Your sources are anonymous.
This paragraph reveals how flimsy and scurrilous your charges are:
"The officials would not disclose many details, including what was discussed on the calls, the identity of the Russian intelligence officials who participated, and how many of Mr. Trump’s advisers were talking to the Russians. It is also unclear whether the conversations had anything to do with Mr. Trump himself.”
The preceding is a joke. By innuendo and anonymous sources you are endeavoring to de-legitimize the Trump presidency. One wonders how you believe such “reporting" will buttress your credibility against charges that you are fake news and Hillary partisans? This article can only exacerbate the charge.
Unless, of course, you are only preaching to the choir, or rather your base. In which case your rumor-mongering disguised as investigative reporting will probably be cheered by the diehard haters of our President.
This paragraph reveals how flimsy and scurrilous your charges are:
"The officials would not disclose many details, including what was discussed on the calls, the identity of the Russian intelligence officials who participated, and how many of Mr. Trump’s advisers were talking to the Russians. It is also unclear whether the conversations had anything to do with Mr. Trump himself.”
The preceding is a joke. By innuendo and anonymous sources you are endeavoring to de-legitimize the Trump presidency. One wonders how you believe such “reporting" will buttress your credibility against charges that you are fake news and Hillary partisans? This article can only exacerbate the charge.
Unless, of course, you are only preaching to the choir, or rather your base. In which case your rumor-mongering disguised as investigative reporting will probably be cheered by the diehard haters of our President.
39
Lots of Trump supporters are clinging to the apparent fact that there is no evidence of collusion yet. This may be because of US laws that prevent the government from listening to the actual conversations of US citizens. They may have only the phone records and not the content. However, other countries have no such laws and there are reports that they were monitoring the calls as well. Time will tell. But my question is this: what legitimate reason would Trump campaign officials have to be talking to Russian intelligence DURING THE CAMPAIGN?
50
Ronald Reagan asked Russia to tear down the Berlin Wall.
Donald Trump extorts Mexico to pay for a wall.
Soviet empire was dissolved in 1990
Russia becomes the overlord of the "white" house.
Make America great again? by reversing of the fortune?
Donald Trump extorts Mexico to pay for a wall.
Soviet empire was dissolved in 1990
Russia becomes the overlord of the "white" house.
Make America great again? by reversing of the fortune?
10
The silence of the republicans during this debacle reveals their true colors:
It's not about country, it's not about conservative values, it's not about liberty,
it's not about small government, it's not about the constitution. It's about proximity to, and control of, power.
It's not about country, it's not about conservative values, it's not about liberty,
it's not about small government, it's not about the constitution. It's about proximity to, and control of, power.
49
Can someone tell me why the intelligence agencies of the United States, under Obama, where spying on the Trump Campaign?
14
They were spying on the Russian intelligence officials. That is their job. If Trump's campaign kept calling, they would get recorded as well.
50
You know that Intel ALWAYS spies on ANY convo Russians have. The question is Why didn't Flynn?
Your just stirring up conspiracies--Why is that the "Trumpian" way?
Your just stirring up conspiracies--Why is that the "Trumpian" way?
27
Yes. They are defendind our country and the tracker Trump.
6
Are the wheels coming off the clown car already ? I was just sitting down with my popcorn.
25
I hope the NYTimes is willing to bet the building that the information on which this article is based is true. I would not put it pass this Administration to deliberately scam this paper. The con game is this Administration's modus operandi.
16
What's wrong with Glastnost ? He won, get over it. Give him a chance, the stock market never rose under Obama and you are jealous.
3
Fran--Did you really say "the stock Market never rose under Obama"? You re-writing history? What was the stock market on Inauguration day in 2009? What was it on January 20, 2017? I really can't believe you honestly posted that statement!
61
Computer illiterates still believe that it is possible to apply attribution to a hack after it occurs, how embarrassing.
https://medium.com/@jeffreycarr/fbi-dhs-joint-analysis-report-a-fatally-...
https://medium.com/@jeffreycarr/can-facts-slow-the-dnc-breach-runaway-tr...
https://medium.com/@jeffreycarr/fbi-dhs-joint-analysis-report-a-fatally-...
https://medium.com/@jeffreycarr/can-facts-slow-the-dnc-breach-runaway-tr...
2
Get back to me when you have any evidence that Trump or his aides committed a crime. As of now there is none. All of you who are assuming their was collusion should wait for the evidence. Imagine if it was Obama in the same situation. You wouldn't just assume he was involved.
11
David--This is an ongoing investigation. Maybe there isn't a crime...
You ok with Flynn Lying to Pence? Why would he Lie? Doesn't that bother you?
Hard to know if Flynn resigned or Trump fired him. But if nothing going on...why did he have to resign or be fired?
There is something stinky in the WH...To many threads keep leading back to Russia, Trump,Russia and Trump campaign , Russia, Russia, Russia...
You ok with Flynn Lying to Pence? Why would he Lie? Doesn't that bother you?
Hard to know if Flynn resigned or Trump fired him. But if nothing going on...why did he have to resign or be fired?
There is something stinky in the WH...To many threads keep leading back to Russia, Trump,Russia and Trump campaign , Russia, Russia, Russia...
33
Perhaps the trumpsters can now see how much they have been duped.
20
No, they're blaming Obama.
27
If rumour is true, that Russia has infiltrated the White House. I imagine they're having a good look inside at all the White House secrets, right now. Russia now knows more about the White House and it's operation, than most Americans. American IC could never dream of infiltrating the Kremlin in the same way. Russia wins this one.
13
This time the Dems don't get to 'table' impeachment.
Assemble the evidence & take Trump down.
Without Trump, Bannon will be bounced back to his alt-hate. He & Alex Jones can sell doomsday conspiracy prepper-supplies to white-nationalist militias or whatever, but none of that kind of crazy should be anywhere near governance.
Assemble the evidence & take Trump down.
Without Trump, Bannon will be bounced back to his alt-hate. He & Alex Jones can sell doomsday conspiracy prepper-supplies to white-nationalist militias or whatever, but none of that kind of crazy should be anywhere near governance.
28
Well there is the small detail that one of the sources in Russia who talked about Russia's Secret Police having videos of Trump, ended up dead a few days after it hit the news.
https://www.thesun.co.uk/news/2727446/russian-spy-donald-trump-dirty-dos...
https://www.thesun.co.uk/news/2727446/russian-spy-donald-trump-dirty-dos...
22
We have to rid ourselves of these people. That would be the Trump administration and all their enablers including Comey.
25
Hillary had repeated contacts with foreign governent officials who donated to her foundation. Where was the indignation by the NY Times about that? No, this is just a hit piece by a media outlet that has no credibility left.
11
At times like this leaders rise up. Whether an R, D or I events like this call for action when there is strong evidence that our democracy is under fire. One thing is now clear - that Paul Ryan and Mitch McConnell are cowards and are more than comfortable to put party before country.
30
By the New York Times' own admission...
"The intelligence agencies then sought to learn whether the Trump campaign was colluding with the Russians on the hacking or other efforts to influence the election. The officials interviewed in recent weeks said that, so far, they had seen no evidence of such cooperation." https://www.nytimes.com/2017/0...
But bigger than Watergate, huh? At the moment, this is a non-story, hyped to serve an agenda.
17
Clearly, you're not thinking of why Trump's campaign staff would speak to Russians. It's got to be for the same reason the staff speaks to Americans: to seek support for Trump. That's their only job, isn't it.
It's possible that the Trump campaign staff just asking for donations; or it may have been asking for more direct assistance. Both illegal.
But "colluding" and "cooperation" implies that Trump campaign staff helped the Russians help Trump. Which seems like something that the Russians wouldn't need HELP doing. I think that "asked" and "knew" and "promised to reward" is much more likely.
On with the investigation, since "at the moment" we don't know WHICH crime was committed.
It's possible that the Trump campaign staff just asking for donations; or it may have been asking for more direct assistance. Both illegal.
But "colluding" and "cooperation" implies that Trump campaign staff helped the Russians help Trump. Which seems like something that the Russians wouldn't need HELP doing. I think that "asked" and "knew" and "promised to reward" is much more likely.
On with the investigation, since "at the moment" we don't know WHICH crime was committed.
7
Also, it is impossible to attribute who hacked someone after the hack has taken place.
https://medium.com/@jeffreycarr/can-facts-slow-the-dnc-breach-runaway-tr...
https://medium.com/@jeffreycarr/can-facts-slow-the-dnc-breach-runaway-tr...
1
The article specifically says there is no evidence of such cooperation!
"The officials interviewed in recent weeks said that, so far, they had seen no evidence of such cooperation."
Here is thought. Imagine for a moment that Trump is Obama. Would you assume he was in collusion or wait for real evidence which shows there was collusion? So far there is none and it sounds like they have been working on it fiercely for months. I am sure a lot more intensely after he won the election...Ha!
"The officials interviewed in recent weeks said that, so far, they had seen no evidence of such cooperation."
Here is thought. Imagine for a moment that Trump is Obama. Would you assume he was in collusion or wait for real evidence which shows there was collusion? So far there is none and it sounds like they have been working on it fiercely for months. I am sure a lot more intensely after he won the election...Ha!
12
I can only hope other Americans can read between the lines of your rediculous essay. Open your eyes and then open your mind. Russia and Donald Trump in cahoots (!) We the people elected the Donald because he loves America and wants to help her. Get on board if you love her too
6
“Before mass leaders seize the power to fit reality to their lies, their propaganda is marked by its extreme contempt for facts as such, for in their opinion fact depends entirely on the power of man who can fabricate it.”
― Hannah Arendt, The Origins of Totalitarianism
― Hannah Arendt, The Origins of Totalitarianism
37
Great Quote John! Thanks fellow Seattleite!
8
I can't help but wonder what happens if this election is deemed unsalvageable. Does it pass down to Clinton? Do we bring back Obama to interim until something can be worked out? Do we have another election so the Republicans can save face? It feels like we are being governed by the alternative world of talk radio.
17
No one is trying to undo the election. We need to find out the full truth, bring miscreants to justice, and make sure that in the future we have better safeguards against foreign interference in our elections.
18
As a conservative, The republicans should open an investigation. Whats the worst that will happen? The find criminal wrong doing they impeach and remove Trump? they control all branches of government. They still get to keep the White House. If they follow the process and the investigation turns up nothing? Well then it was a Media bengazi style which hunt. They can sing that all the way through the midterms.
...however something is fishy and for the long term sake of republican party they need to get ahead of this. Because if the media reveals the dirt. It will forever destroy the republican party and the violent pendulum swing towards trump will go the other way.
We need some stability in our government. Right now everything is chaos and its a miracle things are functioning.
I wonder how far back we have to go in history to find an equivalent period in history.
...however something is fishy and for the long term sake of republican party they need to get ahead of this. Because if the media reveals the dirt. It will forever destroy the republican party and the violent pendulum swing towards trump will go the other way.
We need some stability in our government. Right now everything is chaos and its a miracle things are functioning.
I wonder how far back we have to go in history to find an equivalent period in history.
45
Steven---I knew there must be rational Conservatives out there! Thanks for your post as it makes a lot of sense! Even Democrats have to agree that knowing the truth is more than just removing Trump! It could mean a crisis in Journalism or more than 'whistle blowing Gov't employees. The truth will prevail and has Grand Merits!
I think the modern historical equivalent is Nixon WH and watergate!
I think the modern historical equivalent is Nixon WH and watergate!
8
Simply put, it's call treason.
34
It's mind blowing to read through the comments and hear so many people say there is zero proof in the article. Did you not hear Trump say his remark about intelligence officials leaking information? He is confirming the information was leaked and if it isn't true why did Flint resign? People can connect imaginary dots to make pizzagate true but this is somehow rocket science? Even the Russian Ambassador admitted it weeks ago.
Flynn lied about it. The question is why?
Anyone that loves this country should want to know why the United States National Security Adviser lied to the FBI about a discussion with a Russian official.
Flynn lied about it. The question is why?
Anyone that loves this country should want to know why the United States National Security Adviser lied to the FBI about a discussion with a Russian official.
41
The desire to find the truth is not a Democrat or Republican issue! Yes Flynn Lied and Americans deserve to know why!
9
This is a stain that will tarnish the GOP for a long time. There is no way out of this for the president and helps the Dems and independents gain seats starting in 2018 and beyond.
No repeal & replace
No wall
Just the end of the trump WH
No repeal & replace
No wall
Just the end of the trump WH
18
"@MSNBC & @CNN are unwatchable."
Yes, Mr. Trump. I imagine that coverage of the potential unravelling of your presidency WOULD be rather difficult for you to watch.
Yes, Mr. Trump. I imagine that coverage of the potential unravelling of your presidency WOULD be rather difficult for you to watch.
16
I do not pretend to know the facts, but in the past few years it has become clear that our press is merely a propaganda tool and not a source of accurate information. This is, after all, small potatoes compared to what we actually know about Clinton's handling of classified intormation, and I don't recall the media jumping up and down calling for her head on a platter.
I don't think the NYTimes, WaPo, LATimes, etc., are any better sources of information than China Central. Where do we get accurate information these days? Maybe the Jerusalem Press.
I don't think the NYTimes, WaPo, LATimes, etc., are any better sources of information than China Central. Where do we get accurate information these days? Maybe the Jerusalem Press.
9
And I don't believe what comes out of POTUS and WH mouths! You don't believe Press!
Can we find common ground and agree that the FBI and CIA et.al. are the tops in the world at doing their 'Spying'?
Why not let them investigate?
Can we find common ground and agree that the FBI and CIA et.al. are the tops in the world at doing their 'Spying'?
Why not let them investigate?
3
Show us the evidence. All these articles mention sources but do not provide anything on paper. As Hillary said to Comey:Show us what you have! My hunch is that there is nothing, but those opposed to Trump have lost rationality. They simply hate and this hurts more because these Obama leftover insiders never thought they would be unemployed.
10
All these articles by the NYT all read the same way. They seem to print and publish rumor theory after rumor theory . It's hard for the reader to know what they are saying has be cooberated by two or more credible people.
8
Show us the investigation: the evidence isn't complete until the administration starts coming clean in testimony under oath. There's no sense in asking for "the evidence" when the stonewall is still up.
4
trump himself said there was a leak or are his believers saying he's lying?
6
Lock him up! Actually this is treason, and trump should get the firing squad.
17
GOP Congress will do anything to keep the WH as is. They are getting away with unbelievable stuff - allowing mentally ill to buy guns, new 'Hearing protection act' to allow silencers to be sold nationwide along with guns, get states to reciprocate on open carry laws. Everything but dig into Trump-Russian coziness. NYT, please stay on this story until all the truth comes out! we need to know.
18
Lock them up! All of them! And try them for treason! I'm enjoying watching the quick descent of this co-called president.
13
This is a disgusting administration full of lying and shameless devils in flesh.
If I'm ever in the presence of any of them, Comey, or the spineless republicans, I will be yelling 'SHAME! SHAME! SHAME!' with the hope that they may have a tinkling of good conscience. They all know how dirty they are inside.
We the People feel powerless at the utter dishonesty and hypocrisy unfolding before our eyes.
I can only hope that the patriots within and the journalists continue to deliver the truth and facts that we, the citizens, deserve to know.
If I'm ever in the presence of any of them, Comey, or the spineless republicans, I will be yelling 'SHAME! SHAME! SHAME!' with the hope that they may have a tinkling of good conscience. They all know how dirty they are inside.
We the People feel powerless at the utter dishonesty and hypocrisy unfolding before our eyes.
I can only hope that the patriots within and the journalists continue to deliver the truth and facts that we, the citizens, deserve to know.
12
As presently constituted, and considering the scope of its power, the Republican Party is arguably the most corrupt political institution in the history of the world.
18
Keep at it, New York Times. Be unrelenting in your scrutiny. You will help sustain tired citizens.
24
Where did Fox News get the story that Hillary was about to be indicted by the FBI. That story was false.
10
Innocent people do not resign.
12
Oh wow, where is John Le Carrere when you need him. So who is the mole in the Trump administration? Someone we suspect or someone unexpected?
6
The Russians did the US a HUGE favor by spilling the beans about Clinton. Now the leftists are losing their minds over it. The only problem with this is that they're more worried about the possibility of someone talking to the Russians than what Clinton was actually doing and had planned. She's been caught with her hand in the cookie jar so many times and it's amazing she isn't in prison already. Now we have every journalist and half the population digging for crumbs of dirt, or anything that will put Trump in a disparaging view. This includes anyone and everyone that is even slightly connected to Trump. The attacks on his family members are pathetic, and typical of leftist extremists. Keep pushing your modern day civil war, but you're not going to like the results.
7
Please tell me where the facts are in this article. There are no source references other than "un-named" ..how convenient, no specifics of who talked to who and lastly no discussion topic specifications. This does not pass the journalist test.. only passes the political activist test. NYT is a aham.
9
the truth will out
and eventually, oust.
and eventually, oust.
17
"Several of Mr. Trump’s associates, like Mr. Manafort, have done business in Russia. And it is not unusual for American businessmen to come in contact with foreign intelligence officials, sometimes unwittingly, in countries like Russia and Ukraine, where the spy services are deeply embedded in society. Law enforcement officials did not say to what extent the contacts might have been about business."
Doesn't that tell you all you need to know at this point?
Doesn't that tell you all you need to know at this point?
6
Strange times when liberals are defending targeted and routine surveillance of citizens and elected officials by our law enforcement and intelligence agencies. They should ask themselves why John McCain and current Senate Republicans on the Select Committee on Intelligence, like Roy Blunt, would be leading this inquiry. As a liberal, myself, I'm reluctant to allow our foreign policy puppet masters to start pulling strings again.
6
Uh, read the article. The government was monitoring Russian intelligence officers and politicians. The reason Trump's campaign happened to be picked up in the process is because they were collaborating with these folks! Incredible. What an I ch of hypocrites the trumpeters are. It was cool to have leaks when they were about the DNC and Hillary...Trump even asked Putin to hack into her private emails....but suddenly the tables have turned and they are apoplectic
21
I did. This is not the only article on the matter, though. The reported reason WHY the Russians (in particular) were being wiretapped (at that particular time) was because our intelligence agencies were fishing for evidence of collusion between the Trump campaign and the Russians. The lack of a Russian response to Obama's sanctions apparently motivated this. But I doubt that it's unrelated to the politically-motivated, Russian hacking 'story' of the 2016 election.
So who is apoplectic? If the Podesta leaks revealed transgressions as minor as these OR if Flynn's phone calls were not tapped by our OWN government, then you could make the hypocrisy claim. We probably hack more countries than anyone - and this instrument should, at least, not be used INTERNALLY.
So who is apoplectic? If the Podesta leaks revealed transgressions as minor as these OR if Flynn's phone calls were not tapped by our OWN government, then you could make the hypocrisy claim. We probably hack more countries than anyone - and this instrument should, at least, not be used INTERNALLY.
1
"The intelligence agencies then sought to learn whether the Trump campaign was colluding with the Russians on the hacking or other efforts to influence the election. The officials interviewed in recent weeks said that, so far, they had seen no evidence of such cooperation."
End of non-story.
Except we are entitled to ask at least two questions:
1. Why isn't the story that persons in the IC are engaged in criminally leaking intercepts of private conversations of U. S. citizens?
2. Why is the Left, generally so fetishistic about any privacy violations by government agencies, anywhere, anytime, not exhibiting an atom of outrage in this instance.
I think I know the answer.
End of non-story.
Except we are entitled to ask at least two questions:
1. Why isn't the story that persons in the IC are engaged in criminally leaking intercepts of private conversations of U. S. citizens?
2. Why is the Left, generally so fetishistic about any privacy violations by government agencies, anywhere, anytime, not exhibiting an atom of outrage in this instance.
I think I know the answer.
5
1. It's called gathering intelligence and protecting this country from treason. Those are two reasons we have the CIA and the FBI.
Leaks are an occupational hazard in DC. You don't want leaks? Act clean and be professional. We're dealing with greedy amateurs.
Leaks are an occupational hazard in DC. You don't want leaks? Act clean and be professional. We're dealing with greedy amateurs.
23
Funny how you weren't bothered by the stealing and publication of the DNC emails during the campaign.
10
Well, there's one vote for keeping conversations between campaign staffers and Russian Intelligence private. The deals between campaign staff and Russian intel is none of your business so butt out, give them some space for privacy.
I mean, they could be colluding and cooperating.....or more likely, the staffers are just asking for help and donations and getting it.....but we'll never know, because it's like the confessional or something.
And if you think that's stupid, why, blame the Left. Not the Trump supporter who suggested it.
I mean, they could be colluding and cooperating.....or more likely, the staffers are just asking for help and donations and getting it.....but we'll never know, because it's like the confessional or something.
And if you think that's stupid, why, blame the Left. Not the Trump supporter who suggested it.
2
Lets investigate Trump and also investigate Obama for his ties to the muslim brotherhood . Lets see how much damage was done.
2
So you say something utterly baseless about Obama, but you put it out there anyway just because you can?
This Russian mess is coming out very quickly. It isn't possible to keep the lid on actual occurances very long. But NOTHING every linked Obama to any foreign or enemy interests.
Do you respect the truth? Think about it.
This Russian mess is coming out very quickly. It isn't possible to keep the lid on actual occurances very long. But NOTHING every linked Obama to any foreign or enemy interests.
Do you respect the truth? Think about it.
21
Correction- Which the NYT clearly knows but does not write. All the sources spoke anonymously because they were violating several sections of US law in releasing classified information which could subject them to large fines and imprisonment.
It remains to be seen whether Trump or any of his people violated any law.
It remains to be seen whether Trump or any of his people violated any law.
6
What a joke. And, the media was buzzing about email?!! Sheez. Like the Russia connection wasn't apparent and slightly more significant back in October 2016. And, I guess we're all going to be stunned and surprised when, in a few weeks, we "learn" that Trump knew about all of this back during the campaign. Please. Get your heads out of the ground.
I wonder if Trump would like to redo the election? You know, since it was rigged anyway.
I wonder if Trump would like to redo the election? You know, since it was rigged anyway.
21
Trumputin is responsible for his aides activities. There is no excuse for a boss 'not knowing'. This supposed president is responsible and in collusion with his aides when they have communications with russian agents. He needs to be arrested and charged with espionage, etc.
9
It is a rare day, indeed, when one longs for the resurrection of Joe McCarthy. Never mind his bogus claims, here's the real Red meat.
2
Trump you are a weak kneed coward. You threw Flynn under the bus .
He is twice the man you think you are!
He is twice the man you think you are!
1
Unnamed American officials.
When did unsubstantiated rumors and a wild imagination become the standard for journalistic integrity?
When did unsubstantiated rumors and a wild imagination become the standard for journalistic integrity?
5
When did "alternate truths" i.e., lies become the norm for a president?
16
Uh, no one...repeat: No one... has disputed the audiotape surveillance evidence. Not even the Trump camp.
Where were you when Comey dropped his unsubstantiated rumor bombshell in October?
Where were you when Comey dropped his unsubstantiated rumor bombshell in October?
20
This article is pure speculation. Did anyone read the line "The officials interviewed in recent weeks said that, so far, they had seen no evidence of such cooperation". Single line....third paragraph.
5
Read the article! Intelligence and law enforcement officials were alarmed by the volume and nature of the contacts between Trump and Russian intel. It raised "red flags". Multiple investigations are just now beginning. "So far" will likely soon turn into "so much"
17
Cooperation to hack the election, so far....but why were staffers contacting Russians of any sort? Illegal campaign contributions would be the boring answer, illegally asking the Russians for more direct help is another.
10
Mind-boggling. Until impeachment, I'll take every day Trump doesn't use nukes as a win.
12
What bothers me is that there is a parallel media universe in this country. The only alt-right outlet I can stomach clicking on is Drudge -- and very rarely. Of course, this firestorm is nowhere to be seen on it. Instead, Bibi is smiling in the White House for the first time in ages. And oh yes, Trump is going to hold a rally in Florida -- a big HUGE tremendous rally.
We are outraged by the perfidy, the hypocrisy and the treason. But there are Americans who live in an alternative reality. Yes, CONway was correct in her use of the word "alternative." This bifurcation of the U.S. is not a sudden phenomenon. It has been in the making for decades by Rupert Murdoch and Rush Limbaugh. It took only one blathering egomaniac to light the blaze.
We are in deeper trouble than just these protofascists in the White House. We are truly a divided nation. We let this condition metastasize. We were too satisfied joking about their stupidity for too long.
We are outraged by the perfidy, the hypocrisy and the treason. But there are Americans who live in an alternative reality. Yes, CONway was correct in her use of the word "alternative." This bifurcation of the U.S. is not a sudden phenomenon. It has been in the making for decades by Rupert Murdoch and Rush Limbaugh. It took only one blathering egomaniac to light the blaze.
We are in deeper trouble than just these protofascists in the White House. We are truly a divided nation. We let this condition metastasize. We were too satisfied joking about their stupidity for too long.
22
And some refused to vote for Bernie because he is a Jew.
Ironic.
Ironic.
5
The idea that there was collusive contacts between the Russians and Trump's campaign is almost an insanity to contemplate. If these allegations prove true, Trump better start lining up an escape route to Moscow.
The security services are probably preparing his cell right now. They are after him because of Trump's continued attacks on their competency and I will put my money on the FBI, CIA, and NSA.
The security services are probably preparing his cell right now. They are after him because of Trump's continued attacks on their competency and I will put my money on the FBI, CIA, and NSA.
16
Let's start impeachment proceedings, just to add more fuel to the fire. Trump needs to go, the sooner the better.
11
If the Republicans gave this any thought, they would support Congressional investigations because the damage is going to be a lot worse and harder to contain--at least where the Republicans are concerned--if journalists or Wikileaks get to the bottom of this before Congress does.
10
Its me - Benedict Arnold! I am so thrilled that we have such fine representatives of our democracy taking after me! McConnell, Ryan, dirty comey, the whole bunch of you make me giddy with joy! Lets get together some time and swap stories about how we turned our back on America!
9
For years there has been a public debate in America about who we are as a nation, where are we going, what lessons have we learned from the past, what do we want to stand for, how do we get there.
Woven into this discussion has been the unspoken fear that, if we did not move forward as one America, if we did not reflect the best of our disparate backgrounds and beliefs that yet are representative and solidified into "the American experience," that we could fail as a nation.
Racism, xenophobia, nationalism, a rejection of science, self-selected news sources, gerrymandered legislative districts, restrictive voting rights laws, baseless reasons for war -- they were all tugging at us. We resisted, fearing the consequences of failure.
Donald Trump represents that failure of us as a nation, as a civic body, after nearly 250 years as a country, to seek what is good and possible and to accept -- to revel in -- what is base, what is easy.
Democracy is hard work, and it -- America -- is slipping through our grasp before our very eyes.
Woven into this discussion has been the unspoken fear that, if we did not move forward as one America, if we did not reflect the best of our disparate backgrounds and beliefs that yet are representative and solidified into "the American experience," that we could fail as a nation.
Racism, xenophobia, nationalism, a rejection of science, self-selected news sources, gerrymandered legislative districts, restrictive voting rights laws, baseless reasons for war -- they were all tugging at us. We resisted, fearing the consequences of failure.
Donald Trump represents that failure of us as a nation, as a civic body, after nearly 250 years as a country, to seek what is good and possible and to accept -- to revel in -- what is base, what is easy.
Democracy is hard work, and it -- America -- is slipping through our grasp before our very eyes.
13
Fire 'em and lock 'em up!
6
Had the 'Dems done this, the hearings would be finished already. Gross.
11
Why are the FBI leakers, leaking this information now after the election? And is not illegal for the FBI to be leaking these reports?
3
Keep up the reporting. There is much more to this fish than an rotting head. Follow the money.
8
Wasn't Great Leader required to register as a Foreign Agent or at least working for a Foreign Govt. when he "filled" to be a POTUS candidate ?
3
Is this not the definition of treason? Cavorting with another countries spies?Where's McCarthy when you need him?
4
Our intelligence community is going to put Trump away. They appear to have had enough of his characterizations of incompetence in security matters. Trump apparently is blind to the lethality of who is parrying with in the FBI, CIA, and NSA among others.
6
Hypocrisy, and hypocrisy. How can Republican Congress-people go to bed at night knowing that they are ignoring a serious situation, and in addition, they are not listening to the will of the people, whom they work for. Treason stares them in the face, and they won't address it.
10
You have to admit that Russian intelligence has run an outstanding operation here.
First, collude with the Trump campaign so as to put him in the White House. Then gradually -- almost as a form of Chinese water torture -- "leak" evidence of the collusion so as to destabilize the administration they helped create. Voila -- four years of chaos and instability in American domestic and foreign policy, leaving the Russians free to do pretty much as they please in Eastern Europe and the Middle East.
These guys are good!
First, collude with the Trump campaign so as to put him in the White House. Then gradually -- almost as a form of Chinese water torture -- "leak" evidence of the collusion so as to destabilize the administration they helped create. Voila -- four years of chaos and instability in American domestic and foreign policy, leaving the Russians free to do pretty much as they please in Eastern Europe and the Middle East.
These guys are good!
17
Resist. Investigate. Prosecute them all.
13
These people should all be investigated for treason. I believe that conspiring with our enemies is treasonous activity. What is wrong with this country!
12
At what point does this GOP Congress have an obligation to serve the people that put them in office, who gave them the sweet jobs they have? Do we have to have a war, a national security, or constitutional crisis on our hand as a result of some outrageous action of this totally unfit man? The handwriting is on the wall, a real crisis is looming and you will be held accountable for allowing this unfit man to take us there. Country comes first before your stupid party that will jump off a cliff to follow this man. Buffoonery on steroids is what this administration is.
14
President Trump's bellicose approach to every issue is enervating and frankly quite dangerous. His bizarre friendship with Vlaimir Putin is but one example of his poor judgment skills. I think there is little doubt that the Trump cabal worked with the Russians to disrupt our electoral process. An American government in crisis is precisely what Putin wants. This allows him to grab more Ukranian land, to prop up the Assad regime and destabilize the Balkans. Let's hope Congress conducts a thorough investigation of this mess.
8
How is it possible that treason charges have not yet been brought against Comey, Trump and his entire administration?
