What's the going price for loyalty today?
Every President brings in people that have been with them since the campaign, and are Loyal. But they also bring in people with expierence. It's a big job being President of the United States. You need people that can handle the unexpected when it comes up, and it Always does.
2
The lawyer isn't the major contact on Jewish relations; Mr. Trump's son-in-law, Jared, is. Previous executives have hired "experienced" people - no reason for Mr. Trump to follow suit, especially where those he sees daily matter. He should feel comfortable in his office.
Trump listening to his Russian minions.
The Great Purge was a campaign of political repression in the Soviet Union which occurred from 1936 to 1938. It involved a large-scale purge of government officials, repression of peasants and the Red Army leadership, and widespread police surveillance, suspicion of "saboteurs", imprisonment, and arbitrary executions.
The Great Purge was a campaign of political repression in the Soviet Union which occurred from 1936 to 1938. It involved a large-scale purge of government officials, repression of peasants and the Red Army leadership, and widespread police surveillance, suspicion of "saboteurs", imprisonment, and arbitrary executions.
2
The so-called POTUS is a coward and bully. He fears dissent and anyone revealing what a little man he is, and how little he knows about anything except making money, which, is not a measure of intelligence...ever. He is no different than other dictators who live in fear, surrounded by blood relatives and other sycophants who will not challenge his authority, and others who successfully manipulate him for their own advantage by flattering and distraction...Bannon & Pence. This regime is the laughing stock of the world and a danger to our democracy.
1
I am not willing to let them off the hook, when a Democrat makes a error or poor choice, we are involved in a conspiracy to take down the country. The result we are seeing is anarchy with a capitalist bent, a brake down of society, culture and government. That is the intent and they are wildly successful at implementing it.
3
Garbage in, garbage out at the expense of our children, our country, the world.
From Harry Nilsson's great album "The Point": "You hear what you want to hear, You see what you want to see". Lest he have any conflict, Mr. Trump chooses loyal "Yes Men/Fall Guys" who will limit his real-world view - regardless of possible catastrophic outcome.
1
It's clear that Mr. Trump puts his own needs before the country's.
Moreover, it's obvious that individual with the least relevant experience is Trump himself.
He is incapable of acting as public servant, and sacrificing the 'self' for the 'greater good'. He's never had to do that, dedicating his entire adult life to enriching himself above all others.
He surrounds himself with individuals that share the 'me first' world view which is antithetical to public service
Moreover, it's obvious that individual with the least relevant experience is Trump himself.
He is incapable of acting as public servant, and sacrificing the 'self' for the 'greater good'. He's never had to do that, dedicating his entire adult life to enriching himself above all others.
He surrounds himself with individuals that share the 'me first' world view which is antithetical to public service
1
It really doesn't matter what Trump says or does, he is clueless and incompetent. When will the Republicans wake up to the fact that the country will soon be in ruins if he continues. In four years the hurricane he has brought upon us will be irreparable.
4
Running the White House like a small family business is not going to work. It's already not working. By November 2018, the prospect of the Republicans retaining control of the House will be so unlikely, that the so-called president will resign rather than face inevitable impeachment. Then the whole sorry, sordid charade will end.
2
Prizing loyalty over proficiency is a mistake, but making loyalty the absolute minimum for consideration, then assessing proficiency is smart.
Nothing good will happen when an international crisis occurs and this crew is in charge. Our best hope is that they would have the humility to listen to seasoned staff, mouth words, and smile at the camera.
Humility is in short supply these days, on all sides.
Humility is in short supply these days, on all sides.
2
Finally, after 8 years, a friend in the White House.
3
Trump, the ultimate incompetent and poster child for the Peter Principal, values blind allegiance over qualification. He is all hat and no cowboy like all of his sock puppets with the exception of Mattis, Kelly and McMasters - all men who have served in the military unlike draft-dodger Trump.
10
So if Trump says that he's the only one who knows that Omorosa is a nice person and Trump is known to be a multi-tasking liar, can we assume that: 1/ Omorosa is not a nice person?; 2/everyone knows that she's not a nice person?; 3/he thinks she's a nice person and he thinks that no one else knows it because everybody else knows that they're both terrible people and no one will tell either of them that because they both think they're really, really nice people whom other people just don't like very much?
11
as has amply been observed and documented since the election, expertise for a job in the Trump administration ( as for example the case is for Betsy Devoss in the dept. of ed., or Scott Pruitt as the head of the EPA, or steve Banonon, just to name a few), is far from required. to the contrary. if that were the case merely for picking out candidates for the trump organization, that would have been one thing. the scandal, and the REAL concern is that this is our lives we're taking about here : our healthcare; our environment, everything which make us who & what we are. you just try getting a responsible job as say, a medical Dr, or a welder, or a janitor : " previous experience needed" you'r told. not with Trump.
what do the Republicans in congress think when they approve all these ill- prepared / unprepared individuals to run our lives ? what do the Democrats think when they willy - nilly let these scandalous nominations sail through ?!
don't they need to protect us, and get some of the best brains for the job ?!
this situation will apparently be changed when the inevitable various catastrophes ( resulting from inexperience or poor ideology) will start happening.
we deserve what we allow to run our lives.
what do the Republicans in congress think when they approve all these ill- prepared / unprepared individuals to run our lives ? what do the Democrats think when they willy - nilly let these scandalous nominations sail through ?!
don't they need to protect us, and get some of the best brains for the job ?!
this situation will apparently be changed when the inevitable various catastrophes ( resulting from inexperience or poor ideology) will start happening.
we deserve what we allow to run our lives.
1
I am horrified that the envoy to the Middle East does not even realize what a simpleton he seems when admitting he is driven by AIPIC and internet memes. The implications for our foreign policy and the safety of that region are beyond comprehension.
4
There is "no loyalty among thieves" especially if they are placed in positions of power. If King Trump wants to see which of his "comrades" he can trust to do the job, he better not hold his breath. While he is waiting, we better watch our flanks, there is an enemy out there waiting for their "casting call".
2
His enemy is named Pence. Mike Pence.
Loyalty alone cannot replace incompetence; and incompetence breeds corruption; and corruption is contagious, trumping any residual trust in the very institutions charged to impart justice, and results. Trump has surrounded himself with yes- folks, not expected nor allowed to think for themselves nor think different from their clueless boss, a boss unwilling to tolerate anybody else subtracting, giving shadow, to his inflated ego. With this cadre of incompetent misfits, should we expect anything but misery and despair? Who said Populism is not in a dead spiral...for its inability to fulfill its promises?
3
A complete disgrace to the citizens of the United States. #Failing Trump Administration. Much more than sad.
2
I thought I was reading an article on how our president ( I'm from a country in Africa ) nominated the members of its cabinet ! Then there are the names mentioned in the article and its an article about the American government ???
3
The real problem for President Trump valuing loyalty over anything else is that his life experience has been a small family business, regardless of how much money was involved.
He simply does not have a large circle of people who would be loyal to him personally. They may be loyal to the deal or to the money, but not to him.
What made Businessman Trump successful was not loyalty to people, but to the deal. He can except nothing more now from those he hires.
He simply does not have a large circle of people who would be loyal to him personally. They may be loyal to the deal or to the money, but not to him.
What made Businessman Trump successful was not loyalty to people, but to the deal. He can except nothing more now from those he hires.
5
This is a very toxic swamp at a very dangerous time. North Korea it flexing its muscles, Europe if facing challenges and Russia is moving its boarders. This is the worse time for those with little training and understanding to lead our country. Those of us with teenaged sons and daughters should be very concerned.
8
These people aren't even "Double A" ballplayers now playing in the World Series. I would call this a joke, but it isn't funny. The future of our country is at stake. I worked in business for many decades, and I have met successful people running a family business. Loyalty and family trump (sic) competence and experience in that environment. But when the patriarch dies or retires, everything collapses. Unfortunately you can't do this on the scale of the U.S. government. We are headed for a disaster.
10
25th amendment => self preservation.
4
I have the feeling that the current Trump show will end with Priebus, Spicer, Conway and Manigault all writing books exposing the massive amount of pettiness and ignorance in this presidency.
11
"Loyalty over experience" is a key part of Trump's kleptocracy. How can his family maintain its looting if someone competent or ethical gets in the way?
9
Trump and his cronies ran nothing more than a lean family business with large revenue. You can tell that their world is very small and their successes limited. As Warren Buffett noted, Trump would have been richer if he had simply dumped his inheritance into a stock index fund.
To the highly qualified career government employees who must endure these jokers, I implore you to try and stay on the job while we work to end this national nightmare. We need you. Please recognize that America has made a huge mistake. Hang in there.
To the highly qualified career government employees who must endure these jokers, I implore you to try and stay on the job while we work to end this national nightmare. We need you. Please recognize that America has made a huge mistake. Hang in there.
14
Is this really any surprise? A reality show host was elected president. Listen to his simplistic one-liners:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D49XA8c761o
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D49XA8c761o
4
This whole thing would be less of a problem of Mr. Trump had both more qualified and more numerous friends. The second of which seems a life-long dilemma for someone who seems rather less concerned with intimacy and more interested in money and power.
6
"Mr. Schiller is now the director of Oval Office operations, controlling physical access to a president whose whims and frustrations routinely send aides throughout the building scurrying to deflect, defend and justify."
My guess is you can add 'genuflect' to the above quote.
My guess is you can add 'genuflect' to the above quote.
6
It's The Simpson's version of the American Dream isn't it? You too can be president (or his assistant) if you are an incompetent sycophant.
6
Every day a new story on how scary the Trump administration really is.
9
The willingness to even take a job in the Trump Whitehouse or anywhere in a Trump administrations should be an automatic disqualifier for having the job. It demonstrates a gross lack of judgment, morality, intelligence, and integrity.
8
Trump/Kushner/Schiller/Giuliani/Flynn where'd Kerik go? As a Republican he's got real values, he's an advocate for national criminal justice reform. Besides, he don't work with the Russians.
No scientists?
7
I recall one Saturday night working in the ER of the second largest hospital in a major Australian city. The Registrar (4 years out of Med school) was boss, I was 2IC (2 years out of Med school), and the intern (1 year out) was the remainder. I shuddered at the realisation that experienced family physicians were referring their patients to us, the tertiary institution where all the bucks are supposed to stop. Fortunately, no major cases presented that night.
