING NEWS: Multiple Trump aides have been confirmed by senior officials as having had extensive contact with Russians for over a year.
There is no doubt that Flynn was only the most conspicuous of those who sold their loyalty.
My only worry is that these craven, power-hungry traitors, now that they see their power slipping away just as it's achieved, will do something horrible to try to maintain that power.
Why, at this point, would we doubt they have that capability?
There is no doubt that Flynn was only the most conspicuous of those who sold their loyalty.
My only worry is that these craven, power-hungry traitors, now that they see their power slipping away just as it's achieved, will do something horrible to try to maintain that power.
Why, at this point, would we doubt they have that capability?
27
There should be an independent counsel to investigate the administration's ties to Russia, during both the campaign and immediately after the election. I do not trust the Republicans in Congress to do this.
13
You mean like the 9/11 , or the one with who killed Kennedy commission. Ya, that's what we need a independent commission , good luck .
1
A full and extensive investigation is in order. We need to know if Flynn made only ONE phone call. We need to know if it was entirely his own idea or whether he was acting on the request of someone else. We need to know if other people in Trump's transition team and cabinet made inappropriate contacts with Russia and if so, what was discussed.
Flynn has opened a can of worms.
Some Republican's are going to wish this had never happened and will try to sweep it under the rug. WRONG move. As long as they do that the questions will hang over the heads of this administration, just the way they made Benghazi hang over the heads of Obama and HRC by dragging the investigation out and never concluding it. If the GOP wants to minimize damage they need to conduct a full investigation as soon and as publicly as possible.
Flynn has opened a can of worms.
Some Republican's are going to wish this had never happened and will try to sweep it under the rug. WRONG move. As long as they do that the questions will hang over the heads of this administration, just the way they made Benghazi hang over the heads of Obama and HRC by dragging the investigation out and never concluding it. If the GOP wants to minimize damage they need to conduct a full investigation as soon and as publicly as possible.
11
That's odd!
Comey never sent an email to Congress over this issue!
Comey never sent an email to Congress over this issue!
31
He lost that one, and 32,000 others!
4
Charles, I've read all of your little partisan quips against Clinton connected, for some reason with this article and one thing comes to my mind other than to remind you that everything Clinton got blamed for was investigated thoroughly and nothing was found because there was nothing to find . . .
. . . But here's the real question I have for you:
Who's side are you on; America or Russia's?
Are you so partisan and a believer in fake news that you would think any of this is anything but treasonous?
. . . But here's the real question I have for you:
Who's side are you on; America or Russia's?
Are you so partisan and a believer in fake news that you would think any of this is anything but treasonous?
8
Four weeks gone.Just another 204 weeks to go.
10
I am seriously starting to wonder how wide this scandal may go. Why is it that Paul Ryan, Mitch McConnell and others are unwilling to speak out forcefully, much less support a bipartisan investigation? There may be much, much more to all this than we yet know. Who knows who is in Russia's pocket and is vulnerable to blackmail?
29
If Paul Ryan gets too wrapped up in this, maybe he thinks it will hurt his chances to run for President in 2020.
5
Move over, Tony Soprano.
What a great new irreality TV show: Donald Trump starring in "House of Shards"! And that great theme song: "When We Break It, We'll Blame Someone Else and They'd Better Fix It--Or Else"!
Tony could not have sung it better.
What a great new irreality TV show: Donald Trump starring in "House of Shards"! And that great theme song: "When We Break It, We'll Blame Someone Else and They'd Better Fix It--Or Else"!
Tony could not have sung it better.
7
We no longer have a legitimate government. Sen. McCain you once put your country before yourself in Vietnam. I now ask that you put your Country before your Party. Republicans do your job or share in the Traitors fate.
52
The message from the White House seems to be that there is nothing wrong with lying, but the liar must not get caught. Otherwise, there will be blood.
19
And if the FBI interviewed him, the question arises, was Director James Comey complicit in any cover up? The word "treason" comes to mind ...
20
And the word 'traitor!'
14
Apart from addressing the question of guilt of any crimes by General Flynn, why does everyone in this nation from the government to the people, including the press, naturally assume the F.B.I. is the supreme power and above reproach? Are we forgetting the Watergate scam, the Arab Scam known as Abscam or the numerous investigations of our political leaders? Are they our de facto government, what I call the shadow government along with the C.I.A. and the Military?
I depend on a free press, independent of any Government and rightly questioning information provided by any "Government Officials".
Do your homework please and work hard to earn an A+ from the public.
I depend on a free press, independent of any Government and rightly questioning information provided by any "Government Officials".
Do your homework please and work hard to earn an A+ from the public.
4
What kind of conspiratorial nonsense is this? Demonstrate by providing poling data which shows that "everyone in this nation...naturally assume the F.B.I. is the supreme power and above reproach".
By using the absolute "everyone" you render your statement fallacious. Please learn how logic and language work.
By using the absolute "everyone" you render your statement fallacious. Please learn how logic and language work.
5
Don't know exactly what you're pointing to here. I don't think anyone believes the FBI is historically beyond reproach, but that's beside the point here. In this case they brought out facts that appear to be accurate, as Flynn dissembled, then resigned.
And, ironically, they did so through the press, which did the leg work of corroborating it through multiple sources before reporting. Seems to be exactly what you're asking for.
And, ironically, they did so through the press, which did the leg work of corroborating it through multiple sources before reporting. Seems to be exactly what you're asking for.
2
Refer back to this article by the Times 2 weeks ago when Bannon was first announced to join the NSC. The second half of the 1/29 story goes on to read like a pre-emptive justification for Flynn's dismissal last night... Bannon becomes a permanent member of NSC because of "...Mr. Flynn’s stumbling performance as national security adviser."
https://www.nytimes.com/2017/01/29/us/stephen-bannon-donald-trump-nation...
The 1/29 article further plays to the questions of
1/ who knew what when
2/ what steps were being taken as of Jan 29
3/ why no Flynn resignation until WaPo runs the story on 2/10
https://www.nytimes.com/2017/01/29/us/stephen-bannon-donald-trump-nation...
The 1/29 article further plays to the questions of
1/ who knew what when
2/ what steps were being taken as of Jan 29
3/ why no Flynn resignation until WaPo runs the story on 2/10
7
Trump knew more than three weeks ago that Flynn had lied so why did he not ask for his resignation then? Because, I suggest, his monumentally narcissistic personality got in the way and seriously impaired his judgement. Can the American people not see that this serious flaw in their President's personality is his Nemesis?
Mind you, his so-called 'team' is no better. Spicer's assertion today that Trump had instinctively known that Flynn had not acted illegally and was immediately proved right by WH counsel simply took my breath away. Does Spicer have no sense of shame - at all?
Mind you, his so-called 'team' is no better. Spicer's assertion today that Trump had instinctively known that Flynn had not acted illegally and was immediately proved right by WH counsel simply took my breath away. Does Spicer have no sense of shame - at all?
8
Had this occurred during the Obama presidency the Republicans would have called for investigations throughout all of Congresses various committees and they would have been relentless.
Now, we see how vile and perfidious these Republicans are, and continue to be, by trying to diminish the seriousness and meaning of this disgraceful scandal and what it means for our democracy.
They all deserve to be 'locked up' for lying and cheating the American public. The question is of course who knew what and when was it known? Any remorse would be because this scandal was made public and the Republicans must now answer to that public.
All these 'so-called' public servants are shameful in their silence. Where is our Judge Welch?
Now, we see how vile and perfidious these Republicans are, and continue to be, by trying to diminish the seriousness and meaning of this disgraceful scandal and what it means for our democracy.
They all deserve to be 'locked up' for lying and cheating the American public. The question is of course who knew what and when was it known? Any remorse would be because this scandal was made public and the Republicans must now answer to that public.
All these 'so-called' public servants are shameful in their silence. Where is our Judge Welch?
23
Lying openly and regularly to the public has been the trademark of this group. It is ironic that lying within the group is cause for expulsion.
26
No doubt this latest news warrants the scrutiny. But let's not all turn into the type of obstructionist fanatics our last President had to deal with. The more disquieting message, after 3 weeks of this new Administration, is not that one of them got caught with his hand in any cookie jar. What should be more disturbing is the amateurish, thoroughly unprofessional and uneducated approach of our democratically elected president at trying to run this nation. 3 months after election day, the winning party still has not figured out how to eliminate Obamacare; and the losing party remains indigested and still has not demonstrated what to do next. We are in an extremely worrisome state in which neither party knows how to tackle today's new reality. Rather than spend our energies on looking back, it would be refreshing to read comments which suggest alternatives to influence our futures. Onwards!
2
Lyin' Mike had to go ......
....he could no longer be trusted.....
......yet....
despite knowing that Lyin' Mike "misled" for several weeks,
So Called "President" accepted advice from Lyin' Mike and allowed his compromised advisor to continue access to the Motherlands' most important secrets and intelligence.
Comrade Donald will be gone by August. The constant scrutiny and public humiliation will cause a profound mental episode that McConnell and Ryan will not be able to ignore for long.
Just be ready for collateral damage.
....he could no longer be trusted.....
......yet....
despite knowing that Lyin' Mike "misled" for several weeks,
So Called "President" accepted advice from Lyin' Mike and allowed his compromised advisor to continue access to the Motherlands' most important secrets and intelligence.
Comrade Donald will be gone by August. The constant scrutiny and public humiliation will cause a profound mental episode that McConnell and Ryan will not be able to ignore for long.
Just be ready for collateral damage.
11
Kind of scary that the person nominated and confirmed to head the NSC, did not seem to know that conversations with foreign ambassadors are recorded. Hmmm, perhaps he knew that, but had an expectation that someone else was going to make that evidence disappear?
22
A QUESTION
Excuse me. I am writing from Italy and have been following events fairly closely.
When Obama concluded his farewell speech with 'Yes We Can', was this a coded message to let his supporters know that he would use all remaining royalist staff to impede Trump at every turn? Because cynical obstructionism is exactly how it looks to me. And an orchestrated media applying double standards is also how it looks to me.
I would appreciate an answer from someone better informed than myself. Thank you.
Excuse me. I am writing from Italy and have been following events fairly closely.
When Obama concluded his farewell speech with 'Yes We Can', was this a coded message to let his supporters know that he would use all remaining royalist staff to impede Trump at every turn? Because cynical obstructionism is exactly how it looks to me. And an orchestrated media applying double standards is also how it looks to me.
I would appreciate an answer from someone better informed than myself. Thank you.
Correction.... *royalist* > loyalist
No.
4
This isn't about obstructionism, this is about constitutionalism. There is proof that Flynn contacted the Russians.
An orchestrated media? Let me quote a well-know US reporter - Getting the media to get together to do anything is like herding cats.