16
But HRC's emails were more important and a much greater threat to national security. Yeah, right. When are we going to investigate Comey and what he got for throwing the election to Trump? When will that happen?
17
“There’s nothing that would conclude me that anything different has changed with respect to that time period,” Mr. Spicer said in response to a question. Say what?
This is out-Orwells Orwell.
This is out-Orwells Orwell.
12
Can you imagine if Hillary Clinton was accused of even a tiny bit of what Trump has done let alone the Russian connection? The rabid dogs would be screaming to lock her up. Poor woman. She won the election and yet lost to this fake because uninformed people wanted change. The insanity and unfairness of it all is beyond belief.
15
Is there any Republican left standing in The Govt who has some backbone to stand up for the rest of us? Pls call your representatives and senators everyday to get to the bottom of all these shenanigans! Meanwhile-- who can get anything done in the next 4 yrs???
8
She won the election. Still playing the tired popular vote card, I see.
And the Indians scored as many runs in the series as the Cubs did.
And the Indians scored as many runs in the series as the Cubs did.
1
Conspiring with foreign adversaries to undermine the US political establishment is treason.
16
the non tax paying Trump, under no US authority, had a campaign in cohorts with the Russian operatives during the campaign. may not be treason, but could be depending on details they find.
4
This news and all of the reports of possible links between the Trump campaign and administration before and after the election deserve the highest scrutiny.
I really wish, however, that someone could put the links together. As others have noted, the New York Times keeps issuing these reports, yet says there is no evidence of "cooperation," collusion, etc. Yet on October 31, this same paper basically exonerated Trump of Russian ties altogether.
So please, dot the i's and cross the t's, because if this did occur, it would mark a threat to our democracy the likes of which we've never seen, and I say that having lived through Nixon's infamy, Iran-Contra, the witch hunt against President Clinton and his impeachment, and the 8 disastrous years of George W. Bush.
Please, New York Times, get to the bottom of this, as the rest of the media must, with proof, and Congress, Republicans and Democrats, please do your jobs and investigate too.
I really wish, however, that someone could put the links together. As others have noted, the New York Times keeps issuing these reports, yet says there is no evidence of "cooperation," collusion, etc. Yet on October 31, this same paper basically exonerated Trump of Russian ties altogether.
So please, dot the i's and cross the t's, because if this did occur, it would mark a threat to our democracy the likes of which we've never seen, and I say that having lived through Nixon's infamy, Iran-Contra, the witch hunt against President Clinton and his impeachment, and the 8 disastrous years of George W. Bush.
Please, New York Times, get to the bottom of this, as the rest of the media must, with proof, and Congress, Republicans and Democrats, please do your jobs and investigate too.
12
Mr Trump was communicating with Russian Operatives under no authority.
7
Why don't the republicans who voted for Trump be upset by all of this? Many of them are good, decent people just wanting a change. The idea that Trump and his cronies are in bed with a communist country is just beyond belief. Trump is blaming the FBI. I am grateful for the FBI despite what Comey did to HRC. This just smells really bad to me.
11
Will Congress kindly investigate this violation for 4 years and pillory Donald Trump on it every time a camera appears! May we please label it Putin-Gate and plaster that label somewhere in every single news story emanating from the Trump White House for four years?!? I certainly hope Republicans in Congress do not suddenly take a marked disinterest in this kind of hanky panky. I would like to know if illegal collusion between Russia and Trump and his minions took place. Can we please dig into this and find an answer. Congress? Media?
6
If Republicans in Congress won't investigate, can't some other entity do so? Are we powerless to get at the truth if the GOP refuses to act?
9
notice the times didn't name any of the officials who are making these claims....why not. Any good journalist know that shaky stories don't provide names, which makes the story someone believable...The reporter might have just made up those facts....unnamed sources are very poor journalist practices that promote distrust of the media.
3
We are seeing a Watergate type situation in high speed. The big difference, however, is that this is much more serious than Watergate and entirely unprecedented in American history. We are in new, highly dangerous territory and all the Trump lovers should take a long pause and wake up to the fact that our country and its elections have been threatened in a way never before thought to be possible.
13
So, how is it with these 'levels of trust'.... Does Putin's level of trust have any
comparative relationship to Trump's level of trust. If so then there will be trouble ahead for us all.
Trump's 'intellectual shell game' is beginning to reveal a few rotten peanuts.
comparative relationship to Trump's level of trust. If so then there will be trouble ahead for us all.
Trump's 'intellectual shell game' is beginning to reveal a few rotten peanuts.
3
So who do you think would be President now if Comey revealed this investigation into what almost certainly will turn out to be serious violations of law and didn't re-open the Clinton email issue which, of course, turned out to be a big nothing?
8
Trump made a big mistake when he picked a fight with the CIA and other intelligent agencies when he disparaged them about them often being wrong in regard to their claim that it was Russia that was behind the hacking of the DNC. Its quite amazing for a man that wants everyone to love him to go about making enemies with the most powerful of adversaries.
And so this new information which was almost certainly leaked by the intelligence community is their payback for his mocking them and picking a fight with the CIA was an incredibly stupid thing to do.
And so this new information which was almost certainly leaked by the intelligence community is their payback for his mocking them and picking a fight with the CIA was an incredibly stupid thing to do.
7
We'll, that's an arch - NARSissit for you..
In today's NYT there is a "letter to the
Editor", written by a (ret) psychiatrist who felt that, just because he wrote the current dms -4v( the "dictionary of psychiatry"), he had the final word on narcissi and the extent to which a pathological narcisst( which is clearly us )can go.
We'll, that psychiatrist is totally wrong.
Trump IS clearly a dangerous narcissist, who knows no limits, and, in the White House, he's unpredictability dangerous. Everybody needs to read yesterday's paul krugmans column : " ignorance is strength". It says it all.
In today's NYT there is a "letter to the
Editor", written by a (ret) psychiatrist who felt that, just because he wrote the current dms -4v( the "dictionary of psychiatry"), he had the final word on narcissi and the extent to which a pathological narcisst( which is clearly us )can go.
We'll, that psychiatrist is totally wrong.
Trump IS clearly a dangerous narcissist, who knows no limits, and, in the White House, he's unpredictability dangerous. Everybody needs to read yesterday's paul krugmans column : " ignorance is strength". It says it all.
2
If Republicans truly wish to keep America safe, why don't they focus upon removing the most serious threats to American security? Several of them occupy the Oval Office in the photo that accompanies this article. One down...just a few more to go!
11
Republicans colluding with a foreign government to undermine Democratic leaders is nothing new. In 2015 the Republican leadership secretly conspired with the Government of Israel to undermine President Obama over sanctions on Iran--as Israel's Haaretz newspaper put it:
"The official invitation extended on Wednesday by U.S. House Speaker John Boehner to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, to address a joint session of Congress on Iran on February 11, had been preceded by contacts between Netanyahu advisers and Boehner and other congressional Republicans that totally bypassed the White House."
I don't see how this is any less treasonous than the Republicans conspiring with the Government of Russia to undermine the presidential candidacy of Hillary Clinton in exchange for easing or removing sanctions against Russia.
"The official invitation extended on Wednesday by U.S. House Speaker John Boehner to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, to address a joint session of Congress on Iran on February 11, had been preceded by contacts between Netanyahu advisers and Boehner and other congressional Republicans that totally bypassed the White House."
I don't see how this is any less treasonous than the Republicans conspiring with the Government of Russia to undermine the presidential candidacy of Hillary Clinton in exchange for easing or removing sanctions against Russia.
11
Hey, duped Trump chumps--what goes around comes around. Your hateful, sexist "Lock her up!" chants will soon be sung with much sweeter lyrics and a few million more voices. Try this for size-- "Lock them all up!"
10
"lock her up" was sexist? Why? Because it had "her" in it?
1
Lock them all up. TREASON!
15
Time to investigate Comey as well. While he was busy denying Hillary the election while in- appropriately calling attention to a review of the "Weaners" email he ignored foreign interference into our elections. Can't imagine what the Russians have on him
7
Funny how all this "espionage" (cough) happened under Obama's watch and Intel sat on it or Obama did until after Trump and friends are in the white house? Then LEAKED to the press? This stinks of a set up.
BTW, Ukraine ISN'T Russia--they are fighting each other!
Oh, and this reminder; Hillary while sec of state, gave a Russian business a American Uranium contract AFTER they donated to the Clinton Foundation. THAT'S A RUSSIAN CONACT and illegal!
BTW, Ukraine ISN'T Russia--they are fighting each other!
Oh, and this reminder; Hillary while sec of state, gave a Russian business a American Uranium contract AFTER they donated to the Clinton Foundation. THAT'S A RUSSIAN CONACT and illegal!
3
The Clinton Foundation made an introduction. The person who was introduced convinced 5 federal agencies that he is a legitimate bona fide buyer of a bankrupt uranium mine.
2
It sounds like Made Up News. The intel groups said they found no connection between the Trump organization and the so called hackers that were involved in the DNC hacking. They said that Flynn and the ambassador discussed the sanctions but Flynn stated the sanctions were brought up but told the ambassador that they would be discussed at a later date.
I sometime wonder what it is like to have the democrats, the MSM and now the intel groups all out to destroy the president
I sometime wonder what it is like to have the democrats, the MSM and now the intel groups all out to destroy the president
2
This is going to boomerang on the Obama administration. The Obama administration went on a political witch hunt mid-last year to benefit Hillary Clinton. Unlike the IRS scandal prosecutions will result from leaking classified information and using Federal government resources to investigate political opponents. Folks do remember that Trump now controls the Justice department?
3
You apparently did not remember that Trump was the one running against Clinton: "Lock her up Lock her up". That is called "a witch hunt. Good God.
6
Just what is all the hubub. Hillary hit the reset button to normalize relations with Vlad, I watched it on tv, it was a great moment in diplomacy. It worked, see, relations are normal now.
2
Bannon, a professed Leninist, Preibus, Republican party hack, Pence, zealot, Trump, unorganized, possibly mentally unstable, Flynn, gone, under investigation. Spicer, in over his head, being rope a doped by the media, Miller and Conway, lying, representative mouth pieces. What could possibly go wrong with all this dysfunction in the government? This has the earmarks of a serious self induced implosion. The need to resist is still real and necessary, for now that only will speed up the self destructive course this administration is hell bent on proceeding with. We are still less than a month into the new regime. What a disaster. Every day it seems there are new investigations or someone calling for an investigation.
On a recent dark quiet night I listened to world outside. Far off, in the distance, I began to recognize a sound, one I haven't heard since the digital age began. Tick, tock, tick, tock.
One only hopes the nation does not go down in flames with them.
On a recent dark quiet night I listened to world outside. Far off, in the distance, I began to recognize a sound, one I haven't heard since the digital age began. Tick, tock, tick, tock.
One only hopes the nation does not go down in flames with them.
10
All Trump cares about his himself, and procuring as much money as possible, from whomever he can. He, the person/President, will never understand, "We, The People."
27
I disagree Daniel.
He seems to care about Russia and Putin.
Ask Flynn, if you can locate him.
He seems to care about Russia and Putin.
Ask Flynn, if you can locate him.
5
Last October 31, 2016, he NYT printed a story saying the FBI found no Trump ties to Russia, and that the Russian hacking was meant to disrupt the US election, not help Trump get elected.
Well? Which is it? Are there ties or are there not? Did Russia try to specifically get Trump elected?
And if there are ties to Russia, does the NYT not need to so some investigating into its own sources? Who was the FBI source (s) who told you there were no Trump ties to Russia? And that the Russians weren't trying to get Trump elected?
You owe subscribers like me an explanation as to how and why you chose to print that story of FBI absolution before the election. And why has that changed now? How does the FBI get to say both yes and no to this very important issue?
Well? Which is it? Are there ties or are there not? Did Russia try to specifically get Trump elected?
And if there are ties to Russia, does the NYT not need to so some investigating into its own sources? Who was the FBI source (s) who told you there were no Trump ties to Russia? And that the Russians weren't trying to get Trump elected?
You owe subscribers like me an explanation as to how and why you chose to print that story of FBI absolution before the election. And why has that changed now? How does the FBI get to say both yes and no to this very important issue?
25
There is no new information. Just new accusations. As with the dossier, this is a case where the media is reporting speculation as though its confirmed information.
3
@Hychkok
,,,and you owe us a link. I just plugged in that date and there's nothing about Russia, the FBI, or anything about 'no ties' between the Trump campaign and Russia.
Here's my search using the date and keyword "russia":
https://query.nytimes.com/search/sitesearch/?action=click&contentCol...®ion=TopBar&WT.nav=searchWidget&module=SearchSubmit&pgtype=Homepage#/russia/from20161031to20161031/
,,,and you owe us a link. I just plugged in that date and there's nothing about Russia, the FBI, or anything about 'no ties' between the Trump campaign and Russia.
Here's my search using the date and keyword "russia":
https://query.nytimes.com/search/sitesearch/?action=click&contentCol...®ion=TopBar&WT.nav=searchWidget&module=SearchSubmit&pgtype=Homepage#/russia/from20161031to20161031/
1
I am at a position of being completely stunned and outraged. And Trump dares to try and change the subject and deflect from this new information? How dare he! I can't believe that the whole cabal hasn't been arrested for treason! Trump, Bannon, Manafort, Page. Stone, Miller, and Flynn need to be tried for treason now! How dare the Republican Congressional cowards be silent as this is all revealed? And then there is further details by Abramson on the findings of the MI6 officer on Trump who is currently running for his life from Putin and probably Trump. We cannot let this go! We cannot allow this to be swept under the rug. And as a consequence of Trump and his spys we now have a Russian ship gathering intelligence off the East coast and we have new missiles being launched that are banned by Treaty, but approved by Trump. We all need to RESIST.PERSIST, INSIST that Trump be brought to justice.
30
Now that is clear headed unambiguous and judicious Constitutional thinking. So refreshing to read! This so-called "president" is a very very sick greedy and thoroughly perverted individual with a price to pay his Russian blackmailers, and All American taxpayers are all creditors to Putin as long as we allow this sicko clack to stay in power.
5
It's nice to know that when investigating political crimes the FBI and NSA are able to surveil Americans' phone conversations, but are prohibited from surveilling conversations of Americans suspected of cavorting with terrorists.
5
What prohibits them Michael?
6
"At one point last summer, Mr. Trump said at a campaign event that he hoped Russian intelligence services had stolen Hillary Clinton’s emails and would make them public."
That's not what Trump said. Truth is that he said IF Russia HAS Hillary's emails, he hopes they release them. That's a far cry from the implication of the above quoted sentence. He didn't say 'Russian intelligence services' or anything about emails being stolen!
Considering that the Russians are obviously EXPERT in the American Electoral College system, one can understand why Trump sought their help. I bet Hillary is sorry she didn't think to ask Putin how to win the Electoral College..... may be next time.
Ramp up the base with innuendo and false representations, and when the evidence. if it is ever obtained, doesn't support the conclusions the matter will simply fade away leaving the damaged reputations - perhaps a simple comment on page 49 to assuage the defamation....
NYT seems to fit it's own ideology into All The News that It Deems Fit to Publish! But of course NT is not biased.
That's not what Trump said. Truth is that he said IF Russia HAS Hillary's emails, he hopes they release them. That's a far cry from the implication of the above quoted sentence. He didn't say 'Russian intelligence services' or anything about emails being stolen!
Considering that the Russians are obviously EXPERT in the American Electoral College system, one can understand why Trump sought their help. I bet Hillary is sorry she didn't think to ask Putin how to win the Electoral College..... may be next time.
Ramp up the base with innuendo and false representations, and when the evidence. if it is ever obtained, doesn't support the conclusions the matter will simply fade away leaving the damaged reputations - perhaps a simple comment on page 49 to assuage the defamation....
NYT seems to fit it's own ideology into All The News that It Deems Fit to Publish! But of course NT is not biased.
4
It's hard to understand how they can continue to repeat that false claim about Trump's calling for Russia to hack Hillary. Trump was joking. It was a funny line that got quite a few laughs.
But, then again, they've never gotten his humor and have even fact checked some of his jokes.
But, then again, they've never gotten his humor and have even fact checked some of his jokes.
1
Splitting hairs much?
I don't see the difference in implications between what Trump said and how the NYT expressed it.
As to the Times' bias -- you don't say!
I don't see the difference in implications between what Trump said and how the NYT expressed it.
As to the Times' bias -- you don't say!
Your reasoning make no sense. When Trump says that if Russia has Hilary's emails, that only can mean one thing: Russia stole these emails, these were definitely not "given" to Russia by the Democratic Party or by Hilary. Therefore the NYT journalist is right when he says these emails were stolen and you are wrong trying to suggest that Trump didn't know if Russia had stolen these emails.
2
According to NPR, no evidence of wrongdoing has been uncovered. Eventually, the democrats are going to have to put up or shut up. What democrats don't realize is that their drip-drip-drip approach won't effect Trump. He's not a politician. They are using old tricks.
7
So POTUS potentially being in-bed with the Russians is about Democrats, noted.
2
So you think Trump's buddies contacted Russian intelligence to chat about the weather?
2
This should not be a partisan issue. Foreign interference in an election is very serious. If parties in a presidential political campaign collude with foreign agents to interfere in an election, it is tantamount to treason. What would you be saying if the parties in this situation were flipped?
3
Let's stop beating around the bush and state the obvious suspicion: Trump directed Flynn to have contact with the Russians. That's why he's defending him now, and blaming the media for his resignation. Trump didn't actually want to fire him, but politically, the situation became untenable and he had to. This is why he never told Pence when informed by Yates. This is why he claimed to reporters that he didn't know anything about the situation--a bald-faced lie. Flynn is a military man. If soldiers know anything it's chain of command. Flynn would never have acted on his own in speaking to the Russians.
25
Plus Voldemort needed a distraction from that National Security "public" meeting at Mar-A-Lago, on the terrace. So, he looked around, then called Flynn said, your it, resign. And he did. He should lose a minimum of 3 ranks (make him a colonel, no more general) and his pension/medical benefits. Though a colonels pension is no where near a 3 star general. He can go live down south, where every white man lies about his rank "in service" even if he never was. A Lt. is called colonel, so down there hed probably be called General anyway. Everyone knowing they are lying.
1
This feels like a repackaged article of things known previously from 2016, well before the election. Essentially, Paul Manaford and Roger Stone had contacts with Russians through their lobbying business. If the "former official" source is John Brennan that is somewhat newsworthy for different reasons, but I am unclear otherwise what is advanced here or why this was the lead story.
6
Never before have we had reported instances of repeated collaboration between any political party operatives in a campaign and Russian INTELLIGENCE operatives.
The very nature of spies is that they are exceptionally skilled in creating opportunities to blackmail or pay an individual with weaknesses so as to extract information.
This is treason and Russia is a very manipulative organization that is willing to kill those who stand in its way and also to run roughshod over those who are weaker than it.
It is critical that a fully empowered independent select body be established with full subpoena powers to determine the extent of this deception to the American people.
The very nature of spies is that they are exceptionally skilled in creating opportunities to blackmail or pay an individual with weaknesses so as to extract information.
This is treason and Russia is a very manipulative organization that is willing to kill those who stand in its way and also to run roughshod over those who are weaker than it.
It is critical that a fully empowered independent select body be established with full subpoena powers to determine the extent of this deception to the American people.
13
I blame Netflix for this incessant intrigue. If everyone had not watched the House of Cards this would not be happening. People are now bored with politics after watching that show and they want our "real" politics to be even better. Ultimately this is the fault of the British. It was their program to start with.
5
How many references to "House of Cards" and NetFlix you believe was in Flynn's Resignation?
Regardless, apparently just enough for the POTUS to accept it.
Regardless, apparently just enough for the POTUS to accept it.
2
The majority of Americans did NOT vote for this man and by extension any of his staff. And each and every one of them clearly demonstrates that we were right. New election without the Russians and their accomplice Comey!
10
Why do I have to wait for days before the next Saturday Night installment? All they have to do is report the week's news as it happened and I'll be in the floor, crying.
3
It looks like the intel establishment wants Trump out. But one wonders why Comey wanted him in. Maybe Trump was just blustery window-dressing to rile up the public and lock in a clean sweep of three branches of government. Then, when the time was right, replace him with the far saner, but even more conservative Pence, who's bloodless demeanor couldn't get him elected nationally.
6
It's not normal for a presidential transition team to have multiple people have this many phone calls with a foreign country, period.
19
Considering we don't know how many times they were in contact, what was discussed or anything about any other campaign's similar activities, can you really claim this is worse?
Democrats don't need real evidence to make claims, but reasonable people do.
Democrats don't need real evidence to make claims, but reasonable people do.
and how would you know that or not?
Bored, why do you assume they did?
Wow, I guess POTUS Trump's Investigators in HI investigating Obama's Birthrights have to be sent to Moscow to investigate Trump's?
16
Obama was communicating with Putin and told his ambassador to "tell Vlad I'll have more flexibility after the election". It's obvious Obama has much to hide and may have been conspiring to sink Hillary. This all stinks...
5
This happened when Obama was actually in office and POTUS. Check the Logan Act and try to distinguish the difference between the conversations.
1
So Trump err'd in not sending those investigators to Moscow instead of HI?
Nice try but President Obama was the President, not a private citizen.
4
Pence's expression in this photograph tells it all: Taking in Trump's every word while the others are multitasking and Spice-y is telling jokes. Pence is the chess master and will execute moves to bring Trump down, silently and with a smile. Betrayal from within the palace ... let it be swift.
23
Of course, he (Pence) cribbed the whole thing from "Richard III". Turns out that studying Shakespeare does have practical applications.
A lot of former high school students owe a lot of English teachers a heck of a lot of apologies.
A lot of former high school students owe a lot of English teachers a heck of a lot of apologies.
Why is Russia made to look like the evil empire by Americans? Its no different from Iranians on the street chanting down with America. We seem to have an allergic reaction to Russia because of half a century of animosity. Is it because of Putin or is Russia the whole country, evil and bad?
5
You can start by reading books by author Masha Gessen. She lays out in specific detail why we all should be wary of Russia and Putin... She writes from her own experience as a journalist in Russia who ultimately fled to the US.
15
Many are just angry that Trump refused to parrot Putin's critics. The more he refused, the more they demonized Putin.
Despite Trump's refusal to publicly knock Putin, his team has a very solid understanding of Putin and his motives. This doesn't mean that Trump won't work with him if he believes it's in our interest.
Despite Trump's refusal to publicly knock Putin, his team has a very solid understanding of Putin and his motives. This doesn't mean that Trump won't work with him if he believes it's in our interest.
Well, at least we should save some $$s on hiring NEW Russian Interpreters.
They're already here, in bunches.
They're already here, in bunches.
10
The FBI was investigating these people and Flynn before the election and kept quiet about it (as is protocol, apparently), but decided to send a letter to congress about some of Hillary's emails on a computer used by her aide?
Hmmmm. I guess treason isn't the crime it used to be.
Hmmmm. I guess treason isn't the crime it used to be.
21
Your story about the senate intelligence committee investigation states that "creating a special committee or commission would require the consent of both parties," but I would like to know how many Republican senators would need to cross over in order to get us public hearings. Would it need to be a filibuster-proof majority? Could it even get a vote if, say, McCain, Graham, Collins and one or two more Republicans came out in support of a special committee, or could McConnell keep that from happening? What's the possible scenario for this?
8
I'm a former intel analyst who specialized in the USSR/Russa, and I cannot imagine any legitimate, above-board reasons why Trump's campaign officials would have had "repeated contacts" with "senior Russian intelligence officials" in 2016! One is left with the conclusion that the Trump campaign must have been enlisting Russian aid in attacking Clinton and casting a noxious cloud of doubt on the integrity of the presidential election. Remember: Clinton had a lead in the polls throughout the campaign, and there is good evidence that even Trump himself didn't believe he would win. The quid pro quo for Russian assistance to Trump (lifting Obama's economic sanctions on Russian for annexing Crimea) need not ever have been mentioned for it to have been understood.
41
... which would have also allowed the Rosneft–Exxon/Mobil $500B deal to proceed. The sanctions were standing in the way of a LOT of money being made. Then there's that 19.5% stake in Rosneft, which was sold shortly after the election ...
6
So what might they have been talking about? Anybody have an idea? I understand it's not unusual for an incoming administration to have maybe one call or so with a foreign government. What is the topic of that "typical" call? Why did the Trump administration have so many? And who was having these calls? I understand that, in addition to Mr. Flynn, several other top aides talked to the Russians, but the Justice Dept. seems unwilling to reveal who they were. Why won't they reveal these other names?
5
So much of this is speculative. Tonight on CNN a senior democrat made the accusation that Trump's team was "in constant contact" with Russia but when pressed to define "constant contact" couldn't. He had no idea. None of them have any details.
Meanwhile, the transcripts are all there. No evidence has been uncovered that laws were broken or that Trump's team cooperated with Russians.
The media and democrats are desperate for a crisis. They are falling all over themselves to declare this THE BIG ONE that will finally bring Trump down. Every week it's a new BIG ONE.
Meanwhile, the transcripts are all there. No evidence has been uncovered that laws were broken or that Trump's team cooperated with Russians.
The media and democrats are desperate for a crisis. They are falling all over themselves to declare this THE BIG ONE that will finally bring Trump down. Every week it's a new BIG ONE.
3
AAC:
do you think the Reagan election team or the George Bush team was calling Russian Intelligence during their presidential runs?
Get Real.
do you think the Reagan election team or the George Bush team was calling Russian Intelligence during their presidential runs?
Get Real.
6
This thing stinks so bad it's not funny. The new administration is rotten to its core.
Meanwhile, the so-called Americans in Congress are busy providing guns to mentally ill people.
Folks, we need to turn this thing around and return to sanity. It's going to be a long, hard road, when it's gotten so topsy turvy. But turn things around we must.
Meanwhile, the so-called Americans in Congress are busy providing guns to mentally ill people.
Folks, we need to turn this thing around and return to sanity. It's going to be a long, hard road, when it's gotten so topsy turvy. But turn things around we must.
34
Trump does not need security briefings..."I'm, like, a smart person. "
Not so much!
Not so much!
13
Will the WHouse have 2 sets of Sign Language or is Russian Sign Language the same as ours?
6
So a day ago it was Trump knew for 2 weeks that Flynn had lied and that on Monday night Mr. T "demanded his resignation". Trump "forgot" to tell #2.
A day later true to form it was the "media" who apparently magically fired this guy. This is just stupid.
"Stephen K. Bannon, the president's chief strategist, asked for Mr. Flynn's resignation- a move that he has been pushing for since Friday, when it became clear that the national security adviser had misled Mr. Pence". - says the NYT article from Monday.
A day later after the Brietbart rotisserie treatment, Mr. Flynn was a sad victim of "the deep state" whatever that is to conspiracy sorts, and the real problem was not his lying or incompetence or Bannon wanting his resignation or Trump firing him.
A day later true to form it was the "media" who apparently magically fired this guy. This is just stupid.
"Stephen K. Bannon, the president's chief strategist, asked for Mr. Flynn's resignation- a move that he has been pushing for since Friday, when it became clear that the national security adviser had misled Mr. Pence". - says the NYT article from Monday.
A day later after the Brietbart rotisserie treatment, Mr. Flynn was a sad victim of "the deep state" whatever that is to conspiracy sorts, and the real problem was not his lying or incompetence or Bannon wanting his resignation or Trump firing him.
15
In a nutshell, what happened is that the republicans colluded with agents of a hostile power to successfully corrupt a presidential election and install a mentally ill man in the White House. Now the US and the world must live with the consequences.
30
Evidence to support your claim of collusion to corrupt a presidential election. Oh, that's right. There is none.
If Hillary had won, and the same exact thing was happening to her, with her aides having contact with the Russians, and if the Russians had hacked Trumps emails, can you imagine the hate mongers of the radio waves, the Limbaughs, Savages, Levins, how they would be screaming bloody murder, what do they say today, mums the word. It's the ceaseless hypocrisy which is dragging our country down the toilet. What is wrong for one side is just as wrong as the other. We have to get it together or our country is finished.
11
It is clear to me as a neutral observer on the other side of the Atlantic that undermining US foreign policy illegitimately and by treachery is what all of this is about.
It is obviously and with the benefit of hindsight what Obama meant in his farewell speech when he said "Yes We Can". A coded message to his followers of things to come.
What we have been witnessing is an illegal act, or a series of illegal acts, by Obama loyalists in Intel aimed at nullifying Trump's declared foreign policy for friendlier and more constructive relations with Russia. Powerful lobbying groups are opposed to closer Russia-West relations for their own reasons which have nothing to do with the interests and desires of ordinary citizens.
The true scandal consists in the shameful complicity and uncritical servitude of the US and UK mainstream media in distorting the true picture. They have done this and are continuing to do this by inclusion and by omission of relevant data.
It would not be possible to publish such a comment as the present one in, say, the Guardian, London. I shall be very interested to see whether it makes into the NYT comments.
Even a cursory reading of readers' comments on the issue as reported by the MSM reveals the alarming susceptibility of normally intelligent people to brainwashing and distortion of judgement.
Trump has all the potential to become one of the best US presidents in the last 60 years. Just take a look at the appalling records of his predecessors.
It is obviously and with the benefit of hindsight what Obama meant in his farewell speech when he said "Yes We Can". A coded message to his followers of things to come.
What we have been witnessing is an illegal act, or a series of illegal acts, by Obama loyalists in Intel aimed at nullifying Trump's declared foreign policy for friendlier and more constructive relations with Russia. Powerful lobbying groups are opposed to closer Russia-West relations for their own reasons which have nothing to do with the interests and desires of ordinary citizens.
The true scandal consists in the shameful complicity and uncritical servitude of the US and UK mainstream media in distorting the true picture. They have done this and are continuing to do this by inclusion and by omission of relevant data.
It would not be possible to publish such a comment as the present one in, say, the Guardian, London. I shall be very interested to see whether it makes into the NYT comments.
Even a cursory reading of readers' comments on the issue as reported by the MSM reveals the alarming susceptibility of normally intelligent people to brainwashing and distortion of judgement.
Trump has all the potential to become one of the best US presidents in the last 60 years. Just take a look at the appalling records of his predecessors.