Reading this article outlining the Trump kakistocracy evokes that same shudder. Let's just hope no major cases present during this shift.
Reading this article outlining the Trump kakistocracy evokes that same shudder. Let's just hope no major cases present during this shift.
6
I've worked in a large 500 Fortune country. After a generation of 3 family CEOs since its foundation, it was obvious the newly minted son was not "it" and wasn't keeping up with the business. The family was smart enough to bring in an outsider to run it; in a short period of time the company was back on track and performing great in the stock exchange.
Expertise, IQ and vision are more important than loyalty or family ties. Sadly I haven't seen any of this administration's appointees having an inspiring vision nor real knowledge of what their roles are.
Expertise, IQ and vision are more important than loyalty or family ties. Sadly I haven't seen any of this administration's appointees having an inspiring vision nor real knowledge of what their roles are.
8
Experience wasn't a prerequisite for the White House when Obama was elected in 2008. He was three years removed from his "community organizer" job at the time of his election. Funny enough, there wasn't a story about this from the NYT.
4
Obama was a lawyer, a Law professor for a decade, a state senator and a US senator.
Get off Breitbart
Get off Breitbart
9
...And yet he surrounded himself with tremendously competent and experienced people.
I knew that many of our President's fanatical supporters were reality averse, but get real and admit that there is no valid comparison here.
I knew that many of our President's fanatical supporters were reality averse, but get real and admit that there is no valid comparison here.
5
There were many stories about his relative lack of experience, particularly in comparison with HRC (then the presumptive nominee). The difference is that Mr. Obama kept on or brought in "adults" who could effectively advise in areas (foreign policy) where he was admittedly inexperienced. One can argue that his foreign policy was feckless and ineffectual but at least the people involved were somewhat credible both at home and abroad. That is simply not the case in the current situation.
2
For a moment, I thought I was reading an excerpt from A Confederacy of Dunces.
9
Trump is deathly afraid -- paranoid -- of hiring Brutus. He fears his closest aids who can politically destroy him.
This is why he prevents even his cabinet from hiring people who earlier spoke out against him.
It's why, throughout its existence, his company has had so few employees.
It's why the executive branch still has 1000s of positions unfilled -- they will remain so for months (until he feels he knows who is loyal and who isn't -- allowing those cabinet members who have proven their loyalty, to hire more deputies and staff).
Trump is today's Nero...... with a distorted mind driving his every action.
This is why he prevents even his cabinet from hiring people who earlier spoke out against him.
It's why, throughout its existence, his company has had so few employees.
It's why the executive branch still has 1000s of positions unfilled -- they will remain so for months (until he feels he knows who is loyal and who isn't -- allowing those cabinet members who have proven their loyalty, to hire more deputies and staff).
Trump is today's Nero...... with a distorted mind driving his every action.
7
He can't even play the fiddle. But he's sure playing his voters.
5
Only in America can one rise from sycophantic incompetence to fumbling around the halls of absolute power. Trump has brought the "deep state" in with him. These administrative stooges resemble the "Third Reich, lite." Fortunately, what goes up must come down. These people will undo themselves. Enjoy your day in the sun while it lasts! You can't fool Mother Nature or the reawakened American people. Watching these folks go down will be like Watergate all over again (hopefully without WW III thrown in as Trump's quintessential achievement.).
8
As a foreign observer far away, with the knowledge that my country is tied to America economically, and in a small part, militarily. News like this scares me, confuses me, and sends genuine chills down my spine. But, I often tell myself that aside from those ties mentioned above, we're quite far away, and America quite frankly isn't my problem.
I quite frankly cannot imagine the horror of waking up to this reality every morning. Where the impact of any actions this administration takes is more likely to be immediately apparent in America than anywhere else in the world.
Bon courage friends.
I quite frankly cannot imagine the horror of waking up to this reality every morning. Where the impact of any actions this administration takes is more likely to be immediately apparent in America than anywhere else in the world.
Bon courage friends.
21
on election night 2016, The New York Times realized that instead of actually covering Donald Trump they just attacked him and missed the real story. It is apparent that they did not learn their lesson and continue to attack on a daily basis instead of reporting. It would not surprise me one bit if Mr. Obama was snooping on Mr. Trump.
2
"Stop the presses, Mabel, Donald Trump puts loyalty over experience as any sane person would in a game that's for keeps!" Wow, the NYT seems to be running out of bad things to say about President Trump. However, I would like to ask Maggie and Glenn a question: Of what possible good is an expert one cannot trust when it's you on the line?
1
You ask what good is an expert one cannot trust, and you might have a point if that were the issue, but it's not. The concern raised in the article isn't untrusted experts but rather the complete lack of expertise in the first place.
8
The government is not supposed to be a monarchy, where as soon as the president says something it is immediately obeyed. The government is supposed to have qualified officials who know about their job and what is best for this country, not just Trump. This is not the way to help the people of America. This is the way to further Trump's ideas instead.
7
Who is qualified to decide who is qualified? Who is qualified to write about it?
Should journalists be 'qualified' to write?Can anyone be a "journalist?" What college did Plato go to? What training did Napolean have? What were Jesus qualifications-and what experience did his disciples have? Some of the greatest thinkers and leaders in human history rose from the ground-
Should journalists be 'qualified' to write?Can anyone be a "journalist?" What college did Plato go to? What training did Napolean have? What were Jesus qualifications-and what experience did his disciples have? Some of the greatest thinkers and leaders in human history rose from the ground-
2
Would you want a layman do your heart surgery? Would you want to eat in a restaurant with no health department supervision? Would you want a teacher for your child with no credentials whatsoever? The "death of expertise" Trump voters seem to embrace is appalling and wrong. This administration seems to be anti government and wanting to implode it from the inside. It will take years to undo and fix the ruthless implosion taking place on each passing day.
36
Most journalists have been trained, as have plumbers, physicians, teachers, mechanics, etc. I'm not sure what Jesus' education was, but I doubt that Trump's lackeys will be performing any miracles right away.
4
Qualifications, expertise, and experience are objective categories. Just because this administration is mired in nepotism and cronyism doesn't change the fact that most Americans are expected to earn positions by merit.
4
Time and time again, Trump is doing the pay-for-play thing that he so vigorously accused Hillary of. After this fool, politics will never be the same. No one will be able to trust anything our politicians say--not that we do now. But this creep is a real game changer.
19
Same as Obama, big deal.
2
Not true. Obama hired the cream of the crop. The best example is Secretary of Energy position. Obama first had a Nobel Prize in Physics and then a nuclear physicist for the position. Rick Perry didn't even know nuclear weapons were included in the role's responsibility, much less what they are. Shameful and dark days for this country.
15
Half of your claim is correct: it is a big deal, but only because the other half of your claim is wrong, unlike Obama, Trump lacks the aptitude, qualifications, and experience to serve and lead a nation. His choices prove this daily.
6
Not the same at all, but thanks for sharing your ignorance with us.
An incompetent president values other incompetents; garbage in and garbage out.
14
I certainly hope loyalty to our country. such as she is, trumps (no pun intended) loyalty to President the Donald!
5
Picking loyalty over experience (or competence) is the pretty standard approach of paranoid delusional dictators. It pretty much guarantees Trump will have only yes men (and in some cases the yes woman) around him who will happily, willingly, and enthusiastically go along with every lying idiotic crazy evil thing he does. Gee, I wonder what dictator that reminds us of.
16
Trump was elected by a lot of people who dO not want that kind of experienced beurocrat or politician heading their Government. We do not have a Constitution that enshrInes a "ruler class" of "more experienced" or educated rulers. We do not have a kingdom of "professionals" whose "qualifications" trump our elective process. The people have the ultimate right and power to elect a Gardner , a pluMber, a police,an, a teacher, a homeless person-if they choose-and those who seek to,undermine that process-undermine and contaminate the core beliefs of our democracy. We do not yet have benevolent socialist structure run by the self declared "professionals"
1
So you go to a contractor to get your teeth fixed... a nanny to test for prostate cancer... a politician to get glasses... a lawyer to get a blood test... a local grocery store manager to do your IRS tax form... a sanitation engineer to help you find a house to buy... a real estate broker to give you a haircut... a waitress to examine your sick dog... a teacher to handle funeral arrangements for Auntie Elizabeth... a bus driver to repair your shoes... ?
8
You're right. "The people" have the ultimate power to elect an incompetent fool, and they did.
1
Since the salaries of these loyalists are paid by American taxpayers, I believe their first loyalty should be to those taxpayers. I also believe that as taxpayers we should demand not only loyalty but a darn sight more competence than any of these fools possess.
13
We all saw how well that (selecting for loyalty rather than competence) worked for George Bush and FEMA and New Orleans. This adds new meaning to "You can't teach an old dog new tricks." In this case, unfortunately, it suggests that the old dogs are not fit to govern.
I imagine Obama's employ of Ms. Jarrett is based primarily on loyalty, so what's the big deal? Thank you.
3
Is that all you've got? Sad.
1
Republicans are well known for putting competence and experience ahead of party loyalty in all of their government appointments.
When a crisis hits I wonder who will fill the role of the next
Brownee "(doin a heck of a job") ?
When a crisis hits I wonder who will fill the role of the next
Brownee "(doin a heck of a job") ?
2
It's a comfort to know that little Donald isn't "Home Alone" In the White House when the bad hombres come calling. What can go wrong at home or abroad that this crack team of unfit, unskilled and unqualified sycophants and flunkies can't handle? For every crisis, there will always be a set of 'alternative facts' to reassure us that all is well as the bombs fall and the floodwaters rise.
Still, upon reflection, I think I'd rather take my chances with Rufus T. Firefly in Freedonia. At least that was a comedy.
Still, upon reflection, I think I'd rather take my chances with Rufus T. Firefly in Freedonia. At least that was a comedy.
6
I know it's coming. You know it's coming. This from Donald Trump: "Who knew that Middle East peace would be so complicated?"
14
I find it interesting that Omarosa, of all the bright, young contestants of that 1st season (the only season worth watching, IMO), remained with and got closer to Trump. As I recall, Omarosa was the 'mean girl,' who was disliked, said mean things about the others to the camera, and generally not a team player when called for. She was certainly the one who generated the most negative feelings in me as a viewer leaving a real distaste in my mouth. Maybe she was able, though to be a great sycophant to Trump (it seems that is the type of loyalty he prefers).