An orchestrated media? Let me quote a well-know US reporter - Getting the media to get together to do anything is like herding cats.
7
"This is what Democracy looks like."
5
Flynn was not a good pick for the NSC but I am much more concerned about our intelligence agencies spying on a private citizen and leaking that information to the press prior to giving it to Congress to investigate in order to politically assassinate someone for political purposes (the intelligence operatives in question being Obama holdovers).
That's how the Stasi used to operate in East Germany. Very scary times folks.
That's how the Stasi used to operate in East Germany. Very scary times folks.
2
They were evesdropping on the Russian ambassador, which is common practice and legal (even if the other party is a U.S. citizen).
7
Trump was informed Flynn could be blackmailed by Russia 18 days before he took action, yet he waited until it came out in the press to do so. We need to know what the Justice Department told the Trump administration, what Trump told Flynn to do, and what Trump's business ties are to Russia to know whether or not Trump sold out the interests of the U.S.A. for personal gain.
Meanwhile the G.O.P is more concerned about how the information was leaked to the press. They have defended every duplicity and conflict of interest up to this point. We need a Special Prosecutor to find out if Trump is a traitor or not.
Meanwhile the G.O.P is more concerned about how the information was leaked to the press. They have defended every duplicity and conflict of interest up to this point. We need a Special Prosecutor to find out if Trump is a traitor or not.
22
The question now is what did the president know and when did he know it.
21
Does anyone really believe that Michael Flynn had the sanction discussion with the Russian ambassador without Trump’s explicit permission?
If Trump okayed the conversation and now lies about it, as he does about even trivial matters, then Russia would be able to blackmail him.
I hope the FBI probes Trump’s role in this scandal.
If Trump okayed the conversation and now lies about it, as he does about even trivial matters, then Russia would be able to blackmail him.
I hope the FBI probes Trump’s role in this scandal.
22
Even though Trump was most likely aware about the sanctions conversation before or soon after Flynn had that conversation, I actually doubt that Trump would feel intimidated by any Russian attempts at blackmail. The Republican Congress isn't going to make it into any investigation, and he Trump isn't going to force himself to resign. It is only one of Trump's numerous transgressions.
2
Incompetent American presidents will all shine when compared to Donald J Trump.
12
"It depends what 'incompetent' is, is." We already know what Perjury is, is.
5
Let's compare in a few years to see which president achieved better results for all Americans; the one sitting in office or the one you're alluding to.
1
Perjury is nothing compared to treason, Charles.
Okay......
So called "President" Trump determined that he could no longer trust Flynn because he "misled" (aka "lied") about his conversations with Comrade Kislyak.
Yet he knew Flynn "misled" in December when advised by intelligence reports from Saint Yates.
Yet Comrade Donald let Flynn sit in on secret intelligence sessions.
Apparently "President" Blutarsky still trusted and sought advice from Flynn.
It took several weeks for Psycho Don to determine Flynn could not be trusted?
Considering that like Hillary, who, once she accepted speaking fees from Goldman was wholly owned by them
General Flynn had accepted speaking fees from RT (Putin News Network).
So called "President" Trump determined that he could no longer trust Flynn because he "misled" (aka "lied") about his conversations with Comrade Kislyak.
Yet he knew Flynn "misled" in December when advised by intelligence reports from Saint Yates.
Yet Comrade Donald let Flynn sit in on secret intelligence sessions.
Apparently "President" Blutarsky still trusted and sought advice from Flynn.
It took several weeks for Psycho Don to determine Flynn could not be trusted?
Considering that like Hillary, who, once she accepted speaking fees from Goldman was wholly owned by them
General Flynn had accepted speaking fees from RT (Putin News Network).
7
What's funny is that these guys, and especially Flynn, have done everything they accused Hillary of, but just dialed it up 10X.
Have a look at Flynn's speech at the RNC, wherein he talks about her "misdeeds". The irony/hypocrisy is jaw-dropping.
Have a look at Flynn's speech at the RNC, wherein he talks about her "misdeeds". The irony/hypocrisy is jaw-dropping.
8
Umm... Err... Could we, like, we all, you know, like, could we just, you know, stop this slithering down towards Armageddon, you know, like, just so, like now? So, like, just for a few days, like, while I get the digger in place and, uhh, you know, like, the concrete poured, like?
I was born in 66. I've seen quite a bit of the world. I don't do conspiracy theories and stuff. But since 11/8/16 I don't know anymore what to expect on any given day. That's not heathy! Could we please stop this madness and hand the codes over to a man with a plan? Thank you!
The FBI is investigating the #1 national security aide to the president??? To quote Charlie Brown: "Good grief!".
I was born in 66. I've seen quite a bit of the world. I don't do conspiracy theories and stuff. But since 11/8/16 I don't know anymore what to expect on any given day. That's not heathy! Could we please stop this madness and hand the codes over to a man with a plan? Thank you!
The FBI is investigating the #1 national security aide to the president??? To quote Charlie Brown: "Good grief!".
14
Given that we know Trump's lies are non-stop and factoring in the recent chain of events, how is it possible to not believe that he is treasonous.
6
Something is rotten in Denmark, said Shakespeare. It seems like everyone is double-crossing the double-crossers. Is the DNC behind this. Does Brazile have anything to do with this? Or is this a direct action traceable to Obama before his last day in office? It also could readily be the handiwork od Debbie Wasserman who is employed by the tax-free Clinton Foundation, a supposed apolitical entity? Somethings just do not pass the smell test.
3
That's a lot of contorting to avoid what seems to be obvious.
Until you can acquire more basis than a vague "something smells", maybe you should just apply Occam's Razor.
Until you can acquire more basis than a vague "something smells", maybe you should just apply Occam's Razor.
1
Could be the Boogeyman, too, don't forget him!
1
you are grasping at straws
3
seems to me that the White House determining that nothing illegal took place is just trying to side step what looks like "we can get away with it" attitude.
at the very least a congressional investigation should take place to see if there are sufficient grounds for an impeachment proceeding of both President and VP.
if any other President had so apparently ignored illegal activity and lying in order to get the nominee into the cabinet, it would be expected that an investigation would take place.
does Congress and the Republicans in particular care so little for integrity of the government officials that they will just turn a blind eye?
at the very least a congressional investigation should take place to see if there are sufficient grounds for an impeachment proceeding of both President and VP.
if any other President had so apparently ignored illegal activity and lying in order to get the nominee into the cabinet, it would be expected that an investigation would take place.
does Congress and the Republicans in particular care so little for integrity of the government officials that they will just turn a blind eye?
1
How much more can the American people take? Ever since November 8th when this illogical "win" by Trump that turned into an administration of dangerous power-hungry thieves lorded over by their leader, we have watched democracy fade. The Republican Congress sees no evil, hears no evil and is complicit with the White House crimes.
Only the First Amendment, freedom of the press - you - can and will bring us out of this nightmare.
Only the First Amendment, freedom of the press - you - can and will bring us out of this nightmare.
26
No wonder #45 doesn't like the press. Keep digging journalists. No doubt there's much more to be uncovered.
1
If the FBI is investigating, we need to remember that the Director is still the same man that participated in the last minute debacle that helped doom the candidacy of Hillary Clinton. I think he should step aside also if we are going to be expected to believe that he can over see an impartial investigation into what the president knew and when he knew it.
9
How can we expect the FBI to do a professional investigation when it is still be headed by Conley? The fox is guarding the hen house for sure. Perhaps the houses of congress? Ha!!
Who will root out the truth in this quagmire of an administration? Must we all sit here with our mouths hanging open, doing nothing?
Who will root out the truth in this quagmire of an administration? Must we all sit here with our mouths hanging open, doing nothing?
5
The obvious reason that Mitch McConnell and Paul Ryan and their Republican majorities don't want to investigate this issue is that they already know what's under the rocks they will inevitably have to turn over. Treason and betrayal will be brought to light in which they are knowingly complicit and so they are holding out that Trump can squelch law enforcement and intelligence communities and bury the dirt so deep it will never come to light.
11
Will Comey, given new life by Trump, rescue Trump yet again?
5
Trump knew about Flynn for over 3 weeks and, he chose to ignore it. The only reason Trump asked for his resignation is because Flynn's connection with Russia has constantly been all over the news, and Trump is trying to cover his behind and not look like more of a fool than he already does. It's safe to assume that Flynn wouldn't have been forced to resign if the media didn't pick up on this story. For the good of this country,a full investigation needs to be done to see what Trump, Penance, and their inner circle knew about the Russian hacking and when knew it. Does anyone really believe that Flynn went rouge and was the only one in league with the Russians?
3
There is another consideration here. Why was anybody tapping his phone calls and who leaked the information? Is it not illegal for the NSA and or FBI to wiretap the phone of a US citizen without a court order? Flynn was wrong and is being punished but what about theses other issues? Will the NY Times investigate that?
Weren't they monitoring the Russian Ambassador's phone calls, not Flynn's?
4
They were listening on the Russian ambassador's phone, not Flynn's.
5
The article clearly says:
The National Security Agency routinely eavesdrops on calls involving high-ranking foreign diplomats. Mr. Flynn was not a focus of the eavesdropping.
So, you are more concerned about *how* the evidence was gathered?!?! While we're at it, let's revisit Watergate and investigate whether or not Nixon installed tape recorders in the Oval Office legally.
And besides the content of the phone call, this raises further questions about his judgement. How dumb would he have to be to talk so freely on a line that would most likely be tapped?
The National Security Agency routinely eavesdrops on calls involving high-ranking foreign diplomats. Mr. Flynn was not a focus of the eavesdropping.
So, you are more concerned about *how* the evidence was gathered?!?! While we're at it, let's revisit Watergate and investigate whether or not Nixon installed tape recorders in the Oval Office legally.
And besides the content of the phone call, this raises further questions about his judgement. How dumb would he have to be to talk so freely on a line that would most likely be tapped?
4
Of course the fundamental issue is whether Flynn was acting on his own vis a vis Russia, or whether he was put up to it, and if the latter - when and by who for what purposes.
117
Really, ? I wonder who might have put him up to it? Perhaps his boss, the President? Or are you being wittily sarcastic ?
2
Seems to this New Jersey resident that's like asking whether the Bridgegate defendants, Bridget Anne Kelly and Bill Baroni, were acting on their own. Yes, their convictions are based on the testimony of co-operating witness David Wildstein. But, procedural legal formalities aside, is that kind of evidence really necessary in the case of puppeteer, major domo control freak Trump?
Put up to it? You mean, by the one in debt to and blackmailed by the Russians? Leak the tax returns, NOW!
What a great new reality TV show: Donald Trump starring in "House of Shards"! And that great theme song: "When We Break It, We'll Blame Someone Else and They'd Better Fix It--Or Else"!