4
@ greatapedescendant
Without a doubt, heavy political machinations are likely to be in action here. It may not be a situation as simple as many seem to assume.
We forget the interference of one branch of government upon another, such as had been reported by the Guardian:
" The CIA unconstitutionally spied on Congress by hacking into Senate intelligence committee computers. This grave misconduct is not only illegal, but it violates the US constitution’s requirement of separation of powers."
@ https://www.theguardian.com/world/2014/jul/31/cia-admits-spying-senate-s...
Without a doubt, heavy political machinations are likely to be in action here. It may not be a situation as simple as many seem to assume.
We forget the interference of one branch of government upon another, such as had been reported by the Guardian:
" The CIA unconstitutionally spied on Congress by hacking into Senate intelligence committee computers. This grave misconduct is not only illegal, but it violates the US constitution’s requirement of separation of powers."
@ https://www.theguardian.com/world/2014/jul/31/cia-admits-spying-senate-s...
Whatever the reason, the President should go. His presidency is compromised by hard fact, his own bromantic and outrageous statements and innuendo too. More I'm sure will come out. The really important part is that the majority the country has no faith in his leadership or ability to learn to lead. And there's deep concern that he is tarnished, compromised by foreign entanglements. His meeting with Netanyahu today, his meeting with the Japanese PM (dinner al fresco with security briefings!) just show he doesn't understand the job. His refusal to divest himself of his brand, his holdings show he doesn't understand the high regard needed for the job. Please let's end this.
21
From today on, every last elected House and Senate member will be held to account by one factor: their stance toward fully investigating Trump Inc. Every last person who continues to attach him or herself to Trump will be known as a party hack who sacrificed country for personal gain. If the GOP doesn't come out within 24 hours and renounce Trump and demand a full investigation, it also forfeits legitimacy as a political party which represents citizens who value and uphold the Constitution.
This is a zero sum game of Secession 2.0. If the GOP holds hostage the Constitution from this point on, a revolution is in store.
This is a zero sum game of Secession 2.0. If the GOP holds hostage the Constitution from this point on, a revolution is in store.
20
As Hillary had her Bengazhi and emails, President Trump has a cloud of suspicion and doubt of legitimacy over his presidency! There is no crime nor any wrong doing on the part of Trump's staffers! Let the investigation go forward and the findings revealed in due time. Meanwhile hysteria from the alt-left perceive wrong doings and conspiratorial policies from the Trump administration. Patience and allowing a fair and impartial investigation is what both parties should call for! The press adds to the hysteria, i.e Thomas Friedman NYT's piece equating this past election with past atrocities of Pearl Harbor, 9/11 and basing his claim on unsubstainsiated speculation. The Trump Presidency will be 4 years of obstruction by the democrats and 4 years of defending the misperceived actions of the current administration. In essence payback for the 8 years of Republican obstructionism! The nation is divided culturally, socially, economically and ethnically. The hope of reconciliation and seeking bi-partianship and finding consensus reveals how broken our system is. When we work to undermine and hope for the failure of the current presidency there will be no winner but only simmering resentment that will be lashed out against the next president! Canada here I come!!!!
I suspect that after a short time the country will not be as divided as they are now. I even have Republican friends that admit they should not have been taken in by Trump.
9
The public and the press are without sufficient detail to know if all this 'smoke' is coming from a real fire or if it is just a series of poor judgements. The country is collectively wasting enormous time and productivity trying to evaluate the risk of a compromised or hijacked president and or the level of blame by a vengeful sore loser left. And yet today at the WH press conference with BiBi the president took only two questions from the US press corp (christian broadcasting and town&country). He had the opportunity to clarify the issue and set the public record straight and he instead evaded all questions about the subject - I'm afraid that says it all...
19
It's a waste of time as in there are important things to do but it's certainly not a waste of time looking into whether or not a U.S. Presidential campaign was colluding with Russian intelligence services to effect the outcome. If it happened it should be fully prosecuted to set an example. If not we're inviting it to happenn again. Why should the police "waste time" investigating murders if they're in the past.
2
Hard to see an end game where America ends up "great again" through the Trump administration. Trump is operating a wrecking crew, apparently locked and loaded not only by Breitbart/Al Right fan boys, but by Putin. What's being crushed are our institutions, due process, and Constitutional protections on the one hand and our place in the world on the other. Putin doesn't need a puppet. He's proving through the negligence and arrogance of Trump and his henchmen that America doesn't deserve its leadership status in the world. That we're too unstable and chaotic to be trusted by NATO, Mexico, Australia and the rest of the world. The long game is a fractured Europe, a depleted and disabled America and a restored Soviet Union. The total disarray that Trump has been caused in just 3 weeks is staggering and making Putin's point.
12
Well, with Obama's nuts seemingly about to start WWIII, just before Trump was to take office, of course Trump and his staff were trying to defuse the situation. Unless the NYT is suffering from dementia, you full well know that Obama deployed thousands of tanks, nuclear capable missiles, and troops along the Russian border just before Trump took office. With CIA and NSA operatives in place to intercept and leak phone calls by Trump staffers, frantic to defuse the situation, it was a partisan politic gambit by Obama's to destabalize the incoming Trump government. It was an act of insane partisan nastiness that risked a nuclear war...all so that Obama could destabalize the Trump government. It was, to be blunt, treason. I want to know who was involved in that insanity.
4
I would love to see your source for that whopper!
6
So the Trump Administration has a Legit Reason to be in Bed with the Russians, noted.
That doesn't explain the RoadRunner Quick Resignation/Departure of Flynn.
And the POTUS Accepting it almost as quick.
That doesn't explain the RoadRunner Quick Resignation/Departure of Flynn.
And the POTUS Accepting it almost as quick.
3
What ever Obama did must be working as the Trump government seems to be falling apart.
3
The Question is: "When did Trump sell the United States Sovereignty and democratic government to Putin for Putin's help in winning the election? All other questions are irrelevant.
12
The wrong guy is President and the Russians helped him win. I call for a revote or revolution. Don't buy anything Trump's companies sell. It's all snake oil. Congress has a mess on its hands and it will make "Watergate" look like a Disney Move.
13
The actions of Watergate began three months after inauguration.
No matter what your party affiliation is, maybe it's time to start publicly calling those congressional representatives and elected or appointed government officals that put party before country, that continuously lie and mislead the American people, that refuse to take action against those that have potentially violated constitutional law, that have conspired with another country that is hostile to America, what they really are: traitors.
20
The only saving grace for Donald Trump so far is that the two Houses of the Congress are controlled by the Republicans!!
Flush out the moles and sweep out the place of Obama holdovers.
6
Totally! And while we're at it, we can get rid of those pesky security cameras in banks. They never do anything but catch criminals!
12
What did Hillary promise to foreign leaders while she spent so much of the taxpayer's money travelling all over the globe while she was Secretary of State, fulling intending to run for president?
It can be quite simple. Support any elected officials that resist and combat DJT and remove from office via votes and all legal means those that side with DJT and Putin. A thorough investigation will start the removal process as it did with Flynn. It is time to pick sides and I am not going to normalize or accept this president.
Imagine if this was about President Hillary Clinton. The invective, the talk show bullies, the media, the accusations, the threats, armed demonstrators. Where are they now? Is shouldn't matter who or what party the contacts were made for, right? Subversion of American government - and the rights of the American people - by a foreign power. But trump's people are trying to sweep it under the rug, and the republican power elite have said nothing.
"All of the current and former officials spoke on the condition of anonymity because the continuing investigation is classified." This quote speaks for itself. They are illegally disclosing "classified" information, so really how do we know it is truthful. The article goes into great detail about "what happened", but makes little mention that the source is questionable. I am really tired of all the sensationalism and one sidedness in reporting the "news".
4
For sure. Flynn resigned / got fired because he did nothing wrong.
5
I don't know what's more stunning: the contacts between the Trump team and Russian officials themselves, or the fact that a sizeable segment of America doesn't care. Is this what we've come to? Anything goes so long as your man gets in?
Remarkable. Trump holds a news conference. He says the media treated Mike Flynn badly. (I'm curious which news reporter fired Mike Flynn.) Trump declines to respond to questions about the Russia contacts so he's clearly NOT DENYING that they occurred! Illegal leaks, indeed.
13
Read/ all o left overs set up to destroy new administration. O has 35,000 working for him for )as community destroy) This has been planned for a long time. Disgraceful and harms our voters, & foreign contacts. All these folks against are showing they are against the USA transition and function of our own government. So very sad to see so many "hate" above all else to even be in picture. just could cry.
3
As the old saying goes on Wall Street, "There's never just one cockroach." Bad news doesn't appear in an isolated form; there's always more.
16
If these charges are found to be true, these people need to be arrested and tried for treason! Seriously. This is not a small incident. This is an abuse of position and power to undermine our Republic for the sake of winning an election. Traitors need to be punished!
11
Trump asks why the leaks. Answer: WATERGATE
17
Donald, mistake to insult McCain. He is going for you. Your fall is written in stone.
19
McCain is an old fool, with only a huge ego to present.
He badly needs attention and feel needed. To bad he did
not just retire. Bless his old heart.
He badly needs attention and feel needed. To bad he did
not just retire. Bless his old heart.
3
I believe you've got McCain and Trump mixed up. At the very least, McCain understands that you don't collude with a foreign government to interfere in an election – and that, when evidence starts appearing that indicates that possibility, there is a duty to investigate.
1
Like so many others, I wake up every day afraid, nay, terrified to read headlines. Where are our responsible leaders from both parties as the storm clouds get more ominous? There are no words to capture the deep meaning of shameful and feckless right now.
18
Trump was warned that Flynn was open to Russian blackmail, yet would have kept him if not for the press reports -- exposing himself to blackmail too. Is it because Trump was _already_ vulnerable to Russian blackmail, so more routes of blackmail changed nothing? What do the Russians have on him?
27
Guardian just reported that Roger "Gollum" Stone is calling for a full investigation. When Roger comes out during daylight hours, it's getting serious.
7
Allied governments will think twice and three times before sharing any information with this so-called administration.
20
The saddest question is, why? Why would so many in high, powerful positions of our federal government want to take America down? This is what bothers me most. Traitors all. We should be rioting in the streets by now already.
This is not going to end well, at all.
This is not going to end well, at all.
15
Bernie said there was a huge (excuse the term) protest on the 24th..Hope it wakes up Democrats as well as Republicans.
Wake up Washington
Wake up Washington
2
When Trump stated, drain the swamp, recall, ^^^
Decades of companies, congress, families of, law companies, lobby folks, etc. ALL do not want to lose their gravy train.
Follow the money. Why is D.C. the ""richest" . All ""your tax dollars""
divided up here.
always follow the money.
Decades of companies, congress, families of, law companies, lobby folks, etc. ALL do not want to lose their gravy train.
Follow the money. Why is D.C. the ""richest" . All ""your tax dollars""
divided up here.
always follow the money.
1
A Russian agent elected President? Too far fetched for John LeCarre. And yet...
11
Time for a tax revolt: You show us yours, Mr. President, and we'll file ours. Unless and until Trump releases his returns, no one should pay their taxes. It should be an act of defiance/civil disobedience akin to burning draft cards way back when.
They can't prosecute everyone.
They can't prosecute everyone.
17
Dear NYT,
Please, please for goodness sake, dont let the story 'disappear' this time!
That's what happened in July 2016 when this first started coming out.
None of you kept it in the headlines, tweets took precedence.
Please, please for goodness sake, dont let the story 'disappear' this time!
That's what happened in July 2016 when this first started coming out.
None of you kept it in the headlines, tweets took precedence.
23
Sure. And the NYT hedges all statements with "no collusion, no indictments". Did the Russians needed Trump's permission to publish hacked emails? This smells of CIA payback. The silver lining is that in the age of the internet and mass surveillance the CIA does not have to resort to bullet-based assassination anymore. Character assassination is much easier now. Notice how any president that goes against Russian enmity gets hit?
4
The "deep state coup" has begun - it's not about Hillary, a complicit power broker, but about getting this outsider gone...
The power structure established over the past 3 administrations is at work to take out this challenger.
The status quo cannot change this fast without the real power brokers taking action. Ask JFK....
The power structure established over the past 3 administrations is at work to take out this challenger.
The status quo cannot change this fast without the real power brokers taking action. Ask JFK....
3
You'll believe in that conspiracy, but you can't believe Trump and his people collaborated with Russia despite all evidence?
5
I hate Trump. Always have. He is such a flawed character with few if any redeeming qualities. He is a man who has never once been held to account for any of his misdeeds, personal, business or political. So far he has gotten away with it all and monetarily profited each step of the way.
I have no idea what the outcome of any investigation would be. I think there should be an investigation but even that seems wishful thinking what with GOP control.
I just wish that once, just once Trump would be held accountable for his actions.
Is that too much to ask?
I have no idea what the outcome of any investigation would be. I think there should be an investigation but even that seems wishful thinking what with GOP control.
I just wish that once, just once Trump would be held accountable for his actions.
Is that too much to ask?
39
Apparently the GOP controlled House and Senate think it is.
14
A flawed character? I think degenerate isn't even strong enough.
7
I contact my senators everyday to get them to act.
9
Is there evidence of this behavior in other campaigns? Did HRC campaign staff communicate with the Russians before the election? What about Obama, Mitt Romney, McCain? Could be useful context.
5
Nope. No other campaign seems to have done this. Why would they?
4
Not enough room for everyone to be in Bed With the Russians Like the Trump Administration.
He's the only one that's been praising Vladimir. Bush complemented him once about his Soul but he wasn't lapping it up like Trump about him.
He's the only one that's been praising Vladimir. Bush complemented him once about his Soul but he wasn't lapping it up like Trump about him.
3
The GOP approach to Russia-gate: "Nothing to see here folks, lets move on."
We ask again and again how can these Republicans in office support Trump? They see he is madder than a hatter, knows nothing of government, destroys America's remaining reputation overseas and uses his office to fills his own pockets in plain sight of the public.
The answer is clear. They don't care in the least. Patriotism and love of country have nothing to do with the GOP agenda. They want to roll back all social progress, and regulations. They want to rescind Social Security and privatize Medicare and every other government function they can. They want to eliminate any and all environmental protection and let Wall St. crash the economy again whiie a select few become billionaires.
And they can make all of these extremist dreams come true by backing their ignorant so-called president. Trump is too preoccupied with fulfilling his role as Reality TV clown and thrilling Republican voters to notice or care about the undoing of America. As long as he is in power, the Christian right and the Tea Party can take us back to the Middle Ages with little or no resistance. They are smiling from ear to ear with every idiotic Tweet Trump makes.
We ask again and again how can these Republicans in office support Trump? They see he is madder than a hatter, knows nothing of government, destroys America's remaining reputation overseas and uses his office to fills his own pockets in plain sight of the public.
The answer is clear. They don't care in the least. Patriotism and love of country have nothing to do with the GOP agenda. They want to roll back all social progress, and regulations. They want to rescind Social Security and privatize Medicare and every other government function they can. They want to eliminate any and all environmental protection and let Wall St. crash the economy again whiie a select few become billionaires.
And they can make all of these extremist dreams come true by backing their ignorant so-called president. Trump is too preoccupied with fulfilling his role as Reality TV clown and thrilling Republican voters to notice or care about the undoing of America. As long as he is in power, the Christian right and the Tea Party can take us back to the Middle Ages with little or no resistance. They are smiling from ear to ear with every idiotic Tweet Trump makes.
39
Isn't this the definition of what it is to be a traitor?
25
When Germany conquered France and Poland in World War II, no one said, "Time to move on." No, England and the Empire fought back, ultimately joined by the USA and other countries—what ultimately became the United Nations.
We will fight this treasonous behavior by Trump and his wrecking crew, and gain the inevitable victory!
We will fight this treasonous behavior by Trump and his wrecking crew, and gain the inevitable victory!
28
The Republican elected officials in the House and Senate (except for Sen. McCain) are all rolling over. I call them duck and cover. Can you imagine how they would react if Hillary were in office and anything like this would arise? If our president were a member of our family. We would have an intervention and get him to a psychiatrist. He is a real embarrassment to us all!
21
When do we begin using the word traitor?
ˈtrādər
noun: traitor; plural noun: traitors
a person who betrays a friend, country, principle, etc.
ˈtrādər
noun: traitor; plural noun: traitors
a person who betrays a friend, country, principle, etc.
26
Follow the money, everyone. Think Russian oil, sanctions lifted, $500BN in hidden bank accounts. This goes beyond the executive and into the legislative, why else would they refuse to investigate. It's like the plot of a James Bond film except it's real. As an aside, Bannon et al. get their holy war to distract everyone. Something for everyone except We the People, at least those who want to live and don't think the Rapture is coming. This is the elephant in the room and no amount of spin should distract us. I think the intelligence community is giving them enough rope...I hope so, otherwise we will go to war with Iran, China, or both as further distraction. Call your representatives and demand sunlight on Trump's finances and Russia's role in our election and ongoing.
26
How how odd it is that a transcript of the Flynn conversation has not been released by the agency that monitored it. Undoubtedly, because it wouldn't fit the narrative being shaped by those who seek to change the results of the election and overthrow the government... Why haven't the media demanded that the transcript be spread before us? That's an easy question to answer, if one is not poisoned by untying hatred and partisan bias to an almost unimaginable degree...
5
Wasn't the Trump narrative that Mr. Flynn could not be trusted? And that he disrupted their team? Trump later said that he himself fired Flynn.
And didnt Mr. Trump failed to tell his own VP that Flynn had been flagged as a possible problem weeks before?
And didnt Mr. Trump failed to tell his own VP that Flynn had been flagged as a possible problem weeks before?
6
You fell for Trump without even scoping his tax returns, Marcus Aurelius. Who are you to fault others for failing to demand relevant information?
1
So Flynn was a Fool to submit his Resignation (so early and so quickly) and the POTUS was a Bigger Fool for accepting it, almost as early and quickly?
2
I just heard Trump is going to have a rally Florida on Saturday, probably hoping to shift the focus from his administrations melt down of incompetence.
Someone needs to tell the Commander in Chief the campaign is over, it's time to show he knows how to act and be President, Trump is an embarrassment and would be fired as a Trainee in any company.
In the Federal Government they had a trainee program for people that had some qualifications in a particular position, something Donald Trump hasn't yet shown in the oval office, Trump would have been fired by now.
Someone needs to tell the Commander in Chief the campaign is over, it's time to show he knows how to act and be President, Trump is an embarrassment and would be fired as a Trainee in any company.
In the Federal Government they had a trainee program for people that had some qualifications in a particular position, something Donald Trump hasn't yet shown in the oval office, Trump would have been fired by now.
18
Undoubtedly there will be record crowds which are under-reported by the MSM.
5
Crooks and liars. And the people who defend this Republican administration are either naÏve or hypocrites or both. Make America great again? Come again?
13
If only someone had warned us. . . #puppetgate
Also, I've seen several comments on these Russia-related stories about millenials needing to read history books to understand the seriousness of this. The vast majority of millenials understand how terrible 45 is, which includes, but is not limited to, his relationship with Russia. That's why we, by and large, voted Did. Not. Vote. For. Him. So, perhaps, it's not millenials who need to read up on our world history.
Also, I've seen several comments on these Russia-related stories about millenials needing to read history books to understand the seriousness of this. The vast majority of millenials understand how terrible 45 is, which includes, but is not limited to, his relationship with Russia. That's why we, by and large, voted Did. Not. Vote. For. Him. So, perhaps, it's not millenials who need to read up on our world history.
10
Did. Not. Vote. For. Him. is not enough.
If you are among the nearly 100 million who also Did. Not. Vote. For. Her. you are as complicit as any Trump supporter in this unfolding catastrophe.
If you are among the nearly 100 million who also Did. Not. Vote. For. Her. you are as complicit as any Trump supporter in this unfolding catastrophe.
5
I wanted to second the suggestion of others: It is time for an independent counsel to look into the Russian ties and hacking. Patrick Fitzgerald seems like the perfect candidate, but I'm not sure this would interest him at this stage of his career.
Who else has the bipartisan gravitas and ability?
Who else has the bipartisan gravitas and ability?
15
If this were a well run corporation, Trump would already have been terminated for the 15 to 20 gross violations since taking the job. And since he's accrued no tenure on the job he would be walking with nothing.
Now the only question is, should the corporation prosecute him?
But then again, if this were a well run corporation, the board never would have listened to the minority of stockholders that keep themselves ill-informed and put this man in his position to begin with.
Now the only question is, should the corporation prosecute him?
But then again, if this were a well run corporation, the board never would have listened to the minority of stockholders that keep themselves ill-informed and put this man in his position to begin with.
15
This issue of the leaks is going to backfire badly on Obama and people that were high in his administration. If these leaks were approved by Obama that is a very serious violation of federal law.
3
Well said - the Obama officials still active late 2016 / early 2017 had the info and the motive - love Obama / hate Flynn, Trump et al - to illegally "leak" info. Sadly, it's unlikely the perpetrators will be identified and locked up. This is my objective comment as a Gov. John Kasich supporter - with disdain for both Hillary & Donald.
1
dave,
This has nothing to do with the Obama administration; how can you claim "these leaks were approved by Obama", when Trumps administration is in power now?
Donald Trumps team, in the run-up to the election were in contact with Russian operatives, possibly doing an illegal end run around a sitting President, (see Logan Act) to tell the Russians that a Trump administration will end sanctions against Russia.
Russian hackers help the Trump team by passing hacked DNC e-mails on to Wikileaks.
Now the Intelligence Agencies, CIA and FBI are saying that they monitored these conversations, Flynn and others had with Russian operatives.
That is not a leak. That is US intelligence agencies doing their job.
This has nothing to do with the Obama administration; how can you claim "these leaks were approved by Obama", when Trumps administration is in power now?
Donald Trumps team, in the run-up to the election were in contact with Russian operatives, possibly doing an illegal end run around a sitting President, (see Logan Act) to tell the Russians that a Trump administration will end sanctions against Russia.
Russian hackers help the Trump team by passing hacked DNC e-mails on to Wikileaks.
Now the Intelligence Agencies, CIA and FBI are saying that they monitored these conversations, Flynn and others had with Russian operatives.
That is not a leak. That is US intelligence agencies doing their job.
2
Electoral College president insults Illegal intelligence agencies. Illegal intelligence agencies inform Electoral College president some of his guys have been talking to Russian intelligence agencies. Electoral College president keeps the info to himself. Illegal intelligence agencies decide to get even with the Electoral College president so they lead the stuff they told him to the Dishonest Fake media. The Lying general is asked about it and he lies. The Electoral College president finds and and fires the Lying general..
Stay tuned.
Stay tuned.
1
Of course law enforcement and Congress should investigate "everything and everyone" truly connected to this matter - but I'm aghast at - and all Americans should be - that the ILLEGAL aspect of the "leaks" by high-level intelligence people, plausibly Obama people formerly (but active late '16 / early '17) or still in the agencies) - have an "axe to grind" with Gen Flynn & Pres. Trump -- but nary a word by NYTimes on this aspect - and perhaps have "glee" in all this and "sorrow" the Washington Post got the scoop ... but c'mon people, have some concern about the dangerous aspect of U.S. Govt execs "leaking" against the law, info to the media. Clearly, authorized law agencies & Congress - with security clearance - should investigate this matter including trying to uncover (albeit a dim chance) who illegally did the "leaking" in a criminal unpatriotic motive - remember various intell agencies had the info & were proceeding lawfully with the next steps. I wrote-in Gov. John Kasich for President - with disdain for the congenital liar, obtuse, deceptive, narcissistic, dangerous pair of Hillary and Donald.
Unfortunately I am feeling that the press is looking for another story. Trump/Russia is not the headline today! Will it just slide to inner pages soon? I am appalled by your media. You get sooo bored so quickly and then wonder why your politicians are sooo crooked!
3
When Nixon was accused of having The Fund in 1952, Adlai Stevenson said, well, we need all the details first. Nixon did not. He immediately sensed the reality that Adlai, too, had A Fund. Now we have a President who may have, with campaigners and associates, casually committed treason, and McConnell, Flake, Ryan and Nunes say, well we need all the details. Did anyone ask how many Congressmen and Senators receive campaign "contributions" from Russian corporations, or Russian groups or "societies"? Because Russia's contribution to Trump's campaign is unknown, waiting to be itemized.
7
To the Trump supporters commenting here, consider these points:
1. The law and order platform Trump advocated does require that his officials adhere to laws. Like the Logan Act. It's the law.
2. You can call on Trump and the GOP to demand the NSA release transcripts of all phone conversations between his operatives and the Russians. Then you can decide if the Logan Act was violated.
1. The law and order platform Trump advocated does require that his officials adhere to laws. Like the Logan Act. It's the law.
2. You can call on Trump and the GOP to demand the NSA release transcripts of all phone conversations between his operatives and the Russians. Then you can decide if the Logan Act was violated.
9
The perps who illegally "leaked" info - probably Obama people - sadly will never be identified / prosecuted. Do you mean "release the NSA transcripts" to the public? - obviously confidential-to-top-secret info is included and so such transcripts are only properly to be investigated by officials with the proper security clearance - and presumably Congress and the various FBI and Intell agencies involved will be an imperative for a full investigation.
Both parties are wringing their hands with anxiety but the GOP members are reluctant to fully wash theirs. Fearing the wrath of their base, and salivating over repeal of Dodd-Frank, reduced taxes and regulation, these legislative Republicans will ride this bull till the horn blows. At such time, they'll hop off defer the dirty work to the Intelligence Arm rodeo clowns.
4
The Republican Party and the president cannot be separated ... they are all part of the same corrupt entity. The only good Republicans will be the ones that change their party affiliation from republican to democrat, or at least to independent.
12
And hopefully the GOP will be no more in the flames of this heinous administration. A 2 for 1 deal, buy one get one free and we will be free, free at last from the loathsome Republican Party.
5
What possible explanation can there be for this?
What excuse legitimizes this amount and level of communication by a campaign for President?
And, when the Russians perpetrated the unprecedented act of hacking into that campaign's opponent, how can there be any excuse that is acceptable enough to forego a thorough investigation?
This is tantamount to a coup launched by Vladimir Putin, the world's wealthiest man, and if he DOES have the goods on The Donald, perhaps the world's most powerful man as well.
There can be no excuse not to investigate.
And there can be no reasonable explanation, almost certainly this was at the very least improper and quite possibly treason.
What excuse legitimizes this amount and level of communication by a campaign for President?
And, when the Russians perpetrated the unprecedented act of hacking into that campaign's opponent, how can there be any excuse that is acceptable enough to forego a thorough investigation?
This is tantamount to a coup launched by Vladimir Putin, the world's wealthiest man, and if he DOES have the goods on The Donald, perhaps the world's most powerful man as well.
There can be no excuse not to investigate.
And there can be no reasonable explanation, almost certainly this was at the very least improper and quite possibly treason.
21
Generating fake news for the US market has been an entrepreneurial opportunity in Russia, where people are otherwise hurting from the economic slump. It's hard to tell FSB material from people just looking for ad clicks.
3
Incidentally, theres another leader that is known to be under Putins spell, and that is Nicolas Maduro of Venezuela. This, um, democratic dictador actually cheered Trumps victory, and as recently as yesterday he was blaming Obama for his VPs inclusion Monday in the so-called Clinton list for drug trafficking, with no mention of Trump of course. AND, he just ordered CNNs signal blocked in Venezuela.
Its all so bizarre. Trump and Maduro are now brothers-in-arms for Putin.
Its all so bizarre. Trump and Maduro are now brothers-in-arms for Putin.
10
Shocked, I'm shocked to hear that Republicans were talking with Russian agents. Shocked
10
yesterday's piece by Paul krugman " ignorance is strength" isa required reading for all of us. way to go, paul !!!
8
As the famous line says for some time ago....."follow the money". Its in this equation somewhere, and most likely in multiple places.
11
Allow me to explain what is happening: Half of Americans (Trump voters) do NOT want any investigation here because they would rather be ruled over by Vladimir Putin (a white man who controls Trump-another white man), than be ruled by Hillary Clinton (a woman) or Barack Obama (a black man). That is the undeniable power of whiteness and maleness in this country.
27
Need to remember the actual voting results. Only 57.9% of registered voters voted last year of whom 48.2% voted for Clinton & 46.2% voted for Trump. In short, about 1/4 (26.7%) of voters voted for Donnie the Draft Dodger, not "about half".
5
The real story is how much deeper the swamp of Obama needs to be drained. Clearly, sensitive intelligence data was leaked to the press. Dismissals need to be identified and expedited. Jail time should be considered for both those that leaked and the publishers of this leaked intelligence if they refuse to provide their source(s). I imagine we will see some of the intellectually challenged Senators on the list of dismissals.
5
well said - my earlier post: Of course law enforcement and Congress should investigate "everything and everyone" truly connected to this matter - but I'm aghast at - and all Americans should be - that the ILLEGAL aspect of the "leaks" by high-level intelligence people, plausibly Obama people formerly (but active late '16 / early '17) or still in the agencies) - have an "axe to grind" with Gen Flynn & Pres. Trump -- but nary a word by NYTimes on this aspect - and perhaps have "glee" in all this and "sorrow" the Washington Post got the scoop ... but c'mon people, have some concern about the dangerous aspect of U.S. Govt execs "leaking" against the law, info to the media. Clearly, authorized law agencies & Congress - with security clearance - should investigate this matter including trying to uncover (albeit a dim chance) who illegally did the "leaking" in a criminal unpatriotic motive - remember various intell agencies had the info & were proceeding lawfully with the next steps. I wrote-in Gov. John Kasich for President - with disdain for the congenital liar, obtuse, deceptive, narcissistic, dangerous pair of Hillary and Donald.
1
Yes, that sensitive material that says the president is a traitor...
5
So your answer is to purge the civil service, replace everyone in the spy agencies with hardcore regime loyalists, and jail anyone who accuses Trump of a crime?
That is how things are done in other countries. None of them places you would want to live - but it's definitely not unknown.
That is how things are done in other countries. None of them places you would want to live - but it's definitely not unknown.