11
Who knew? Trump's loyalty echos that of Putin's. "After his seventh bankruptcy and the cancellation of all his bank lines of credit. ... The money to build Trump's projects flowed almost entirely from Russian sources. In other words, after his business crashed, Trump was floated and made to appear to operate a successful business enterprise through the infusion of hundreds in millions of cash from dark Russian sources. He was their man....his real estate deals were used to hide not just an infusion of capital from Russia and former Soviet states, but to launder hundreds of millions looted by oligarchs."
http://www.globalsecurity.org/military/world/para/russian-organized-crim...
Will he be as loyal to his mafia associates in New York, New Jersey, and of course--provided by Russia?
http://www.msnbc.com/am-joy/watch/trump-s-alleged-mob-ties-849856067969
https://www.wsj.com/articles/donald-trump-dealt-with-a-series-of-people-...
http://www.motherjones.com/politics/2016/09/trump-russian-mobster-tokhta...
http://www.globalsecurity.org/military/world/para/russian-organized-crim...
Will he be as loyal to his mafia associates in New York, New Jersey, and of course--provided by Russia?
http://www.msnbc.com/am-joy/watch/trump-s-alleged-mob-ties-849856067969
https://www.wsj.com/articles/donald-trump-dealt-with-a-series-of-people-...
http://www.motherjones.com/politics/2016/09/trump-russian-mobster-tokhta...
9
There are major flaws with our Constitution that allowed this man to become president. He, his family and his "friends" are a disgrace to our great country. Will we ever recoup?
35
The flaws are in the outdated Electoral College which GOP operatives made sure they would control; which in the 2016 election amounted to 70% of the E.C. votes. Aided by unlimited dark money, these Citizens United-funded darlings, took over State houses, aggressively gerrymandered districts to made sure that even when Democrats won more votes--Republicans took more seats (Operation Redmap), then they worked systematically to gut key provisions of the Voting Rights Act, purge state roles of African Americans, Hispanic, Native Americans, and Asians from being able to vote, shut down hundreds of polling places, reduced hours, employing broken machines in Democratic-leaning districts, and using insecure systems that U.S. computer experts proved were easy to hack. Not even Russians interference has raised sufficient alarm--as the Republican strategy has been to take all the seats of power.
18
So, few Presidents have arrived with a contingent "more colorful" than that of Mr. Trump. More colorful? That's a laugh....99% of Trump's appointees (the few that he's made) are old, white, men. Period. If that's color, the Times must be color-blind.
21
"Brownie, you're doing a heckuva job!" What could go wrong?
14
Trump is not educated enough to appreciate the acquired knowledge others with more experience may offer, and his insecure egotism cannot tolerate being exposed as the fool he is relative to others who know what they are talking about.
Trump has proved himself to be the most paranoid and vindictive president since Richard Nixon. On a daily basis he pointlessly makes countless enemies, consequently, he fears retribution. His staff constitutes a human fortress to buttress his vulnerabilities.
Trump promised to build a great protective wall, and he has - around himself.
Trump has proved himself to be the most paranoid and vindictive president since Richard Nixon. On a daily basis he pointlessly makes countless enemies, consequently, he fears retribution. His staff constitutes a human fortress to buttress his vulnerabilities.
Trump promised to build a great protective wall, and he has - around himself.
19
We can look forward to Hurricane Katrina response from Brownie appointee from George W Bush whose knowledge about horse shows was great for dealing with the horrendous loss of life that resulted and still continues to this day! Heaven help if we have Hurricane Sandy or flooding of Mar a-lago! We know what will be saved!
13
Kind of like the mafia, right? Or do I watch too much TV? This is certainly what we want moving forward, loyalty above all else!
9
The understatement of the year. Opinion over knowledge.
3
Trump is a man without qualifications to be a president, cannot be expected to hire people with experience or qualifications, to help him run the country. That is why everything is such a mess, and this is just the beginning.
19
Only a person more focused on himself than the country would value loyalty over capability.
11
Trump's appointees make George Bush's disgraced buddy Mike Brown (former FEMA director extraordinaire) look good.
It is only a matter of time when we will have another "Hurricane Katrina" event on our hands - especially after Trump, Steve Bannon, Scott Pruitt and the Republican Congressional imbeciles complete dismantling the EPA and the Paris accords - and another appointed buddy of the president fails to provide the governmental action needed to save lives.
It is only a matter of time when we will have another "Hurricane Katrina" event on our hands - especially after Trump, Steve Bannon, Scott Pruitt and the Republican Congressional imbeciles complete dismantling the EPA and the Paris accords - and another appointed buddy of the president fails to provide the governmental action needed to save lives.
11
"colorful"?
Calling Trump's cohort of bigots, incompetents and liars "colorful" is a tad too generous, don't you think?
Calling Trump's cohort of bigots, incompetents and liars "colorful" is a tad too generous, don't you think?
14
Loyal over competence is more like it! Except for R. C. McMaster and James Mattis, National Security Advisor and Secretary of Defense, respectively, I believe that all of the rest would be sent back to the Temporary Millionaires for Hire Pool.
https://thetruthoncommonsense.com
https://thetruthoncommonsense.com
7
Trump takes his marching orders from Stephen Bannon who has made it clear in his own words that he wants to destroy our government. Trump is just doing Bannon's bidding. Trump hiring his groveling sycophants, who to a person lack any relevant qualification to fill their respective posts, is just Trump's way of doing what he is told. It is a perfect match, the extreme narcissism of Trump married to the neo-fascism of Bannon. With Ryan in the background throwing the sick and the poor into the streets, we have the current portrait of the United States as only Dante could have described it and Breugel could have painted it.
19
Personal loyalty to the boss has no place when one's job requires loyalty to the people and our Constitution.
Clearly those who disagree with the value of loyalty have never run an organization beyond themselves. Loyalty and IQ/intelligence are not mutuallyexclusive.
In this case, they are mutually exclusive. And I t's not only about "IQ/intelligence." It's about competence. Basic competence, experience, and qualifications. These things no longer matter for our nation's highest office. This should deeply concern all Americans. Kakistocracy, here we come.
1
#45 wants loyalty over competence simply to give his autocratic bullying style more space. This approach is a further extension of #45's leadership failures as a President. "Dollar short and a day late" is the catch phrase for #45's steps to mastering the multi-layered requirements for a successful government presence.
7
I'd call this just one more bungle by Trump, except there is lurking the distinct possibility that he will make it even worse in a Bannon-assisted attempt to slash back the bureaucracy by not filling vacancies. Not very smart but not all that unlikely given what we've seen so far.
4
Where are the former trump supporters that now realize they've been thoroughly taken advantage of? Where are the trump appointees or those under consideration now given to "second thoughts"? Where is the heart and soul of the GOP that we're depending on to have a crisis of conscience and renounce the bigot narcissist trump?
They're MIA. That is, if they even exist at all. What are we Americans against trump and his pathetic administration waiting for? To convince trump supporters into agreeing that "we're right and your wrong!"? For the GOP to grow a soul? Forget all that. The onus is on those of us who want trump out, along with his merry band of white-on-white sycophants. If we're waiting on anyone else but activist Americans to step up, we're going to wait a long time. Don't know any? Then you need to become one. No more pearl-clutching and tisk-tisking. Organize and resist! Refuse this falsity of an administration. www.indivisible.us
They're MIA. That is, if they even exist at all. What are we Americans against trump and his pathetic administration waiting for? To convince trump supporters into agreeing that "we're right and your wrong!"? For the GOP to grow a soul? Forget all that. The onus is on those of us who want trump out, along with his merry band of white-on-white sycophants. If we're waiting on anyone else but activist Americans to step up, we're going to wait a long time. Don't know any? Then you need to become one. No more pearl-clutching and tisk-tisking. Organize and resist! Refuse this falsity of an administration. www.indivisible.us
15
Amen. Power in this country resides with the people, not the government. It's up to the people to rectify the disaster that is this administration.
1
How do the Trump supporters feel now, after being smothered by all the anti-HRC vitriol about her cozying up to the banks with speaking engagements to Wall Street, how it proved she was corrupt and unfit to serve, where are the transcripts, follow the money, blah blah bah - how do they feel now, seeing this Trump-appointed Cabinet of Wall Street bankers and billionaires from the top down, one after the next?
It's just incredible, really. Where is their outcry about this? How do they justify how this is playing out? Don't they see that they were played?
Rhetorical questions, I suppose...
It's just incredible, really. Where is their outcry about this? How do they justify how this is playing out? Don't they see that they were played?
Rhetorical questions, I suppose...
14
The people you are referring to prefer comfortable lies to hard truths.
Why is Loyalty so important to Trump....perhaps ....most of those he chooses
to surround himself with have something in common: ties to Russia perhaps.
I think the need to see Trump's recent tax returns need investigation...
.....too much speculation....not enough transparency.......I even think that
Donald J. Trump would like to be relieved of the office of President, which
he has been ill equipped to take charge of....and I think he may want an
excuse to resign....I hope so...He could easily just take a medical leave and
leave this difficult job to Mike Pence...
to surround himself with have something in common: ties to Russia perhaps.
I think the need to see Trump's recent tax returns need investigation...
.....too much speculation....not enough transparency.......I even think that
Donald J. Trump would like to be relieved of the office of President, which
he has been ill equipped to take charge of....and I think he may want an
excuse to resign....I hope so...He could easily just take a medical leave and
leave this difficult job to Mike Pence...
5
Trump has appointed people who are loyal, look the part or embody what he knows he lacks.
Thus his only expert hires are soldiers and investment bankers. Trump is a chicken hawk and business flop.
He actually does not know much more about hiring than the posturing he invented for The Apprentice.
Thus his only expert hires are soldiers and investment bankers. Trump is a chicken hawk and business flop.
He actually does not know much more about hiring than the posturing he invented for The Apprentice.