6
How can there be any doubt in anyone's mind that Flynn was asked by Trump himself to reach out to the Russian ambassador to directly discuss Obama's sanctions? How can anyone seriously believe a single thing that Trump and the rest of his Swamp Rats say on any subject whatsoever? Is there anything these people haven't lied about so far?
In less than one month it has been conclusively demonstrated that the United States of America no longer has a functioning government.
In less than one month it has been conclusively demonstrated that the United States of America no longer has a functioning government.
53
We no longer have a functioning government, and yet there is no chaos ruling our lives.
Maybe government isn't necessary after all.
Maybe government isn't necessary after all.
Our government in California, such as it is, is working fine, and it's as big as the Government in DC, I'll bet.
5
Give it a few months, then you'll feel the pain. Notice Trump hasn't said a word about CA. If you lived in Oroville you might have an idea what gov't is good for.
Isnt it obvious the president is compromised?Patriotism or party GOP "leaders"?
13
The details are terrible, and get worse daily. But the big question is: will we survive this as a nation?
7
Supposedly Trump's constituency is composed of a disaffected, disappointed, and increasingly cynical view of American politics, politicians and their ever growing lack of a reputable government; this constituency is once again been lied to and conned.
Has the GOP and its choking red, white and blue scarf of superciliousness gone right off the field?
Has the GOP and its choking red, white and blue scarf of superciliousness gone right off the field?
11
Trump and members of his Administration seem to think their "poorly educated" voters will support them in any lie or action, therefore they are safe from the shock, dismay, and outrage of the rest of us.
18
Again, the FBI is taking political sides! Again, the director should RESIGN!
8
Why? Because it is doing what it is tasked to do?
2
No wonder Trump jumped at the chance to fire Sally Yates. She immediately saw through Flynn. NY Times needs to interview her.
49
I call on the Democrats to investigate and prosecute every single misdemeanor, felony, crime of state, appearance of impropriety and other act of deriliction that these lawless Republicans committ or appear to commit. No quarter, no half-measures, no appeasement. Do it, or we will vote for others who will do it for us, the suffering American people.
16
Democrats are the minority, Republicans control all of the committees.
1
Unfortunately, they have no power to do that under the Constitution.
John
John
Birds of a feather, commit treason together.
30
One can only hope this and the many upcoming scandals of this Hindenburg of an Administration will finally and irrevocably end the Electoral College, and force a lot of Republican politicians, too many to list here, to question their clearly bankrupt morals in supporting this loser.
22
This, in light of the missile testing Russia is now doing, is more frightening than I could have imagined in this short tenure of the new presidency. Nothing I can say, or perhaps anyone else, seems to have any effect on our national security, and our safety at home and abroad. Everything that has been happening, including the so called Muslim ban, is just making things worse by the day, by the hour, and by the minute. There is a dangerous and sticky web that is being spun in Washington and in Russia.
This matter of Michael Flynn needs to be pursued to the fullest in order to avoid giving Russia the impression that we are being cowed by their hacking our election (which also needs to be pursued to the fullest extent pf the law for all parties concerned) and their recent breaking of the INF treaty by deploying another cruise missile.
Is Congress missing the connection here? Does nobody see that Putin has been playing #45 for a fool? And how will he react, given his temperamental issues, to having been made a fool of? Each minute, I fear more for the safety of the world. In light of this sticky political and nuclear web, environmental issues, which have worried me for years, now seem trivial; what is the point in worrying about clean air to breathe in light of a nuclear holocaust?
This matter of Michael Flynn needs to be pursued to the fullest in order to avoid giving Russia the impression that we are being cowed by their hacking our election (which also needs to be pursued to the fullest extent pf the law for all parties concerned) and their recent breaking of the INF treaty by deploying another cruise missile.
Is Congress missing the connection here? Does nobody see that Putin has been playing #45 for a fool? And how will he react, given his temperamental issues, to having been made a fool of? Each minute, I fear more for the safety of the world. In light of this sticky political and nuclear web, environmental issues, which have worried me for years, now seem trivial; what is the point in worrying about clean air to breathe in light of a nuclear holocaust?
13
Remember all those Trump supporters who said, Ok, we know he's not actually qualified to be president, but he'll surround himself with good people and everything will be ok?
45
President Trump has repeatedly disparaged the judges who ruled against his hastily signed and poorly implemented travel ban by arguing that it's needed to keep Americans safe. Given his past predilections, it seems likely that he'll claim some type of warped "credit" for recognizing a known threat, but blame those judges if a tragedy comes to pass.
Meanwhile, Trump's top security adviser can't last a month in office due to security risks or lying to the Commander-in-Chief (or the Vice President), and the National Security Council is in disarray with political appointees (Bannon) given greater influence than those who would naturally serve in that capacity.
I sincerely hope that we can avoid terrorist attacks. But when we review the efficacy of prevention measures, we must remember those who approached this issue with sound reasoning and a sound process and those who did not.
Meanwhile, Trump's top security adviser can't last a month in office due to security risks or lying to the Commander-in-Chief (or the Vice President), and the National Security Council is in disarray with political appointees (Bannon) given greater influence than those who would naturally serve in that capacity.
I sincerely hope that we can avoid terrorist attacks. But when we review the efficacy of prevention measures, we must remember those who approached this issue with sound reasoning and a sound process and those who did not.
12
Again with the never-used Logan Act...
First off, it applies only to on-going court cases - it cites contact with foreign government officials " in relation to any disputes or controversies with the United States..."
This is a law from 1799 under which nobody has ever been prosecuted (not even once) and only one person ever charged with violating it (that went nowhere). This is why the law is still on the books: Since it was written purely to abridge freedom of speech, it is patently unconstitutional. Any conviction under the Logan Act would result in the law being thrown out like an unemployed brother-in-law. So it is used as a threat - and never enforced.
https://emcphd.wordpress.com
First off, it applies only to on-going court cases - it cites contact with foreign government officials " in relation to any disputes or controversies with the United States..."
This is a law from 1799 under which nobody has ever been prosecuted (not even once) and only one person ever charged with violating it (that went nowhere). This is why the law is still on the books: Since it was written purely to abridge freedom of speech, it is patently unconstitutional. Any conviction under the Logan Act would result in the law being thrown out like an unemployed brother-in-law. So it is used as a threat - and never enforced.
https://emcphd.wordpress.com
1
Jesus said--"Many will come in my name-- saying Lord Lord--and I will say-- I do not know you".
Please consider this Reverend Camarena, Ph.D.
Please consider this Reverend Camarena, Ph.D.
1
The most important question is how much was Trump involved in all this? Was Flynn acting on orders from Trump?
We need to know everything about Trump and the Russians - now!
We need to know everything about Trump and the Russians - now!
26
A President/boss without reasons to protect or conceal would have fired Flynn and rather than give him all this time (say 3 weeks or so) and the convenience of resigning.
There is a very loud silence filling the room.
There is a very loud silence filling the room.
9
Anything you say to a Russian Ambassador is taped. Period. Flynn jumped ahead of himself thinking he was the NSC already. These laws are there and should be followed. These conversations with the Russians would have occurred after he was confirmed anyway. Yes if they had occurred say in August or July that is a big red flag. They took place after the election. It seems to me that a lot of Senators and Congressmen and other powerful people do not want to have closer relationships with Russia . Trump is bieng boxed in by some very powerful people and I hope he is aware of that and plays the game his way and gets better relationships with the Russians and lifts sanctions and solves the Ukraine crisis and get's Putin to think more rationally about the world. As for Crimea try to remember but I think Khrushchev gave Crimea to the Ukraine as sort of a gift. Prior to that it was under the U.S.S.R. And in any vote of the population of Crimea they would favor being with Russia. As Eisenhower would have said the " industrial military complex" and their proxies have their hands all over this and they think Trump is a naive President who can be totally manipulated in ways he is not even aware of.
3
Remarkable. An honest and patriotic FBI agent. Wow.
3
Paul Manafort, Carter Page, Rex Tillerson, Michael Flynn and Donald Trump. How many more falling Russian dominoes does it take before Congress steps in and removes an obviously Russian picked American President? Country over Party. That is the America I was born in.
24
Please don't anyone tell me that Trump did not know beforehand what Flynn and the Russians were going to discuss. He was there on Trump's bidding.
Do not frigging even insult my intelligence with yet a new lie to go with the many lies associated with this charlatan in chief.
How could you people have voted for this guy? We know you wanted to blow up the system but instead you're blowing up your own house. You're gonna have to learn to stop getting your news from that shill network Fox.
Our national existence is on the line.
Do not frigging even insult my intelligence with yet a new lie to go with the many lies associated with this charlatan in chief.
How could you people have voted for this guy? We know you wanted to blow up the system but instead you're blowing up your own house. You're gonna have to learn to stop getting your news from that shill network Fox.
Our national existence is on the line.
30
put all republican politicians in prison. or convict them for their crimes and execute them.
7
He did not lose the confidence of the president or vice president. Clearly, Trump knew about this weeks ago even if Pence may not have. What cost Flynn his job is that he became a liability with the public. All his resignation is meant to do is to deflect attention away from Trump's Russian connections.
19
I am still confused by the assertion in the 2nd paragraph that "President Trump asked for Mr. Flynn’s resignation Monday night." Who says, and do you believe them? This is what his Press Secretary (Mr. Spicer) has said, but it is contradicted by WH Counsel (Ms. Conway.) Another article I read that sources had said that Bannon (who seems to be acting president) had told Flynn that he must resign, over the weekend, but that the President wanted to "give him more time."
And the Russian Times says he "retired".
It does kind of matter.
And the Russian Times says he "retired".
It does kind of matter.
6
Richard Leuttgen where are you?
Have heard multiple excusses about
1 he is 70
2 he is changing culture that is old, old , old.
Richard, your boy is at best stupid.
At worst sold out.
I knew Flynn facts was a knuuutt way back
Twit knew he had lied at best about his conversation ,weeks ago.
Donnie, this is the difference from managing a self held sales compnay and the biggest dog in the world.
Comb overs count, Twit boy is shown up, scared yet? I am?
Ciao
Have heard multiple excusses about
1 he is 70
2 he is changing culture that is old, old , old.
Richard, your boy is at best stupid.
At worst sold out.
I knew Flynn facts was a knuuutt way back
Twit knew he had lied at best about his conversation ,weeks ago.
Donnie, this is the difference from managing a self held sales compnay and the biggest dog in the world.
Comb overs count, Twit boy is shown up, scared yet? I am?
Ciao
13
Gen. Flynn is a 3 Star General. He served 33 years in the U.S Army. He fought in operations Urgent Fury, Uphold Democracy, Enduring Freedom, and Iraqi Freedom.