3
What Trump doesn't say is just as telling as the multiple contacts his aides had with Russia. There's a Russian spy ship sitting 30 miles off the coast of Connecticut-- Trump is silent. Last Friday Russian fighter jets played a war drill on a U.S. ship in the Black Sea-- Trump is silent. Russia deployed missiles in Europe in violation of the 1987 arms control treaty-- Trump is silent. However, Trump has spent the day berating everything from "fake news" to "conspiracy theories", but not once did he berate Russia.
17
Why is Trump and his administration being so well protected on this from the Republicans in Congress? Just yesterday they voted to not ask for the Treasury for Trump's tax returns. Why? We already know that he didn't pay taxes, so there's no revelation there. We already know that he didn't actually give to the charities he claimed he did, so no revelation there either. So what's left in those returns? That's he's not as wealthy as he claims? If so, hardly a bombshell revelation; knowing that Trump isn't as wealthy as he claims will harm him little, if at all. So what's left? That he has ties to Russia? Only one way to find out: release the tax returns.
18
I keep wondering, when will "it* be too much for the sixty-two million (or so) who voted for this man? I will answer my own question. "It" will not be too much. I never believed this many people cared so little of their own Country. It something doesn't personally impact their lives- in-the-instant, the matter is mote: Quality water- nada Protection of our drug and food supplies- nada. Public education- nada. Work quality standards- nada. What...matters to these people?
16
And Pence is being quite clever here ... willing to make himself appear out of the loop (something I doubt very much) so that once Trump looses any and all support and he finds himself either resigning or being impeached, he, Pence will be able to step in, unsullied by Trump's taint. Of course, this is just a game Pence is playing (and a good bet he's playing), and sacrificing the administration for his own rise to power is fraught as he is both extreme and smart (about the politics of DC).
12
Bush did similar during Contra.
1
Absolutely powerless Democrats can't provide any check and balance. Imagine what will happen in 2018 by Democrats have 23 Senate seats to defend!! Might even lose the threat of filibuster.
If dread that, then vote and volunteer.
If dread that, then vote and volunteer.
2
The democrats are using Russia as an excuse to frantically pull Trump down. They have not been able to accept that he is President and they want to do everything possible to make him look bad. That is half the country. Remaining half see Trump as exactly the guy who is doing exactly the things he said he would do. So, is half the country wrong?
1
Methinks the Tory elite are starting to adduce the items for the Articles of I.....and will act by August.
As soon a Pence was chosen they would have sighed with relief that they could try to get as much out of Trump as they could of their agenda and then safely dispatch DJT. And I betcha that they knew before nomination of the extent of Trumpian entourage contacts with Russia, and have been waiting patiently for the scandal. I think the risk they took was if DJT had shown some judgment and restraint and had acted "presidential"; he might insist on the populist parts of his economic agenda -- perish the thought!
The FBI cannnot afford to let the WH surpress their work, and now the Senate can get moving to bring him down. Ryan et al will come along soon.
As soon a Pence was chosen they would have sighed with relief that they could try to get as much out of Trump as they could of their agenda and then safely dispatch DJT. And I betcha that they knew before nomination of the extent of Trumpian entourage contacts with Russia, and have been waiting patiently for the scandal. I think the risk they took was if DJT had shown some judgment and restraint and had acted "presidential"; he might insist on the populist parts of his economic agenda -- perish the thought!
The FBI cannnot afford to let the WH surpress their work, and now the Senate can get moving to bring him down. Ryan et al will come along soon.
14
Among the myriad issues of entanglement on this subject I find one of the most significant takeaways is Trump's public viewpoint on the contact with the Russians PRIOR to his election.
His stated concern is that this information is leaking to the public. He has no apparent concern over the actual phone calls made on his behalf.
To anyone who refers to themselves as a conservative constitutionalist your silence is deafening.
His stated concern is that this information is leaking to the public. He has no apparent concern over the actual phone calls made on his behalf.
To anyone who refers to themselves as a conservative constitutionalist your silence is deafening.
26
Some in the news media are flippantly speculating that the motivation for those in the intelligence agencies responsible for the leaks is "a grudge against Trump." It's far more likely their motivation is their first-hand knowledge that Trump is a significant and verifiable danger to our nation's long-term safety, security and stability.
40
When news of Russia's interference in the 2016 elections was confirmed, a number of voices pointed out the irony after our long history of interfering in foreign elections. Given that initial confirmation, none of this aftermath surprises me--we are waiting for an octopus to drop all his shoes.
What becomes more striking to me over time is the total breakdown of our system's checks and balances. Congress's refusal to hold constitutionally mandated hearings for Merrick Garland, a SCOTUS that has been limping along for a year now, Comey's partisan interference, and an electoral college delegation that failed to stop an unqualified demagogue from getting sworn in.
When you hear about winning the war on terror anymore, forget it. Americans have lost their collective minds, and it starts with Congress. Terror has won and Trump's wagging the Republican Party is all the proof you need. The geopolitical landscape that has emerged is a new circuit that makes matters of American state the sites of proxy wars by foreign powers.
What becomes more striking to me over time is the total breakdown of our system's checks and balances. Congress's refusal to hold constitutionally mandated hearings for Merrick Garland, a SCOTUS that has been limping along for a year now, Comey's partisan interference, and an electoral college delegation that failed to stop an unqualified demagogue from getting sworn in.
When you hear about winning the war on terror anymore, forget it. Americans have lost their collective minds, and it starts with Congress. Terror has won and Trump's wagging the Republican Party is all the proof you need. The geopolitical landscape that has emerged is a new circuit that makes matters of American state the sites of proxy wars by foreign powers.
23
It has been sociopathological to divide the US body politic into two halves where one believes government can and should be made to work for the greater good of all, and the other half believes government is so hopelessly corrupt that it just has to be burned down.
8
I remember Watergate and Iran-Contra and those two events in our political history pale in the wake of the Russian interference. Did the Trump campaign solicit help from the Russian government? What did the Trump campaign promise in return? And why isn't the GOP in congress and the senate not bothered by this news?
17
oh good, a hit piece with no credible sources or facts to back up their points.
7
So you want Ken Starr level investigations to ensure our Government hasn't been compromised by Russians, yes?
5
This is not a "hit piece". It is responsible reporting of what credible facts are known at this time. There are too many coincidences in this ever expanding crisis to ignore. The implications are enormous!
13
Huh? Oh yeah, the NYT, WP, CNN etc will risk the wrath of Khan with no shred of evidence. I am thankful that the media finally woke up after abandoning the people for ratings last year. And the joke is not only on us but the world.
6
Tick tock, GOP. Your move, as soon as you get your heads out of the sand.
13
This crazy fun-house of hideously warped mirrors isn't fun any more. Do we really have to stay here for another three years, eleven months?
www.endthemadnessnow.org
www.endthemadnessnow.org
15
Well, the propaganda wing of the democrat party and all its screaming hyenas are in full swing here.... trump and his staff are sleeping with Putin's stable of Russian hookers pretty much screams every democrat that ignores the past eight ears of incompetence and corruption of the Obama White house.... Why they scream ARE the republicans not up in arms and screaming for Impeachment (like the democrats will until 2020) like the democrats are over these grievous transgressions ?? BECAUSE THERE WERE NO GRIEVOUS TRANSGRESSION !!! There was no head of the IRS squelching political opposition, like the head of your DOJ buying guns and selling them to Mexican drug dealers or like putting some third rate u tube poster I jail for the murder/attack of US personnel in Libya and then lying about it to protect your president in a re election race of yourself in a future presidential bid....Our political leaders and their staff ARE SUPPOSED to talk with the leaders and staff of other governments over things, that's what they do. BUT because the democrats and their propaganda press are not in charge they will do everything they can to hamper Trump and his staff no matter how many US lives it costs
2
Yes there were obvious transgressions Mike. In fact the whole presidency is a lie of communist invention.
Trump obviously was "in the loop" if his aides were talking to Russia before the election.
23
trump claims to have asked flynn to resign. We have it on video. Now, he is blaming events on the "fake media" and the intelligence community. Well, which is it? I think flynn just didn't measure up as a professional liar, and trump couldn't have an amateur liar on his team. trump asked flynn to resign, in the hope that further evidence is not going to turn up that proves complicity of several others on the trump team, including trump, himself. Republicans will attempt to assist in the complicity, by trying to disregard public concern about this obviously deeply rooted, and far reaching scandal.
14
Trump and his crew have been conspiring with Russians, and he's worried and scolding about leaks to news reporters.
18
AND blaming all those Hillary voting sore losers!
2
Please follow up on the Slate story from last fall that seems explosive, but I never saw anything further: http://www.slate.com/articles/news_and_politics/cover_story/2016/10/was_...
Thanks.
Thanks.
3
And of course Trump is ludicrously planning a rally this weekend in Florida to celebrate himself and to make sure his base doesn't believe the mountain of ethical and legal breaches spilling from his corrupt administration. Bread and circuses for all.
11
If Trump's "tax returns" were released now, don't you all realize they would be fake? You don't have to be a spy to mock up a fake return, and if you did, Trump's got world class ones on his team.
6
No one would put it past him. The tax returns would be proven to be a fraud and it would discredit Trump even further. But it would be time-consuming and we have no time to spare.
Have the IRS release them directly through a subpoena. That would be a better plan.
Have the IRS release them directly through a subpoena. That would be a better plan.
3
Release your tax returns Trump. All of them.
Until then I don't trust you as far as I can throw you and that ain't very far.
Until then I don't trust you as far as I can throw you and that ain't very far.
22
Does it make me a bad person to admit that there's a very small part of me that's happy that the country (and the world) get to actually see and experience what happens when the Republicans, and especially Trump, get everything they want? If Hillary were president, we'd be drowning in congressional investigations about Benghazi, emails, Clinton Foundation, with Trump blustering on the sidelines: lock her up, lock her up, lock her up. They'd blather on about how they'd fix everything instantly if they were in charge (as they have been for eight years). As it turned out, they're now in charge. Entirely. Their ideological bluff has been called. And we now find ourselves in week four of Trump-inflicted chaos with mounting evidence that Trump administration officials (and Trump?) may be the ones who will actually get locked up. Is it horrible to feel a little pleasure seeing such high-flying ideologically-driven hubris come crashing down hard when faced with the reality of trying to actually govern?
25
The Republicans enabling Trump as a result of their silence are even more reprehensible than Trump. America is watching you, Republicans. And, you will be held accountable in the 2018 mid-term elections for every bit of Trump's destructiveness and corruption.
18
Staying silent on the timeline of these events, the motive and content of the extensive contacts which occurred even as a breach was known and being debated,
series of deliberate misleading statements by the WH and its spokesperson (s) while today proclaiming the "leaks" illegal !
Smoke and mirrors and more tricks... The leaks are not the problem.
Make America great at lying again
series of deliberate misleading statements by the WH and its spokesperson (s) while today proclaiming the "leaks" illegal !
Smoke and mirrors and more tricks... The leaks are not the problem.
Make America great at lying again
2
Sally Yates shall get an orden for observing flynn which was obviously right, but was fired for trueth finding, also given her job back!
7
This is a lot worse than using a homebrew server for emails.
Note that Hillary did not lie about that to the FBI.
This is Flynnski directly talking to Russia (probably with
Trumpski's knowledge) to make deals about sanctions.
Russia then skewed the election toward Trumpski, fulfilling
their side of the deal.
Flynnski probably lied to the FBI about what was said, and
if he was working at Trumpski's behest.
The extensive FBI investigation into Hillary's emails found
nothing after trying really hard. But the Trumpsterskis and
Trumpski himself all wanted to "Lock her up!"
So they surely will want the same for Trumpski and Flynnski,
right? Or will the Russian controlled FBIski cover this up?
Is that why Comeyski is still in charge? Because he really
shouldn't be after what he did. Will we hear from him again,
speaking Russian?
Lock Flynnski and Trumpski up, and lock up Comeyski and
the FBIski - just Lock Up All the Republicanskis.
Note that Hillary did not lie about that to the FBI.
This is Flynnski directly talking to Russia (probably with
Trumpski's knowledge) to make deals about sanctions.
Russia then skewed the election toward Trumpski, fulfilling
their side of the deal.
Flynnski probably lied to the FBI about what was said, and
if he was working at Trumpski's behest.
The extensive FBI investigation into Hillary's emails found
nothing after trying really hard. But the Trumpsterskis and
Trumpski himself all wanted to "Lock her up!"
So they surely will want the same for Trumpski and Flynnski,
right? Or will the Russian controlled FBIski cover this up?
Is that why Comeyski is still in charge? Because he really
shouldn't be after what he did. Will we hear from him again,
speaking Russian?
Lock Flynnski and Trumpski up, and lock up Comeyski and
the FBIski - just Lock Up All the Republicanskis.
8
RESPONDING TO CHUCK IN KEY WEST :
read " ignorance is strength" by paul Krugman in yesterday's paper. hopefully, that would resonate with you. and with the " we" you've alluded to in your comment. but its doubtful it would. this is one of the reasons awe have trump.
read " ignorance is strength" by paul Krugman in yesterday's paper. hopefully, that would resonate with you. and with the " we" you've alluded to in your comment. but its doubtful it would. this is one of the reasons awe have trump.
4
amir, below every post there is a "Reply" icon you can use to reply to particular posts. Like I've done here...
The noose may be tightening around the Cats Paw-in-Chief. Note, however, that while the FBI and Comey released information about Hillary's "nothing there" email server, they/he didn't release even more damning information about the Drumpf campaign. Coincidence?? I think not, given the misogynist enmity in the FBI for Hillary.
8
Shouldn’t the headline read “No Evidence Trump Campaign Had Contacts With Russian Officials”? The middle of this article says there is no evidence, and yet you spin it to the extreme left anywa. Which of course leads to 4,507 left extemest people all freaking out over a lie. What a joke. Even the New York Times is now #FakeNews. Ho, huh I already know you will not pick this comment as you a NYT Pick!
5
Oh Please. Trump's folks were colluding with Russian Intelligence. Let's have an investigation and find out what that was all about.
12
Thank you, NY Times, and please keep these investigations going. The press will be one of the more effective ways to expose what this administration is all about.
Jeb Bush, during the campaign, referred to Donald Trump as the chaos candidate. Please continue to uncover the dishonesty and lies of this unsavory, chaotic administration.
Jeb Bush, during the campaign, referred to Donald Trump as the chaos candidate. Please continue to uncover the dishonesty and lies of this unsavory, chaotic administration.
18
Well looks like the chants of the trump Minions during the campaign trail of "Lock her up! Lock her up!" were misdirected. Seems like a new chant will be developing (if not already). Will it be "Lock him up or Lock Them up"
8
"Phone records and intercepted calls show that members of Donald J. Trump’s 2016 presidential campaign and other Trump associates had repeated contacts with senior Russian intelligence officials in the year before the election, according to four current and former American officials." Doesn't this seem a little more important than a private email server that nobody hacked? This is a disgusting mess.
14
Secretary of Education Betsy DeVos announces that borscht will replace ketchup as a vegetable in the school lunch program, effective today. NYET - FAKE NEWS!
7
It's not just Flynn! What were Trump's campaign audes doing talking withe Russian intelligence? It is beyond belief that Trump's supporters accept this.
14
The Presidential Apprentice just stated that Flynn was brought down by illegal leaks. .......in other words, they got caught. So sad.
18
I will be more interested in this if there was a confirmed meeting on the tarmac, where the SS detail was dismissed and all recording devices were shut off.
Do those leaking classified information really think that nobody knows who they are, and that it can't be traced back to them?
Do those leaking classified information really think that nobody knows who they are, and that it can't be traced back to them?
1
Does an honest and patriotic Republican still exist? We have a political party that once held up Russia as the most dangerous threat to Freedom now kowtowing to and making feeble excuses for their president who drools compliments toward a dictatorial leader.
The greatest threat to Democracy and our Freedom is the current president and the current Republican party.
The greatest threat to Democracy and our Freedom is the current president and the current Republican party.
17
Trump lashed out at the intelligence community for "illegal leaks" to the media, and blamed them for Flynn's downfall.
Instead of "the buck stops here," the great populist president seems to have adopted "the finger-pointing starts here." Sad.
And didn't Spice Man exclaim over and over just yesterday that it was exclusively an issue of "trust?" Now it's because Flynn happened to be exposed in his lies?
Instead of "the buck stops here," the great populist president seems to have adopted "the finger-pointing starts here." Sad.
And didn't Spice Man exclaim over and over just yesterday that it was exclusively an issue of "trust?" Now it's because Flynn happened to be exposed in his lies?
10
On the Flynn affair:
Granted Trump may be engaging in a customary exercise in deflection, but more than likely he is making two false assumptions:
1. He blames the intelligence community for leaking the information when, quite possibly, it is from one or more non-intelligence sources: a) intelligence professionals generally care more about their mission than who is in office; and b) a government official with clearance could have been given the information, who then leaked it for political (patriotic?) purposes.
2. Trump then makes an assumption about the motives of the hypothetical perpetrators, asserting "people are trying to cover up for [the Democrats'] terrible loss" - a ridiculous accusation that unknowns are deflecting from the election. Seriously?
I would hazard the Democrats have accepted the results of the election process and that Trump is president. When will The Donald get past it?
When will he grow up, stop jumping to conclusions, and stop shooting off at the mouth? Nine-year-old chess players appear to think through the consequences of their decisions more than he does. Trump needs to think more about this nation and less about himself. He needs to be a presidential public servant.
Granted Trump may be engaging in a customary exercise in deflection, but more than likely he is making two false assumptions:
1. He blames the intelligence community for leaking the information when, quite possibly, it is from one or more non-intelligence sources: a) intelligence professionals generally care more about their mission than who is in office; and b) a government official with clearance could have been given the information, who then leaked it for political (patriotic?) purposes.
2. Trump then makes an assumption about the motives of the hypothetical perpetrators, asserting "people are trying to cover up for [the Democrats'] terrible loss" - a ridiculous accusation that unknowns are deflecting from the election. Seriously?
I would hazard the Democrats have accepted the results of the election process and that Trump is president. When will The Donald get past it?
When will he grow up, stop jumping to conclusions, and stop shooting off at the mouth? Nine-year-old chess players appear to think through the consequences of their decisions more than he does. Trump needs to think more about this nation and less about himself. He needs to be a presidential public servant.
3
Let's put this long national nightmare behind us. IMPEACHMENT NOW.
14
I think Flynn fell on his sword for Pence. Lots of people knew.
9
We are living in extraordinarily dangerous times folks.
We have a truly evil domestic enemy seeking to subvert democracy.
The only question is whether that enemy is Trump or the so called deep state erected by years of neocon/neoliberal policy.
Most of the people with guns believe the enemy is the latter. Most of the people with power inside the status quo believe it is the former.
I'm not sure our institutions are robust enough to settle the disagreement.
Enjoy your families and loved ones and prepare for the worst.
We have a truly evil domestic enemy seeking to subvert democracy.
The only question is whether that enemy is Trump or the so called deep state erected by years of neocon/neoliberal policy.
Most of the people with guns believe the enemy is the latter. Most of the people with power inside the status quo believe it is the former.
I'm not sure our institutions are robust enough to settle the disagreement.
Enjoy your families and loved ones and prepare for the worst.
7
the enemy is the American left and liberalism run amok. the comments here are illustrative of the hair on fire reaction of the left to anything....where was all this when Hilary was being paid millions by the Arabs? Silence. So do the rest of us all a favor and just shut up with the incessant whining and impeachment talk, it just makes you all look even more ridiculous.
"That to secure these rights, Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed, — That whenever any Form of Government becomes destructive of these ends, it is the Right of the People to alter or to abolish it, and to institute new Government, laying its foundation on such principles and organizing its powers in such form, as to them shall seem most likely to effect their Safety and Happiness."
5
The Declaration of Independence was a statement of intent, not a constitution or statute with force of law.
3
Paragraph 3 states, no evidence yet of collusion between Trump administration and Russia. All smoke and mirrors from MSM to derail Trump administration and to discredit him and lead us to believe this was reason Hillary lost election which it was not. She lost because her message fell flat with voters. Plus 8 years of poor job growth and economic uncertainty with Obama administration. Americans ready to this country back on track! It's the economy stupid!!
3
The Trump presidency deserves every bit of mud we can sling on it. What an inadequate and down right liar he is.
4
Trump isn't being controlled by the Russians, but based on the following utterly ridiculous statement during his press conference today, we know he is already under the thumb of Netanyahu and his ilk.
"The partnership between our two countries, built on our shared values, has advanced the cause of human freedom, dignity and peace. These are the building blocks of democracy. "
Now we know it folks, a 50 year occupation, dispossession, of 4+ million subjects under a brutal occupation, advances the cause of human freedom, dignity, and peace. Geez, why didn't someone say so sooner. We should thank the Israeli Ambassador for writing such laughable speech for Trump to read.
"The partnership between our two countries, built on our shared values, has advanced the cause of human freedom, dignity and peace. These are the building blocks of democracy. "
Now we know it folks, a 50 year occupation, dispossession, of 4+ million subjects under a brutal occupation, advances the cause of human freedom, dignity, and peace. Geez, why didn't someone say so sooner. We should thank the Israeli Ambassador for writing such laughable speech for Trump to read.
10
why isn't this the headline which is much more honest and in context, or would that too close to honesty for the Times? Instead, its buried in the article:
"No evidence found of any collusion or collaboration with anyone from the campaign"
"No evidence found of any collusion or collaboration with anyone from the campaign"
4
For people who think Trump isn't involved, look at the facts. Top advisers communicated with the Russians. Campaign staff don't just randomly call foreign adversaries wishing them a merry Christmas. Trump is definitely deep in this muck, and we must figure out what's going on here.
14
The stage is set for the final test of our Constitution and our democracy. Will the Republicans pay a price in 2018 if they refuse to do their jobs in this respect. It seems doubtful since a blatant dereliction of duty with the opening on the Supreme Court has already been perpetrated (though, in fairness, that was only in the Senate). How strong is the will of the voters? How strong is the gerrymander? How many times will the GOP place party before country to the detriment of a 3-million voter majority?
8
There have been so many instances when I felt Trump was finished during the campaign.....but he came back strong.
So, I am not going to predict this is the beginning of the end.....but he has 4 years to go....surely he will do the predictable with that much rope!
So, I am not going to predict this is the beginning of the end.....but he has 4 years to go....surely he will do the predictable with that much rope!
9
The Republicans, strong on national defense, are no more. Power corrupts, indeed.
8
As much as I would love to see SCROTUS (So Called Ruler Of The United States) impeached, I shudder to think about VSCROTUS being advanced into any position of power.
9
When this whole thing comes out -- which it most certainly will -- Watergate is going to look like a misdemeanor offense in Mayberry.
Republicans like Paul Ryan and MCConnell are stonewalling right now but with every passing day, more incriminating evidence will be released. Please note the names of the Republican Congressmen who are begging and pleading that is "just time to move on from General Flynn." Yes, the selfsame Congressmen who wanted to conduct years of hearings and investigations into Benghazi are now disinterested in investigating with Trump's collusion with a foreign enemy of the United States to throw the presidential election.
While the point seems obvious, it is worth stating: acceptance of participation of foreign governments in our elections, regardless of the political party the foreign government chooses, destroys any legitimacy that an American government has over the electorate. Therefore, such foreign intereference must be (1) investigated publicly and (2) prosecuted. Further, a full measure of sanctions must be imposed on the offending foreign nations to serve as a disinctive to other foreign nations contemplating similar interference.
While inutitively obvious, the GOP seems to be confused on this issue. So I would aks them, "If Ronald Geagen were alive today, what would Reagen do?"
Republicans like Paul Ryan and MCConnell are stonewalling right now but with every passing day, more incriminating evidence will be released. Please note the names of the Republican Congressmen who are begging and pleading that is "just time to move on from General Flynn." Yes, the selfsame Congressmen who wanted to conduct years of hearings and investigations into Benghazi are now disinterested in investigating with Trump's collusion with a foreign enemy of the United States to throw the presidential election.
While the point seems obvious, it is worth stating: acceptance of participation of foreign governments in our elections, regardless of the political party the foreign government chooses, destroys any legitimacy that an American government has over the electorate. Therefore, such foreign intereference must be (1) investigated publicly and (2) prosecuted. Further, a full measure of sanctions must be imposed on the offending foreign nations to serve as a disinctive to other foreign nations contemplating similar interference.
While inutitively obvious, the GOP seems to be confused on this issue. So I would aks them, "If Ronald Geagen were alive today, what would Reagen do?"
9
"What would Reagan do?"
The guy that stalled the release of the Iran hostages for the benefit of his election chances, and who later illegally sold arms to Iran so he could get cash to interfere in a Central American country's civil war?
I'd say current-day Republicans are confident that they're following a playbook that their idol would recognize. He was just so much more charming a tv star than his tv star successor.
The guy that stalled the release of the Iran hostages for the benefit of his election chances, and who later illegally sold arms to Iran so he could get cash to interfere in a Central American country's civil war?
I'd say current-day Republicans are confident that they're following a playbook that their idol would recognize. He was just so much more charming a tv star than his tv star successor.
2
And yes, let's have the White House and the Republican leadership now focus on those "intelligence leaks" ("criminal!" "unfair!") rather than getting to the bottom of the very rotten smelling activities of the Trump campaign. Trying to change the subject in the face of treasonous acts might not work so well this time, fellas.
8
Clearly Trump is too cozy with the Russians and what about the mystery transfer of ownership of 19% of Rosneft through a series of shell companies!
Makes that dossier al, that more credible. What price did Trump receive for selling the USA to Russia?
Makes that dossier al, that more credible. What price did Trump receive for selling the USA to Russia?
12
As a young attorney, i personally dealt with professional con artists. What struck me was how relaxed and convincing they could be no matter what they said. They routinely lied even when it didn't suit their interests. My theory is that when they first conceived a lie, they knew they were lying; but by the time the words passed their lips, they were convinced they were telling the truth. I have not the slightest doubt that Trump and many of his compatriots share the same pathology. We can expect constant denials and further lies until their dying breath. Any hope of saving our country from the grip of lies, corruption and con artists rests on the relentless pursuit of truth from our intelligence agencies, elected officials, including Republicans, and on the relentless insistence on truth by each and every one of us. Anything less is unacceptable and unforgivable.
16
In the recent campaign, Ms. Clinton held 19 rallies in 8 states; Mr. Trump held 26 rallies in 12 states; The President's campaign held more rallies and campaigned more days in Florida, Ohio, North Carolina, Michigan, Iowa, Arizona and Wisconsin than Ms. Clinton: he won those states. Ms. Clinton suspended her campaign for much of August, never campaigned in Wisconsin after the convention (Trump was there five times) and never set foot in Louisiana, whose African American population is the second largest in the country. Trump campaigned there, and won Louisiana. Polling was inflated in Democratic Party strongholds, and even Donna Brazile had so little confidence in her candidate's ability to think on her feet, that she felt it necessary to undermine the debate process by feeding Clinton questions previously obtained from John Harwood. Ms. Clinton lost the election fair and square. The 90's, Benghazi, the emails. She was the worst candidate her party could have selected. Unable to acknowledge the facts, her disciples cannot understand why she lost the election. Like a sixth-grader that never studied, and failed the test, Clinton's supporters blame others for their defeat. The Russians? Prove it. But don't prove it via innuendo and supposition, Have the onions to prove it with facts, supported by specific individuals who are willing to go on the record with sworn statements and tangible evidence, not cowards inclined to cite their Fifth Amendment rights.
5
Thomas,
It's a woeful commentary on the state of America that so many blind, hungry sheep swallowed Trump's bully rhetoric and lies during the campaign.
You're right -- Mrs. Clinton did lose the election fair and square. But those who voted Trump to victory are already losing far more than she did. You ask for proof. Just stay tuned...
It's a woeful commentary on the state of America that so many blind, hungry sheep swallowed Trump's bully rhetoric and lies during the campaign.
You're right -- Mrs. Clinton did lose the election fair and square. But those who voted Trump to victory are already losing far more than she did. You ask for proof. Just stay tuned...
8
Either proving or disproving these allegations would be of great importance to the Republic. It is essential that Congress pursue a meaningful investigation of Russian tampering in the election as well as the nature of the communications between members associated with the Trump campaign and Russian officials. Should Congress continue to fail in its duty to ascertain all of the facts related to Russian meddling in the election and with this administration, we can assume a best case where most of the American people distrust the president and a worst case where hidden treason is allowed to flourish.
4
Not only did she not campaign, she kept raising big bucks from mega donors. where is all that money?
1
President Trump will survive this episode in his presidency and it will make him stronger. He is a smart man and has some pretty sharp people in his cabinet. The Republicans must stick together and back our president. They will for the stake of the party.
President Trump will never be impeached even though Democrats would love for it to happen. He has done nothing wrong and he will stand tall and firm. He has succeeded with many of his promises and must be permitted to do his job. This will be old news in a few days and the liberal media will be on the next story trying to destroy Mr. Trump. That is what they do and he is like a Teflon pan. He just bounces back.
President Trump will never be impeached even though Democrats would love for it to happen. He has done nothing wrong and he will stand tall and firm. He has succeeded with many of his promises and must be permitted to do his job. This will be old news in a few days and the liberal media will be on the next story trying to destroy Mr. Trump. That is what they do and he is like a Teflon pan. He just bounces back.
3
Mixing your metaphors. Teflon doesn't bounce.
3
If it were me who had been talking with Russian intelligence officers and discussing any of the issues hinted at, I would be charged with treason and no one would care how the feds got the information to charge me. No treason charges for Trump and his cronies.
Thank God someone turned over the information. Now feds, go get them.
Thank God someone turned over the information. Now feds, go get them.
10
This president complains about the leaks and if not for them, the American people would have no idea that something stinks in this administration.
Is this the way trump thinks is how all America wants to be treated?
Complaining about whistle blowers who are letting us know that perhaps something terrible is happening and calling them out as criminals but those who possibly may have been been involved as "criminals" in these telephone messages are the good guys?
Tell me Mr Trump , is America safer today than it was before you were "selected " by a minority of voters to "actually be the president" ?
Is this the way trump thinks is how all America wants to be treated?
Complaining about whistle blowers who are letting us know that perhaps something terrible is happening and calling them out as criminals but those who possibly may have been been involved as "criminals" in these telephone messages are the good guys?