9
All of the nonsense, drivel, ludicrous lies, outrageous euphemisms and comic book blather that pour out if this often preposterous administration is a reflection of the abysmal and willful ignorance of Donald Trump. It takes a lifetime to understand one country let alone the world and Donald Trump does not even understand the building he is in. He has, as others have said, seem to have made some good appointments in the foreign affairs and national defense areas. Indeed, it is interesting to compare the careers of Donald Trump with Rex Tillerson. For me, the Secretary of State seemed to be a big man, an important man who led an enormous corporation to sustained success while traveling the world. Whether he understands the forces that drive the international system and can make his mark on the foreign policy of the United States remains to be seen. In the domestic areas Donald Trump has seem to have done the bidding of the Republican leadership. He will soon find out what happens when Republican roll back of regulations of business, of environmental protection and most politically important of repeal of the ACA and the replacement of it with a health plan hoax already discredited by the CBO. Knowledge matters and all of the tweets, nicknames and insults will not hold up in the long run against the consequences of policies of delusion.
8
"If a leader asks for loyalty, give him integrity. If he asks for integrity, give him loyalty." Good advice from a novel I read a while back.
1
Of course his picks only include those loyal to him. That is how a dictatorship starts. Keep family close (and include them in foreign affair meetings, even though they have no right to be included.) and only include those loyal to him in the cabinet. Even if they are loons who think microwaves can turn into cameras. It is irrelevant on which platform he ran. He told whatever lies necessary to win. And what is incredibly unreal in this whole scenario is the GOP are going along with it all. If this was a Democratic President then they would be going ballistic. 45s agenda suits them so far. These despicable politicians are just out for themselves. Listen to their rhetoric. The poor should choose between healthcare and a cell phone! Really, these guys are totally taking advantage of 45 as long as it suits their purpose.
9
I am very loyal to a friend of mine who runs a very well known hospital.
I am presently a chocolate bar salesman with no medical experience.
I asked my friend if I could immediately become a brain surgeon at the hospital.
He just laughed and said " My hospital isn't run like the White House."
I am presently a chocolate bar salesman with no medical experience.
I asked my friend if I could immediately become a brain surgeon at the hospital.
He just laughed and said " My hospital isn't run like the White House."
10
Family kleptocracies are not rare in the word, sad to say. The rest of the world has plenty of experience with them, and the US has developed its own strategies to manage relations with them: for instance, Saudi Arabia, whose leaders were in DC today.
The rest of the world is now treating the US like a family kleptocracy, a regime that appoints relatives and favorites to positions of power, and can be bought off with flattery, patronage and large sums of money. Who could argue with them?
The rest of the world is now treating the US like a family kleptocracy, a regime that appoints relatives and favorites to positions of power, and can be bought off with flattery, patronage and large sums of money. Who could argue with them?
7
How tragic that the highest leadership in our great and historic nation has come to this.
It all puts a stain on the list of legendary intellects and courageous people....from Presidents on down....who've given all for the country.
When did a system designed to single out the greatest leaders and thinkers take a startling 180 degree turn and reward a team of opportunists and grifters?
Americans need to think deeply about what has happened and how they lost control of their Democracy.
It all puts a stain on the list of legendary intellects and courageous people....from Presidents on down....who've given all for the country.
When did a system designed to single out the greatest leaders and thinkers take a startling 180 degree turn and reward a team of opportunists and grifters?
Americans need to think deeply about what has happened and how they lost control of their Democracy.
12
The first time I saw Mr. Schiller in his role as Trump muscle/enforcer my mind immediately raced to the character "Sonny" from the movie adaptation of Stephen King's Dead Zone.
5
It really doesn't matter what Trump says or does, he is clueless and cannot be believed. When will the Republicans wake up to the fact that country will soon be in ruins. Four years is too long to wait to change things.
12
Hurry, fellow readers. We must prevent the sub-elites from running things... their ignorance, their caprice... Americas long history must now come to an end, all to serve our vainglory. It wearies me how Trump makes me clutch my golden brooch. On the way to the progressive demonstration, there was a problem. The limousine repair shop was totally booked. We shall have to reschedule.
1
Did you have some point you were trying to make?
Loyalty is a stretch. It implies something more noble than what we see. Fealty is closer to what we see.
A players hire A players. That's not Trump. C players are too insecure for competency around them.
A players hire A players. That's not Trump. C players are too insecure for competency around them.
5
where was the concern when obama appointmented inexperienced academics?
Academics versus Omarosa?
11
Academics with expertise in public policy versus blind loyalty?
9
Which acedemics do you have a problem with? Is it Ernest Moniz, a nuclear physicist, Obama's Sec. of Energy? Tim Geithner, Sec. of Treasury? Exactly who do you think Obama appointed who wouldn't be able to fulfill their duties?
You are comparing apples to oranges and people successful in their fields to people without a clue. In other words Winners to Losers.
You are comparing apples to oranges and people successful in their fields to people without a clue. In other words Winners to Losers.
3
Personally, I wouldn't have put him in charge of a hot dog stand. If you consider ego's come into play then Trump couldn't possibly have anyone with more experience than him fill the roles. Troubled times ahead.
7
I have never met her and do not know her at all.
From written descriptions, I would be very happy to keep it that way.
From written descriptions, I would be very happy to keep it that way.
4
Well, I guess there's one tiny pinprick of good news in all this morass. Assuming there is another election in the future of this country and a Democrat is elected, no Republican will ever be able to complain effectively about "foundations" and "business ties" and "speeches" and other nonsense about any of his/her appointees after this miserable farce of a Presidency.
8
Wow, loyalty over experience. That's never happened.
1
These people are contestants in the Presidential Apprentice. Who will be the first to hear " you're fired " ? Who will be voted off the island? Who will get the rose, from the bachelor? Sorry, but all this reality T.V. " stuff " is confusing. When does the season end???
8
Amazingly, the Kardashians wouldn't feel out of place in this administration.
4
Loyalty over experience is something Mafia bosses insist on. But when the boss is inexperienced, the last thing he needs is a team of inexperienced loyalists advising him. This explains why this administration is embroiled in scandal and mistakes. Running the government of the United States is not something you learn on the job and it shows.
9
It really doesn't matter what Trump says or does, he is clueless and cannot be believed. When with the Republicans wake up to the fact that country will soon be in ruins if Trump is not stopped.
6
trump is unconventional for sure.
there isn't a day that goes by without 3-5 new articles about trump every day
i guess we're going to have to accept this for the next 8 years
there isn't a day that goes by without 3-5 new articles about trump every day
i guess we're going to have to accept this for the next 8 years
Friends in low places, indeed.
5
Loyalty to a clueless boss is a recipe for disaster. It's just a matter of time before a mistake is made that is not a joke or an action taken that cannot be repaired or cleaned up by his staff. Mr. Trump, this is not a reality show and we watch you on TV, not for ratings, but in fear of another crazy executive order that will bring us closer to destruction.
8
In my experience. I have found that loyalty is more important than experience. In fact someone loyal with the same experience is even better. I realize this flies in the face of diversity, but I disagree with diversity. Thank you.
1
Loyalty to whom?
It is not just that these people don't know how to do their jobs, it is that they see their jobs as protecting Trump, not the president but Trump, the man.
The administration, the positions in the government and the knowledge that comes from long civil service careers are all focused on defending and protecting the republic, not DJ Trump. It is bred in the bone of people long in Washington.
Trump brings in a bunch of self serving opportunists who believe they owe no allegiance to the Constitution or the American people. They are so unqualified for their jobs that they don't even know what they don't know. They hide and lie to us all and make fools of the institutions of representative democracy that were created to keep the public informed and government transparent.
Trump has broken the chain of patriots and civil servants dedicated to the cause and principles of the American government. The swamp, the long line of bureaucrats and earnest policy wonks that Trump so blithely dismissed is actually the fertile ground on which the United States thrived. Perhaps Ryan and McConnell could be called swamp creatures but even they understand the importance of experience.
Trump has taken over the executive branch and has locked the door to keep us all out.
The administration, the positions in the government and the knowledge that comes from long civil service careers are all focused on defending and protecting the republic, not DJ Trump. It is bred in the bone of people long in Washington.
Trump brings in a bunch of self serving opportunists who believe they owe no allegiance to the Constitution or the American people. They are so unqualified for their jobs that they don't even know what they don't know. They hide and lie to us all and make fools of the institutions of representative democracy that were created to keep the public informed and government transparent.
Trump has broken the chain of patriots and civil servants dedicated to the cause and principles of the American government. The swamp, the long line of bureaucrats and earnest policy wonks that Trump so blithely dismissed is actually the fertile ground on which the United States thrived. Perhaps Ryan and McConnell could be called swamp creatures but even they understand the importance of experience.
Trump has taken over the executive branch and has locked the door to keep us all out.
102
Trump is both clueless & defensive - unable to grasp the serious task of commander-and-chief, he is decorating the Oval Office like Trump Tower. Yes- he depends on sycophants & apologists, spinmeisters & cronies- but he also seems unaware of the value of substantive 'knowledge & experience' - except when he gives total authority to Generals (including asking Flynn about economics).
Like a preteen, he idealizes big strong soldiers and knows he himself lacks real toughness beyond petty name-calling.
What an insult to the American people he claims to champion, what hypocrisy when he claims he must campaign promises, to so often appoint the worst & the dimmest instead of the best & brightest. Perhaps it is Bannon's direction- to make a big mess with incompetence... so he can show how bad democratic governance can be.
Like a preteen, he idealizes big strong soldiers and knows he himself lacks real toughness beyond petty name-calling.
What an insult to the American people he claims to champion, what hypocrisy when he claims he must campaign promises, to so often appoint the worst & the dimmest instead of the best & brightest. Perhaps it is Bannon's direction- to make a big mess with incompetence... so he can show how bad democratic governance can be.
6
sara
Please note, sara, "big strong soldiers" like Retired General Maddis, Secretary of Defense, are an asset to President Trump and to this country.
Please note, sara, "big strong soldiers" like Retired General Maddis, Secretary of Defense, are an asset to President Trump and to this country.
"Trump Puts Loyalty Over Experience in Filling Key Posts"?
There's real loyalty, which is generally a good thing,and then there's sycophancy, toadyism, and blatant self-dealing. And how about competence? You know, what's supposed to be the basic qualification for ANY job anywhere!
The real issue isn't "loyalty"--it's utter corruption of our government!
With the headline here, the Times continues its truly bewildering pattern of soft-peddling stunning practices and subversion of any pretense of good government.
There's real loyalty, which is generally a good thing,and then there's sycophancy, toadyism, and blatant self-dealing. And how about competence? You know, what's supposed to be the basic qualification for ANY job anywhere!