And democrats think he works for the Russians ?
Obama served 0 days in the military, and colluded with the Russians on a hot mic. And these same people said nary a word then.
It's no wonder no sensible person trusts these democrats anymore.
And democrats think he works for the Russians ?
Obama served 0 days in the military, and colluded with the Russians on a hot mic. And these same people said nary a word then.
It's no wonder no sensible person trusts these democrats anymore.
2
Why'd he resign again?
9
I was in the army I'm not impressed by general's,a Sargeant is far more impressive in my book.
6
And how many days did Trump serve in the military?
7
~
~~
Three weeks in and the administration has created a lot of drama, diversions, and lies, but hasn't created the promised jobs.
Heard they were in the promise keeping business. Heard wrong.
WHERE ARE THE JOBS?
~~
Three weeks in and the administration has created a lot of drama, diversions, and lies, but hasn't created the promised jobs.
Heard they were in the promise keeping business. Heard wrong.
WHERE ARE THE JOBS?
10
This is the THIRD Trump adviser who has been called to leave due to illegal Russian ties. Something smells rotten in this White House's ties to the Kremlin and the Congress needs to investigate. Enough with the politics; Americans need to know the truth.
22
Trump knew less than a week after Flynn was named National Security Advisor to the President the Flynn was a Russian mole or spy (able to be blackmailed) and did nothing? What does that say about the national security risks Trump poses to America, if not his relationship to the election influencing Russia?
9
Can you imagine if this had been President Hillary Clinton's national security advisor?
9
Yeah, old Bernie would be really flummoxed.
2
Looks like a cover up. And didn't Trump fire Yates- it makes you wonder why she was really fired. Why should any of us be surprised, Trump has lied in the past and seems to continue to do so.
18
Does anyone really believe that Flynn went to the Russian ambassador on his own to tell him not to worry about Obama's sanctions, that Trump would fix it?
Does anyone really believe that Flynn lied to the Vice-President of the United States on his own without instruction from the President to deny it?
Does anyone really believe that Trump was not behind all of this?
Let's get Flynn in front of a Grand Jury or Congressional Investigator, give him immunity and see what he says. If he says it was all his idea stick him in prison for 20 years for treason.
TWENTY-FOUR DAYS!
Does anyone really believe that Flynn lied to the Vice-President of the United States on his own without instruction from the President to deny it?
Does anyone really believe that Trump was not behind all of this?
Let's get Flynn in front of a Grand Jury or Congressional Investigator, give him immunity and see what he says. If he says it was all his idea stick him in prison for 20 years for treason.
TWENTY-FOUR DAYS!
9
Here's one Republican solution to this situation: Have a known liar (Flynn) come testify before a self-serving Republican Congress that is utterly intimidated by another established liar (Trump). Brilliant! That should get right to the alternative and incomplete truth.
5
Since I was born in 1969 I wasn't old enough to enjoy Watergate but I'm hopeful that 45 will give me something just as good. I only wish Hunter S. Thompson was here and in his prime.
6
I have wished that exact same thing, Chris. Dr. Gonzo would have eviscerated Trump with his words.
Hunter once said that William S. Burroughs wrote like he shot, he never missed*. Well, Hunter wrote like a machete, hacking away at the nonsense of modern life.
*Kind of a back-handed compliment when you remember that Burroughs claimed to have shot his wife on accident.
Hunter once said that William S. Burroughs wrote like he shot, he never missed*. Well, Hunter wrote like a machete, hacking away at the nonsense of modern life.
*Kind of a back-handed compliment when you remember that Burroughs claimed to have shot his wife on accident.
1
At this point, there are only three possible reasons to still support Trump:
1. Your head is literally in the sand.
2. You're a Russian spy.
3. You hate America and want it to fail.
1. Your head is literally in the sand.
2. You're a Russian spy.
3. You hate America and want it to fail.
17
Let's see what phony Comey will do if anything ??
Not one subpoena or Special Investigating Committee!
Hillary would have been water boarded by now !!
Not one subpoena or Special Investigating Committee!
Hillary would have been water boarded by now !!
6
For all the calls of lock em all up, and maybe rightfully so, this all came down thanks to 77,000 voters across WI, PA, and MI.
And before we voted, no one would have bet a dime to a million we'd be in this position.
Tone it down. Trump is doing himself in, as only he can do, alone.
And before we voted, no one would have bet a dime to a million we'd be in this position.
Tone it down. Trump is doing himself in, as only he can do, alone.
5
Are Republicans hoping to get their wish list of legislation first, and then turn on Trump? If they're hoping Americans will recognize how principled they are -- they've got another thing coming.
Where are the equivalent of the Republican heroes of Watergate? Where are the likes of Lowell Weicker, Attorney General Elliott Richardson, and Deputy Ruckelshaus? Those were Republicans with principles. Apparently such leaders no longer exist.
Where are the equivalent of the Republican heroes of Watergate? Where are the likes of Lowell Weicker, Attorney General Elliott Richardson, and Deputy Ruckelshaus? Those were Republicans with principles. Apparently such leaders no longer exist.
10
Normally it would be considered not too cool to tell the world our intelligence people are bugging the Russian ambassador. But Democratic operatives and Obama folks in the DOJ leaked secret document to get Flynn and embarrass Trump. Won't do them much good because if Trump wants to purge the intelligence services of his enemies he doesn't need Flynn.
Don't you think they already know this? Surely they do the same with us. Doubtful it is surprise information.
Seems like most leaks these days come from the WH staff who are "anonymous"
Curious.
Seems like most leaks these days come from the WH staff who are "anonymous"
Curious.
Have to be careful here. Comey had the same chance to implicate Trump as he did Clinton. He chose to only take off one shoe. There just might be a reason Trump and crew have been anti Intelligence...he knows they got the goods.
7
I hope the FBI also investigates and identifies the person who leaked top secret information to the press. It was obviously a leftover from the Obama administration and it had to be someone like Clapper or Brennan. Leaking classified material is illegal as is receiving it.
1
Flynn should be imprisoned for his self-serving, traitorous behavior. (Like father like son - remember his son and the almost fatal Hilary sex slavery rumor last year?)
Trump's nepotism and patriarchy are leading this country to ruin. Trump should be impeached for not doing anything about Flynn for weeks after he knew of his illegal activity with Russia. The whole thing stinks of treason and greed. I'm disgusted.
Trump's nepotism and patriarchy are leading this country to ruin. Trump should be impeached for not doing anything about Flynn for weeks after he knew of his illegal activity with Russia. The whole thing stinks of treason and greed. I'm disgusted.
8
It seems to me that the real story here is being overlooked. Apparently our intelligence, security and spy agencies are encouraged to eavesdrop on one another's telephone calls and whatever.
Does anybody even know what the rules are supposed to be concerning one spy agency snooping on another?
As we were recently reminded we have seventeen separate intelligence agencies. Which is in charge at the end of the day?
Does anybody even know what the rules are supposed to be concerning one spy agency snooping on another?
As we were recently reminded we have seventeen separate intelligence agencies. Which is in charge at the end of the day?
2
Rules amongst spy agencies???? Yeah, right......
2
The real story here is that our president was compromised by the Russians a long time ago. His entire campaign was manufactured by the Russians as part of their strategy to collapse the Western Empire which they believe holds them down, comprised of NATO and the EU. Putin win this round, like he won with Brexit, but he overplayed his hand too early on the big game of the USA. Now in the upcoming European elections his far right parties will fail. Trump will fail. And Putin will fail.
That is the real story which is unfolding here.
That is the real story which is unfolding here.
5
This unethical individual - who lead the cheers of "Lock her up" at the Republican Convention - may not have been forthcoming with the FBI. Perhaps his punishment will be "lock him up."
12
All the TrumpBots out there need to understand that this is not going away quietly.
Neither are MILLIONS of Americans who recognize what a serious situation this is and that it needs to be investigated to the last detail. Our form of government hangs in the balance.
If you are not familiar with Watergate, you should read that history. That started with a third rate burglary of the DNC offices in the Watergate complex in Washington, DC. It ended with President Nixon resigning in disgrace.
This is starting with a National Security Advisor who lied about communicating with the Russians, before the Trump administration began on January 20, 2017. Therefore, he was a civilian advisor to the Trump campaign. If it turns out that his call, or earlier communications with the Russians during the election campaign, were made with the prior approval of Trump and/or his campaign, this is going to get very serious very fast.
Stay tuned. More news to come at 6.
Neither are MILLIONS of Americans who recognize what a serious situation this is and that it needs to be investigated to the last detail. Our form of government hangs in the balance.
If you are not familiar with Watergate, you should read that history. That started with a third rate burglary of the DNC offices in the Watergate complex in Washington, DC. It ended with President Nixon resigning in disgrace.
This is starting with a National Security Advisor who lied about communicating with the Russians, before the Trump administration began on January 20, 2017. Therefore, he was a civilian advisor to the Trump campaign. If it turns out that his call, or earlier communications with the Russians during the election campaign, were made with the prior approval of Trump and/or his campaign, this is going to get very serious very fast.
Stay tuned. More news to come at 6.
14
Are we to believe that Ms. Yates' briefing of White House counsel on January 26 did not mention Mr. Flynn lying to FBI agents, which is a felony? How could WH counsel thus determine, as claimed by Sean Spicer, that there was not a legal issue, only a trust issue? Either the counsel was incompetent and/or misled the President, or Sean Spicer is lying.
11
Take a guess at which it is.
3
What did Obama know? He was still in office and in control of these arms of gov't.
1
Somehow I suspect that Mr. Flynn is falling on the sword for others above him....anyone's guess as to who that could be??
17
What amazes me is the fact that the Republicans are treating this as a normal administration. It shows clearly that they have been collectively crazy for years. They act like a cat scratching over the business it just did on linoleum as if there were any way to cover up the mess.
12
...hmmm. I felt safer before November 8th 2016. This new government is not very reassuring. Who is telling the truth? So far it looks like all the new boys play by their own rules and live in their own reality. How about some ethics? How about some respect for the people?
4
citing NYC; The White house can best be understood as a game of Calvin Ball.
2
Let's see if I have this right.
The National Security Advisor lied to Pence, lied to Trump and lied to the fBI and Trump knew about this for 2 weeks and did nothing until the Flynn perfidy was leaked.
If this had not leaked out, Flynn would still be the NSA?
Gives me a lot of confidence in the Trump team. Not.
The National Security Advisor lied to Pence, lied to Trump and lied to the fBI and Trump knew about this for 2 weeks and did nothing until the Flynn perfidy was leaked.
If this had not leaked out, Flynn would still be the NSA?
Gives me a lot of confidence in the Trump team. Not.