Tell me Mr Trump , is America safer today than it was before you were "selected " by a minority of voters to "actually be the president" ?
5
Let us remind Republicans who refuse to allow thorough, independent investigation of the Trump-Russia nexus that the truth WILL eventually come out. The American people will not forget who sold out our country, and who enabled and protected the betrayal of democracy.
5
I want to know if our Representatives are being blackmailed into silence. There is something else going on here....
14
so why would they be meeting? Oh , I know, they must have been discussing the weather!! They likely had no idea that these individuals were part of the Russian secret service, they probably got them confused with the hotel staff.
I think this makes it pretty plain who the FBI was rooting for,, not a word from them prior to the vote. Adding insult to injury, the Republicans are trying to sweep this under the rug until it goes away, hoping it will be overshadowed by another scandal or tweet. Trump was right, it was "rigged".
I think this makes it pretty plain who the FBI was rooting for,, not a word from them prior to the vote. Adding insult to injury, the Republicans are trying to sweep this under the rug until it goes away, hoping it will be overshadowed by another scandal or tweet. Trump was right, it was "rigged".
10
Now this is amazing. I just looked at the Fox News website. This story has been out for hours. At Fox: nothing about this. 40% of Americans get their news from Fox. And they have no idea Trump's associates were talking frequently to Russian agents. No wonder there is so much polarization in the US. Each side is operating with completely different information.
14
Very soon it will be about 90% if the Times and the rest of the so-called MSM dont't stop displaying their "narrative of the day" stuff and try to report -- not make, but REPORT -- the real, fact- based news...
1
Marcus - You sure spend a lot of time on a publication that you have so much disdain for.
1
This election, and subsequent Administration, have really highlighted the gaping holes in our governance. As many have noted, there will be no 'deep dive' investigation- because it is not in the interest of the party in power. And, to be fair, this is likely how it would play out if Democrats ruled all branches of government and it was a Dem's behavior in question. We need more specific criteria for advancing 'special counsels' or other investigative bodies which MUST represent a cross-section of both parties. We are far less of a democracy than I imagined. The potential for abuse of power is tremendous in a government with only two parties and a lot of power vested in a President. We have Citizens United; lack of term limits; gerrymandering and a host of ills that have given Americans good reason to doubt the electoral process. Add to that interference by foreign governments, voter suppression laws and Presidential elections where the popular vote, which represents the majority of the population, does not determine the Presidency. This has all been building for some time, and Trump is just a symptom. I thought perhaps that the Electoral College would prove its worth by blocking Trump- but apparently it really is a party-driven rubber stamp. I have never been so dispirited about western democracy. No wonder so many young people are registering a lack of commitment to democracy- they haven't really seen true democracy in action for some time now.
3
For better accuracy, your front page should have been more explanatory and less accusatory. It should have read:
Line 1. "Trump Aides Spoke To Russian Intelligence"
Line 2. "Officials interviewed said, so far, no evidence of cooperation."
Line 1. "Trump Aides Spoke To Russian Intelligence"
Line 2. "Officials interviewed said, so far, no evidence of cooperation."
1
Absolutely. Tell the truth, don't foster a narrative. No wonder the WH thinks of the liberal media as the opposition party.
Is there any way to subpoena Trumps tax returns? Cant the Democrats make a formal accusation against the WH and have a high court obtain the documents by force? I just get this impression that Congress Dems are spineless.
4
Huh?
"Forcing Trump to resign or impeaching him..."
What, exactly, has Trump been shown to have done wrong?
Keep in mind that the usual "government agencies have concluded" and "he must have known" are not what we commonly refer to as "evidence." Evidence means, well, evidence -- you know, actual facts, not some unnamed official's opinion, not some assumption about what someone must have known. Honest to goodness facts.
Many people don't like Trump. I get that. And I myself have a hard time getting used to the idea that he's the President. But he IS the President. Those who can't accept that had better learn to distinguish between (1) "I don't like this guy," and (2) "He's committed an impeachable offense."
The difference? That nasty word again -- evidence. Ever notice that there isn't any?
"Forcing Trump to resign or impeaching him..."
What, exactly, has Trump been shown to have done wrong?
Keep in mind that the usual "government agencies have concluded" and "he must have known" are not what we commonly refer to as "evidence." Evidence means, well, evidence -- you know, actual facts, not some unnamed official's opinion, not some assumption about what someone must have known. Honest to goodness facts.
Many people don't like Trump. I get that. And I myself have a hard time getting used to the idea that he's the President. But he IS the President. Those who can't accept that had better learn to distinguish between (1) "I don't like this guy," and (2) "He's committed an impeachable offense."
The difference? That nasty word again -- evidence. Ever notice that there isn't any?
15
"He IS the president" but he has a long long history including that of suing and being sued, thousands of times and books where he tells you exactly what his "philosophy" is …then we have had the last year and a half of his behavior to observe.
If anyone is paying even a little attention… they don't have to know if this or that law was broken… we can make a character judgement and say Trump is not even close to being fit to be president…
Now we just have to catch him red handed …which can't help but happen. Keep watching, digging, resisting!!! Laugh at him when you can… it weakens him.
If anyone is paying even a little attention… they don't have to know if this or that law was broken… we can make a character judgement and say Trump is not even close to being fit to be president…
Now we just have to catch him red handed …which can't help but happen. Keep watching, digging, resisting!!! Laugh at him when you can… it weakens him.
3
Well a campaign of a US political party in close contact with the Intelligence agency of Russia ought to be of concern to you as a citizen.
12
If the Republicans had the courage, they could have impeached him on January 20th. He has been in violation of the Emoluments Clause since he took the oath of office. Their correct course of action under the Constitution is either to vote to authorize his receiving payments from foreign governments, or to impeach him.
4
Watch out the free press is under attack from an enemy within Government and a President who thinks that the media should be as free to report as the press in North Korea. In others words if you show dissent you are to be removed.
25
No one disputes the fact that there are some as yet unanswered questions. But this partisan bunk handed out by the Times in its role as the mouthpiece of the losers' "shadow government" is seditious. For those who are actually interested a more balanced view, an article by Eli Lake of Bloomberg is illuminating. I include some pertinent excerpts below, and for those who may be interested in reading the article in its entirety, see https://www.bloomberg.com/view/articles/2017-02-14/the-political-assassi.... The excerpts are these:
"Normally intercepts of U.S. officials and citizens are some of the most tightly held government secrets. This is for good reason. Selectively disclosing details of private conversations monitored by the FBI or NSA gives the permanent state the power to destroy reputations from the cloak of anonymity. This is what police states do.
...
It's possible that Flynn has more ties to Russia that he had kept from the public and his colleagues. It's also possible that a group of national security bureaucrats and former Obama officials are selectively leaking highly sensitive law enforcement information to undermine the elected government."
And that is exactly what is happening here. This is an attempted coup orchestrated by those who are unwilling to accept the results of the election, and the Times is not merely one of the cheerleaders for the cabal's ringleaders; it is in fact a participant...
"Normally intercepts of U.S. officials and citizens are some of the most tightly held government secrets. This is for good reason. Selectively disclosing details of private conversations monitored by the FBI or NSA gives the permanent state the power to destroy reputations from the cloak of anonymity. This is what police states do.
...
It's possible that Flynn has more ties to Russia that he had kept from the public and his colleagues. It's also possible that a group of national security bureaucrats and former Obama officials are selectively leaking highly sensitive law enforcement information to undermine the elected government."
And that is exactly what is happening here. This is an attempted coup orchestrated by those who are unwilling to accept the results of the election, and the Times is not merely one of the cheerleaders for the cabal's ringleaders; it is in fact a participant...
9
Actually you are the one with no evidence.
Do you consider the actual phone contacts between Team Trump and Russian Intel of no interest?
And then to on speculate that "highly sensitive law enforcement info" was leaked - identify that.
Your language is of conspiracy: "cabal", "coup", "unwilling to accept the results of the election", "undermine the elected government", "cabal's ringleader" but offer nada.
what IS offered is the phone records of calls made between Team T and the Russians- let's have an investigation and see what's up.
Do you consider the actual phone contacts between Team Trump and Russian Intel of no interest?
And then to on speculate that "highly sensitive law enforcement info" was leaked - identify that.
Your language is of conspiracy: "cabal", "coup", "unwilling to accept the results of the election", "undermine the elected government", "cabal's ringleader" but offer nada.
what IS offered is the phone records of calls made between Team T and the Russians- let's have an investigation and see what's up.
5
I think the whole world knows that Putin is "mad, bad, and dangerous to know." There is something really, really wrong about Trump's fondness for Russia's frightening leader, who has his opponents poisoned. Trump has been in bed with Russians for a long time, is probably beholden to them financially. Trump is a turnip. We need to see his taxes and get cracking like a normal United States again.
23
I am as concerned as most of the readers are about the conduct of General Flynn. That being said, I am more concerned about the leakage of classified information by intelligence officials who have violated there oath and duty to their office. Congress has clear oversight and authority to obtain this information. These security laws are in place for a reason. Please note the sections below
18 U.S. Code § 798 - Disclosure of classified information
(a) Whoever knowingly and willfully communicates, furnishes, transmits, or otherwise makes available to an unauthorized person, or publishes, or uses in any manner prejudicial to the safety or interest of the United States or for the benefit of any foreign government to the detriment of the United States any classified information—
(3) concerning the communication intelligence activities of the United States or any foreign government; or
(4) obtained by the processes of communication intelligence from the communications of any foreign government, knowing the same to have been obtained by such processes—
Shall be fined under this title or imprisoned not more than ten years, or both.
18 U.S. Code § 798 - Disclosure of classified information
(a) Whoever knowingly and willfully communicates, furnishes, transmits, or otherwise makes available to an unauthorized person, or publishes, or uses in any manner prejudicial to the safety or interest of the United States or for the benefit of any foreign government to the detriment of the United States any classified information—
(3) concerning the communication intelligence activities of the United States or any foreign government; or
(4) obtained by the processes of communication intelligence from the communications of any foreign government, knowing the same to have been obtained by such processes—
Shall be fined under this title or imprisoned not more than ten years, or both.
8
Treason us a much higher crime. And if these whistleblowers were letting us know about treason all patriotic Americans should salute them.
12
Oh, yeah....you are all in favor of leaks until it's your guy that's in the hot seat. Give me a break. Trump and the Republicans have 0 credibility here. What's good for the goose is good for the gander. There is nothing here that is endangering anyone or anything except the lies of this white house. How 'bout them tax returns? Your false or hypocritical outrage is only providing cover for liars and thieves.
9
So why is Comey still employed? His official leak meets paragraph (a), in particular, ...uses in any manner prejudicial to the safety or interest of the United States...". If voters were swayed to Trump because of his outrageous nonrevelation revelation there's evidence in his own letter and testimony of willful communication, furnishing, transmitting.
I also read he released the information because he feared leaks by agents to the press. So leaks go both ways. Seems to be part of the American fabric of government.
"We don't ordinarily tell Congress about ongoing investigations, but here I feel an obligation to do so given that I testified repeatedly in recent months that our investigation was completed," Comey said. "I also think it would be misleading to the American people were we not to supplement the record."
I also read he released the information because he feared leaks by agents to the press. So leaks go both ways. Seems to be part of the American fabric of government.
"We don't ordinarily tell Congress about ongoing investigations, but here I feel an obligation to do so given that I testified repeatedly in recent months that our investigation was completed," Comey said. "I also think it would be misleading to the American people were we not to supplement the record."
4
We're going to need a bigger FBI, CIA, NSA, and, well, a whole lot bigger intelligence operation to complete this deep and far reaching investigation before, well, how about the next presidential election.
And then send Trump-Pence the bill. I'm certain they've plenty of left over dark money that could be put to use. But the insult and outrage is that it looks like it is the American taxpayer who is on the hook to pay for investigating all of it.
And there is so much more of "it" to uncover, analyze, and expose.
Meanwhile, we've not heard anything - yet - about emails, servers, laptops, tablets, smart phones, files and papers waiting to be confiscated and probed.
The buzzing and clicking sounds you hear: Shredders and delete keys.
And then send Trump-Pence the bill. I'm certain they've plenty of left over dark money that could be put to use. But the insult and outrage is that it looks like it is the American taxpayer who is on the hook to pay for investigating all of it.
And there is so much more of "it" to uncover, analyze, and expose.
Meanwhile, we've not heard anything - yet - about emails, servers, laptops, tablets, smart phones, files and papers waiting to be confiscated and probed.
The buzzing and clicking sounds you hear: Shredders and delete keys.
6
"The intercepts alarmed American intelligence and law enforcement agencies," but apparently not enough to dissuade James Comey from putting his thumb on the scale in favor of Trump during the last two weeks of the election.
12
Trump knew - right? if he did not then he is not the leader he sold himself to be...that is he has never been in charge...
Then there is Mr. Flynn, for all of his experience including DIA, apparently he was not aware of US Intel folks monitoring foreign (especially russian) communications? Another 'tell' about Trumps poor judgement.
This then leads our 'great leader' to be in a very weak negotiating position with other governments - one could say he will be blackmailed into supporting causes that are not in our (US) best interest in order to curry the support of these countries and their leaders regardless of if they are close allies or not.
All this to keep @realdonaldtrump pumped up.
Poor judgement, poor leadership, disgraceful.
Then there is Mr. Flynn, for all of his experience including DIA, apparently he was not aware of US Intel folks monitoring foreign (especially russian) communications? Another 'tell' about Trumps poor judgement.
This then leads our 'great leader' to be in a very weak negotiating position with other governments - one could say he will be blackmailed into supporting causes that are not in our (US) best interest in order to curry the support of these countries and their leaders regardless of if they are close allies or not.
All this to keep @realdonaldtrump pumped up.
Poor judgement, poor leadership, disgraceful.
10
Trumpgate, don't you think ?!
and the looming fight over his still withheld tax returns and arrangements to put his financial empire into a trust - soon at a theatre near you. God help us all...
and the looming fight over his still withheld tax returns and arrangements to put his financial empire into a trust - soon at a theatre near you. God help us all...
9
Impeach this man for treason. Republicans should be outraged by this. They've shown their true character and what rules them, MONEY. I hope the lot are voted out.
16
Where's the fire?
In time of war, the sentence for treason is: Firing squad. C'mon congress, do your job!
2
The 2020 election: Let's skip all this drama and expense and just have the Russians choose who they want for President.
12
They had their chance last November but Clinton lost...
1
I don't know, I am not out of outrage. I am ready to man the barricades. What Trump and his cronies has done threatened our country's safety in a way that no other act by any other President has ever done. The guy is guilty of treason and we are paying attention. And not just here in this county, the world is watching. I am ready and willing to do whatever I can to support the rejection of the 2016 election. I don't even care if they want Pence. Bring him on! I just want this guy Trump and his bunch of liars out of the White House as soon as possible.
11
Is treason a perfectly sound reason to enact Article 25 to remove Mr. Trump - and "all the Russian Presidents men" - from office. Is there any more clear, more solid, more indisputable basis? And if those in power to enforce this do not, would they not be accomplices to treason for failing to act?
5
Treason? If you were a prosecutor on this case, what evidence would you show of wrongdoing, other than the fact that you despise Trump?
Vince-- I would subpoena Trump's full tax returns and financial records for a start.
4
Watching this disaster for the U.S. unfold, I'm reminded of the Pied Piper of Hamelin...Trump as the Pied Piper, the Trump voters as the mayor who refused to pay him for his services, and the rest of the U.S. being led into the cave as retribution.
2
Is there any over-riding reason WHY this is news-worthy???
Other than purely, narrow-minded, short sighted, self-destructive, political vengeance......I see no reason why I should worry about who is talking to whom.
Just so I catch you "experts" up on the Modern World.....the Soviet Union collapsed about 30 years ago, yeah, it really happened....yet the entire National Defense Structure remains organized to "control the expansion of the Soviet Communist Empire"....its legal reason for existance is drawn from an obsolete, out-of-sync document called The National Defense Act of 1947!!
Other than purely, narrow-minded, short sighted, self-destructive, political vengeance......I see no reason why I should worry about who is talking to whom.
Just so I catch you "experts" up on the Modern World.....the Soviet Union collapsed about 30 years ago, yeah, it really happened....yet the entire National Defense Structure remains organized to "control the expansion of the Soviet Communist Empire"....its legal reason for existance is drawn from an obsolete, out-of-sync document called The National Defense Act of 1947!!
3
Actually, it sounds to me like you missed a few history classes in the last 35 years.
6
@ short end: Just pretend this report was about the Obama's campaign and his administration...I think if you just frame it that way, you'll quickly decide it's not only news-worthy, but worthy of multiple investigations, and perhaps impeachment worthy and, potentially, treasonous.
4
From the way that Vlad is pushing his Donny bro around with the sub, close-fly-bys, and guided missile deployment, it seems clear that he thinks he's got the trump hand. DTs not only a threat to the Constituition, separation of powers, freedom of the press, but now to national security as well. Are we watching the quick evaporation of Pax Americana? The world wants to know.
12
The silence from Capitol Hill on this is giving me a headache. Where is Trey "Benghazi" Gowdy? How about Jason "Mr. Email" Chaffetz. Do Your Job.
24
It is obvious that Trump and Pence both had knowledge of what transpired between Flynn and Russian Ambassador. It is also obvious that Ryan and McConnell are 100% behind Trump and are not going to do anything about it. After all, they got their incompetent, so called President, in the white House to do their dirty deeds for them.
What transpired between Flynn, Trump, his campaign managers, and the Russians, are not any less criminal than Watergate. Yet, life is as usual, as if nothing has happened that warrants an immediate, independent investigation. I believe, Comey's conduct of releasing the letter no more than a few days before the election, about Hillary Clinton, sounds quite fishy.
What transpired between Flynn, Trump, his campaign managers, and the Russians, are not any less criminal than Watergate. Yet, life is as usual, as if nothing has happened that warrants an immediate, independent investigation. I believe, Comey's conduct of releasing the letter no more than a few days before the election, about Hillary Clinton, sounds quite fishy.
9
Trump won't be investigated or impeached. That is because the highest (often the only) priority of all members of Congress is to stay in office. Good government is not on most lists. To investigate Trump would cost Republican office holders the support of their base in primaries and therefore their seats. A long way from profiles in courage, or even profiles in common sense.
14
I'm not sure who deserves the blame here. Trump or almost half of the voters that were so blinded by fear and racism they bought what this con man was selling.
17
Article indicates FBI was not familiar with the Russians involved. That means the Obama DOJ was in fact spying on the Trump campaign. Nice expose, if even accidental. I'll expect a follow up on that explosive news.
2
What is funny about this is that if it were Hillary Clinton that took phone calls from a Russian agent she would have already been impeached, with the clamor of the Republican Party declaring her a treasonist. The Democratic Party has become so weak, it is astonishing. It is also noteworthy that the Republicans are supposed to be the ones that are "anti" Russia but they are standing behind their President.
11
The reasonable expectation that Republicans step up to the plate is pure fantasy. One of the reasons I liked Hilary so much is that she did not subscribe to the delusion that Republicans are rational players. Obama did. Since the GOP cannot propose or build real legislation they must create scapegoats e.g. the liberal elite, the media and of course Mexicans and Muslims. The GOP is on the cusp of realizing their fantasy of America. A corporate Disneyland with no taxes on the wealthy, private education and healthcare for those who can get it, our National Parks raped and the Statue of Liberty sunk. The Republicans are falling over each other to get their E-tickets for Tomorow Land. Why let a little detail like the hacking of an election and collusion with a foreign power get in the way. The great standard bearer, Ronald Regan, that all Republicans hail to would be turning over in his grave.
15
And let's not forget that the only problem Trump has with any of this is the fact that Flynn's conversations with the Russians are now known to the public. Trump had no plans to fire Flynn; had no trust issue in the weeks he knew about the content of Flynn's conversations with the Russian ambassador. That, along with three weeks of chaos emanating from the White House, should tell you all you need to know about the clueless disaster that the Trump presidency is. Still think Trump should still be "given a chance?"
6
Three weeks into a presidency and already " high crimes and misdemeanors" abuse of power and an executive branch in complete disarray becoming the most incompetent in our history.
To make matters worse, there are no leading republicans ready to tell this guy, " Your time is up. You're fired."
To make matters worse, there are no leading republicans ready to tell this guy, " Your time is up. You're fired."
5
Neither Trump nor his Republican supporters in Congress are with the American People.
What Trump disapproval levels do Republicans in Congress need to see before they shed their fear of the 'dreaded Trump tweet' against them?
Amen to John McCain and any Republican Senator that prioritizes American Democracy, National and International Stability and The Rule of LAW over party and self interest!
What Trump disapproval levels do Republicans in Congress need to see before they shed their fear of the 'dreaded Trump tweet' against them?
Amen to John McCain and any Republican Senator that prioritizes American Democracy, National and International Stability and The Rule of LAW over party and self interest!
8
I wouldn't be surprised if in addition to talking about sanctions, the topic of whether Trump could run the concession stands in the gulags was discussed.
4
There is a theory that Comey announced a re-start of the Clinton email investigation because he anticipated that news of the re-start was going top leak out anyway; but if that is so, then why didn't the info about Trump Campaign's connections to Russia leak out ?
1
These so called "leaks" should be referred to as whistle blowing. Apparently there are a few people in the new government who have some moral character. Pretty amazing as I think the only vetting that actually has gone on is a test of who is "in" and who is not. Will THIS finally be enough to see Trump's tax returns?
2
He released the main components of his tax return. If there was anything "juicy," then it would have been leaked. If classified eavesdropping of high government officials is, then why wouldn't any "gotcha" tax return info reveal itself.
Breaking News: The Pentagon is making a recommendation for Trump to send U.S. ground troops into Syria. The timing of this recommendation is very suspicious. Beware!
Liberals have to consider the *possibility* that Glenn Greenwald and Dennis Kucinich are right, that the military industrial complex is leaking and shaming Trump in order to push him into a confrontation with Russia and a ground war in the Middle East. I hardly enjoy viewing Trump as a "victim" of anything, but the anti-Russia, pro-War rhetoric from the establishment in DC is disconcerting.
We need to separate our dislike of Trump from the possibility that our military establishment and the neocons are trying to bully him into a war.
Liberals have to consider the *possibility* that Glenn Greenwald and Dennis Kucinich are right, that the military industrial complex is leaking and shaming Trump in order to push him into a confrontation with Russia and a ground war in the Middle East. I hardly enjoy viewing Trump as a "victim" of anything, but the anti-Russia, pro-War rhetoric from the establishment in DC is disconcerting.
We need to separate our dislike of Trump from the possibility that our military establishment and the neocons are trying to bully him into a war.
4
If Trump can be easily bullied into a war, that's just another reason to remove him from office.
1
Exactly Right, all this leaking and scandal so quickly, is too good to be true.
There's nothing that would conclude me to believe. . . "
What does this mean? Is Spicer too a gradeschool failure , like his boss? Maybe it is their vast and deep ignorance of so much that holds Mr Trump's servant and crony bunch so close to him. People who are ready to go to the mat for a man who would happily throw them under a bus that he might preen more effectively.
I suppose there are numerous such morons-similar to the people in Southern states who owned no slaves, but were willing to die for the right of rich folks to own them. Sad folk admire such people as long as they believe they are, like Mr Trump, self proclaimed, "self made billionaires"(sic). What bothers me the most is NY Times writers do not note such obviously error larded and confusing language which they quote. It is in this way that stupidity and error become accepted as truth , as reporters refuse to question the errors of the people they interview and or quote.
What does this mean? Is Spicer too a gradeschool failure , like his boss? Maybe it is their vast and deep ignorance of so much that holds Mr Trump's servant and crony bunch so close to him. People who are ready to go to the mat for a man who would happily throw them under a bus that he might preen more effectively.
I suppose there are numerous such morons-similar to the people in Southern states who owned no slaves, but were willing to die for the right of rich folks to own them. Sad folk admire such people as long as they believe they are, like Mr Trump, self proclaimed, "self made billionaires"(sic). What bothers me the most is NY Times writers do not note such obviously error larded and confusing language which they quote. It is in this way that stupidity and error become accepted as truth , as reporters refuse to question the errors of the people they interview and or quote.
ALL of the Trump staffers, pre and post - election. knew - or should have known that their conversations would be intercepted!
As much as we would like to assume that these staffer are not fools, perhaps many of them truly are as dense as their boss.
As for LTG Flynn, q retired intelligence officer of 33+ years, there is NO EXCUSE. As an experienced intelligence officer and former director of DIA, Flynn knows the inside details of monitoring as well as the NSA does. Any suggestion his conversations with [the Russians would escape detection is beyond belief, especially for a man of his experience. And then apparently lying to the new VP and the FBI is too much to swallow. How can one soul, potentially holding high office, be that stupid. He was and remains a genuine fool and I'm wondering what I may have missed. (Not much!) How can otherwise very bright and accomplished folks screw up so miserably? Is it an inflated ego thing? Number 45's folks should take a step back and remember that they owe some loyalty to Mr. 45, but to us as well. If you cannot accomplish both, Get Out (or end up in jail.)
As much as we would like to assume that these staffer are not fools, perhaps many of them truly are as dense as their boss.
As for LTG Flynn, q retired intelligence officer of 33+ years, there is NO EXCUSE. As an experienced intelligence officer and former director of DIA, Flynn knows the inside details of monitoring as well as the NSA does. Any suggestion his conversations with [the Russians would escape detection is beyond belief, especially for a man of his experience. And then apparently lying to the new VP and the FBI is too much to swallow. How can one soul, potentially holding high office, be that stupid. He was and remains a genuine fool and I'm wondering what I may have missed. (Not much!) How can otherwise very bright and accomplished folks screw up so miserably? Is it an inflated ego thing? Number 45's folks should take a step back and remember that they owe some loyalty to Mr. 45, but to us as well. If you cannot accomplish both, Get Out (or end up in jail.)
3
I love this: "The officials said that, so far, they had not seen evidence that the Trump campaign colluded with Russia on the hacking of the Democratic National Committee or to influence the election."
Of course not; I'm sure the Trump campaign was calling Russian intelligence officers, the folks who were breaking into the DNC email, to get a weather report, and maybe a borscht recipe or two. Nothing to see here...move along.
Of course not; I'm sure the Trump campaign was calling Russian intelligence officers, the folks who were breaking into the DNC email, to get a weather report, and maybe a borscht recipe or two. Nothing to see here...move along.
7
Putingate, here we come. All that time and energy and suspicion wasted looking at Hilary's emails, and all this was going on. Hoisted on their own petard. Gee, I wonder who is sending out the "illegal" leaks. Who has the most to gain? It couldn't be Pence, could it? Just look at Pence's expression in the photo. It tells it all. Oh, this is fun!!!
6
The GOP is starting to learn the lesson that winning elections through underhanded ways will catch up to you eventually. Many were only put in office for their promise to do things like kill the ACA or follow through on Trump's ridiculous wall. Now, they face a massive dilemma. Do they follow through and guarantee a tough and likely losing battle come re-election? Or do they not follow through and guarantee a tough and likely losing battle come re-election.
Trump is facing this reality with more vigor and hatred than he prepared himself for. Sure, he won the Presidency. But he won with foreign backing, possible foreign collusion, well short of a popular vote win, and by lying almost constantly. Indeed if he fulfills his campaign promises many of his voters will be cheering him on, however, if he fulfills those promises he is guaranteeing an end to his Presidency possibly well before 2020. You pay a price for not following the rules or telling the truth. I hope for him it is along the more ultimate end of the spectrum.
Trump is facing this reality with more vigor and hatred than he prepared himself for. Sure, he won the Presidency. But he won with foreign backing, possible foreign collusion, well short of a popular vote win, and by lying almost constantly. Indeed if he fulfills his campaign promises many of his voters will be cheering him on, however, if he fulfills those promises he is guaranteeing an end to his Presidency possibly well before 2020. You pay a price for not following the rules or telling the truth. I hope for him it is along the more ultimate end of the spectrum.
Really, no one is angry that the administration was so excited about a "can't lose" Clinton/Trump match that they didn't tell primary voters about this? God forbid Hillary should have faced a "formidable" Cruz or Rubio. Obama knew she couldn't win unless she had the worst imaginable candidate to face in the general. God this entire situation enrages and disgusts me. On the one hand, I'm happy their machinations came back to bite them. On the other, WE HAVE FREAKING DONALD TRUMP as POTUS.
2
who did you vote for?
1
Are all these phone calls recorded?
Or is this just based on metadata?
We need to push for release -or leaks - of the transcript of the calls.
Or is this just based on metadata?
We need to push for release -or leaks - of the transcript of the calls.
2
At this point the red flags surrounding the Trump administration and James Comey's behavior are beginning to demand a special investigation. If the results show collusion with Russia, the American people need to demand a new presidential election. Unprecedented- yes- but so is all the nefarious information coming out about their activities.
2
is there any possibility that, having eliminating Flynn, TPTB have broadened their campaign of leaking to those with even-tenuous connections to Russia .. the motive, you ask? -- the need for an "enemy" for the military, MIC, Wall Street, CIA makes it absolutely essential that any possibility of a US-Russia alliance must be quashed at all costs.
Remember the "mistaken" bombing of Syrian troops that put an end to a joint US-Russia alliance to combat AQ and ISIS just days before the alliance was to begin.
Remember the "mistaken" bombing of Syrian troops that put an end to a joint US-Russia alliance to combat AQ and ISIS just days before the alliance was to begin.
1
Yes, why does Russia have to be the mortal enemy in every generation. Sure Putin is a dictator, but so are many countries.
The other operant word is "Blackmail". Have the Russians the resource to do so; are they now ? "Extortion" a better word ? Both ?
2
I think what matters here is what was said during those exchanges. There is an urgent need to make that content public. During Watergate, which so far the current situation does not resemble, Nixon's downfall was assured when the content of the Oval Office recordings was revealed.
2
If Trump and his staff could work so well together with Putin and his on this, why can't they do the same on Syria?
So it comes out that Trump aides and/or advisors were speaking with Russia during the campaign. This begs the question...Why? I don't think they were chatting about the weather. Most probably for either damage control or quid pro quo. Many reasons why, all to the detriment of our country.