The real issue isn't "loyalty"--it's utter corruption of our government!
With the headline here, the Times continues its truly bewildering pattern of soft-peddling stunning practices and subversion of any pretense of good government.
4
In the book, "Team of Rivals", Lincoln takes the difficult task of asking his political rivals and professional rivals to join him as cabinet members. He decides that for political reasons and because of their abilities these men would provide a better administration than would a group of loyal people who always deferred to himself. It required a very strong and patient psychology who was able to understand the psychology of people very well, and dealing with a lot of very critical people who often could not understand him. I doubt if many people could do what Lincoln did but his team of rivals did a great job and accomplished more than Lincoln could have if he could only rely upon himself to drive all the myriad efforts that had to be done.
Given his lack of experience and lack of appreciation for the responsibilities of the President, and lack of knowledge of just about everything involved in governing, it's no surprise that Trump is surrounding himself with people to provide him with comfort and a sense of safety. Unfortunately, when a position comes with so much power and responsibility, doing even the minimum necessary to get by is very demanding and can overwhelm anyone unprepared for it.
Given his lack of experience and lack of appreciation for the responsibilities of the President, and lack of knowledge of just about everything involved in governing, it's no surprise that Trump is surrounding himself with people to provide him with comfort and a sense of safety. Unfortunately, when a position comes with so much power and responsibility, doing even the minimum necessary to get by is very demanding and can overwhelm anyone unprepared for it.
4
Really nice. Surrounded by bumblers, the illegitimiate president becomes the ineffectual occupant of 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue.
9
jim in Virginia
president Trump is the legal president of the United States, Commander and Chief of the Military and Leader of the free World. And he us your president, if you are indeed an American.
president Trump is the legal president of the United States, Commander and Chief of the Military and Leader of the free World. And he us your president, if you are indeed an American.
Well this isn't a surprise considering the appointments he has already made. He apparently wants to destroy the US. We have so many agencies that protect us in so many ways aus but humans and their safety don't mean anything. It's all about TRUMP now and how much his cronies can get. Appalling.
9
justice holmes
The President has said many times that he wants Americans to be safe.
The President has said many times that he wants Americans to be safe.
Sarah:
Thank you. Now we can all relax.
Thank you. Now we can all relax.
3
@Sarah
It's pathetically amusing that you so naively take a pathological liar at his word.
It's pathetically amusing that you so naively take a pathological liar at his word.
Insecure bosses are bound to install yes-men around them, to hide their own incompetence and boost their ego. Having smart people around will expose their stupidity, so smart people are out, and bobble-heads are in.
This is how mediocrity sidelines meritocracy. When integrity is replace by narrow, selfish interests, institutions are ruined. This is what is happening in the WH, sadly. There is no real understanding of issues, and hence there are no pragmatic, long-lasting solutions. As critical thinking gets replaced by stupidity and short-sighted populism, society will suffer.
This is how mediocrity sidelines meritocracy. When integrity is replace by narrow, selfish interests, institutions are ruined. This is what is happening in the WH, sadly. There is no real understanding of issues, and hence there are no pragmatic, long-lasting solutions. As critical thinking gets replaced by stupidity and short-sighted populism, society will suffer.
9
Trump made a mistake when he terminated Christie and everyone associated with him. Christie was leading his transition team and would have provided Trump with a functioning White House by now and that would have reduced the confusion and strangeness that is driving him to fail to perform well. He never had the habits needed to take on this job's responsibilities smoothly and he's averse to learning them now, it seems. But with experienced people he could've worked around his weaknesses and managed to organize his staff so that they could step into their jobs with a lot more control and grace. More people knowing how the government works in his administration could have informed his Secretary of State that he needed to learn to feel comfortable with a lot of press about because it would help him with his responsibilities. Instead, the Secretary acts like he's working for a private corporation instead of the U.S. government.
30
casual observer
How do you know? Are you casually observing the Secretary of State? if the Democrats had not dragged their feet, the president would have had more of his staff in place by now.
How do you know? Are you casually observing the Secretary of State? if the Democrats had not dragged their feet, the president would have had more of his staff in place by now.
An American kleptocracy in the making; Trump admires Putin--now he apes him.
5
Valerie Jarett, Anthony Foxx, Arne Duncan, etc. were all very well qualified? Please!
Secretary of Education Arne Duncan's resume included a stint as CEO of Chicago's public schools. That's called relevant experience.
8
First thing that comes to my mind is " well DuH! " when the presidents son in law becomes one of the most influential persons in the White House, what does that say. Who would Want to work for the bully in the pulpit. Not sure it can be called a feather in your hat exactly. Everybody in this regime is out of their league and it is doubtful that our shared American experience will benefit in the end. The deconstruction of American exceptionalism. Race to the bottom. Marginalized. And yes. Crony capitalism.
9
Can't wait for our heckuva job Brownie moment from the only president worse than W.
7
How do these people live with themselves?
7
It's easy when you have no ethics or morality.
The common thread of all of the folks around Trump is not their loyalty to him or even friendship with him
It is their lack or obvious talents and their apparent lack of recognition they are not suited for their task.
Flynn? DeVos? Spicer? Bannon? Conway? Giuliani's son? On and on
What a bunch of broken toys
The most (only?) qualified person around Trump didn't even know Trump - Mattis
My god.
Not even sure they will look good in stripes together.
It is their lack or obvious talents and their apparent lack of recognition they are not suited for their task.
Flynn? DeVos? Spicer? Bannon? Conway? Giuliani's son? On and on
What a bunch of broken toys
The most (only?) qualified person around Trump didn't even know Trump - Mattis
My god.
Not even sure they will look good in stripes together.
9
It's an insult to us all, and a disrespectful abuse of the trust we've placed in our President. How much more of this will we tolerate?
7
Being loyal to Donald Trump is definitely most important to him. But, even staunch loyalty coupled with experience won’t get you a key position in his administration. Just ask Chris Christy and Rudy Giuliani. Not having a lot of baggage and not having a strong potential to challenge him are pretty important to him too.
5
You mean, they all have to be "yes" men and women. Oh, and a wise man once said, "In nepotism sow the seeds of destruction."
4
A Kakistocracy is a country run by the worst, least qualified, or most unscrupulous citizens.
2
Correction: Trump Puts Loyalty Over Competence and Integrity in Filling Key Posts.
5
I feel increasing certainty that it will all catch up to Trump around month 13 in office: the WH will look like is businesses, failures masked behind bankruptcies and name leasing deals. But the Donald won't be able to hide behind chapter 7 and 13, and as his facade fails the Democrats, if they can avoid self-immolating this year and acting like spoiled children, can make electoral gains. Amateurs even gifted one (and padding resumes is pretty common everywhere) need professional experience and at least a willingness to seek out advice from experts. It won't be pretty and it won't be fun, but the Republic will stand even as it totters.
8
Colorful!? That's so benign a term for the Trumpeteers that the President is putting into consequential positions that it amounts to a gloss on the old proverb of making a silk purse out of a sow's ear.
I know that many of his supporters are thrilled with Trump's Bannonesque deconstruction of the "Administrative State," and, as an old sixties Lefty, I'll cop to finding it hard to deeply mourn a shrinking bureaucracy.
And yet... And yet...
So much of the dismantling that is going on, and promised still to come, is clearly throwing the baby of needed protections for workers and the environment out with the bathwater of putatively dysfunctional governmental overreach that I cannot help but cringe, fret, and actively get involved in doing whatever I can to wrest control away from this sorry collection of Social Darwinists and Ayn Randians and get it into most wise, compassionate, and trustworthy hands I can find. The almost completely negative relationship this Administration and Congress have with facts, science, and reason is--or should be--alarming to anyone with a brain and heart.
I know that many of his supporters are thrilled with Trump's Bannonesque deconstruction of the "Administrative State," and, as an old sixties Lefty, I'll cop to finding it hard to deeply mourn a shrinking bureaucracy.
And yet... And yet...
So much of the dismantling that is going on, and promised still to come, is clearly throwing the baby of needed protections for workers and the environment out with the bathwater of putatively dysfunctional governmental overreach that I cannot help but cringe, fret, and actively get involved in doing whatever I can to wrest control away from this sorry collection of Social Darwinists and Ayn Randians and get it into most wise, compassionate, and trustworthy hands I can find. The almost completely negative relationship this Administration and Congress have with facts, science, and reason is--or should be--alarming to anyone with a brain and heart.
6
The term the writer is looking for is 'crony'. Keep it handy - it's going to get a lot of use.
20
All criminal syndicates require loyalty when initiating members into their clan.
17
It is one thing to inappropriately value loyalty over experience in business because the worst consequence is a failed business, especially when the CEO doesn't know anything about the how the business runs except by brute force and destroying competition. And if the CEO plans to push norms, regulations and laws to their legal limits and beyond (like he has probably done for decades in his businesses), blind loyalty serves bad ends well. Not experience.
Trump's tax returns must be disclosed.
Trump's tax returns must be disclosed.
12
No one with any weight or intellect respects the guy so he gets Wall Street types and a few businessmen and politicians who think they can use him, and at lower level, the bottom of the barrel. Trump has no plan--he brags in his book that he never had one. Or any ideology--it's all opportunism. He was never respected for his character or his honesty or his manners. There was a reason he couldn't get loans from the banks. So are the people of the United States served.
16
This great country of ours has become a mom and pop business (no offense to mom and pop businesses) and the prime interest here is pop's interest, Mr. Trump. I have great faith in our rule of law and our constitution. I also know that it will take a while before all the checks and balance wheels to start turning. Let be no doubt, that this administration is not functioning for the benefit of this great country of ours.
79
For some reason you are forgetting that the whole middle of the country voted for Trump. I do not know what checks and balances there are that would usurp the election. The Main Stream Media is trying to impeach a President who was elected fairly and the Congress is also hugely in the majority. These are things that are realities that are somehow not realized. The whole tax return bogus news will be a dead end. I hope that in the coming years, Democrats can retake their popularity without the war on the people. It is not constructive to citizens who are poor, it is not helping immigrants and it is not helping to lift the dialogue that is tarnishing the American dream.