16
The chances of Donald Trump being impeached or resigning without completing his first term as President have more than doubled since he was elected, according to one bookmaker.
When Mr Trump was named as President-elect in November, the odds of him not making it through the full four-year term were 3/1 with Ladbrokes.
Now, following a chaotic three weeks, the odds have shortened to just 11/10.
When Mr Trump was named as President-elect in November, the odds of him not making it through the full four-year term were 3/1 with Ladbrokes.
Now, following a chaotic three weeks, the odds have shortened to just 11/10.
12
Where are the Darrell Issa inspired Fast and Furious Democrat willing to go to war to slay the draconians? Investigators and interrogators setting about to delve into the unfolding conspiracy. Paul Manafort and his Ukrainian Putin puppet dance is next. Unraveling like Watergate. Impeach Trump! I can dream can't I?
6
Trump has lied about knowing about Flynn, but the republicans tried to impeach Clinton over lying about sex. When the republicans were caught doing the same thing as Clinton, then they said, " it wasn't about sex, it was about lying to the American people " . Well, Trump is lying to the American people ... so, what gives republicans ?
17
Kellyanne Conway should be thank full for Flynn's missteps.
Otherwise, she might have been the first to go.
Otherwise, she might have been the first to go.
7
Maybe Flynn was just using alternative facts.
trump lies, so do his sycophants. Should we expect something else?
trump lies, so do his sycophants. Should we expect something else?
5
Why is no one questioning Pence and his cover up for Flynn?
16
Widely covered since November: that there is a virulent Trumpist faction at the FBI that was behind Comey's "finger on the scale" in the recent election. So while I'm happy to see the FBI moving expeditiously on this, I can't say that their conclusions, especially if the bottom line is that the scandal begins and ends with Flynn, will be particularly credible with the American people and the world. It's basically like Trump investigating himself.
9
I do not believe that Trump will politically survive until his First 100 Days address to Congress. I take no pleasure in making this prediction; because of the embarrassment and harm to the United States that has occurred on his still very brief watch. This is a nightmare.
8
And to think we got this President because of "Hillary's Emails".
22
I hope for the sake of our democracy, for us, for our children, our grandchildren, as well as future generations of Americans, for the sake of all of us, whomever we voted for, - - that those in congress, no matter what party affiliation, immediately seriously investigate whether treason has occurred, as well as other impeachable actions. My fellow Americans please join me in demanding this of our elected officials. The well being of our lives depends on this.
I am sick to my stomach. I feel that those who are not concerned want to destroy our American democratic constitutional government.
I am sick to my stomach. I feel that those who are not concerned want to destroy our American democratic constitutional government.
13
I must add that all that can be done to get S. Bannon out of the White house, out of our government, away from governing, needs to be done because Bannon would like to dismantle our form government. I am surprised that we have heard nothing about him or from Bannon, recently. That there is no information in recent days about Bannon is of serious. He has President Trump's ear, advises him, and has a mission to disassemble democratic values and norms. As noted, Bannon's explicit motive is to dismantle our constitutional democracy. Fellow Americans, Republicans and Democrats, Independents,, Please do this before it is too lates.
I am not exaggerating: This is a very dangerous serious situation.
I am not exaggerating: This is a very dangerous serious situation.
1
Well, the deplorables elected Trump, and they are getting exactly what they deserve. It's too bad that the majority of the country knew better. The administration lacks any kind of basic judgement or integrity. The Flynn incident illustrate this nicely. Settle in kiddies, this is going to be a very rough ride...
7
If Flynn lied to the FBI, and Trump was aware of that for several weeks, is Trump not accessory to a felony? How about Pence? Would that not be an impeachable offense for both?
12
Constitutional ammendment section 3 says it all.
4
When will the Republican-dominated Congress stand up for the whole country and Constitution, not just their party, and get serious about investigating this? Flynn didn't act on his own. Nobody picks up a phone and calls Russia the day before sanctions are imposed by a sitting president, to assure Russian leadership that the sanctions will be lifted as soon as his man takes office, without having been instructed to do so first by someone higher up. This is a scandal of deep proportion.
26
People have gone to prison in America because they meddled in elections. It's a felony and a sever one.
Where is the ire for Russia? The antipathy from Congressional Republicans is amazing. Especially because they are the ones that have been trying to call out American voting fraud.
This goes beyond hypocrisy. Unbelievable.
Where is the ire for Russia? The antipathy from Congressional Republicans is amazing. Especially because they are the ones that have been trying to call out American voting fraud.
This goes beyond hypocrisy. Unbelievable.
12
The question I have: Had this information not been leaked, would Flynn till be on the job? Would Trump or his staff ever admit there was was an FBI investigation? Would the public remain blind? The "dishonest", "opposition" free press strikes once again. Thank you!
18
Gee, fake news turned out to be real news. Imagine that!
14
After reading about Trump's fascination with the White House phones, I was perplexed that a wealthy and worldly modern-day business man would be so impressed. Now I understand that this man who often speaks from his unconscious fearful mind was wondering if they were recording his conversations. Ask the WH staff if one day he got up at 2 am (an hour earlier than usual) to take the phones apart. Didn't he have a conversation with Putin that was mysteriously unrecorded?
5
Claims to have "turned off the system". Yet can't find the light switches to many of the WH's offices.
2
Kind of like Hillary, "wiping" her server--you know, with a cloth?
How the media got the information ABOUT a secret eavesdropping by intelligence agencies on a high-ranking official and how the media got the information about THE CONTENT of that SECRET eavesdropping by intelligence agencies on a high-ranking official?
2
Eavesdropping on Russian communications to and from the embassy is the worse kept secret in DC.
2
Wikileaks.
3
How, indeed. That's the real story today.
But none of the NYT commenters seem to have noticed that little technicality, in their jubilation over an impending coup d'etat.
This country has become a Banana Republic, no doubt about it.
But none of the NYT commenters seem to have noticed that little technicality, in their jubilation over an impending coup d'etat.
This country has become a Banana Republic, no doubt about it.
3
"something now known to be false..." When are we going to stop accepting 'alternative descriptions' and call a lie just that, a lie? I respect the Times a great deal, but EVERY journalist needs to call it what it is!
30
Now that the sitting President knows that the NSA is listening, perhaps he will be a little more circumspect with regard to outright lies and inane tweets. We can hope.
9
You're joking, right? Has the president ever shown, in his business life, in his campaign, during his 4 weeks in office, any reluctance whatsoever to embrace outright, verifiable lies? He is either unconscionable or delusional. Perhaps both.
3
He's not just an ordinary private citizen interfering with foreign negotiations.
As a retired Lt General, wouldn't his actions be considered treasonous?
As a retired Lt General, wouldn't his actions be considered treasonous?
37
I heard that as a former general he is not allowed to accept gifts or money from foreign governments and at some point he went to Russia & was wined and dined there - looking like that was not ok.
8
The President of The United States thinks he is running a reality show from the Oval Office. The result — which shouldn't surprise anyone except him — is a dysfunctional administration that is making the nation the laughingstock of the world; Shakespeare captured the essence of what is now unfolding in Twelfth Night: “If this were play'd upon a stage now, I could condemn it as an improbable fiction.”
36
If the Senate Democrates would give him a complete administration, things would be smoother. But Dem are playing games as usual, and then claiming foul about what is happening withba president being forced to operate with his hands tied. Besides the most important fact in this is It Happened under the Obama Administration, not the Trump Administration! Trump wasn't even inaugurated yet! Flynn was a Civilian! Doesn't belong to this White House!
1
Poor attempt, Daren. The correct right-wing talking point is that Flynn is a victim of illegal leaks which were designed to hurt him and Trump. Neither that nor your take are believable, but the official talking point has the benefit of playing to an emotional base about their fears of being persecuted by the liberal media.
7
Daren - /Right, that's what we need, more of Trump's lying thugs in office.
Your attempt to make President Obama responsible for the actions of these despicable excuse for human beings is truly laughable.
Your attempt to make President Obama responsible for the actions of these despicable excuse for human beings is truly laughable.
4
I just have to wonder when Donald Trump's supporters and base will come to the inevitable conclusion that he is incompetent. We are only 24 days into his Presidency and already there have been more mis-steps and errors than any previous President has had in four years. Mr. Flynn's strange character was well known before he was appointed, and he was fired by President Obama.
And now Trump has listed David Patreus as a possible replacement - a man who gave above top-secret documents to his writer mistress. This is no longer funny. This is a disaster and Trump needs to be removed by the people who are authorized by the Constitution to remove an incompetent President.
And now Trump has listed David Patreus as a possible replacement - a man who gave above top-secret documents to his writer mistress. This is no longer funny. This is a disaster and Trump needs to be removed by the people who are authorized by the Constitution to remove an incompetent President.
56
This man should never have occupied the White House for countless reasons. This incident is the first of many that will reinforce this belief.
26
Why didn't Comey make a public announcement like he did with HRC?
90
Because he is a Republican stooge.
7
This is only the first step in uncovering the full Putin/Trump conspiracy. How long will it take people to see what should have been obvious for months? I've been saying since before last summer that Trump was compromised by the Russians.
When Trump started bashing NATO, I sat up and started paying attention. Then he started repeating Kremlin propaganda, such as Obama created ISIS. He repeatedly praised Putin and refused to back down, though he had nothing but insults for most of our allies. Then he hired Paul Manafort, Russia's PR man in the Ukraine. Likewise Michael Flynn, who gave a speech at an RT gala praising Putin's Russia over the United States. Their only real contribution to the Republican Party platform was to change the wording of the Ukraine/Russia conflict to say that the US should no longer arm the Ukraine. Or consider the Crimean peninsula nonnegotiable.
Like I said, it should have been obvious at that point. But it just kept going deeper, and most people seemed willing to overlook it as a conspiracy theory.
It's not a theory. It's just a conspiracy. An actual conspiracy, unlike the right wing conspiracies about pizza parlors and false flags. A naked grab for power between a circle of actors who seem to have trouble covering their tracks.
When Trump started bashing NATO, I sat up and started paying attention. Then he started repeating Kremlin propaganda, such as Obama created ISIS. He repeatedly praised Putin and refused to back down, though he had nothing but insults for most of our allies. Then he hired Paul Manafort, Russia's PR man in the Ukraine. Likewise Michael Flynn, who gave a speech at an RT gala praising Putin's Russia over the United States. Their only real contribution to the Republican Party platform was to change the wording of the Ukraine/Russia conflict to say that the US should no longer arm the Ukraine. Or consider the Crimean peninsula nonnegotiable.
Like I said, it should have been obvious at that point. But it just kept going deeper, and most people seemed willing to overlook it as a conspiracy theory.