1) Trump is in hock to Russia for dubious loans, which is why he won't release his tax returns, 2) Trump out of stupidity and hubris behaved immorally at a Russian hotel and can be blackmailed (still to be decided) and 3) a deal with the devil to win the election.
But the oddest thing is that anyone at anytime during his campaign had numerous contacts with Russia, quite unprecedented and disturbing.
The photo you included in this article of Trump on the phone, Reince making notes, Pence looking into the middle distance, Bannon re-reading his next Machiavellian move and Spicer whispering in Pence's ear could easily be a painting from earlier centuries of European royalty plotting the demise of their enemies.
1) Trump is in hock to Russia for dubious loans, which is why he won't release his tax returns, 2) Trump out of stupidity and hubris behaved immorally at a Russian hotel and can be blackmailed (still to be decided) and 3) a deal with the devil to win the election.
But the oddest thing is that anyone at anytime during his campaign had numerous contacts with Russia, quite unprecedented and disturbing.
The photo you included in this article of Trump on the phone, Reince making notes, Pence looking into the middle distance, Bannon re-reading his next Machiavellian move and Spicer whispering in Pence's ear could easily be a painting from earlier centuries of European royalty plotting the demise of their enemies.
3
It is time to take a serious look at the FBI 's Comey as well as Bannon and Miller, even if it must be done by outside investigators. This situation certainly smells bad. It is worse than Watergate. Buy offs plus collusion with Russia? Likely.
2
Follow. The. Money.
7
from CNN: "President-elect Trump and then-President Barack Obama were both briefed on details of the extensive communications between suspected Russian operatives and people associated with the Trump campaign and the Trump business, according to US officials familiar with the matter."
And President Obama did nothing?
And President Obama did nothing?
I wonder what David Brooks will write about Friday; certainly not this.
1
It'd be good to get this story past the mysterious allusions stage. The only specific person mentioned is Manafort -- and then a possible defense is laid out in which he could have unknowingly spoken to Russian intelligence officials in the course of his work in Ukraine. Of course Manafort's Ukraine work presented a conflict that should never have happened to begin with, but we already knew that.
Is there meat on the bones of the rest of the story, or does it turn out that a bunch of businesspeople inadvertently crossed paths with intelligence officers in the course of routine dealings in Russia? Because, as bad as this all sounds, there's also the possibility the officials telling the story want us to connect dots that aren't there. Sunlight is the best disinfectant.
Is there meat on the bones of the rest of the story, or does it turn out that a bunch of businesspeople inadvertently crossed paths with intelligence officers in the course of routine dealings in Russia? Because, as bad as this all sounds, there's also the possibility the officials telling the story want us to connect dots that aren't there. Sunlight is the best disinfectant.
2
If Paul Ryan and Mitch McConnell continue to resist appointing a joint special committee to investigate this whole sordid affair, the American public is going to believe that the Republicans were in on this as well? After all, the RNC was not hacked – Reince Priebus claims that the RNC had better defense mechanisms in place on their network, but maybe Paul Manafort made a deal with the Russians to leave the RNC untouched? Who knows?
It’s hard to believe anything coming out of the White House and the GOP leadership these days – they spent millions of dollars and nine separate investigations on Benghazi and this Russian heist, the most serious and egregious of crimes, gets nothing? Shame on you guys for putting power and party before country!
It’s hard to believe anything coming out of the White House and the GOP leadership these days – they spent millions of dollars and nine separate investigations on Benghazi and this Russian heist, the most serious and egregious of crimes, gets nothing? Shame on you guys for putting power and party before country!
1
The situation becomes surreal, Donald J. Trump is the Manchurian Candidate and a traitor. If the GOP controlled Congress will not call for investigation maybe an armed council of concerned American Citizens should.
"That's it For the Other One" - Grateful Dead (1968)
"That's it For the Other One" - Grateful Dead (1968)
2
There is something so fishy here....why now is trump changing his tune now on Flynn? Who objected to the previous version?
When behavior doesn't make sense, it is usually covering up the real motivations or truth.
When behavior doesn't make sense, it is usually covering up the real motivations or truth.
1
What about Regan's promises to the Iranians that if they continued to hold American hostages to make Carter look bad, until after, he, Regan was elected, they would get a good deal. and Regan was elected twice!
2
There is today no greater threat to human survival than the dual nuclear arsenals of the USA and Russia, much of them still pointed toward each other or ready to be so at a moment's notice (or misunderstanding). These arsenals also consume countless billions of dollars each year.
I'm ok with being friends with Russia.
I'm ok with being friends with Russia.
1
Russia doesn't want us to be their friends. Russia wants us to be its slaves. Are you ok with that?
2
I'm sure that people in Ukraine, the Baltics and eastern Europe appreciate that.
5
We altered course toward China and instituted a detente period with Russia - by following a careful process - trust and verify.
This is a very freshman level effort here, with a refusal to get support from the pros.
It's making everyone nervous, especially the Europeans, is no way to run this kind of show.
This is a very freshman level effort here, with a refusal to get support from the pros.
It's making everyone nervous, especially the Europeans, is no way to run this kind of show.
1
After reading ‘The making of Donald Trump’ by David Johnston, who followed Trump for more than 30 years, I think it is fair to say that future presidential candidates should first take a psychological test. Something that is normal procedure for most important functions.
It is really amazing that this sadly dysfunctional and disturbed person could run for office.
Every American who wants to know what this man Trump is really made of should read the book. Trump seems to think he is superior to anybody else. But reads nothing and knows nothing. A very unstable person as president.
It is really amazing that this sadly dysfunctional and disturbed person could run for office.
Every American who wants to know what this man Trump is really made of should read the book. Trump seems to think he is superior to anybody else. But reads nothing and knows nothing. A very unstable person as president.
10
Thank you NY Times for staying on this story.
Subscriber dollars well spent.
Subscriber dollars well spent.
13
I just subscribed for this same reason.
6
I'm more concerned about the police state tactic of anonymous and unelected bureaucrats leaking information gathered through a surveillance system that only captures the "most basic information." This is a forest for the trees issue with our most basic freedoms. Meaning, obviously the NSA spying program is doing more than we are led to believe.
5
We spy on Russian agents and diplomats. That is an open secret. They do the same to us.
If you are an American and you contact a Russian agent or diplomat, assume you are being watched and or recorded. Everyone should know that, especially former generals.
If you are an American and you contact a Russian agent or diplomat, assume you are being watched and or recorded. Everyone should know that, especially former generals.
5
You have no idea what you are talking about. I expect the NSA to eavesdrop on officials from hostile nations like Russia. The NSA was not listening to the Americans, but rather the Russians they were slimy enough to contact. Don't confuse the NSA recording conversations of foreign nationals with the Metadata they have been collecting about phone calls. People like you who think that the NSA cares at all about what you talk about are delusional.
Get a clue and get back to us.
Get a clue and get back to us.
4
Ben, that's one theory. Another is that Flynn was a vociferous critic of the Iran deal so BHO used the tools of the state, through a FISA court, to ensure that he wouldn't be allowed to serve the new administration.
America is so blessed to have elected a leader that didn't use a private email server. To have met in person and to facilitate nonsense..........thats ok.
Good to see the FBI, old white men and politicians having their act together
in the service of our citizens.
Good to see the FBI, old white men and politicians having their act together
in the service of our citizens.
2
In an era where the title of "fake news" is thrown out (like candy, I might add) it is our duty as citizens and patriots to unearth all of the facts. America cannot afford to jump to conclusions on this issue, tempting as it may be. It is extremely easy to assume, based on previous behavior, that this administration was involved with improper talks with Russia, because it confirms how many of us feel about the Trump administration. Feelings and what's true aren't the same thing and we need to be certain that we have all the facts before we condemn and assign guilt, lest we look like the biased, blood thirsty liberals and media we are labeled with. The truth can set us free and possibly, lock them up.
3
Wake up. We are not at war with Russia. For all his terrible flaws, Trump is smarter about this than Reagan was.
Do you really want to fight ISIS and Russia at the same time? Is that smart?
Because we are a Capitalist society, we need to do business with other nations. This implies contact on many levels with people in other nations.
Go to the CIA factbook at:
https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/geos/rs.html
Will you find a list of Russian intelligence officers there? No. Call up the CIA at (703) 482-0623 and ask them to send you a list of everyone in Russia who is an intelligence agent, so you can avoid speaking to them when you do business in Russia. Will you get one? No.
This whole campaign against Trump by the hacks of the Democratic party is every bit as stupid, and disgusting, as the endless attacks against Obama by the hacks of the Republican party.
We should all feel free to say that Trump is, in general, an incompetent, who has no idea what he is doing, but the type of attack promulgated by this article has no place in our country.
Do you really want to fight ISIS and Russia at the same time? Is that smart?
Because we are a Capitalist society, we need to do business with other nations. This implies contact on many levels with people in other nations.
Go to the CIA factbook at:
https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/geos/rs.html
Will you find a list of Russian intelligence officers there? No. Call up the CIA at (703) 482-0623 and ask them to send you a list of everyone in Russia who is an intelligence agent, so you can avoid speaking to them when you do business in Russia. Will you get one? No.
This whole campaign against Trump by the hacks of the Democratic party is every bit as stupid, and disgusting, as the endless attacks against Obama by the hacks of the Republican party.
We should all feel free to say that Trump is, in general, an incompetent, who has no idea what he is doing, but the type of attack promulgated by this article has no place in our country.
1
This guy makes all despots, dictators, fascists, and most hated man in history look like lame Sesame Street characters. This guy is out to destroy our democracy with every passing day. He attacks the Press, the intelligence agencies, and anyone who voices an opinion critical of him. His press conferences have become nothing but a show where he avoids picking real press folks, picking only those friendly with him, no hard questions to be asked. This is how you start with silencing the press. Then we have a GOP Congress that has obviously sold their souls to this dictator. The Supreme Court has yet to chime in on him and may be our only hope to survive this abomination and traitor to America.
9
The three major World powers are Kleptocracies. DeNile is also a river in Africa. Today while I celebrate the European Union's ratification of the Canada Europe Trade Agreement I will say a little prayer for the US.
The USA must decide between an economy that must continue to grow and a Western Style Democracy.
There is no longer a choice of one item from column A, one from column B and one from column C.
The USA can either choose Russia and China or the Western Democracies. Here in Canada our economy might optimistically grow between 1 and 2 % a year. In countries where natural population growth is less than zero and there is more than enough stuff to go around we have chosen to strengthen our democracy. The USA must decide and Donald Trump has laid out the deal on the table. Russia and China are far more important to the equity. industrial and agricultural markets than Europe and the other Western economies.
Donald Trump and Mike Flynn laid out one reasonable scenario and Paul Ryan and Paul Krugman refuse to accept reality. Freedom and democracy are incompatible with a focus on economic growth which some might call growing wealth inequality. I often see the expression Darwinian which implies random chance but autocracy and plutocracy are by design.
The USA must decide between an economy that must continue to grow and a Western Style Democracy.
There is no longer a choice of one item from column A, one from column B and one from column C.
The USA can either choose Russia and China or the Western Democracies. Here in Canada our economy might optimistically grow between 1 and 2 % a year. In countries where natural population growth is less than zero and there is more than enough stuff to go around we have chosen to strengthen our democracy. The USA must decide and Donald Trump has laid out the deal on the table. Russia and China are far more important to the equity. industrial and agricultural markets than Europe and the other Western economies.
Donald Trump and Mike Flynn laid out one reasonable scenario and Paul Ryan and Paul Krugman refuse to accept reality. Freedom and democracy are incompatible with a focus on economic growth which some might call growing wealth inequality. I often see the expression Darwinian which implies random chance but autocracy and plutocracy are by design.
1
Why should anyone believe a single word Trump ever says about anything ever again?
11
Why would anyone have believed a single word he said in the first place? Isn't two-three minutes watching Trump speak and interact with his environment enough to tell any normally intelligent person that the man is and always has been entirely unfit for any kind of office? This is what amazes me the most--that there was a single person in the country, never mind tens of millions of them--that could ever have thought this man would make an effective president.
2
Mr. Trump..NY Times, Washington Post, CNN are not fake news. Breitbart, FOX are fake news. You can't steamrolled the esteem news organizations. They survived by writing real news, real journalists. They are trustworthy not like your cabinet picks and yourself not releasing your own tax returns.
11
My own personal opinion is that this particular act of Gen. Flynn speaking with the Russians was unethical it wasn't a transgression bad enough to lose his job. What concerns me is the administrations attempt to cover it up and spin it. It makes me wonder if they work this hard for something so minor what is really going on?
Also, why are "sources" now called "leaks", isn't this how investigative journalism has always worked with confidential sources. It seems to be that its because calling it a leak gives it a negative feeling and its an attempt to discredit the media.
Also, why are "sources" now called "leaks", isn't this how investigative journalism has always worked with confidential sources. It seems to be that its because calling it a leak gives it a negative feeling and its an attempt to discredit the media.
3
As was the case during Watergate, it wasn't the crime that got Nixon, it was the coverup. Let's hope lightning strikes twice.
2
Let's start a pool! Who's next???
3
Is Spicer's quoted speech "There is nothing ....that would conclude me...", an editing problem at the Times or is that actually his grammar?
It seems reasonable to conclude that many in the audience at CIA were less than impressed by Trump's transparent motives in his speech on the second day of his administration.
Whether or not there is fire under all this smoke it is obvious this is the gang that cannot shoot straight. And where is Kelly Ann? On probation?
RJG
It seems reasonable to conclude that many in the audience at CIA were less than impressed by Trump's transparent motives in his speech on the second day of his administration.
Whether or not there is fire under all this smoke it is obvious this is the gang that cannot shoot straight. And where is Kelly Ann? On probation?
RJG
3
Recall how Trump once had no time for daily US intelligence briefing. He was outright disrespectful of the US intelligence community.
So, it seems odd that he and his aides apparently trusted Russian intelligence entities more so than those of the US, as evidenced by their willingness to frequently communicate with them.
QUESTION: To what extent, if any, did these conversations with Russians influence Trump’s cabinet and other picks?
So, it seems odd that he and his aides apparently trusted Russian intelligence entities more so than those of the US, as evidenced by their willingness to frequently communicate with them.
QUESTION: To what extent, if any, did these conversations with Russians influence Trump’s cabinet and other picks?
10
Trumps book upon being thrown out of office, "If I did it".
5
We'll see how much the Republican Party cares about the country by how much they pursue this Putingate.
And pursued, it should be. There is definitely something wrong somewhere, especially when you consider the Republican Party's history of dirty tricks during presidential campaigns: the Nixon campaign in 1968 sabotaging the peace talks during the Vietnam War (President Johnson was furious because nothing could be done due to this coming to light through J. Edgar Hoover's illegal spying on Americans), Watergate, and the Reagan campaign stealing a copy of Jimmy Carter's debate book and also possibly sabotaging negotiations with Iran for the release of the hostages (enough smoke to warrant an investigation).
And pursued, it should be. There is definitely something wrong somewhere, especially when you consider the Republican Party's history of dirty tricks during presidential campaigns: the Nixon campaign in 1968 sabotaging the peace talks during the Vietnam War (President Johnson was furious because nothing could be done due to this coming to light through J. Edgar Hoover's illegal spying on Americans), Watergate, and the Reagan campaign stealing a copy of Jimmy Carter's debate book and also possibly sabotaging negotiations with Iran for the release of the hostages (enough smoke to warrant an investigation).
6
This article des NOT surprise me! Number 45's senior staff officers are almost universally thugs. And Flynn, a three-star with 33+ years of service simply Had to know that his calls to the Russians - and a some meetings, would be monitored.
NYTIMES: This is Not Over and please stay on the story. We need to know more details.
NYTIMES: This is Not Over and please stay on the story. We need to know more details.
5
Our first President predicted this.
George Washington, 1796:
"The alternate domination of one faction over another, sharpened by the spirit of revenge, natural to party dissension, which in different ages and countries has perpetrated the most horrid enormities, is itself a frightful despotism…. It serves always to distract the public councils and enfeeble the public administration. It agitates the community with ill-founded jealousies and false alarms, kindles the animosity of one part against another, foments occasionally riot and insurrection. It opens the door to foreign influence and corruption, which finds a facilitated access to the government itself through the channels of party passions. Thus the policy and the will of one country are subjected to the policy and will of another."
George Washington, 1796:
"The alternate domination of one faction over another, sharpened by the spirit of revenge, natural to party dissension, which in different ages and countries has perpetrated the most horrid enormities, is itself a frightful despotism…. It serves always to distract the public councils and enfeeble the public administration. It agitates the community with ill-founded jealousies and false alarms, kindles the animosity of one part against another, foments occasionally riot and insurrection. It opens the door to foreign influence and corruption, which finds a facilitated access to the government itself through the channels of party passions. Thus the policy and the will of one country are subjected to the policy and will of another."
6
Speculation at best...print something when you have proof...oh wait, I forgot,,this is the NY Times, the paper who has been CAUGHT printing FALSE stories...for now I guess I'll continue using it as toilet paper for my pets!
1
Okay, you want to talk about false stories? Here are some false stories:
I wrote Art Of The Deal
Global warming is a Chinese hoax
I never said that global warming is a Chinese hoax
Barack Obama is not a US citizen
I personally will choose all the instructors for Trump University
The sun came out when I was giving my inauguration speech (it was raining)
I started with a small loan from my father (he inherited $40 million)
The real unemployment rate is 42%
My inauguration was the most attended ever
3 to 5 million people voted illegally
There was serious voter fraud in Virginia
There was serious voter fraud in New Hampshire
There was serious voter fraud in California
Thousands of Muslims cheered on 9/11 - I saw this happen
I have tremendous support from women
I’m going to build a wall and Mexico pay for it.
I saved 1100 jobs at Carrier air conditioning (it was 700. The union leader reported the actual figure and Trump bullied him on Twitter for being truthful)
I am going to but a big import tax on the Chevrolet Cruz automobile because it’s made in Mexico. (it is made in Ohio)
Etc., etc., etc.
I wrote Art Of The Deal
Global warming is a Chinese hoax
I never said that global warming is a Chinese hoax
Barack Obama is not a US citizen
I personally will choose all the instructors for Trump University
The sun came out when I was giving my inauguration speech (it was raining)
I started with a small loan from my father (he inherited $40 million)
The real unemployment rate is 42%
My inauguration was the most attended ever
3 to 5 million people voted illegally
There was serious voter fraud in Virginia
There was serious voter fraud in New Hampshire
There was serious voter fraud in California
Thousands of Muslims cheered on 9/11 - I saw this happen
I have tremendous support from women
I’m going to build a wall and Mexico pay for it.
I saved 1100 jobs at Carrier air conditioning (it was 700. The union leader reported the actual figure and Trump bullied him on Twitter for being truthful)
I am going to but a big import tax on the Chevrolet Cruz automobile because it’s made in Mexico. (it is made in Ohio)
Etc., etc., etc.
10
Also: "I'm, like, a smart person. "
1
As long as you keep buying it, I doubt anyone cares what you use it for.
Thats what makes the haters of the Times so ridiculous. I mean, you're here, right? You aren't boycotting. You're giving them the only endorsement that counts, your money.
It's okay for me to point this out because haters love to troll so much they'll never quit paying the Times no matter what they print.
Thats what makes the haters of the Times so ridiculous. I mean, you're here, right? You aren't boycotting. You're giving them the only endorsement that counts, your money.
It's okay for me to point this out because haters love to troll so much they'll never quit paying the Times no matter what they print.
2
Trump conned his way into the Presidency and the American people so easily bought the goods. They ignored his refusal to release his taxes. They ignored his lack of experience in the political arena here in the US and abroad. They ignored his insecurities, his immoral behavior in the past, his penchant for boorish abusive behavior against anyone that disagrees with him, his many lies he told during the campaign and even now as President. Why are we surprised and alarmed about all the revelations that has beset his administration.This just the beginning. Tightened your belts. A shiny object is not always valuable. Trade, Jobs, etc., are the furthest from his mind now. Will he recover? Only God knows. One thing I know is that A leopard cannot change his spots. The Donald will never change.
18
the Russians themselves blatantly contradicted Trump's entourage right after the election when they released a statement saying they have been with Trump entourage.
4
"Anonymous sources can not be identified because the investigation is classified" I guess leaking about it is OK though.
3
What's happened to Republicans? Republicans used to be the party of national security. No more. They've become weak on national security, and it's putting our nation at risk. Wake up Republicans! Your country needs you.
12
Team Trump made LOTS of calls to Russian intelligence, Paul Manafort had Russian underworld ties, Mike Flynn was making promises, Trumpers himself called for hacking Clinton on national television.
That seems like plenty to check out. Mr. Chaffetz knew enough to jump on Kellyanne's infomercial, but not this? Are you kidding us??
That seems like plenty to check out. Mr. Chaffetz knew enough to jump on Kellyanne's infomercial, but not this? Are you kidding us??
11
Finally, we can connect the dots to substantiate our grave suspicions. This revelation should make clear that the Trump campaign & its associates were complicit in treason---allowing a foreign, adversarial government to influence an election to their mutual advantage. The Russian involvement is making the Watergate break-in look rather like a child's prank, poorly executed. And yet, a president was impeached (my generation remembers it very well). Thereafter, we established safeguards so that corruption at the highest executive level would not occur again. Yet, here we find ourselves 44 years later at a far more dangerous moment where our democracy itself is at stake. What is called for is an independent investigation & special prosecutor. No one can trust the current GOP - controlled Congress. These are people who spent untold millions of taxpayers' dollars investigating Benghazi & attempting without proof or success to defeat Clinton over her emails. Sadly, the media took the catnip on Clinton, thereby promulgating the biggest bait & switch in contemporary politics. That major distraction over nothing substantive allowed Trump & the Russians to operate without detection --until it was too late. What do we hear? From the GOP leaders, nothing serious. From Trump & Co: it's all about the leaks, "losing trust", while throwing the substance of the scandal under the bus. So predictable!
Simply put: these villains have to be run out of town!
Simply put: these villains have to be run out of town!
13
Looks like Trump is going to drain the swamp after all. He is going to take all his cronies down with him.
6
well at least we didn't have to wait for another election cycle for our generation's Watergate to emerge.
4
Shawdow government bent on the destruction of the American electoral system...
3
or, corrupt man caught in act
To borrow a phrase from Wendy's and Walter Mondale: where's the beef?
No evidence of any wrong doing whatsoever. The only wrong doing at this point for which we do have evidence is the violation of federal law by top intelligence officials.
Yes, I noticed that the NYT stated "no evidence, so far ..." Well, the attempts to find evidence of collusion with the Russians has been going on for months and still, despite the best efforts of all of those involved in this mission to take down Trump, still not a shred of evidence. Just how long do you get to say "no evidence, so far"?
Maybe you get to say "no evidence, so far" forever, but, in the meantime, Trump and the Republican controlled House and Senate will keep working on all of the initiatives Trump promised he would pursue. You just go ahead and keep looking for that proverbial stained blue dress while the rest of us keep working to restore this country. Best of luck to you. Maybe Bill Clinton knows where to find it. Or ask his wife.
No evidence of any wrong doing whatsoever. The only wrong doing at this point for which we do have evidence is the violation of federal law by top intelligence officials.
Yes, I noticed that the NYT stated "no evidence, so far ..." Well, the attempts to find evidence of collusion with the Russians has been going on for months and still, despite the best efforts of all of those involved in this mission to take down Trump, still not a shred of evidence. Just how long do you get to say "no evidence, so far"?
Maybe you get to say "no evidence, so far" forever, but, in the meantime, Trump and the Republican controlled House and Senate will keep working on all of the initiatives Trump promised he would pursue. You just go ahead and keep looking for that proverbial stained blue dress while the rest of us keep working to restore this country. Best of luck to you. Maybe Bill Clinton knows where to find it. Or ask his wife.
3
Promises from dt? Maybe you mean those exec orders that actually do nothing? Well except the travel ban. That one did keep a promise and showed how inept bannon and Miller really are because we all know dt doesn't read.
3
Cute. What exactly is Trump doing right now that will help you or any other American in any way shape or form?
4
What would Trump and his do nothing Congress do? These are just dreams. They will restore nothing.
3
I want to hear the part of the tape where Donald says to Flynn...."Mike Pense is a dummy, just tell him whatever"
6
Now Playing in Washington, D.C.
Never Before Seen Action! Unforgettable Characters!
"THE CABINET OF DR. TRUMPILINI"
Voted Best Melodrama since Hamilton and Burr!
Never Before Seen Action! Unforgettable Characters!
"THE CABINET OF DR. TRUMPILINI"
Voted Best Melodrama since Hamilton and Burr!
2
This guy tweeted that intelligence is leaking like candy and it "Un-American". But, I want to say that this guy is more "Un-American" than anybody. Sorry , I don't even like to write this con's name here.
7
Just one question: what possible legitimate reason would campaign officials in a presidential election *ever* have for talking to Russian intelligence? President Trump can put this whole thing to rest by answering that one question immediately.
It would raise serious questions if the contacts had been with any other branch of the Russian government, but it fairly screams for an explanation when the contacts are with the intelligence arm of the Russian government.
Is this not passing strange on its face? And, ipso facto, worthy of investigation?
It would raise serious questions if the contacts had been with any other branch of the Russian government, but it fairly screams for an explanation when the contacts are with the intelligence arm of the Russian government.
Is this not passing strange on its face? And, ipso facto, worthy of investigation?
7
Jezeeus! Can we just go one flippin' day without a treasonous crisis?? I'm addicted but I can't take it. I'm enraged but I'm numb. I want Trump in jail but I'm terrified of Pence. I want a functional government but I also want a revolution. Lately the same word used to describe Trump also applies to me: unhinged.
17
Irrelevant
Most of my IT coworkers have lost their jobs to inept foreigners and the rest of us took steep compensation cuts.
People in North Korea and most of the Muslim world live under extreme oppression.
Medicare and Social Security are rapidly becoming insolvent, despite the ridiculously high 67 retirement age.
We are bleeding over a $1 trillion in trade and budget deficits (over $10,000 per US household)
The murder rate is up in Chicago and Americans are fatter and dying younger
And you want me to care about who called who when? When they see "look here" we better be looking there.
Most of my IT coworkers have lost their jobs to inept foreigners and the rest of us took steep compensation cuts.
People in North Korea and most of the Muslim world live under extreme oppression.
Medicare and Social Security are rapidly becoming insolvent, despite the ridiculously high 67 retirement age.
We are bleeding over a $1 trillion in trade and budget deficits (over $10,000 per US household)
The murder rate is up in Chicago and Americans are fatter and dying younger
And you want me to care about who called who when? When they see "look here" we better be looking there.
4
Gee if those are your concerns than you must really have a problem with junk food loving Trump who likes to brag about how many guns his sons have and who claims to carry one himself.
It must really bother you that Trump's products are made overseas and that much of the labor in his hotels and resorts weren't born here.
It must really bother you that Trump's products are made overseas and that much of the labor in his hotels and resorts weren't born here.
1
Yes we do. If Hillary's emails were a national issue, so is Trump's collusion with the Russians. By the way, Trump is not going to solve any of the problems near and dear to your heart.
2
Yes, surely illegal communications with a foreign government, which is under official U.S. sanctions, is nothing to be concerned about. It only violates a few laws, so what's the big deal? Far more important to worry about your pocket and how fat people are. Great priorities you have there. No wonder your compensation has been cut. I question your critical thinking skills.
3
Dang, here I though Tempora and Prism were all that, but the Brits know more about out stink than we do? We can't get them to pull back that original copy costing us over a hundred million a year? Was that what gave Cameron such comfort over his contacts with Red Top over Milly? They really can't be retrieved?
Yeah, J-Trig, I Milly Danged you.
Yeah, J-Trig, I Milly Danged you.
1
Pick up the phone and call your two senators and your congressman! Do it now, and don't give up until you get through! RESIST!
10
There was no hesitation about issuing subpoenas on Bill Clinton for a sex scandal. Trump has no immunity on this. Far more serious than anything the Republicans have investigated.
17
It is astonishing that this seems to be unimportant to the majority of the GOP legislature. How is that even possible? Chants of "Lock her up" over email servers. Now, we have Russian sending ships to the East Coast and obvious communication with them throughout DJT's campaign. What is wrong with these people? Do they have no brains?
10
Look at the comments on here with the attitude, "so what". It's really frightening and disgusting that people have such an uninterested thought about how serious this is.
2
Here is a sobering scenario...
There has never been a better time to attack the US. If you ever wanted to strike a death blow to the US now is that moment. Whether its a nuke on a container ship that goes off, or a significant attack on Trump Tower in Dubai, Trump and his team will use it to lie and justify everything they want.
Trump as an unhinged authoritarian will instantly declare some form of Executive Power (Marshall Law) under the Patriot Act. In the panic/confusion of the immediate aftermath he would take control. From that point forward Trump will become a true authoritarian ruler, which I think we all realize is where Trump would instantly go if given the remotest opportunity.
This would be the end of American democracy, with the US system of Justice and civil liberty being the casualties. This would be the end of the US as we know it. This would permanently destabilise democracies around the world and open the door for all authoritarians to take power...exactly what Bannon believes in.
America's enemies want nothing more and the likelihood of success has never been higher, while all the downside impacts and risks would be considered worth it to bring down a democratic US once and for all with one single strike.
To the Republican Party my question is...do you really love the Constitution, or is this just about gaining power...because this scenario could very well happen unless you step up.
There has never been a better time to attack the US. If you ever wanted to strike a death blow to the US now is that moment. Whether its a nuke on a container ship that goes off, or a significant attack on Trump Tower in Dubai, Trump and his team will use it to lie and justify everything they want.
Trump as an unhinged authoritarian will instantly declare some form of Executive Power (Marshall Law) under the Patriot Act. In the panic/confusion of the immediate aftermath he would take control. From that point forward Trump will become a true authoritarian ruler, which I think we all realize is where Trump would instantly go if given the remotest opportunity.
This would be the end of American democracy, with the US system of Justice and civil liberty being the casualties. This would be the end of the US as we know it. This would permanently destabilise democracies around the world and open the door for all authoritarians to take power...exactly what Bannon believes in.