@Susan McHale
"the whole middle of the country voted for (him)"
Not so, Susan. Just enough voted for him to achieve an Electoral College victory. The popular vote totals might not count for deciding the victor, but they clearly indicate that only a minority of the electorate supports our so-called "President."
"the whole middle of the country voted for (him)"
Not so, Susan. Just enough voted for him to achieve an Electoral College victory. The popular vote totals might not count for deciding the victor, but they clearly indicate that only a minority of the electorate supports our so-called "President."
Should we be surprised by this--Loyalty over experience? The know-nothing Trump appointed a bunch of know-nothing advisers. Loyalty means that these people will not give advices to Trump since they don't know much, one thing we know for sure is that they will praise him, and defend him to the end of the day, leaving the governing to the dust.
7
It has been said:"A" people hire "A" people; "B" people hire "C"people.
9
So comforting to know that a Trump lawyer, who reads email and stuff when he can, is negotiating Mid East peace and reports to Ivanka's husband. Could we just have Mr. Haney from Green Acres instead?
22
I'd say this comes close to #13 of the 14 characteristics of Fascism
"#13-Rampant Cronyism and Corruption " (Pol. Sci, L. Britt, 2003)
"#13-Rampant Cronyism and Corruption " (Pol. Sci, L. Britt, 2003)
8
Title should read: "Trump Puts Loyalty Over Experience in FAILING Key Posts"
6
Appointments from a man who does not want anyone around to remind him of the difficult problems he is supposed to be facing, which do not lend themselves to a 140 word tweet. From a man afraid of being called out as incompetent. From a man who may not have a ample number of talented people to call on because they aren't toadies.
Between the nepotism and establishment of an inner ring of "advisors" who duck press and Congressional contact, this IS looking like the Soviet model. Given that he doesn't "trust" US government security and intelligence, if he had more power, the next step would be a secret presidential intelligence force. His insistence on sticking to the false wiretapping claims smearing Obama suggest he is already working on it.
Between the nepotism and establishment of an inner ring of "advisors" who duck press and Congressional contact, this IS looking like the Soviet model. Given that he doesn't "trust" US government security and intelligence, if he had more power, the next step would be a secret presidential intelligence force. His insistence on sticking to the false wiretapping claims smearing Obama suggest he is already working on it.
19
What's most striking to me about this piece is that it focuses like a laser on the least obviously vetted individuals (who may wind up succeeding for precisely the reasons Trump chose them), and seeks to create a GENERAL impression that his administration is populated by hacks, ne'er-do-wells and mere hangers-on.
If the Times in its reportage wishes to question the qualifications of those closest to the president of the United States, I'd appreciate a chart defending their view listing the top 100 people surrounding the president and appointed by him or his team, with a "thumbs-up" or "thumbs-down", and a brief justification for each rating. "We don't agree with his or her ideological convictions" doesn't count, by the way.
I trust y'all will forgive my cynicism, but I'm old enough to remember the yuge disdain with which the administration of Ronald Reagan was greeted by our MSM representatives as it was forming and while in power; and, yet, while I'm sure I disagree with the Times about the characterizations made then, most Americans would agree that it was a pretty successful presidency -- so much so that at its end hard-hat, generationally traditional Democrats were screaming "four more years!"
Would I prefer that everyone appointed by Trump possessed the probity and depth of a George Shultz? Sure. But, then, I'm a traditional Republican, and could be said to be part of the problem he seeks to address. The NYT should have the self-honesty to admit that they are, too.
If the Times in its reportage wishes to question the qualifications of those closest to the president of the United States, I'd appreciate a chart defending their view listing the top 100 people surrounding the president and appointed by him or his team, with a "thumbs-up" or "thumbs-down", and a brief justification for each rating. "We don't agree with his or her ideological convictions" doesn't count, by the way.
I trust y'all will forgive my cynicism, but I'm old enough to remember the yuge disdain with which the administration of Ronald Reagan was greeted by our MSM representatives as it was forming and while in power; and, yet, while I'm sure I disagree with the Times about the characterizations made then, most Americans would agree that it was a pretty successful presidency -- so much so that at its end hard-hat, generationally traditional Democrats were screaming "four more years!"
Would I prefer that everyone appointed by Trump possessed the probity and depth of a George Shultz? Sure. But, then, I'm a traditional Republican, and could be said to be part of the problem he seeks to address. The NYT should have the self-honesty to admit that they are, too.
Richard,
I've been reading your comments for years now and they are not, unfortunately, improving.
Your love for President Reagan is understood, but pathetic. President Reagan slept through most of his presidency -- perhaps you did, too? Those eight years were among the worst our country has ever endured -- now, with your man Trump, we can expect at least four years as bad, or even worse, than Reagan provided.
I have nothing, per se, against republicans -- just sycophants who are unwilling to see the shabby, weak, and despicable behavior of our new president. He is unworthy of your comments, your support or your admiration.
I've been reading your comments for years now and they are not, unfortunately, improving.
Your love for President Reagan is understood, but pathetic. President Reagan slept through most of his presidency -- perhaps you did, too? Those eight years were among the worst our country has ever endured -- now, with your man Trump, we can expect at least four years as bad, or even worse, than Reagan provided.
I have nothing, per se, against republicans -- just sycophants who are unwilling to see the shabby, weak, and despicable behavior of our new president. He is unworthy of your comments, your support or your admiration.
12
Bernard:
Encouraging to know that you have nothing, per se, against Republicans.
Encouraging to know that you have nothing, per se, against Republicans.
If you want radical change in an organization, you don't hire people with close ties to the current process. You hire change agents who are dedicated to the changes that you want to happen. Experience in this case is a large negative, smart people can learn the ropes, those tied to the traditional way won't change it. Not to mention that the change will require a lot fewer managers and other employees.
In order to be a change agent, you have to understand what you're changing which presupposes a minimal degree of competence and experience in the relevant areas--having some background in negotiating trade deals or even a background in successfully holding jobs, which Omarosa doesn't have, are actually quite useful. Trump hasn't hired change agents, he's hired sycophants.
4
Trump can't stand having anyone around him who he perceives as knowing more than he does. Sorry turn of events since everything he knows could literally fit in a thimble.
The United States is undoubtedly the laughing stock of the world. No serious world leader or head of state or trade negotiator or military leader, etc. etc. could ever take this joker seriously or put any credence or faith in anything he promises.
This administration is a reality show with the star ratcheting up his ridiculous stunts weekly to reinvigorate the ratings of his (fan) base.
The idea that Abbas and Netanyahu are going to take Kushner and his puppet Greenblatt seriously is utterly absurd! Ditto for everything else this so-called administration approaches.
The United States is undoubtedly the laughing stock of the world. No serious world leader or head of state or trade negotiator or military leader, etc. etc. could ever take this joker seriously or put any credence or faith in anything he promises.
This administration is a reality show with the star ratcheting up his ridiculous stunts weekly to reinvigorate the ratings of his (fan) base.
The idea that Abbas and Netanyahu are going to take Kushner and his puppet Greenblatt seriously is utterly absurd! Ditto for everything else this so-called administration approaches.
24
Given the number of long knives that are out for him, I don't blame Trump for wanting loyal people around him.
9
Caesar had loyal people around him and was eventually taken down by those same friends. The difference between Trump and Caesar is that Caesar was a leader.
First, respect is earned, not simply awarded. Second, trump has gotten no more scrutiny than other Presidents. It may seem that he is only because as US Citizens we are all still waiting for him to make public his personal holdings, business connections, foreign involvements etc. Every other president has done this ahead of their election for at least the last 40 years. Clearly he is hiding his taxes for a reason. As citizens, we have a right to know why in order to insure the safety and security of our country.
4
Most of Trump's problems have been self-inflicted wounds. And, he exacerbates his 'wounds', by plunging the knife in deeper and deeper. He must like it, cause he's been pretty consistent...about once a week since the inauguration.
2
The swamp is quickly being filled. If only Roy Cohen were around, he's surely get a Bannon-type role.
SAD
SAD
12
This unacceptable Trumpist farago, ignorant hodgepodge, a confused mixture of facile, simple-minded, ultra-conservative, self-indulgent toadies and fanatics out to rob and strip Americans of their inalienable rights, and to strip the US Constitution of its protections, must be brought to an end, as soon as possible, and the felons, including Trump, with his apparently absolute power in his little White House kingdom for ignoring (or unaware of) the true complexities of the job of POTUS, should be tried and imprisoned for abject and willful treason, and an honest election held for a competent president.
7
The smartest people in the room always surround themselves with people that are invariably smarter than them.
Having said that, what does the current crop of people surrounding this administration, say about the one at the center ?
Not much.
Having said that, what does the current crop of people surrounding this administration, say about the one at the center ?
Not much.
15
As a former website editor and current book store owner I submit my application to be director of The Library of Congress. They need new ideas, even un-schooled, in-experienced, ill-informed ideas such as mine. I am loyal, hard working and firmly believe that my microwave is listening to us right now.
31
Big surprise. The grifter has a bunch of grifters working for him.
29
Second rate staff, for a third rate " leader ". What could go wrong???
26
As with all things about the President, no surprise here! He just defies convention.
3
The problem Trump has is the fact that there are a limited number of people who have worked for him long enough to gain his trust.
And outside of that relatively small circle, there are very few people crazy enough to bet their political careers on being associated with him.
Ten years from now, having worked in the Trump Administration is going to be the equivalent of having a scarlet letter on your resume.
And outside of that relatively small circle, there are very few people crazy enough to bet their political careers on being associated with him.
Ten years from now, having worked in the Trump Administration is going to be the equivalent of having a scarlet letter on your resume.
19
“Even though some of the staff doesn’t have government experience it doesn’t mean they are amateurs...”. Yes, yes, it does. Mr. Trump thinks government is just another episode of reality TV.
President Bannon's agenda is to de-legitimize our government, de-legitimize our Fourth Estate, de-legitimize our courts, de-legitimize public education, de-legitimize our elections, and de-legitimize our national unity, to destroy our present system of checks and balances, to amass unconditional power. He's nothing but another of Putin's puppets; unfortunately, he's slightly more intelligent than most of the others.
President Bannon's agenda is to de-legitimize our government, de-legitimize our Fourth Estate, de-legitimize our courts, de-legitimize public education, de-legitimize our elections, and de-legitimize our national unity, to destroy our present system of checks and balances, to amass unconditional power. He's nothing but another of Putin's puppets; unfortunately, he's slightly more intelligent than most of the others.