It's not a theory. It's just a conspiracy. An actual conspiracy, unlike the right wing conspiracies about pizza parlors and false flags. A naked grab for power between a circle of actors who seem to have trouble covering their tracks.
59
What I'd like to know is why Congress is not concerned when Trump said four years ago he was friends with Putin but now denies ever meeting him even though he's on video.
31
It's simple. Trump is allowing them to run with their corporate/social agenda as they control both the House and the Senate.
5
Perjury. Conviction. Presidential pardon. Fini.
5
Why would President Pence pardon him?
Then we are stuck with Pence. Sigh, another lesser of two evil decisions.
2
So if I'm following the timeline correctly, at the time Flynn told Pence that he hadn't discussed sanctions, or soon after, Trump knew he was lying but didn't tell his VP? If so, how can Pence continue to trust Trump?
16
Because Pence is his deflector and protector.
I have always thought Pence thought that if Trump got elected he would quit or be impeached .
So has been biding his time and then he becomes the President - via the easy way.
No campaigning for the job. It falls into his lap as next in line. Cunning !
I have always thought Pence thought that if Trump got elected he would quit or be impeached .
So has been biding his time and then he becomes the President - via the easy way.
No campaigning for the job. It falls into his lap as next in line. Cunning !
Another lesson double standard and hypocrisy.
Last year, it was Mr. Trump who cried "lock her up" against Clinton unintentionally leaking information to Russia through improper use of personal email server. Now, his own top adviser intentionally leaked information to Russia and he's all quiet?
Last year, it was Mr. Trump who cried "lock her up" against Clinton unintentionally leaking information to Russia through improper use of personal email server. Now, his own top adviser intentionally leaked information to Russia and he's all quiet?
21
WATCH OUT! this is a perfect time for Trump & his regime to stage a so-called, "terror attack' to take the heat off the Trump gang in an attempt to 'unite' the people. Would they be crazy enough to take the risk of being exposed? Probably, since there's nothing else that will save Trump from some serious questions, such as, "who did Flynn report to after his Russian phone call(s)?" Who could he possible have reported to? He's a military man who respects the chain of command; it wouldn't be to Kellyann or Sean, and we know it wasn't to Pence. So, who could he possibly have reported his 'successful' call to? I really don't see how anything can save Trump now. Who believes that Flynn acted alone? Please, Trump people, don't stage an incident to turn our attention away from this problem, and don't sacrifice innocent lives to take the heat off our dear leader.
35
DJT: "You're Fired!"
Bring back Sally Q. Yates - we are in desperate need of her integrity and probity. Running mate for Elizabeth Warren in a special 2017 (no later than February 15th) presidential election? YES!!!
Bring back Sally Q. Yates - we are in desperate need of her integrity and probity. Running mate for Elizabeth Warren in a special 2017 (no later than February 15th) presidential election? YES!!!
37
One wonders if Sally Q was the Obama land mine left for the incoming Trump administration or is there more to come. So far she emerges from this with her head held high having stood firm to power while the Trump administration scrambles to come up with explanations and change the narrative. More to come as Democrats emphasis is on national security and the Republicans try to make it a story of lies and leaks.
217
My guess is that Intel was on to him long before we know.
2
And yet Trumps said four days ago on February 10th that he knew nothing about Flynn discussing sanctions with Kislyak. Uhhh . . . that sounds like another big fat lie.
41
Flynn AND Comey need to answer to America.
11
Jason Chaffetz, Republican chairman of the House Oversight Committee who pursued Hillary Clinton for having her own email server as Secretary of State, said he won't investigate Flynn’s contacts with Russia because "That situation is taking care of itself" with Flynn's dismissal/resignation.
Devin Nunes, Republican chair of the House Intelligence Committee, said he may conduct an investigation, but only into how the details about Flynn’s call to the Russian ambassador were leaked, rather than what Flynn himself did.
Flynn was the President's national security adviser, one of the most sensitive positions among the President's confidants.
The differences between how Republican leaders are treating Flynn and how they treated Democratic candidate Hillary Clinton over her handling of emails defy explanation outside of the purely political. Who will hold these people to account?
Devin Nunes, Republican chair of the House Intelligence Committee, said he may conduct an investigation, but only into how the details about Flynn’s call to the Russian ambassador were leaked, rather than what Flynn himself did.
Flynn was the President's national security adviser, one of the most sensitive positions among the President's confidants.
The differences between how Republican leaders are treating Flynn and how they treated Democratic candidate Hillary Clinton over her handling of emails defy explanation outside of the purely political. Who will hold these people to account?
56
Don't forget what they did to her husband when he was president as well. Investigations into a ten-year-old land deal and a consensual affair.
15
Congress: 1) Benghazi style investigation into Trump's botched military raid (civilians killed, GI killed, $75 million plane destroyed) which he launched against Obama's advise which said it wasn't ready; 2) Investigate Trumps sloppy use of classified documents at his golf club, using unsecured cell phones; 3) investigate Flynn and the rest of Trump campaign for lies to FBI and ties to Russian mobsters and hackers.
32
Our so-called president has known about this for weeks, but he couldn't decide whether or not to fire Flynn? What I think that really means is, he didn't know whether he could get away with keeping Flynn on board or if the intelligence services would figure it out. Looks like the intelligence services are smarter than Trump gave them credit for.
18
I wonder what Comey said about Flynn. I bet he will get a pass.
2
"Who will watch the watchers?", an old Roman asked.
3
A true American hero has emerged from the first month of the Trump Administration: Attorney General Sally Yates.
It's been reported that she has no interest in running for public office, which is our loss.
If she doesn't reconsider, hopefully she will find her way to an important and influential position somewhere in the judiciary.
We'd be a whole lot better off with Sally Yates and more like her in any of the three branches of government.
It's been reported that she has no interest in running for public office, which is our loss.
If she doesn't reconsider, hopefully she will find her way to an important and influential position somewhere in the judiciary.
We'd be a whole lot better off with Sally Yates and more like her in any of the three branches of government.
53
Tony G: How I appreciate your sentiments, and totally agree.
5
Pretty smart of Trump to hire people like Flynn,Bannon, Spicer, Conway, DeVos, Miller and Sessions. Hard to argue he is the worst human being in his administration when there is such intense competition for that title.
33
A nuanced view, indeed. So your former GOP governor is now #2 worst human being for insisting on traditional bathroom bifurcations, right?
3
I think that a lot of people have whiplash having gone from the best president in our lifetimes to the worst...
38
Lemme get this straight. Trump knew about the issue 3 weeks ago. Was security clearance revoked 3 weeks ago? Hmmm. National security issue? Congressional GOP?
19
Just before Flynn's resignation, he was present at the deliberations at Mar-a-Lago discussing the response to the North Korean missile launch. He's in the pictures, front and center in the discussions. Right before he was forced to resign.
5
Lemme guess: Comey's back to not commenting on ongoing investigations.
Must not be an election coming up in a couple of weeks.
Must not be an election coming up in a couple of weeks.
28
Charges against Flynn--absolutely.
Investigate Trump--immediately.
Investigate Tillerson--to be certain.
Begin impeachment proceedings. Now.
Investigate Trump--immediately.
Investigate Tillerson--to be certain.
Begin impeachment proceedings. Now.
10
It's becoming fast apparent that lawlessness, felonies and treason entrench the Trump Administration. The GOP controlled Congress with the exception of a few (John McCain comes to mind) refuse to heed their mandate as a check of power against the executive.
American sovereignty is under siege, the time for vocal protests and non-violent resistance fast approaches the extent of their effectiveness.
Real patriots take notice be ready to fight for America against this rouge and treasonous government.
American sovereignty is under siege, the time for vocal protests and non-violent resistance fast approaches the extent of their effectiveness.
Real patriots take notice be ready to fight for America against this rouge and treasonous government.
7
Mr. Spicer said the White House had reviewed the situation and determined that Mr. Flynn did not violate any laws during his call with the Russian ambassador.
donald stated “I comprehend very well, better than I think almost anybody.”
?Did donald not comprehend that what Flynn did is against the law?
donald stated “I comprehend very well, better than I think almost anybody.”
?Did donald not comprehend that what Flynn did is against the law?
8
Yes... yes... slowly sinking to the depths. Like cream or oil the ignominy begins to rise, fit for skimming. Someone directs a place first there in the corner where it should be stacked as it arrives for closer scrutiny. But soon enough all begin to notice emanations not quite sanguine to our regular proceedings. Directions are made to stack it - outside now! Later come the specific orders directing the pile to a spot downwind - pile it all back there behind the barn, fellas. Let the grasses and daisies whither. Come next spring they will be all restored, unsullied by residual memories.
But in the District: over their heads! No breathe possibly drawn can supply enough oxygen as unto that abyss the upstart company sinks, slowly! We are not orcas or other full time aquatic beasts of blue, beluga or Clinton genus: respiratory functions attuned by nature not just for synaptic-parsed cognitive function but primarily for the hardiness requisite to survive the most debilitating of stenches! One breath and all pressures the depths would impart are tolerable!
Unready, ill-prepared. Jumping the gun; in motion prior to the snap. Offsides. No patriotic battle back from a deficit this time, to this skirmish on the prey fall falcons.
(well... the Superbowl metaphor in time will probably be lost to history, so be it. But come on folks, admit it in your hearts - what hues of purple born of opposing spectra ever fit the prosaic dichotomy of our most contemporary of national afflictions?)
But in the District: over their heads! No breathe possibly drawn can supply enough oxygen as unto that abyss the upstart company sinks, slowly! We are not orcas or other full time aquatic beasts of blue, beluga or Clinton genus: respiratory functions attuned by nature not just for synaptic-parsed cognitive function but primarily for the hardiness requisite to survive the most debilitating of stenches! One breath and all pressures the depths would impart are tolerable!
Unready, ill-prepared. Jumping the gun; in motion prior to the snap. Offsides. No patriotic battle back from a deficit this time, to this skirmish on the prey fall falcons.
(well... the Superbowl metaphor in time will probably be lost to history, so be it. But come on folks, admit it in your hearts - what hues of purple born of opposing spectra ever fit the prosaic dichotomy of our most contemporary of national afflictions?)
I thought Professor Irwin Corey passed away!
2
(to J Pyle) May the professor rest peacefully under the aegis of his mortarboard. As for our future - we can all carry on into a braver new world knowing that the trail has been taken up by Bill Nye. He's got a new show! At your leisure you may read of the particulars somewhere on the web. But till then and ever after may you, like the rest of us, find in the science guy a solace from the pain of our loss.
RIP, Dr. Corey. (blows nose with a loud clown hanky honk)
RIP, Dr. Corey. (blows nose with a loud clown hanky honk)
If Flynn "knowingly" lied? "Knowingly"? Really? Of course he "knowingly" lied. Otherwise he would have told the truth to begin with. Are we to just expect another coverup???