America's enemies want nothing more and the likelihood of success has never been higher, while all the downside impacts and risks would be considered worth it to bring down a democratic US once and for all with one single strike.
To the Republican Party my question is...do you really love the Constitution, or is this just about gaining power...because this scenario could very well happen unless you step up.
12
He's been in office less than a month and you're on his back every day. If this had been done to Obama, it would have been called racism. Get over it. Trump is the president.
2
You are totally missing the point, sir! Yes, he is the president, but is he behaving as a president should or do we let him do whatever he feels like doing as he is accustomed to? We are not even arguing the fact that the majority of Americans did not vote for him. The people he surrounds himself with, the tantrums he throws, his secrecy about his affairs, his ignorance of the law and the Constitution..... We should be on his back because all the Republican toadies worrying about their own seat at the table, will let him get away with totally unacceptable behaviour.
2
Obama didn't collude with Russia to win the election.
1
One key difference. Obama did not comport himself in Trumpian fashion or anything remotely akin to it. To my knowledge, no one ever witnessed him ridiculing the physically challenged or anyone else for that matter. He did not conduct business in such a way that screamed conflict of interest. He did not molest women and then brag about it. And, he was not sleeping with the enemy. Get over it.
3
The officials interviewed in recent weeks said that, so far, they had seen no evidence of such cooperation. FAKE NEWS!!!
1
Read the story numbskull. It's not fake, the calls happened. It's the content that isn't confirmed, yet. Where's there's smoke....
2
From a related article NYT on the front page: “From intelligence, papers are being leaked, things are being leaked,” Mr. Trump said at a White House news conference with Benjamin Netanyahu, the prime minister of Israel. “It’s a criminal action, criminal act, and it’s been going on for a long time before me, but now it’s really going on. And people are trying to cover up for a terrible loss that the Democrats had under Hillary Clinton.”
And this man is our President!
He sounds like a babbling idiot, still throwing shade at Hillary Clinton, who is looking better and better every day. (My, how I wish she were in the Oval Office driving Republicans crazy, yet establishing some sense of normalcy to the country.)
Trump's best friend was Wikileaks throughout the campaign. The Commander in Hypocrisy even cheered them on. And now . . .
(And let's not bury the lede: Notice that Trump did not deny any of the information coming out of those leaks.)
And this man is our President!
He sounds like a babbling idiot, still throwing shade at Hillary Clinton, who is looking better and better every day. (My, how I wish she were in the Oval Office driving Republicans crazy, yet establishing some sense of normalcy to the country.)
Trump's best friend was Wikileaks throughout the campaign. The Commander in Hypocrisy even cheered them on. And now . . .
(And let's not bury the lede: Notice that Trump did not deny any of the information coming out of those leaks.)
8
One question embarrassing videos? I don't think ANYTHING embarrasses Mr. Trump.
2
In Sean Spicer's eloquent lingo, there is nothing that would conclude me that Trump isn't Putin's poodle.
Nothing that would conclude me to believe that Flynn didn't have Trump's enthusiastic approval to blab on the phone with the Russians, like rank amateurs, or maybe better, teenagers planning secret meet ups.
There is nothing that would conclude me thinking that there is anybody in charge in what is sometimes laughingly referred to as an administration. Except maybe Vlad. Nyet?
Nothing that would conclude me to believe that Flynn didn't have Trump's enthusiastic approval to blab on the phone with the Russians, like rank amateurs, or maybe better, teenagers planning secret meet ups.
There is nothing that would conclude me thinking that there is anybody in charge in what is sometimes laughingly referred to as an administration. Except maybe Vlad. Nyet?
5
Have you people no shame? Do you simply want to destroy lives? And who is doing these leaks of. incidentally matters?
2
Treason. Jail them! Frog-march them in front of the people they purport to represent!
Call for a new election! Any republican who doesn't stand up for democracy and proper governance needs a fast tar and feathering.
As for Trump... well put him in a straight-jacket and lock him in A mental institution. Melania can have victims rights representation and be deported back to her home country. Ivanka can hawk carpet steamers on QVC. KellyAnne goes straight to Guantanamo.
Call for a new election! Any republican who doesn't stand up for democracy and proper governance needs a fast tar and feathering.
As for Trump... well put him in a straight-jacket and lock him in A mental institution. Melania can have victims rights representation and be deported back to her home country. Ivanka can hawk carpet steamers on QVC. KellyAnne goes straight to Guantanamo.
5
Since at least the 3 Intelligence Agencies that "intercepted calls" with Flynn and the Kremlin's US Ambassador, along with trump's Sr. Advisors in close and numerous contact with unnamed other Russians, anyone part of the donald's inner circle should be suspected of conducting improper conversations. This must necessarily include Pence since he has been with his boss since early July and would be hard pressed to claim he had no knowledge of at least the staff's contact with a foreign government.
Yes, it's a "Do-Over" election this time. The previously tainted, 2000 election was at least an all American ordeal that was sanctioned by the US Supreme Court: not spoon fed, hacked, and illegally obtained DNC and Hillary's proprietary information intended only for the strategic use of a major political party. This borders on Treason and should be investigated as such.
Yes, it's a "Do-Over" election this time. The previously tainted, 2000 election was at least an all American ordeal that was sanctioned by the US Supreme Court: not spoon fed, hacked, and illegally obtained DNC and Hillary's proprietary information intended only for the strategic use of a major political party. This borders on Treason and should be investigated as such.
1
Here is the best argument for the abolishment of the Electoral College. If those electorates had done their sworn duty, and performed the "check" as it was intended: to keep riffraff, incompetency, and sheer hubris out of the White House, then NONE of this would matter at the moment. I'm infuriated that we now have to drag this out until we will never be able to untangle the messes the so-called president and his ilk can continue to make while this comes to some sort of conclusion.
9
Russian *intellligence*? Conservative heads would be in flames if this had been Clinton's campaign.
Conservatives, step back and really think about what you think are your values, if you're giving a pass to a campaign with frequent contact, not just with Russian citizens, or Russian government, but Russian *intelligence*.
Are you really willing to give up your principles according to who's in office? It's our guy so it's OK and to be ignored? Where did those principles come from, exactly?
Conservatives, step back and really think about what you think are your values, if you're giving a pass to a campaign with frequent contact, not just with Russian citizens, or Russian government, but Russian *intelligence*.
Are you really willing to give up your principles according to who's in office? It's our guy so it's OK and to be ignored? Where did those principles come from, exactly?
9
During the McCarthy witch hunts, you could get the chair for talking to the Russians. Just ask the Rosenbergs. Now a sitting president may have colluded with our longest lasting adversary. It boggles the mind.
9
Google impeach trump and sign the petition.
This presidency is "unpresidented" and will only get worse.
What would you like to bet that Tantrump will concoct war to distract the feeble-minded? We should act now, because it will take a while for others to join us..., culminating in impeachment and conviction.
This presidency is "unpresidented" and will only get worse.
What would you like to bet that Tantrump will concoct war to distract the feeble-minded? We should act now, because it will take a while for others to join us..., culminating in impeachment and conviction.
1
The office in the photo appears to be a White Men Only Club. Old men. How old is Spicey he looks old with the rest of them.
2
Russia put in a lot of time and effort working for Trump to win the election.
So let's now ask, WHY? What did Putin hope to gain? Well.... Ask Rex Tillerson about Exxon Mobil's huge deal in Russia, which can't be realized as a mega-profit for Putin (who desperately needs the rubles to stay in power) until they somehow gain a warm-water port to ship from (take over Crimea: check)... then gain access, tax-free, to Ukraine's pipelines (invade eastern Ukraine: check)... then get rid of those pesky sanctions by the US.... (install own president; pay him off via a secret account in the Caymans; he'll do anything for money and to keep those files and photos secret: check, check, check).
Why did Putin work to give Trump the election? Oil money is just the most plausible scenario. Whatever it is, we can be assured Putin did not do this because he's secretly in love with Trump. That admiration goes mainly the other way. Putin was working for a Quid pro Quo.
Time for Congress to find out what that quid pro quo was.
So let's now ask, WHY? What did Putin hope to gain? Well.... Ask Rex Tillerson about Exxon Mobil's huge deal in Russia, which can't be realized as a mega-profit for Putin (who desperately needs the rubles to stay in power) until they somehow gain a warm-water port to ship from (take over Crimea: check)... then gain access, tax-free, to Ukraine's pipelines (invade eastern Ukraine: check)... then get rid of those pesky sanctions by the US.... (install own president; pay him off via a secret account in the Caymans; he'll do anything for money and to keep those files and photos secret: check, check, check).
Why did Putin work to give Trump the election? Oil money is just the most plausible scenario. Whatever it is, we can be assured Putin did not do this because he's secretly in love with Trump. That admiration goes mainly the other way. Putin was working for a Quid pro Quo.
Time for Congress to find out what that quid pro quo was.
17
The source for this article are four anonymous current and former American officials selectively disclosing information about an ongoing and classified investigation, who, per the NY Times, conclude "so far, they had seen no evidence of such cooperation" with the Russian government.
The NY Times then report the officials stated that the Trump campaign officials and other associates communicated with the Russian government and intelligence members without any claims of illegal activity.
Further the article concedes that Mr. Trump's associates have done business in Russia and that it is not unusual for them to "unwittingly" come in contact with "spy services."
Next, the article rehashes the January 2017 American intelligence agencies report conclusion that the Russian government "intervened" (not influenced) in the election on behalf of Mr. Trump while never fully making clear what the Russians originally intended to accomplish other than some speculation that they intended to undermine the confidence in the election.
This article smells like a half-baked tuna casserole left out in the sun for two days with lots of cheesy innuendo designed to leave a greasy stain on President Trump and his team as engaging in traitorous behavior.
The only concrete aspect to come out of this article is one's political point of view will influence one's interpretation as to what is being said as evidenced by the highly partisan comments.
The NY Times then report the officials stated that the Trump campaign officials and other associates communicated with the Russian government and intelligence members without any claims of illegal activity.
Further the article concedes that Mr. Trump's associates have done business in Russia and that it is not unusual for them to "unwittingly" come in contact with "spy services."
Next, the article rehashes the January 2017 American intelligence agencies report conclusion that the Russian government "intervened" (not influenced) in the election on behalf of Mr. Trump while never fully making clear what the Russians originally intended to accomplish other than some speculation that they intended to undermine the confidence in the election.
This article smells like a half-baked tuna casserole left out in the sun for two days with lots of cheesy innuendo designed to leave a greasy stain on President Trump and his team as engaging in traitorous behavior.
The only concrete aspect to come out of this article is one's political point of view will influence one's interpretation as to what is being said as evidenced by the highly partisan comments.
6
I've about had it with the NYT so-called reporting on Trump. To quote: "The officials said that, so far, they had not seen evidence that the Trump campaign colluded with Russia on the hacking of the Democratic National Committee or to influence the election." The above qualifier, "so far," indicates that in fact NOTHING WRONG has been found or asserted. So why print the article? If the sum total of the article basically indicates that nothing wrong has been found, why not say that as the lead?
I'm no fan of Trump, but I'm getting sick and tired of the obvious campaign against him by the NYTimes editors and reporters.
Get back to the facts. Print what actually happen. Get officials on the record, and stop hiding behind these secret sources. You should be embarrassed by the obvious shoddy work being done. Speculation and innuendo isn't reporting. Save it for the op-ed page.
I miss my old New York Times!
I'm no fan of Trump, but I'm getting sick and tired of the obvious campaign against him by the NYTimes editors and reporters.
Get back to the facts. Print what actually happen. Get officials on the record, and stop hiding behind these secret sources. You should be embarrassed by the obvious shoddy work being done. Speculation and innuendo isn't reporting. Save it for the op-ed page.
I miss my old New York Times!
4
How is telling you that a major political party was in close contact over the course of a US election with a foreign government's Intelligence agency and that that government was Russia not of concern to you?
That IS journalism.
That IS journalism.
3
If the Brits intercepted Manafort, then Israel knows all about it. We let the Brits bust it down to metadata, which sounds like that's all the FBI could see. Hey, Israel...
1
They were probably talking about available vacation properties???
Why the heck else would they be talking with Russian Intel.
The were conspiring.
Why the heck else would they be talking with Russian Intel.
The were conspiring.
4
Just look at Pence in the photo. The caption should read, " how soon will I be sitting behind that desk and do I want the gold drapes?" The are surely the basket of deplorables.
7
Where is Joe McCarthy when you need him?
Not just a man but an entire administration and party in need of cleansing. And these guys feigned anger at Hillary's email issues.
The only way I see the Republican party silence about this - it is not ok for a woman to have a fender bender but entirely acceptable for a man, especially a Caucasian man, to wreck an entire highway.
The only way I see the Republican party silence about this - it is not ok for a woman to have a fender bender but entirely acceptable for a man, especially a Caucasian man, to wreck an entire highway.
6
Sally Yates for President '20!
6
Lets just get to the truth of the story. Either Obama was implicit in allowing this, or he was incompetent and could not control his own agencies. So, is he a criminal or incompetent?
3
It is your DUTY to vote every politician from office that will not support an independent investigation into Russian interference in our election system and the President's taxes in relation to this unprecedented interference.
Only a full and truthful accounting to the American people will put this country back on the path to democracy.
Only a full and truthful accounting to the American people will put this country back on the path to democracy.
1
the interference in the election was perpetrated by the DNC and HRC. the Russians only exposed the facts. which, by the way, have never been denied by DNC and HRC.
How does repeated contacts with senior Russian intelligence officers at time of hacking, leaking and propaganda campaign, not constitute evidence of collusion?
5
because there is no evidence to corroborate that conclusion. the article says so repeatedly.
1
Yep. I wish just one of the right wing Trump supporters would come up with an answer about what Trump's buddies were talking to the Russians about.
2
Trump's nice talk about Putin was at the very least a tell of quid pro quo with the Russian government. In return for providing assistance in his campaign to be elected President of the U.S., Trump offered the Russian Government a rather supportive U.S. Presidential Administration in return. Sweet deal for Putin but with the separation of powers and an uncooperative Congress and a high professional bureaucracy of people protected under civil service, not one the could be easily fulfilled by Trump. For once, the Constitution and the founders poke a thumb in eye of one of those who think that they can use them to justify any old thing that they want to do.
1
We need to end this disaster now, before this collection of clowns does serious damage to our country, not to mention the world. House Democrats should demand an independent prosecutor and initiate impeachment proceedings immediately. If the repubes went after Bill Clinton for his little "affair", then these serious breaches of the law, and ethics, demand impeachment.
2
If this had happened to the Obama administration Republicians would be holding hearings from various comittees. Now they are quiet. Trump has pushed the envelope his entire business life. What makes people think he will change now?
3
Yes, yes, yes! Trust me. Look into my eyes. I'm telling you that this is how you make poison bottoms for a walking cane.
4
The GOP is abjectly evil. I don't think in my 52 years on earth I have seen this level of hypocrisy, egotism, and just plain disregard for the future of this country all in the name of power. If this isn't bad enough, Trump is a complete buffoon.
16
This should not be a partisan issue. Perhaps the reason why it is receiving so much press is due to the lack of action on the part of the Legislative, Executive and Judicial branches of government. If there were full non-partisan transparency, we, the public would have confidence in our government. As it stands now, it is only the Fourth Estate that is responding to the public's need to receive accurate information.
7
This is how Watergate started. First an insignificant break-in, then things snowballed, and finally a presidential resignation.
12
Are we really supposed to believe Trump had no clue what was happening with his inner circle, and it was just a coincidence that he rambled on about his love for Putin for no reason other than wanting "closer ties"? This is sickening.
8
So, our Real-Estate-Developer-in-Chief and his crew thought they could take over the U.S. by means of a kind of reverse eminent domain.
(Word to the wise. I worked in a marina for a number of years. No matter how big and groovy you thought your boat was, there was always a bigger vessel waiting to pull into the slip behind you. Let's call that boat The Potemkin or Vlad's Get-Away-With-It. Grab a mop and start swabbing, Mr. Trump.)
(Word to the wise. I worked in a marina for a number of years. No matter how big and groovy you thought your boat was, there was always a bigger vessel waiting to pull into the slip behind you. Let's call that boat The Potemkin or Vlad's Get-Away-With-It. Grab a mop and start swabbing, Mr. Trump.)
6
Why should any of this be a surprise? Though a pathological liar and psychologically damaged persona, Mr. Trump is not much of an actor. He showed us all of his worst traits for 18 months before we elected him. And 60 million of us still voted for him! Sorry my fellow Americans, just like our gun sickness, we have asked for this, we voted for it, we can't take our eyes of it, and we own it. Buckle up. This is going to get very uncomfortable.
9
I think the bigger problem that the NYTimes myopicly REFUSES to analyze and report on is this:
The National Defense Structure has morphed into a Bureaucratic Frankenstein-like creation that does NOTHING to defend the United States and instead devotes its awsome size and power to DESTROYING the Presidency..........
The National Defense Structure has morphed into a Bureaucratic Frankenstein-like creation that does NOTHING to defend the United States and instead devotes its awsome size and power to DESTROYING the Presidency..........
Trump is destroying the presidency. They're trying to save it.
3
Maybe it is the Russians who are leaking this.
2
Picture on top of this article shows a horror picture of an unbelievable cabal of hate, no! and general fear mongering while all the time plotting war so they and their rich friends will profit. Trumpfenokee for sure. Thank Gawd for St. Peter!!
3
This election and government makes story lines from House of Cards and Homeland look limp.
Interestingly in the British system, cabinet would have booted the PM already.
Interestingly in the British system, cabinet would have booted the PM already.
4
Motivations, motivations....did you know that some - maybe 1%? of people have a very strong, life long, taste for drama.
2
Lock him up.
10
"Very unfair the way the fake media has treated Micheal Flynn" — POTUS
Well, that's it. I'm turning off the TV News, Radio, Twitter and Facebook.
This will not end well.
Well, that's it. I'm turning off the TV News, Radio, Twitter and Facebook.
This will not end well.
3
The GOP redefining democracy....essentially eliminating it.
2
Enough Talk....when do "We the People" get to take action? If our representatives won't, how do we get transparent investigations to occur? We can't settle for asking the Republican party nicely, to do so. This exceeds any petty annoyance such as Ivanka's shoes or KellyAnne Conwoman's antics or even the SNL tirades. What is the definitive action the people can take?
2
Isn't it great to know the NYT investigative wing is now awake after eight long years of sleep. It took an election they opposed to wake them up. I don't buy anything this left wing rag writes because they have an AGENDA! This rag is what Trump labels "fake news" and I'm not interested. I hope you lose your minds investigating Trump because you are well on your way to that already.
3
I think we have now just enough circumstantial evidence to treat Trump's refusal to provide his tax papers as far, far more than suspicious; most likely a crime waiting to be uncovered! The question is, why would Trump let this suspicion hang over him if there is no crime? There has to be a crime! Trump is simply refusing to incriminate himself!
3
A message to all those who thought it a good idea to elect Donald Trump: You better hope that the "elites" you so despise can use all their resources and commitment to REAL news, rational questioning, and rooting out the truth to get to the bottom of this.
Are any of you regretting your votes?
Are any of you regretting your votes?
7
“Flynn Was Brought Down by Illegal Leaks to News Media, Trump Says”
Trump is a typical lying sociopath who doesn’t accept responsibility for his own actions, or expect his fellow lowlifes to do so.
Angry deflection, not personal reflection and correction, is the name of the Trump con game.
Trump is a typical lying sociopath who doesn’t accept responsibility for his own actions, or expect his fellow lowlifes to do so.
Angry deflection, not personal reflection and correction, is the name of the Trump con game.
5
Thank God Hillary didn't win. She was part of the administration that gave 20% of our uranium reserves to the Soviets - seems she was already in their pocket.
"There's nothing that would conclude me . . . " (Sean Spicer). Can no one in this administration speak proper English?
4
President Trump is currently saying that the leaks are criminal and should be prosecuted. If he is so certain that none of his campaign staff are on those tapes having conversations with the Russians about defeating Hillary, then he can just order the CIA to release those tapes to the public. No big deal, Mr. Trump, just tell the FBI and the CIA to release all the information on their investigations of you and your campaign staff. That would clear all this up immediately.
6
I am from Germany and I really like the NYT.
9
Of COURSE they colluded. I believe that Trump explicitly called on Russia to hack Hillary - and they did. Our politicians used to be bought and paid for just by good old American billionaires. Now apparently the GOP is happy to be bought and paid for by Russia.
Is America feeling Great about this? I am not
Is America feeling Great about this? I am not
4
It's my guess they were just exchanging recipes for borscht and blini, or else they were trying to hook up with those desperate Russian women from all those spam e-mails.
Seriously, does anyone really think these were "routine" and innocuous chats??
Seriously, does anyone really think these were "routine" and innocuous chats??
10
okay. Everybody's going nuts. if you have the evidence, now is the time.
Every day, Donald is making a bigger mess of the government and of our national image. The sooner we fix this, the better.
Every day, Donald is making a bigger mess of the government and of our national image. The sooner we fix this, the better.
8
Dear NYT, please go after these people again and again. There's clearly something nasty here - and this could be (it already is in many ways) your Watergate. This is so serious of an issue, we have a president and his team sort of under the Russian thumb. They are openly baiting him, knowing they can. Knowing they will not get a nasty surprise from Trump. Because it is clear to my untrained eyes that Russia is the cat here, and we are the mouse at this point.
I want to know the truth - and the nation demands it. And if he is guilty of collusion either directly or by association, I want Trump impeached and gone.
That is accountability.
I want to know the truth - and the nation demands it. And if he is guilty of collusion either directly or by association, I want Trump impeached and gone.
That is accountability.
14
This is frightening. What is happening to my country? Where is the Republican outrage?
11
I'd guess they're waiting for some kind of evidence beyond vague innuendo...
1
Don't expect any outrage from the Republicans. Was there any over Cheney's deletion of 30,000+ emails? Or WMD? Or trumps unsecured twitter acct or cell phone? Bush's pre-emptive multi trillion dollar war? trump's unqualified cabinet including a known racist AG and illiterate Secretary of Education?
2
It's not the Dossier Tea Party that gets me; it's the shares in Russian gas production these bums were promising Trump's handlers after they delivered.
Don't be contented with golden showers. Accordion to that dossier, there is some REALLY dirty bargaining going down in all probability. Trump's retirement planning committee by the Caspian. READ IT. It's not fake; it's likely.
Don't be contented with golden showers. Accordion to that dossier, there is some REALLY dirty bargaining going down in all probability. Trump's retirement planning committee by the Caspian. READ IT. It's not fake; it's likely.
2
2 things are getting lost which are relevant. 1. Eric was interviewed during campaign and said the Trump Organization had a disproportionate amount of debt held by Russian lenders. I Never heard that mentioned since. Both Trump boys met with Russian officials during campaign .There was a picture. follow up on this line would be helpful.Never mentioned. So the family knows the lenders and has big debt. Follow
those threads
those threads
10
Yes Mr. so called president, there was a criminal act that took place when you traded with the enemy. You are the criminal.
9
This is a pretty thin story. Contacts... so? Not aimed at affecting the election?
What is the news? Congressional interest in investigating Flynn? That's a different story, separately reported. Russian hacking? Different story which doesn't quite tie into this one. Investigating the Steele dossier? A very interesting story; one with great potential, but seems to be tangential to this particular story.
What is the news? Congressional interest in investigating Flynn? That's a different story, separately reported. Russian hacking? Different story which doesn't quite tie into this one. Investigating the Steele dossier? A very interesting story; one with great potential, but seems to be tangential to this particular story.
4
Impeachment. He is our Manchurian Candidate. Benghazi,. gitmo. The media helped.
7
The truest thing that ever came out of Trump's mouth was that the election was rigged. Folks.
10
Every fiber of Donald Trump's being is corrupt. Perhaps the Republicans will be able to contain this scandal by being cowards and lying alongside Trump and his thugs, but eventually the dam will burst. The Republicans are morally bankrupt and have no ethical backbone, but no amount of false denials, and bald face lying can obfuscate the blatant Trump malfeasance: it's just a question of time.
7
Any hard evidence of collusion with the ruskies or are we just relying on illegal wire taps, conjecture from unnamed sources, and only part of the conversation being released at this point? I realize we can wire tap anyone we want now if it involves Pres Trump but I don't think you want to go down this rabbit hole of illegal wire tapping anyone you disagree with. If you didn't know, you talk with ambassadors of other countries. I know that's crazy talk but its true. I'll wait on the evidence.
3
Where did the Times get this information, who are the exact sources, is the information backed up with any credibility, or is it like the bogus buzzfeed story from an irreputable former UK intel person? Why is the Times printing articles that come from spurious sources that may have their own political axe to grind? Now we are back to the Russian conspiracy theory? Maybe next week we will be back to the electoral college and voting rolls story again. Keep spinning liberal press and political establishment, until you spin away into deep space.
3
Seven Days in May is nearly upon us. If only our 4th Estate had done its job throughout the entire campaign season; if only there hadn't been a virulent right wing partisan hack heading the FBI - obviously determined to help throw the election to Don the Con, while smearing HRC with specious, warmed-over insinuations about "new emails" - and on and on. This is a tainted election - this is an illegitimate, likely treasonous and criminal POTUS, who has always been unfit to hold this, or any other public office - and the American people are being held hostage by a bunch of hypocritical right wing thugs whose allegiance is to their power and party, not to this nation. We deserve worldwide condemnation, scorn, and far more at this point - I only hope that the voters will toss the entire GOTP out, although their gerrymandering, voter suppression, and other misdeeds will make that exceptionally difficult. There is no leadership on the right - only small minded, venal hacks who care for their pockets and power. Our nation is staggering and the GOTPower uber alles is stalling, parsing, and prevaricating. I have never loathed a party so much in my life. 2/15, 2:27 PM
11
Thank God for the brave members of the intelligence community standing up for America, risking their careers, and protecting us from foreign interference. We certainly cannot rely on the White House or Republicans to do that.
12
Could your next story please include an explanation of what crimes such contacts would constitute, if they are proven to have occurred?
1
May be nothing right? So, let's start with investigations. First, let Treasury release the last 10 years of Trump's taxes to show us Americans that he is not in a financial deal with Russians.
Wait a minute - is that why he cannot sell his assets? How can he sell something that doesn't belong to him but only in name?
Wait a minute - is that why he cannot sell his assets? How can he sell something that doesn't belong to him but only in name?
3
Flynn and the Trump campaign contacted the Russians twice: during the campaign and after the Obama sanctions. But in each case the message was the same: help us get elected and we'll make these sanctions go away. And for that, Trump had to be involved. It might have been his idea. Or maybe he approved it. At the very least he knew about it. Only he can remove sanctions. And that seems to me to be an impeachable offense. But the Right has a majority in the house and the senate and won't investigate or prosecute. Now is when we need the media more than ever. And like everybody else, The Rug has insulted them. If the media gets to the bottom of this, and Trump's administration colluded with the Russians to help him get elected, the people will protest big time. All the checks and balances in our society and government are in place just for a guy like the Rug.
11
It goes w/o saying that if there is any hint at all that Trump told Flynn to speak with Russians, he MUST be impeached AND JAILED. Can we also impeach McConnell, Ryan and the rest of the GOP for just ignoring this. They too are sworn in to protect the Constitution and their behavior over the past month fails to live up to that standard.
14
the commentariat has gone completely around the bend. There is no evidence of any wrongdoing here -- only progressive innuendo. The left badly wants Trump out and will subvert democracy in order to accomplish that end. The only "sin" Flynn committed was not being forthcoming with Pence re the content of his discussion with the Russian ambassador.
So, get over it folks. Trump won't be impeached. He won't resign. He will accomplish a great deal -- some of which you may like -- some you won't.
But don't think your churlish and childish behavior won't come back at you. If you should ever regain the WH, expect the repubs to slow walk, challenge and discredit every nominee for cabinet posts. If the Repubs maintain a majority in the senate and house, then don't expect a single nominee to get through. And you can expect that Repubs will work twice as hard to keep you the out of power party -- of course by playing fair (something dems know nothing about). Good luck with those midterms. It ain't going to happen.
So, get over it folks. Trump won't be impeached. He won't resign. He will accomplish a great deal -- some of which you may like -- some you won't.
But don't think your churlish and childish behavior won't come back at you. If you should ever regain the WH, expect the repubs to slow walk, challenge and discredit every nominee for cabinet posts. If the Repubs maintain a majority in the senate and house, then don't expect a single nominee to get through. And you can expect that Repubs will work twice as hard to keep you the out of power party -- of course by playing fair (something dems know nothing about). Good luck with those midterms. It ain't going to happen.
4
The parallels with Nixon of indignation and denial and the slow accumulation of evidence are unavoidable here. Yes, DT was thuggish and bullying during the campaign, and has remained so in office. But his criminality was never so suspect as now. His "no puppet, no puppet" claim is being refuted daily. Can't wait for the tax returns to be shown. They indeed may tell a different story than he wants to tell about his Russian doings. (As for GOP slow walking the next Dem president, that's what the GOP did to Obama, capped with the theft of a Supreme Court position.)
3
The problem with the Dems is that they haven't quite immersed themselves in the "churlish and childish behavior" of the Republicans, who have perfected victimhood, glory in obstruction and entice the populace by dressing themselves in sheer, sexy hypocrisy. Two words for you Ralphie: Merrick Garland.
Slow walk, indeed.
You and the Republicans have 0 credibility.
And Trump has already accomplished a lot.
The fact is the establishment never invited Trump to a party. So, while trying to climb into the establishment through the window, he's wrecked the joint, turned on the light and laid bare the ugliness of both parties. Problem is, the wannabe that Trump is, he's not busting up the party, he wants to be the DJ. And all the Trumpsters are happy to be the waiters and servants, scooping up their scraps and imagining they're the "in" crowd. Meanwhile, the majority are left out in the cold. Some of us don't want in. Some of us think it's time we actually threw all the rich bums out. That's what Trumpsters don't get. The Dems are so much closer to the majority on the outside. What Trump has done is not destroy the establishment, but expose it---including himself as an integral part. For that, at least, we can all be grateful.
Slow walk, indeed.
You and the Republicans have 0 credibility.
And Trump has already accomplished a lot.