25
Please note the most recent 'Executive Order' allowing the President* to shut down the Executive Branch of the Government of the United States of America as unnecessary.
1
It'll be a flipping miracle if America survives this Administration. Trump has spent his life not playing by the rules of common decency, fair play, laws, rules or ethics and he was surrounded by enablers. He's just moved his whole shifty organization into the WHouse. This piece feels like a public airing of family secrets best kept secret.
37
One "family secret" I'd like to see are his tax returns.
10
Put on Rachael Maddow now....she's got them, or at least 2005...shaping up!!
3
Trump avoids anyone who he thinks is smarter than him so this is what you get.
Some smart people acting stupid to get a seat at the grift feast.
Some smart people acting stupid to get a seat at the grift feast.
25
Easy to get your own way when you hire people that have no clue.
12
And, apparently, no self respect.
5
In a reader comment sometime back around "the transition," I expressed the belief that the inner workings of the Trump administration were going to look a lot like the personal-loyalty-based inner workings of the Corleone family, minus the violence.
So far I've seen no reason to alter that belief.
The current occupant's name even begins with Don. :-)
So far I've seen no reason to alter that belief.
The current occupant's name even begins with Don. :-)
10
The violence will come. Give it time.
2
Unfortunately, when you have a narrow vision of government, you'll also have slim pickens to fill job openings. This is Trumps Dilemma. Rather than risk further mutiny among new recruits, he lowers the bar to loyalty rather than quality.
10
Of course he has surrounded himself with people most of us would not want coming through our front door, but imagine what the day-to-day reality must be like inside the White House. All I can conjure up is complete chaos.
12
They're all afraid to talk to each other in front of the Oval Office microwave too.
25
Trump's staff is shameless. They have no qualms with bringing lies (alternative facts) on a daily basis to the American people.
14
"Sarah Huckabee Sanders, a White House press spokeswoman, said Mr. Trump had recruited highly skilled advisers with refreshingly different backgrounds. "
Translation: I'm Exhibit A; No Experience Required.
Translation: I'm Exhibit A; No Experience Required.
10
Sarah Huckabee Sanders: “Even though some of the staff doesn’t have government experience it doesn’t mean they are amateurs,” she wrote in an email.
They doesn't? Does they speak English good as you do, Sarah?
They doesn't? Does they speak English good as you do, Sarah?
6
Poor Sarah. Bless her heart.
3
Trump's valuing loyalty over experience in selecting his administrative staff seem more like what you'd find in a "right to work" state where as previous administrations were more like states where union trained labor is the standard.
2
Wait...this can't be true.
Trump ranted and raved for 18 months on the campaign trail that everyone in government was stupid and he was going to surround himself with the brightest and best minds in America.
Oh well, he has a beautiful health care plan that will cover everyone and has a secret plan to defeat ISIS right away and he and only he can fix all of America's problems.
Trump ranted and raved for 18 months on the campaign trail that everyone in government was stupid and he was going to surround himself with the brightest and best minds in America.
Oh well, he has a beautiful health care plan that will cover everyone and has a secret plan to defeat ISIS right away and he and only he can fix all of America's problems.
21
Don't forget about that good brain he has.
4
Loyalty is what any dictator asks for and then demands. Remember his comment about shooting someone and not losing any votes?
21
I know of a couple of other governments where loyalty is put ahead of experience or capability: Cuba, Soviet Union, North Korea to name a few. I know at the time of the Cuban revolution the comptroller of the Cuban telephone company ITT was put into the sugar cane fields and his post filled with a communist party hack that knew nothing. I know this because he was my father-in-law. Sound familiar?
129
ronco
No, it does not sound familiar. Explain.
No, it does not sound familiar. Explain.
The Trump cronies are stomach-turners
On climate change strictly non-learners,
But loyal and how,
Can deftly kowtow,
At Trump's trumpery non-discerners.
On climate change strictly non-learners,
But loyal and how,
Can deftly kowtow,
At Trump's trumpery non-discerners.
27
Do you remember when President George W. Bush was reading a book to children and was first informed of the attacks on the World Trade Center (9/11)? His reaction and demeanor suggested OK, what do I do now? It’s déjà vu.
13
paul cohen
Not at all Mr. Cohen. Not with Secretary of Defense, Mad Dog Maddis on board.
Not at all Mr. Cohen. Not with Secretary of Defense, Mad Dog Maddis on board.
Yes I remember it clearly, his reaction and demeanor were how do I address this without scaring small children. He knew exactly what he was to do, there are policies and they were followed. Perhaps you forgot him being in the air and then demanding to return to direct leadership against the typical response.
1
Paul Cohen
No, Mr. Cohen. Not with the Secretary of Defense, Mad Dog Maddis on Board.
No, Mr. Cohen. Not with the Secretary of Defense, Mad Dog Maddis on Board.
1
Brutus turned out to know a lot about using a knife, but wasn't a very loyal friend. Ask Caesar who he'd wished he'd had around him.
8
This is reminiscent of Rudy Giuliani's appointment of Bernard kerik as NYC police commissioner, with an eventual recommendation that he be head of TSA. Just before he was indicted and convicted of federal income tax evasion. He is now a federal felon. Appears to run in the family.
28
Not just the TSA, he was being considered as Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security.
1
Omertà is the code of honor word that places importance on silence, non-cooperation with authorities, and non-interference in the illegal actions of others.
It originated with the Mafia.
Trump loyalty is the same concept.
Attributes like talent, skill, experience and a sense of human decency are considered irrelevant, personae non gratae in Trump's Russian Roulette political casino game.
Sad. Disgraceful. Impeachable.
It originated with the Mafia.
Trump loyalty is the same concept.
Attributes like talent, skill, experience and a sense of human decency are considered irrelevant, personae non gratae in Trump's Russian Roulette political casino game.
Sad. Disgraceful. Impeachable.
157
The first two are just your opinion, the last is a matter of law. A law that does not match with the circumstances.
My Brother
While I can't quote the Sicilian expression, its rough translation is: The fish rots from the head down.
Struggling down South,
Mike
While I can't quote the Sicilian expression, its rough translation is: The fish rots from the head down.
Struggling down South,
Mike
1
Donald Trump has learned to deal with loyalty his entire life, and knows, nor cares, very little about experience.
In your article you quote Mr. Bergsten: "It's very mysterious" and use the phrase "to the consternation of the president's chief of staff, Reince Priebus, and others."
This reader doesn't find it mysterious in the least.
Trump looks to not the rulebooks of Presidents Obama, Bush, Clinton, Bush, Reagan.
He looks to the rulebooks of Bosses Bonanno, Colombo, Gambino, Genovese, Lucchese.
His is not an organized body of respected leaders, advisers and brilliant minds. This is more akin to an organized body of criminals.
#Resist
In your article you quote Mr. Bergsten: "It's very mysterious" and use the phrase "to the consternation of the president's chief of staff, Reince Priebus, and others."
This reader doesn't find it mysterious in the least.
Trump looks to not the rulebooks of Presidents Obama, Bush, Clinton, Bush, Reagan.
He looks to the rulebooks of Bosses Bonanno, Colombo, Gambino, Genovese, Lucchese.
His is not an organized body of respected leaders, advisers and brilliant minds. This is more akin to an organized body of criminals.
#Resist
34
millie
How outrageous and untrue your post is.
Kindly post biographies of those that Millie considers "criminals." You make a statement like that and I think you owe us a detailed explanation.
Thank you.
How outrageous and untrue your post is.
Kindly post biographies of those that Millie considers "criminals." You make a statement like that and I think you owe us a detailed explanation.
Thank you.
1
I have been saying this for months. The Don, and his entire FAMILY.
7
Public knowledge should be sufficient, dear. Try to overcome your outrage.
3
These people have no shame and they will ruin my country with the help of really dumb people.
35
". . . Keith Schiller, who rose from part-time security guard at the Trump Organization to its director of security. Mr. Schiller is now the director of Oval Office operations . . ."
Are you kidding me? I did not know that until I read this article. I am flabbergasted. That's like putting a crop duster pilot in charge of Air Force One and all of its maintenance and high tech operations.
I recall when JFK appointed his brother as the Attorney General and the big stink that followed. Everyone I knew was screaming nepotism, nepotism. But at least Bobby was a lawyer and knew his way around the law (wait - that didn't come out right).
I understand loyalty. I get that. But my God, shouldn't experience, or at the very least, having a clue as to what the new responsibility is come into play, anywhere? But then again, Trump never held public office, doesn't seem to care about that pesky little document called the constitution, so why should any of his appointed pals be any different than him? The foreboding feeling of doom gets lurking in the background.
71
Loyalty is important over brains when you're hiding something and you need to be protected. Loyalty is also more important than knowing a department one is going to destroy. Who needs knowledge and brains when all you have to know is how to manipulate people.
4
Remember Bernie Kerik, who "rose" from being Guiliani's driver to become NYC police commissioner and then the (Guiliani-endorsed) nominee for head of Homeland Security? A not dissimilar "rise"?
Of course (thankfully) Kerik was outed as a crook and a fraud during the nomination process and later fell to felony conviction.
Of course (thankfully) Kerik was outed as a crook and a fraud during the nomination process and later fell to felony conviction.
4
EXACTLY. A perfect case in point. Good post Vox.
1
Loyalty is prized by either party, but it appears that fresh ideas, new bursts of energy and the absence of tired, old politco hacks that President Trump's predecessor jammed down our throats for eight years is somehow frowned upon.
7
Tired, old politico hacks? Fresh ideas, new bursts of energy? What planet are you living on? What fresh--or any--ideas did any of the new aides present in the article, other than tired clichés? And do you equate experience or qualification with being a hack? We are truly living in an alternate reality, and your comment proves it. The Trump administration is not normal. We can't forget this.
4
reply to make waves: I want an MD to perform my surgery- not the guy who cuts back my Rose Bushes.
5
At least Obama and his picks were half way competent and literate. Even Bush, while he prized loyalty, did not have dunces running the show.
6
Perhaps I can get a job with the U.S. Department of the Interior; I just cleaned the interior of my home- that should count for something.