10
Trump couldn't trust Flynn because Flynn is a liar. That would be the Trump liar in chief pot calling the kettle black. More likely Trump is a russian mole and Flynn was acting under Trumps' orders. Trump's treason puts the USA at extreme risk. Our republican-controlled congress seems not to care. God help the USA.
14
"To be an honest man in this world is to be one in ten thousand." - Prince of Tides at Elsinore
3
Charles, I knew you weren't a Christian. You're a nihilist. People don't have to tell the truth because everybody lies. That about the size of it?
2
Flynn took his orders from Trump. The buck stops at Trumps desk.Lock them both up.This may turn out to be the shortest time any President spent in office.
17
No, Trump will probably still beat William Henry Harrison's 31 days, but not by much.
4
Let's see if he gets charged with lying to a federal officer.
6
Now the Nat'l Security Advisor has lied about illegal communications with Russia and claims that the "pace of events" was too fast for him to remember what all he's said to numerous other foreign operatives. On top of this, we have 45's entire inner circle aiming their cell phones at papers of state in the middle of a crowded country club dining room and making spur of the moment foreign policy while gawkers record the whole thing to post to their facebook account. And these are the people who campaigned on the claim that Hillary Clinton was a threat to our security?
19
What a mess !.....appalling, but somehow not surprising....this is just the beginning......Flynn will subpoenaed before Congress...but what about the others? why has Manafort not been subpoenaed already by existing Committees have subpoena power?....shame on Majority Senate Leader McConnell for opposing a bipartisan investigative committee...what is he afraid of?
Between this Flynn fiasco, Manafort....all the antics during the campaign...and Trump's near adoration of Putin...we have problems...BIG problems....time for the Republican controlled Congress to step up and step in.
Still believe that all roads lead to the Donald....he is excellent at having others front for him....we will see how "uber loyal" he really is.
Can you believe this is all happening in the first 30 days of his Presidency? WOW...
Between this Flynn fiasco, Manafort....all the antics during the campaign...and Trump's near adoration of Putin...we have problems...BIG problems....time for the Republican controlled Congress to step up and step in.
Still believe that all roads lead to the Donald....he is excellent at having others front for him....we will see how "uber loyal" he really is.
Can you believe this is all happening in the first 30 days of his Presidency? WOW...
4
Ah-ha! So the FBI got him! That's good, somehow. Because - in another way - it took them quite a while. Why, one might ask...
And who else should be scrutinized, hmmmmmmmmmmm?
And how many to do it?
300+ millions. A lot, i guess. But: enough to fight fascism?
We (the world) will see - and remember...
And who else should be scrutinized, hmmmmmmmmmmm?
And how many to do it?
300+ millions. A lot, i guess. But: enough to fight fascism?
We (the world) will see - and remember...
Bill Clinton was impeached by the House for lying about disseminating something on a domestic level that was not a threat to national security or foreign policy goals.
Flynn shares information that helps embolden the government of a nation hostile to US interests and welfare, and both the President and Vice President appear to have attempted to collude with him to cover it up.
Now it's time to see the true patriotism, or lack thereof, of members of Congress in how they handle this. If they have any concern for our welfare, they better give this matter greater scrutiny and urgency for justice than an unwashed party dress.
Flynn shares information that helps embolden the government of a nation hostile to US interests and welfare, and both the President and Vice President appear to have attempted to collude with him to cover it up.
Now it's time to see the true patriotism, or lack thereof, of members of Congress in how they handle this. If they have any concern for our welfare, they better give this matter greater scrutiny and urgency for justice than an unwashed party dress.
12
Scandal? What scandal?
The National Security Advisor to the President-elect makes a phone call to Russia? And he discussed various matters including sanctions? Not a crime. Not even improper, or having the appearance of impropriety.
The only problem here is that Flynn wasn't completely forthcoming and therefore lost the President's trust and was fired.
Had he not done that no amount of media hysterics would have dislodged him. So quit patting yourselves on the back.
And, good call President Trump firing Flynn. I don't know what kind of game he was playing but there's no room for liars and foreign agents anymore! That ended with the Obama Administration.
The National Security Advisor to the President-elect makes a phone call to Russia? And he discussed various matters including sanctions? Not a crime. Not even improper, or having the appearance of impropriety.
The only problem here is that Flynn wasn't completely forthcoming and therefore lost the President's trust and was fired.
Had he not done that no amount of media hysterics would have dislodged him. So quit patting yourselves on the back.
And, good call President Trump firing Flynn. I don't know what kind of game he was playing but there's no room for liars and foreign agents anymore! That ended with the Obama Administration.
"The only problem here is that Flynn wasn't completely forthcoming." Oh, is that all? But it's not. Flynn discussed lifting sanctions before Trump's inauguration. It is illegal for private citizens to conduct US diplomacy. And you have the nerve to compare this to the Obama administration? What planet does Walnut Cove circle?
9
A. Flynn wasn't the National Security Advisor at the time, and Trump was not the President
B. Flynn mislead (lied to) the Vice-President of the US on policy issues for his own benefit
C. Flynn apparently committed a felony by lying to Federal Agents during the course of an investigation.
D. Trump knows all this for a month prior to it becoming public and still does nothing about it.
And you say "Scandal? What scandal?"
What would Trump have to do in your mind for there to be a scandal?
B. Flynn mislead (lied to) the Vice-President of the US on policy issues for his own benefit
C. Flynn apparently committed a felony by lying to Federal Agents during the course of an investigation.
D. Trump knows all this for a month prior to it becoming public and still does nothing about it.
And you say "Scandal? What scandal?"
What would Trump have to do in your mind for there to be a scandal?
3
J. Reaves - great rundown!
Gen. Flynn is definitely a front runner for the Democratic Presidential nomination in 2020. All he needs is a little bribery and he's in ... like Flynn.
Gen. Flynn is definitely a front runner for the Democratic Presidential nomination in 2020. All he needs is a little bribery and he's in ... like Flynn.
Anybody who thinks Trump starting a war to deflect from this investigation should remember that Watergate (June 17, 1972 to August 9, 1974) took place during the Vietnam War.
Woodward and Bernstein were the Washington Post reporters who ran Watergate facts down until it became obvious that a full investigation was needed.
This could easily be a similar situation. Nobody would be happy about that, but if the Trump administration has broken the law, or the Trump campaign collided with the Russians during the 2016 presidential election campaign it would be appropriate to investigate and punish those who are shown to have acted improperly.
Woodward and Bernstein were the Washington Post reporters who ran Watergate facts down until it became obvious that a full investigation was needed.
This could easily be a similar situation. Nobody would be happy about that, but if the Trump administration has broken the law, or the Trump campaign collided with the Russians during the 2016 presidential election campaign it would be appropriate to investigate and punish those who are shown to have acted improperly.
4
There is talk that former General Patraeus may take this job. I know he's had his problems, but this administration is reeling and careening from one snafu to another. Maybe a guy like Patraeus could bring some stability to the administration.
2
Are you trying to be funny?
4
Really? You mean a guy who gave above top-secret documents to his writer mistress? You mean that kind of guy?
1
If my memory serves me correctly, wasn't Mr Petraeus convicted of misusing classified information.
1
Oliver North must be experiencing some level of deja vu right now as he watches Flynn take the heat for what Trump and Pence directed he do.
Jason Chaffetz, who went after Hillary mercilessly, refuses to investigate Flynn; Paul Ryan claims it can be folded into (meaning "to disappear within") an existing inquiry. This is to be expected of the GOP, who has always placed party over country and whose legitimacy is blowing in the wind. 2018 will be the largest political payback in our nation's history.
This is not just about our Russian oligarch of a president but a much larger, concerted effort by the GOP to play the three-card monte game on trump's behalf for as long as they can distract from their own confusion.
If you voted for Trump's promise to drain the swamp you will now know what it is like to wrestle with alligators on dry land. They always win and you lose.
Jason Chaffetz, who went after Hillary mercilessly, refuses to investigate Flynn; Paul Ryan claims it can be folded into (meaning "to disappear within") an existing inquiry. This is to be expected of the GOP, who has always placed party over country and whose legitimacy is blowing in the wind. 2018 will be the largest political payback in our nation's history.
This is not just about our Russian oligarch of a president but a much larger, concerted effort by the GOP to play the three-card monte game on trump's behalf for as long as they can distract from their own confusion.
If you voted for Trump's promise to drain the swamp you will now know what it is like to wrestle with alligators on dry land. They always win and you lose.
10
GOP=Greed Over Patriotism
Say it loud, say it often
Say it loud, say it often
3
How is this not worse than Watergate? That was silly political hijinks. This is relations with the world's most dangerous leader (other than Trump).
It is inconceivable that Trump didn't know, even direct, what was going on between Flynn and Russia. Flynn would be risking his new job if he were acting on his own. Deniability, that's all Trump has here. Let's see Flynn testify to Congress. Let's see Trump lie about it to the press. He already has.
It is inconceivable that Trump didn't know, even direct, what was going on between Flynn and Russia. Flynn would be risking his new job if he were acting on his own. Deniability, that's all Trump has here. Let's see Flynn testify to Congress. Let's see Trump lie about it to the press. He already has.
18
Are are we feeling great again? How about just safe again?
8
Mr. Trump is monetizing his presidency as well as he can. In ways small (last week only): plug Ivanka's clothing line, free publicity for Mar-a-Lago, get some women's council going so Ivanka can head that one soon - and big: in addition to getting rid of Dodd-Frank for Financial Institutes, he gets rid of the Russia sanctions for Exxon, who have a 0.5 T$ stake there and will be paid handsomely by them. (Maybe he'll be a real Billionaire afterwards, lest he can be thrown in jail for high-treason afterwards and stripped of all his assets?) Why do you think the Exxon boss got the Sec State job for? Flynn only told them what is obvious. He's a believer, not a money man and his fight is to "protect Western civilization from Muslims" or so. So he didn't think much of it when he phoned up the Russian embassy (he knew he was going to be taped...). Flynn, however, was probably going to play an important role in removing the sanctions by classifying Russian attacks on ISIS in Syria as "helping to prevent terrorism" or so. That's why Mattis's understudy is no shoe in for this newly vacant position.
2
Does Trump really think we believe a word he says ??
When Trump , aboard Air Force One , was asked what he thought about reports that Flynn talked to Russia about sanctions , he said he didn't know anything about that , despite the FACT that he was indeed briefed on that information . Then in the White House briefing Spicer said he was only referring to the Washington Post report and that Trump didn't know anything about that article Really ?? LIAR .
Trump has lost any scintilla of credibility . Did Trump have anything to do with those phone calls ? That's what I want to know .