The fact is the establishment never invited Trump to a party. So, while trying to climb into the establishment through the window, he's wrecked the joint, turned on the light and laid bare the ugliness of both parties. Problem is, the wannabe that Trump is, he's not busting up the party, he wants to be the DJ. And all the Trumpsters are happy to be the waiters and servants, scooping up their scraps and imagining they're the "in" crowd. Meanwhile, the majority are left out in the cold. Some of us don't want in. Some of us think it's time we actually threw all the rich bums out. That's what Trumpsters don't get. The Dems are so much closer to the majority on the outside. What Trump has done is not destroy the establishment, but expose it---including himself as an integral part. For that, at least, we can all be grateful.
1
We now have conclusive proof that Trump's campaign was in contact with the Russian government as far back as 2015, and had made it known to the Russians that if they were to win, that they would ease up on sanctions. While we have not as yet turned up any evidence that the Trump campaign actively colluded with the Russians in hacking the DNC, these communications nonetheless show that the Russians were encouraged early on to throw their support behind Trump's candidacy, in clear violation with both the letter and spirit of the Logan Act. How much did Trump know of these communications? If he knew, why did not put a stop to them? These are grounds for impeachment, if nothing else.
16
The Trojan Horse has entered the Whitehouse. GOP is limp and has nothing to say.
10
I may be missing something, but how do we know what Flynn told Pence?
4
yes. pence is no angel.
Trump should resign now and save us all the time and effort to impeach him and also save us the cost of putting him and Flynn away for treason. Pence must also agree to name Bernie or Warren as his VP in a national coalition government. (I can dream can't I)
8
Whoh! Way to dream!! Gloria Steinem says that dreaming is a form of planning.
1
As a veteran I have always tried to live by the Marine Corps motto "Semper Fidelis", (always faithful). But how can I be faithful to an administration that seems to at the very least conspired with a foreign power to subvert democracy.
The Tea Party said they were patriots. Well - now is the time for them and the Republican Congress and President that they helped to elect to prove it.
WE THE PEOPLE need to know what is going on !
The Tea Party said they were patriots. Well - now is the time for them and the Republican Congress and President that they helped to elect to prove it.
WE THE PEOPLE need to know what is going on !
14
I have not felt like this since Watergate.....wondering who is telling the truth, who is trying to cover up and how far up does this go? What is frightening to me is that Jeff Sessions has the lead on this. Republicans may have to decide which is more important, rank and file or preserving our Democracy.
9
Taking tips from Russia on how to run a despotism.
Get ready for a severe police state, Putin style.
Get ready for a severe police state, Putin style.
5
Nixon did everything he could to thwart the peoples efforts to find the truth underlying the Watergate break-in's. Nixon's paranoid "dirty tricks" had a historical precedent: the smearing of Helen Gahagan Douglas during his 1950 Senate run. As a developer, Herr Trump has lied to and smeared more than is fair share of business partners. This same behavior will continue to occur as president. If the Republicans don't realize this by now, they are all fools.
3
Just saw him with israeli Netanyahu. Looked absent, obviously slept bad if not (we know why) what he told was like hi took absolutely no time for preparing something substancial coming out of his mouth, just telling any solution for peace hi agreee and its matter of the 2 israeli and palestina.. No clue.. No interest. Seems likely already given up not any more his job..
4
Give Trump an Emmy and send him back to Celebrity Oblivion. If he isn't corrupt, he is too stupid for leadership. What do they think was discussed with Russia, a recipe for blintzes? If it quacks like a duck, then it is a duck, no matter what spin Fox News or the GOP in Congress want to make you believe. And the collusion of Comey in the election process is a piece of the puzzle. Let's all hate Hillary enough to destroy the country.
4
SCOTUS: The Russians and Trump's team (along with Comey) compromised the USA's electoral process. This makes the presidential (vice presidential) election tainted. It must be voided.
You must call a state of emergency. A new election for president/vice president must be held ASAP.
You must call a state of emergency. A new election for president/vice president must be held ASAP.
4
Keep going NYT!! This is just the tip of the iceberg!
11
NYT alleges numerous Trump Aids had contact with Russians on Front Page story which is repeated by all other leftist media networks. One problem, the story lacks one shred of evidence, facts, or truth that such contacts occurred or what was discussed.
6
Two top-level Trump aides have had to resign because of their Russian connections. Paul Manafort and now Michael Flynn. I'd call that a shred of evidence.
2
Trump and his campaign were engaged in espionage.
Traitors!
Traitors!
6
The art of the deal: "we, Russia, will help you become president and you, once you are, will help us by getting rid of the sanctions."
7
In contact with Russian intelligence, while declining US intelligence briefings.
5
Over 2 years on persecuting Hillary on Benghazi and an email server. This is the reason she lost the election. This guy and his entourage, in bed with the Russians, not a peep from McConnell or Ryan. Corporate tax cuts mean that much to them. Time will how it will affect them.
6
Reading Comprehension is your friend:
American law enforcement and intelligence agencies intercepted the communications around the same time they were discovering evidence that Russia was trying to disrupt the presidential election by hacking into the Democratic National Committee, three of the officials said. The intelligence agencies then sought to learn whether the Trump campaign was colluding with the Russians on the hacking or other efforts to influence the election.
The officials interviewed in recent weeks said that, so far, they had seen no evidence of such cooperation.
American law enforcement and intelligence agencies intercepted the communications around the same time they were discovering evidence that Russia was trying to disrupt the presidential election by hacking into the Democratic National Committee, three of the officials said. The intelligence agencies then sought to learn whether the Trump campaign was colluding with the Russians on the hacking or other efforts to influence the election.
The officials interviewed in recent weeks said that, so far, they had seen no evidence of such cooperation.
1
During the Election Campaign did the trump cabal have discussions with the British Intelligence Community? The German Intelligence Community? How about the French?
Only the Russians?
Why?
Only the Russians?
Why?
5
I'm guessing that Flynnski knew Trumpski's mind and did this on his own, bringing back a bone to his master, who rewarded him with the National Security Advisor position. Flynnski is known for action oriented tactics like this, but not for a strategic overview. Trumpski with his transactional Twitter approach to strategy is the same.
They don't plan, they don't study, they just wing it. Any problems that arise are Fake News or the media's fault.
They don't plan, they don't study, they just wing it. Any problems that arise are Fake News or the media's fault.
4
Sham election, sham outcome, sham appointments.
Redo. Now.
Redo. Now.
7
I declare the 2016 Presidential Election NULL AND VOID.
7
This hackneyed Cold War chestnut about a Red Scare and the evil Russians was old when McCarthy was still peddling it.
Ironic that self described "Progressives" have disinterred it 60 odd years later.
The sudden sanctity and infallibility imputed to the FBI and CIA by the Democratic Party and their servant media is laughable. The same FBI that made obstacles for Civil RIghts and Voting Rights, and harassed and sought to blackmail Martin Luther King, Jr? the FBI that asserted there is no Mafia?
The same CIA that got everything wrong since the 1940's, and are always caught on the wrong foot with their trousers down? And all anonymous leaks.
Where are the conversations about the content of the DNC e-mails?
And this morning we have MPR trying to catch up with social media and just discovering Twitter because Trump is reaching over the media to communicate. Brian Lehrer himself celebrated a song calling for "lawyers, GUNS, and money" to ridicule the president.
The Establishment is finding it so very hard to lose privileges.
Ironic that self described "Progressives" have disinterred it 60 odd years later.
The sudden sanctity and infallibility imputed to the FBI and CIA by the Democratic Party and their servant media is laughable. The same FBI that made obstacles for Civil RIghts and Voting Rights, and harassed and sought to blackmail Martin Luther King, Jr? the FBI that asserted there is no Mafia?
The same CIA that got everything wrong since the 1940's, and are always caught on the wrong foot with their trousers down? And all anonymous leaks.
Where are the conversations about the content of the DNC e-mails?
And this morning we have MPR trying to catch up with social media and just discovering Twitter because Trump is reaching over the media to communicate. Brian Lehrer himself celebrated a song calling for "lawyers, GUNS, and money" to ridicule the president.
The Establishment is finding it so very hard to lose privileges.
5
Release the transcripts of the conversations.
Considering the fact that the intelligence agencies are leaking details from conversations of private US citizens (without a warrant) to the media, I think releasing the full transcripts for public review is a lot better than the innuendo that the conversations were nefarious.
Considering the fact that the intelligence agencies are leaking details from conversations of private US citizens (without a warrant) to the media, I think releasing the full transcripts for public review is a lot better than the innuendo that the conversations were nefarious.
4
Except that the TARGETS of the intelligence gathering were Russians, not US citizens. Why is this SOOO difficult for people to comprehend. In reviewing those recorded phone conversations of Russian officials, including the Russian Ambassador to the U.S., the US intelligence services discovered phone conversations the ambassador had with General Flynn. They were concerned enough to take their finding to the appropriate individuals, including the acting AG and FBI Director Comey.
Same with the communications between the Trump campaign and Russian intelligence. Discovered while looking at something else. I'm sure those in the intelligence services are careful when using the description "Russian intelligence" and not mean Russian businessmen.
US intelligence services have been given the power to monitor the communications of foreign agents, especially those not particularly friendly to us. If a US citizen stupidly makes calls like Flynn did, they should expect someone is there to listen...to the other guy...not them.
Lesson, be careful who you call and what you discuss with them. THEY may be tapped, especially if they are representatives of the Russian government.
Same with the communications between the Trump campaign and Russian intelligence. Discovered while looking at something else. I'm sure those in the intelligence services are careful when using the description "Russian intelligence" and not mean Russian businessmen.
US intelligence services have been given the power to monitor the communications of foreign agents, especially those not particularly friendly to us. If a US citizen stupidly makes calls like Flynn did, they should expect someone is there to listen...to the other guy...not them.
Lesson, be careful who you call and what you discuss with them. THEY may be tapped, especially if they are representatives of the Russian government.
Nobody is providing any details about what was discussed or who discussed it.No names of the current or former officials who leaked this either. Those officials are not revealing the details because of the on going investigation. If on going investigation is the reason behind not revealing the facts, shouldn't NYT wait till all facts are out before making such sensational claims? I hope NYT is not competing with Breitbart.
2
The Republican Party pretends to be honorable and patriotic but after all the lies, cover ups and underhanded dealings with the Russians, it might be more honest if they admitted that in reality they are the American fascist party, That at least would honest.
6
By now we should all be aware;
Mike the Eagle has talked to the Bear.
The result of his calls
Has us all by the balls
And ignited a brand new Red Scare!
Mike the Eagle has talked to the Bear.
The result of his calls
Has us all by the balls
And ignited a brand new Red Scare!
3
Evidently my comment congratulating the Times on waking up their investigative journalists after eight long years must not have made the cut. lol
Wow! It's the End of the World again, just like yesterday and pretty much every day since November 8. And, in other news, the Dow is reaching yet another all-time high today, just like yesterday and pretty much every day since November 8.
5
I like the way my portfolio is performing as well, but what on earth does it have to do with collusion between the administration and Russian intelligence services?
2
We certainly not count on Comey to conduct an investigation of this scandal. He is going to be laser-focused on finding the leaks!
5
Many Australians and no doubt people from other Allied nations read these articles with a great level of concern. Concern for the well being of the USA but also for the rest of the world. This executive team is drowning in its own inexperience and stupidity led by a man who appears to have a narcissistic personality disorder. I question whether this team (or this individual) will have the capacity to act professionally and appropriately if a significant crisis should occur.
6
Republicans, now is the time for all good men to come to the aid of their country.
Do the right thing. Investigate a palpable threat to our democracy. Do it fairly, do it immediately, and do it thoroughly.
Do the right thing. Investigate a palpable threat to our democracy. Do it fairly, do it immediately, and do it thoroughly.
6
Didn't we all expect the Trump administration to come tumbling down some day. Just not from actions committed before, during and after the election.
4
Northern neighbour looking in here...
Your country has had problems in the past, as have all great nations. You will figure it out, though there will be a lot of pain.
Your country has had problems in the past, as have all great nations. You will figure it out, though there will be a lot of pain.
2
I am still not sure what the negative significance of this all is.
3
Maybe the old swamp isn't as bad as we thought?
5
Never thought I'd give up my subscription to the NYT but this out and out vengeful, vitriolic action on the part of the media together with Obama behind the scenes, to get Trump out of office at any cost is crfiminal. It is polluting the minds of those of you who did not read the 3rd column of this article which says "..there is no evidence..." And you probably do not read the very intelligent articles by the Hoover Institute, Weekly StandardI to balance out your understanding of the facts. I did not vote for either candidate but was willing to give whomever won a chance; Democrats will not do this with its media accomplices will not stop until they hound Trump out of office with lies, fake news and any other means available.
6
I don't believe that you ever read the NYT or any other reputable news source.
1
This means that Obama administration spied on Trump members during the election then illegally leaked it to the public to serve their purposes after their party dropped the ball in the election. NOTHING to see here.
When Russia is said to selectively leak info it is act of war! When democrat hacks in NSA/FBI/CIA do the SAME thing it is patriotism!?!
When Russia is said to selectively leak info it is act of war! When democrat hacks in NSA/FBI/CIA do the SAME thing it is patriotism!?!
3
Wrong again. They were spying on the Russian ambassador. No American civilian had any reason to independently contact them. But Flynn, one of Trump's right hand men, did. And now he has been stripped of his power. The same will happen to all of those who illegally collude with our enemies.
3
A light-bulb lit. Photographs of Mr. Trump pretending with a dead telephone in the Oval Office surrounded by subordinates holding pencils and papers remind of the emperor of North Korea surrounded by subordinates holding pencils and papers. The difference is the North Koreans chuckle on occasion. Mr. Trump omits the chuckles but otherwise mimics Kim's entourage.
2
Drip drip drip...just like watergate. It is peculiar that everything and everyone gets criticized except Russia. I am beginning to believe there is something being held over Trump's head. Maybe a shower nozzle.
6
The problem is I do not believe the New York Times or the Intel Community. Would they lie? Yes, they would. Would the intel agencies illegally eavesdrop on the president of the US and then leak that classified info to the media? Yes, they did that yesterday.
This is the problem with the level of hysteria and lies going on. There is no longer an objective truth. I
I would vote for Trump again today after reading this article because I think it is a lie.
This is the problem with the level of hysteria and lies going on. There is no longer an objective truth. I
I would vote for Trump again today after reading this article because I think it is a lie.
4
You choose to believe what suits your worldview. Try using objective standards and use critical inquiry tools to make an educated assessment -- not your gut. Be willing to be wrong.
1
Then why would Flynn resign if these assertions were not true? Your theory does not make sense
1
Why believe anything Trump tells us? The intel community have voice recordings and transcripts.
1
Wow! A potential traitor in the White House. Who needs another Netflix original series when we have this unfolding spectacle to keep us entertained, and horrified. Interesting times, indeed.
5
Right, and now we are supposed to believe that the FBI, who made the decision to put Trump in the White House, knowing about all those contacts with Russia, will be able to investigate the campaign contacts with Russian agents. Give me a break. The FBI is so politicized that their credibility is zero. Comey ruled against multiple senior advisers to discredit Clinton, breaking every policy rule about staying non-political especially near a national presidential election. He had nothing, but knew he was tilting the election. Now his FBI will 'uncover' these contacts. Right. Expect crickets.
5
Since the Trump campaign and administration is populated with successful business people, and not career politicians, it seems plausible that these people would have business contacts in countries around the world, including Russia. As Paul Manafort said its not that people wear tags saying I Am A Spy.
Seems to me this is just an opposition media witch hunt being fueled by career Washington insiders worried about losing their jobs, like the former acting attorney general.
I do not believe patriotism has anything to do with these leaks.
Seems to me this is just an opposition media witch hunt being fueled by career Washington insiders worried about losing their jobs, like the former acting attorney general.
I do not believe patriotism has anything to do with these leaks.
4
"Gilday"--when private citizens deal with a foreign power, they need to clear this with the US government. That is the law. When a foreign power does favors for private citizens, this needs to be investigated. Trump and co. want to stop all of these investigations since they know they will be investigated and possibly indicted. This is a national security issue.
1
Witch hunt - really? We had decades of silly and at times execrable innuendo concerning Hillary. Forget fire there was never even smoke. We had investigations and trials in the press which came to naught. Now we have the intelligence services of our principal strategic adversary attempting to manipulate our electoral process and further causing disarray in the Executive branch including trying to compromise the head of the NSC! I really hope you're not a fireman.
1
Sally Yates, 2020. Who's with me?
4
I think Yates is a very good public servant but people have to stop trying to hand out the presidency like it's some kind of trophy just because a person does or says something they approve of.
When is someone in the spotlight going to say "treason." It seems absolutely obvious to this reader that, when an American citizen (especially one seeking high office) either directly or indirectly (through surrogates) enlists the assistance of a foreign power (especially an adversarial nuclear-armed power) or remains silent knowing that such a power is engaged in surreptitious efforts to affect our electoral process is, virtually by definition, treasonous behavior. Russia is -- again, virtually by definition -- an "enemy" as contemplated in the operative statute (18 USC 2381) precisely because its intelligence services were attempting to affect (and may have succeeded) our Presidential election. If this does;t constitute a "high crime or misdemeanor" requisite to impeachment, then Article 2, Section 4 is a dead letter. If a Republican-dominated House saw fit to impeach President Clinton for lying under oath about a consensual sexual act, every American should be aghast that Paul Ryan wouldn't demand impeachment articles for a potentially treasonous collaboration with a foreign power.
7
If there was substance behind Trump/Russian collision claims, Obama would have been all over it.
Obama attempted to find such evidence to void the election.
There was no evidence.
Obama attempted to find such evidence to void the election.
There was no evidence.
3
So now Flynn who blabbered about lifting sanctions with a foreign government and who Trump says had "eroded trust" is some kind of vicim over at Fox? Figures.
Why not just call Brietbart and the white nationalist press the Victim Press. This is totally absurd that choosing a campaign strategy of getting in cahoots with Russian Intel makes you a victim when your little plan blows up in your face.
Why not just call Brietbart and the white nationalist press the Victim Press. This is totally absurd that choosing a campaign strategy of getting in cahoots with Russian Intel makes you a victim when your little plan blows up in your face.
4
' “There’s nothing that would conclude me that anything different has changed with respect to that time period,” Mr. Spicer said in response to a question. '
Does he mean "convince me"?!
Does he mean "convince me"?!
2
As William Jefferson Clinton had so aptly said 20 years earlier. "it's the economy stupid!" It will not matter if Trump spoke with Stalin's ghost if jobs appear and the economy improves. Trump will be easily re-elected. If the economy tanks, he will be history.
Expecting a party in control of Congress to impeach a president from the same party is wishful thinking, and in this age, beyond unlikely. Trump will sink or swim depending on how the economy performs.
Expecting a party in control of Congress to impeach a president from the same party is wishful thinking, and in this age, beyond unlikely. Trump will sink or swim depending on how the economy performs.
2
I'm REALLY getting tired of the posters here (obvious Trump supporters) alleging that the act of leaking is worse than anything that was actually leaked.
Sure, if that makes you feel better.
Sure, if that makes you feel better.
7
If that's so then you should be equally glad the DNC was hacked.
4
And wasn't it Trump and his supporters who said we should all overlook the illegality of the DNC hacks and focus on the content?
2
If Russia is considered our adversary, why was it in order for Mr. Michael Flynn to have visited Russia? He had met with the Russian President. Mr.. Flynn had previously held a responsible position in the US armed forces, and later worked in the US Intelligence Services.
No one asked any questions then. Perhaps, Flynn visited Russia as a civilian and had the right to do so.
Why is anyone not asking questions about Mr. Flynn's past connections to Russia? This is all very puzzling.
No one asked any questions then. Perhaps, Flynn visited Russia as a civilian and had the right to do so.
Why is anyone not asking questions about Mr. Flynn's past connections to Russia? This is all very puzzling.
3
Assuming this trail leads to where it seems to be leading - that the Trump Campaign broke laws at the level of "high crimes" to win the election - then the only remedy is for the Supreme Court to award the Presidency to Hillary Clinton, who won the popular vote. In no way, shape or form should the party whose candidate engaged in such activities still be able to hold the White House. I'll not be satisfied with a President Pence or a President Ryan. The entire GOP must pay for this. There is no way the GOP should be able to keep the Presidency if true. And the American people deserve to have the person their popular vote selected in the White House. No other remedy will suffice. Such a result would indeed by unprecedented (though there have been similar remedies in state elections) but so are the crimes and resulting charges that very well could be the result of these investigations. Not to mention the fact that they were deliberately engaged in to alter the election results in the first place.
2
ig-no-rant
adjective: ignorant
Lacking knowledge or awareness in general; uneducated or unsophisticated.
stu-pid
adjective
Having or showing a great lack of intelligence or common sense.
Perhaps this is the problem with Trump and his administration. This is serious, not funny. What will it take to get the GOP to act? This is outright dangerous.
adjective: ignorant
Lacking knowledge or awareness in general; uneducated or unsophisticated.
stu-pid
adjective
Having or showing a great lack of intelligence or common sense.
Perhaps this is the problem with Trump and his administration. This is serious, not funny. What will it take to get the GOP to act? This is outright dangerous.
2
It is time for him to go. And I am not talking about Flynn.
3
I want peace and prosperity, so I'd have been in touch with the Russians too. Our country needs them far more than they need us.
1
The Russians have nothing that we need. They live in a failing country with failing leadership. They have over-exploited all of their natural resources and have nothing to give anyone.
3
How exactly will a country run by a murderous thug help make us more peaceful and prosperous?
2
@ Ben - well, according to a 2013 NYT article Russia has a burgeoning middle class, and, doubtless of great interest to Wall Street, most Russians own their homes.
Bet they can't wait to get into that market to offer home equity loans the way they did here in the 1990's:
http://www.nytimes.com/2013/01/02/business/global/with-a-mall-boom-in-ru...
Bet they can't wait to get into that market to offer home equity loans the way they did here in the 1990's:
http://www.nytimes.com/2013/01/02/business/global/with-a-mall-boom-in-ru...
The first step should be easy and bi partisan.
Drag these individuals in front of senate committees, put them under oath, grill them Benghazi-style and lock in their stories.
If it really is no big deal as Trump supporters, the administration and Congress are claiming then they should have no problem telling the truth. The GOP should want this too so we can move past this scandal.
If they are lying, charge them with perjury at least and remove them from their posts. If found guilty of high treason, "Lock em up!"
Drag these individuals in front of senate committees, put them under oath, grill them Benghazi-style and lock in their stories.
If it really is no big deal as Trump supporters, the administration and Congress are claiming then they should have no problem telling the truth. The GOP should want this too so we can move past this scandal.
If they are lying, charge them with perjury at least and remove them from their posts. If found guilty of high treason, "Lock em up!"
3
We need to get his guy out of office now. He's a danger to himself and to the future of this country. Don't the Republicans have ANY decency left among them? Not even one?
3
Since whatever I post in the Times' comment section makes no difference to the fate of the world, I have started doing what I should have done for years: writing and calling my Senators and Members of Congress. It's doubtful I will ever hear from them, since all but Sherrod Brown is a Republican, but I at least want my displeasure as a constituent to be on the record.
Perhaps if everyone who comments here were to do the same, our combined voices might get through. My message this week is a request to call my elected representatives to press for a thorough investigation of the Trump Administration's ties to Russia.
Not too much to ask, don't you think?
Perhaps if everyone who comments here were to do the same, our combined voices might get through. My message this week is a request to call my elected representatives to press for a thorough investigation of the Trump Administration's ties to Russia.
Not too much to ask, don't you think?
called - but my congressionman is a member of the GOP so I hardly think it will matter but my displeasure should be in the record
This is outrageous. No evidence that there was any collusion between Trump and the Russians, but here we are, BLATANT collusion between the New York Times and the spy services. Not only is this illegal, it is Stalinesque. Every American citizen should be concerned about these soviet style subversive tactics.
2
Maybe 1 percent of commenters appear to get this.
Many more want to charge Trump et al with treason biased on evidence that does not exist, according to the experts cited in this story.
Those things are truly scary to me.
Many more want to charge Trump et al with treason biased on evidence that does not exist, according to the experts cited in this story.
Those things are truly scary to me.
1
Stalin made up news and changed the facts. The Times brought facts to light. Learn the difference.
1
These NYT articles are beginning to read like a juicy Robert Ludlum, John LeCarre, or Ken Follett spy novel. If only I WAS reading good fiction instead of terrifying nonfiction which continues to unfold with each passing day.
I voted for Donald Trump and yes, I bought into his message. Do not think I don't regret making that decision every day of my life. I can only hope that Senate and Congressional hearings will begin immediately and that impeachment for that entire Administration soon follows. I sincerely apologize for making such a grave mistake.
3
"How fortunate for the government that the people do not think".....A. Hitler
2
"The officials interviewed in recent weeks said that, so far, they had seen no evidence of such cooperation" (re colluding with the Russians on the hacking or other efforts to influence the election). I am sorry to be sufficiently cynical to say that so far I see no evidence to believe that we have heard the last word on the possibility of such cooperation. If that's not what they were discussing, then what was the topic of their conversations? Recipes for pashka and borshch?
Let them prove there's no evidence? Orwell would be so proud. Stalin too.
1
There needs to be more than this to call for impeachment or to conclude there was collusion. But it is time to see those tax returns.
2
Dear Hillary, I know you're feeling giddy inside. Please tweet your outrage.. you have nothing to lose.
The first picture is the best: a pack of mediocrities and crooks being watched over by Andrew Jackson.
1
Tell Putie that Donald assures him that he'll take care of the sanctions after his yuge, record breaking inauguration.
1
Seems to me the bigger story here is U.S. Intelligence spying on U.S. citizens communications.
2
When U.S. citizens pal around with adversaries they should be spied on. I can't believe that you need to have that explained to you.
2
The communication in question came to light due to surveillance of the Russian ambassador. He is not, to my knowledge, an American citizen.
2
No, if Trump's people were more informed they would have known, as does most everyone else, that Russian operatives are monitored thus if they have contact with them they're monitored, too.
2
The real question: Why does Trump, who has insulted practically every world leader, defends Putin even when Putin kills civilians and breaks missile treaties? What does Putin have on him?
1
Follow the money. Subpoena his tax returns. LET'S GO.
4
History may record this as the first true 'Failed Presidency', owing to the profound level of deceit practiced at all levels of the Trump machine, and to the blatant profusion of "fake news" propaganda released by Trump's manipulators, including over 1,000 hackers employed during Russian covert operations to influence the US election process (by manipulating US public opinion with false information) on an ongoing basis.
I personally was involved in uncovering a completely fake web site which was set up pretending to actually be the Huffington Post site, and which, during and before June 2016's important state primaries, spread harmful and false information about Hillary Clinton's campaign. When I noticed some technical anomalies in the site's URL address, I reported my finding to HuffPost, and soon afterwards, its cover having been 'blown' by myself and perhaps others, the web site came down. I was working as a citizen activist promoting Bernie Sanders at the time.
I personally was involved in uncovering a completely fake web site which was set up pretending to actually be the Huffington Post site, and which, during and before June 2016's important state primaries, spread harmful and false information about Hillary Clinton's campaign. When I noticed some technical anomalies in the site's URL address, I reported my finding to HuffPost, and soon afterwards, its cover having been 'blown' by myself and perhaps others, the web site came down. I was working as a citizen activist promoting Bernie Sanders at the time.
2
This is like a bad spy movie.
2
We should all be horrified; we should all be angry. It shouldn't matter what political party we are. We are all USA citizens and this is scary. What is happening to our government and our democracy? We are all being played here.
2
I want the NYTimes to publish a timeline of ALL interactions that Trump has had with Russians both here (bankers, residents of Trump buildings) and abroad since he dreamt of building a Trump Tower in the shadow of the Kremlin. Also, am amazed that more attention isn't being paid to the sweetheart deal for Exxon/Putin and Trump (though undoubtedly hidden behind many shadow entities) once sanctions are lifted allowing EXXON to begin new explorations in the richest and largest field yet discovered. Check Rachel Maddow about a month ago. Michael Flynn, methinks, was just an errand boy for a man whose ostensible ten billion looks like peanuts compared to what Putin has acquired.
2
Perhaps if there re to be charges, or vice versa, they will be announced. Comey like to make announcements right?
1
From the get-go, I have questioned how is it not treason when a presidential aspirant invites the Russians to release his opponent's emails which they obtained via a cyber attack on our Nation. This so-called president needs to go to jail.
4
Collusion is treason.
When the links are connected, the walls are going to come tumbling down.
How much you want to bet there's antacid in a drawer, not far out of reach.
Is Trump a Tums guy or a Rolaids guy? Maybe he goes for something a little stronger.
When the links are connected, the walls are going to come tumbling down.
How much you want to bet there's antacid in a drawer, not far out of reach.
Is Trump a Tums guy or a Rolaids guy? Maybe he goes for something a little stronger.
1
Colluded with Russia on the hacking of the Democratic National Committee or to influence the election.
Weren't the gop involved in a break-in at the Democratic National Committee headquarters some decades back?
Seems like some things never change.
Weren't the gop involved in a break-in at the Democratic National Committee headquarters some decades back?
Seems like some things never change.
1
All I read was we have some sources that said some stuff they havent been able to prove yet. Then they bring up the Dossier that was proven to be fake 3 weeks ago, none of the sources or supposed proof can be found. Yet here they are bringing it back up with words like possible corroboration and maybe shows proof of.
DO your jobs and get real sources, then give us a real story.
DO your jobs and get real sources, then give us a real story.
2
No actual evidence of law-breaking and an inflammatory headline.... I smell fake news. Honestly, the media is so busy flipping it's lid over the fact that Trump won it'll post anything to undermine his presidency whether factual or not. Making mountains out of molehills after years of silence on the corruption during the Obama Administration screams petty hypocrisy. I don't like everything Trump has said or done either, but really this is just pathetic. :/
2
They did in fact have repeated contact--what exactly is fake about that?
Someday, sanity may reemerge and a sense of shared national responsibility might be possible. But until then, it seems as though anything goes. And with that being the national ethos, anything might happen. ANYTHING...and that is existentially scary.