When Trump , aboard Air Force One , was asked what he thought about reports that Flynn talked to Russia about sanctions , he said he didn't know anything about that , despite the FACT that he was indeed briefed on that information . Then in the White House briefing Spicer said he was only referring to the Washington Post report and that Trump didn't know anything about that article Really ?? LIAR .
Trump has lost any scintilla of credibility . Did Trump have anything to do with those phone calls ? That's what I want to know .
14
What's clear is that James Comey continues to be a central figure in this never-ending nightmare. He must stand down and resign, and give a full accounting to congress under oath.
While Flynn was cuddling with the Russians Rex Tillerson was quickly marched through a less than thorough confirmation process. His relationship wth Putin and Russia leaves the appearance of crimes that might command the death penalty for a number of Trump operatives.
While Flynn was cuddling with the Russians Rex Tillerson was quickly marched through a less than thorough confirmation process. His relationship wth Putin and Russia leaves the appearance of crimes that might command the death penalty for a number of Trump operatives.
11
Remember the good ol' days when a scandal was just Nordstrom dropping Ivanka Trump's line?
14
When the going gets tough, the tough watch cartoons.
Wouldn't you agree "President" Trump?
Wouldn't you agree "President" Trump?
4
Everyone knew. They thought that the governmental agencies acted against
He just lost the power struggle within the group. But, does that mean he is a rather normal, reassuring guy in the quite unusual administration?
Once the Washington Post published the story, Trump and Bannon made Flynn take the fall.
The Russia policy is owned by Trump and Bannon. Flynn was their useful puppet.
You cannot have a legitimate National Security Advisor take over until you get Bannon and his group off the staff and out of the White House.
.
The Russia policy is owned by Trump and Bannon. Flynn was their useful puppet.
You cannot have a legitimate National Security Advisor take over until you get Bannon and his group off the staff and out of the White House.
.
13
A tangled web, indeed.
1
My knee jerk reaction is to say "LOCK HIM UP," but it might be better to offer him a plea deal in exchange for cooperating and providing testimony about whether other campaign/administration officials had potentially illegal contacts with Russia.
Of course, his credibility is shot now, so the deal couldn't be that great, but he would do the country a service if he can be compelled to reveal just how deep or how high up) this Russian involvement in the Trump campaign/administration goes.
Of course, his credibility is shot now, so the deal couldn't be that great, but he would do the country a service if he can be compelled to reveal just how deep or how high up) this Russian involvement in the Trump campaign/administration goes.
5
So...Spicer saying that it's not lying to the American people that's the issue, the issue is lying to Pence. Quite a standard to set.
13
The FBI's grades for 2016 were C minus.
It would seem 2017's grades are in the D plus range.
How is it that the FBI failed to stop a know enemy foreign government from hacking the Democratic computers by sending a low level agent to secretly communicate with a contract technology consultant working at the Democratic head quarters.
It would seem 2017's grades are in the D plus range.
How is it that the FBI failed to stop a know enemy foreign government from hacking the Democratic computers by sending a low level agent to secretly communicate with a contract technology consultant working at the Democratic head quarters.
4
Now....the most important question; what did Trump know about Flynn's
call to Russian Ambassador...and this too: did Trump ASK Flynn to make
this call..
I think Trump is in league with Flynn....and is also being blackmailed by Putin.
Hence...Trump is a TRAITOR..
so...ask and ask and ask again...and ...we the USA...and the UK will sort
this out...and TRUMP will GO......Finally !!!!...also Kellyanne the motor mouth
front for both for all...who will be trashed by Trump...and then hopefully
no one will want this tawdry role ever again...AMEN...and Goodnight...and
God Bless...aka ER Morrow...time once more ...to reflect on what the honest
journalist taught the NYTimes...right again....and yes you can ...Salisbury did.
Linen did...and so it goes...good night folks...!!!!
call to Russian Ambassador...and this too: did Trump ASK Flynn to make
this call..
I think Trump is in league with Flynn....and is also being blackmailed by Putin.
Hence...Trump is a TRAITOR..
so...ask and ask and ask again...and ...we the USA...and the UK will sort
this out...and TRUMP will GO......Finally !!!!...also Kellyanne the motor mouth
front for both for all...who will be trashed by Trump...and then hopefully
no one will want this tawdry role ever again...AMEN...and Goodnight...and
God Bless...aka ER Morrow...time once more ...to reflect on what the honest
journalist taught the NYTimes...right again....and yes you can ...Salisbury did.
Linen did...and so it goes...good night folks...!!!!
3
Trump fires someone because he lied? The irony is deep. And because he's subject to blackmail by the Russians? Gee. Might someone else be? Let me think ...
We now know that in 1968, Richard Nixon, then a private citizen running for president, had his people convey to Le Duc Tho that if he would defer any breakthrough at the Paris Peace Talks North Vietnam would get a better deal from Nixon if he won the White House. Tho did, and Nixon won, but Vietnam didn't get the better deal Nixon had hinted at. A million dead and four years later the two sides agreed to almost the same cease fire terms as Johnson's of 1968.
What an example for the Trump administration to be emulating! Sad.
We now know that in 1968, Richard Nixon, then a private citizen running for president, had his people convey to Le Duc Tho that if he would defer any breakthrough at the Paris Peace Talks North Vietnam would get a better deal from Nixon if he won the White House. Tho did, and Nixon won, but Vietnam didn't get the better deal Nixon had hinted at. A million dead and four years later the two sides agreed to almost the same cease fire terms as Johnson's of 1968.
What an example for the Trump administration to be emulating! Sad.
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"If the authorities conclude that Mr. Flynn knowingly lied to the F.B.I., it could expose him to a felony charge." And if Mr Flynn told the FBI, what did they do about it? Did they inform the Trump administration or Congress? Or did the FBI, or maybe all three, decide to sit on it??
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Just watched the clip of Kellyanne Conway from this morning on the Today Show. Her story was different than the current story just 10 hours ago, which is different than it was 24 hours ago.
- 24 hours ago Flynn "had the full confidence of the president"
- 10 hours ago Flynn himself decided this he should resign, so the president "accepted his resignation".
- Now, around 4 hours ago the administration is claiming Trump asked for his resignation
These people are so accustomed to lying, it has become a hot mess. As the truth seeps out they simply make adjustments to the prior lies. They have spun out of control.
They certainly have no compunctions about lying to the American public. On an hourly basis.
Something must be done. America deserves better than this grotesque display by this administration.
Our forefathers must be weeping in their graves.
- 24 hours ago Flynn "had the full confidence of the president"
- 10 hours ago Flynn himself decided this he should resign, so the president "accepted his resignation".
- Now, around 4 hours ago the administration is claiming Trump asked for his resignation
These people are so accustomed to lying, it has become a hot mess. As the truth seeps out they simply make adjustments to the prior lies. They have spun out of control.
They certainly have no compunctions about lying to the American public. On an hourly basis.
Something must be done. America deserves better than this grotesque display by this administration.
Our forefathers must be weeping in their graves.
5
It's pretty obvious that the "deep state," which includes the Eastern media, is going all out. This country's politics have always been somewhst for show, but what's happening now really rips the cover off the ball. We're becoming Argentina, and both parties and the media, and the intelligemcy agences, and their media cheerleaders are in on it.
I'm betting on the "deep state," to win this, but I'm also betting on it being a Pyrrhic victory. Congrats, New York Times, for now anyway. But I don't think you'll like the eventual outcome.
I'm betting on the "deep state," to win this, but I'm also betting on it being a Pyrrhic victory. Congrats, New York Times, for now anyway. But I don't think you'll like the eventual outcome.
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Keep up the good work - investigative reporting is important to all of us. Thank you -
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Amendment 14 section 3 is pretty clear.
"No person shall be a Senator...or hold any office..under the United States...who having previously taken an oath... to support the Constitution of the United States...shall have engaged....in giving aid or comfort to the enemies thereof".
I would surmise that Lieutenant General Flynn has previously taken an oath to uphold the Constitution of The United States while an officer in the military and i would also interpret his words to Russia regarding the lifting of sanctions as a 'comforting' gesture. I would even go as far to say that Russia became an enemy of the US the moment they attempted to interfere in our elections.
"No person shall be a Senator...or hold any office..under the United States...who having previously taken an oath... to support the Constitution of the United States...shall have engaged....in giving aid or comfort to the enemies thereof".
I would surmise that Lieutenant General Flynn has previously taken an oath to uphold the Constitution of The United States while an officer in the military and i would also interpret his words to Russia regarding the lifting of sanctions as a 'comforting' gesture. I would even go as far to say that Russia became an enemy of the US the moment they attempted to interfere in our elections.
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Not saying Flynn's actions were pure, but sure sounds like someone's being thrown under the bus here.
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I think the reaction to this by Congressional Republicans is all the absolute proof we need that all of the GOP's investigations and harassment of Pres. Clinton, Hillary Clinton, their obstruction of Pres. Obama...was purely political (not that we didn't know it). So while a Democrat can't get away with having a private email server, never hacked, or saying a terrorist attack was due to a video, and we taxpayers are on the hook for the endless investigations by Republicans for partisan political purposes, if you're a Republican, you can put Putin and Russia ahead of the US, compromise national security, admit to serial sexual assault, mock disabled people, hawk your daughter's wares, allow elections influenced by a hostile foreign country to go unaddressed...
And still say you are the real Americans, patriots, and that you are all about America first!
And still say you are the real Americans, patriots, and that you are all about America first!
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LT General Flynn was a liability and as a career military man, he could not handle nor understood his role as National Security advisor. Since Trump's election, hysteria, extreme partisanship and a delegitimization of the current administration has been the focus of the electorate on the left. What the tea party was to President Obama, the uber left is to President Trump, denying any or all cooperation from the democratic party. It is a sad state of our political affairs were once the art of compromise was the goal of each political party has become antithetical to the extremists in each party. Lt General Flynn resigned and is currently under FBI investigation, but the process must go forward unencumbered by partisanship. Flynn has become this administration's Hillary as Flynn's ties to Russia must be investigated rigorously. To be sure, because of the political climate, had Secretary Clinton won, she too would face an entrenched republican establishment. The goal should be for the betterment of our nation and not deciding who their legitimate president is. Unfortunately our political parties are held hostage by the alt right and left groups as centrists are relegated to the dustbin of history.
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Frightening! Yet Sally Yates was fired. While Flynn needs to be dealt with for potential violations of the Logan Act and treason, he is probably a symptom of a deeper disease running through 45's administration and The Kremlin.
Can we the people sue if our elected officials fail to do their job? The nation is at stake - - the rot goes much deeper and wider.
Can we the people sue if our elected officials fail to do their job? The nation is at stake - - the rot goes much deeper and wider.
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