40
Colorful? Seriously? This is dangerous to the core of our country. There is nothing colorful about his unqualified cabinet picks. This is why people hate the media. Stop making excuses for 45. He is unqualified.
23
I believe, the main driver in all these cabinet selections is "the man behind the curtain" Steve Bannon. He is the first and foremost the most frightening member of Trump's staff and must be looked at with total skepticism because of his strange beliefs and ascriptions (a la "The Fourth Turning"). Experience is not a key factor but a desire to cause chaos in our democracy is. These cabinet members were chosen because they are all on the same page.
11
Help Wanted. Sycophants only.
13
I understand one of Trump's janitors is up for a key position.
11
The prime requisite for serving in the Trump administration appears to be possessing an IQ no higher than 50. No administration in my reasonably long memory of presidents of this country has ever been this completely and totally incompetent.
12
In December 2012, Mexican president Enrique Peña Nieto got "elected" (cheating and buying votes, in the sad Mexican tradition.) Most of my family and friends complained and marched, I tweeted #NoesMiPresidente, we criticized his picks for cabinet, his conflicts of interests... so many people told us to shut up, give him a chance, get over it, and I was even told, if you don't like it, why don't you just move to another country.
The universe has a sick sense of humor.
I love you America. #NotMyPresident
The universe has a sick sense of humor.
I love you America. #NotMyPresident
6
Some of Trump's appointments have been good, especially those who deal with foreign affairs. His choices for domestic affairs, on the other hand, have been weak or poor. The domestic choices appear to be dictated by his Republican base, whom he must please.
9
Two of his appointments have been good: James Mattis as secretary of defense and H.R. McMaster as national security advisor. (McMaster was preceded by the spectacularly inept Michael Flynn.). Both have been hamstrung in shaping their own departments by subordinates with political connections in the White House.
The senior US diplomat, Secretary of State Rex Tillerson, doesn't seem to exert any influence at all. The Trump confidants who will actually shape foreign policy are two advisors who didn't require congressional approval: Steve Bannon and Jared Kushner. Consider for a moment how scary that is.
The senior US diplomat, Secretary of State Rex Tillerson, doesn't seem to exert any influence at all. The Trump confidants who will actually shape foreign policy are two advisors who didn't require congressional approval: Steve Bannon and Jared Kushner. Consider for a moment how scary that is.
17
Leon Keer: Please provide the names of these"Good Appointments".
2
You must be kidding. Greenblatt a "good" choice???
1
"The worst hire we ever made."
Less than two months into the Trump presidency, we can relate.
Less than two months into the Trump presidency, we can relate.
30
So when Republicans decide to impeach their leader (ConflictS of interest), will the Justice Department prosecute the many crooks in his Cabinet? Loyalty will get you so far...
5
Welcome Indeed, Canada
You missed it.
By the time anybody gets over their new found power as majority party, the DoJ will be so Trumpified that he will have nothing to worry about.
This is a thorough, top to bottom, infiltration of the mechanisms of government that will take decades to undo. We're already half way there.
Could you scootch over a bit? Toronto's looking pretty good right about now.
You missed it.
By the time anybody gets over their new found power as majority party, the DoJ will be so Trumpified that he will have nothing to worry about.
This is a thorough, top to bottom, infiltration of the mechanisms of government that will take decades to undo. We're already half way there.
Could you scootch over a bit? Toronto's looking pretty good right about now.
2
Apparently you being from Canada you don't understand the constitution nor the process for impeachment. Bill Clinton lied under oath, was actually impeached but not convicted. Trump has done nothing to warrant impeachment, and probably never will.
I want Mr. Trump to submit to a thorough mental competency exam, to be performed by a team of the finest psychiatrists on the planet-world class with great IQ's, to paraphrase Mr, Trump.
This should be done forthwith: before anymore slanderous tweets, further insults of world leaders and before an Independent Counsel bill is brought to him for his signature.
The exam will be covered by his health insurance-unless he's Medicaid eligible and may be conducted in Moscow, should he so choose.
This should be done forthwith: before anymore slanderous tweets, further insults of world leaders and before an Independent Counsel bill is brought to him for his signature.
The exam will be covered by his health insurance-unless he's Medicaid eligible and may be conducted in Moscow, should he so choose.
8
You may want whatever you desire, as part of his annual physical his doctor would detect any major issues. You just don't like him, nothing but bias.
A failing administration filled with sycophants. What a dismal court.
13
Unconditional allegiance is a great favourite with narcissists.
1
Amateur hour under the leadership of the thin skinned, narcissistic apprentice president. That the Republican base supports this fraud is truly incomprehensible.
16
How far we have fallen.
From Washington, "I cannot tell a lie," to Kennedy hosting a Dinner Honoring Nobel Prize Winners of the Western Hemisphere. in April, 1962, 55 years ago where he said the following:
"I want to tell you how welcome you are to the White House. I think this is the most extraordinary collection of talent, of human knowledge, that has ever been gathered together at the White House, with the possible exception of when Thomas Jefferson dined alone.
Someone once said that Thomas Jefferson was a gentleman of 32 who could calculate an eclipse, survey an estate, tie an artery, plan an edifice, try a cause, break a horse, and dance the minuet."
And now we have a so-called president, who doesn't read books, reads Breitbart, tweets in simpleton language, and can't even tie a tie, let alone tie an artery.
Somebody, make this stop.
Anybody?
John McCain?
Anyone?
From Washington, "I cannot tell a lie," to Kennedy hosting a Dinner Honoring Nobel Prize Winners of the Western Hemisphere. in April, 1962, 55 years ago where he said the following:
"I want to tell you how welcome you are to the White House. I think this is the most extraordinary collection of talent, of human knowledge, that has ever been gathered together at the White House, with the possible exception of when Thomas Jefferson dined alone.
Someone once said that Thomas Jefferson was a gentleman of 32 who could calculate an eclipse, survey an estate, tie an artery, plan an edifice, try a cause, break a horse, and dance the minuet."
And now we have a so-called president, who doesn't read books, reads Breitbart, tweets in simpleton language, and can't even tie a tie, let alone tie an artery.
Somebody, make this stop.
Anybody?
John McCain?
Anyone?
197
The Theater of the Absurd just won't stop. The Voters voted for NON Experience- we actually have worse. These people are inexperienced- and dangerous because not knowing what you don't know- can get a lot of people killed
17
Maybe it's up to the American People...the ones that think and have a sense of history anyway....to make this stop. Our politicians, McCain included, are cowards. Perhaps we can start by supporting the ACLU and sic'cing it on Trump.
2
And play the violin.
The Times left out Kellyanne Conway, and her dubious qualifications. It appears that she has been largely sidelined...or perhaps ignored by the media given her proclivity for inaccurate statements and alternate facts.
25
Her proclivity for lies.
8
No, Mr. Trump likes to pit team members directly against another. He thinks it's amusing, regardless of the hash that makes of any project. Besides, she just wasn't close enough to a 10 at all times.
1
I totally support that the "Times left out Kellyanne Conway."
A shallow shill as she
doesn't deserve a voice
at the table of serious discourse.
Great Thanks! to the authors.
A shallow shill as she
doesn't deserve a voice
at the table of serious discourse.
Great Thanks! to the authors.
The “King of Nepotism” has arrived along with his entourage of “Wannabes”. Unfortunate but not unusual to hire close friends and family as business associates and employees. What is unusual is when your entire staff is inexperienced or worse incompetent and unable to function in the role hired for. And they're in the White House!
And Trump is the worst of the lot. Incompetent, inexperienced, untruthful, and unstable are just a few of his unsavory credentials for the Oval Office. The “Never Ending Story” never, never ends…………….
And Trump is the worst of the lot. Incompetent, inexperienced, untruthful, and unstable are just a few of his unsavory credentials for the Oval Office. The “Never Ending Story” never, never ends…………….
47
This is the Republicans idea of a national jobs program. During the 2008 recession, they couldn't move fast enough to hire wives, children, other relatives and friends.
I once read an article in a popular magazine asserting that one should choose a professional because that person is the best, but do not choose a professional because that person happens to be a friend. If you choose a friend, there is a risk that you may not get the best professional work that you need and you will lose a friend.
Trump is still lost. When big and well run businesses find themselves in a changed world where their business models do not fit, executives first run for what it familiar to try to get back control, but what is familiar usually is no longer the best way to address new circumstances and circumstances worsen. Trump must learn an entirely new kind of organizational structure and language just to grasp what is going on, and the professionals available to him who know are in abundance but he runs back to what is familiar.
Trump is still lost. When big and well run businesses find themselves in a changed world where their business models do not fit, executives first run for what it familiar to try to get back control, but what is familiar usually is no longer the best way to address new circumstances and circumstances worsen. Trump must learn an entirely new kind of organizational structure and language just to grasp what is going on, and the professionals available to him who know are in abundance but he runs back to what is familiar.
84
This President is clearly in over his head.
70
Perhaps. But right now it seems more apt to say that he is quite cleverly in his critics' heads...
Trump needs people who are loyal and who have signed the confidentiality agreement which he requires. He needs YES men/women. At Trump Tower, Trump could maintain total control and opacity. The Oval Office windows are much more transparent and Trump is uncomfortable there. He has a lot of secrets he needs to keep. As CEO he could.
And as a CEO he commanded his 'troops' with out question. Ego ruled the day.
Rules were for suckers, call the lawyers! Trump can't do what he wants as President and his ego suffers. So a lot of YES men are needed to keep him happy. Sad.
And as a CEO he commanded his 'troops' with out question. Ego ruled the day.
Rules were for suckers, call the lawyers! Trump can't do what he wants as President and his ego suffers. So a lot of YES men are needed to keep him happy. Sad.
14
This is a guy who thinks he knows more about ISIS than the generals. Anyone with any expertise poses a threat to his ego. Besides, in order to evaluate an individual's expertise, you need to have a firm grasp of reality, something notably lacking in our current pResident.
14
Experience is critical to superior job performance in any field. We all remember what a great job Brownie did for the country.
21
At least REAL leeches and parasites perform a valuable service in nature.
74
My confidence in Trump grows by the day - with such a stellar cast of characters, I see nothing but greatness on the horizon. Jobs by the millions, universal health care, a beautiful wall, peace in the Middle East, unicorns in Central Park . . . and to think I never supported him and considered him a huckster. Man, those Trump voters really showed me who's who and what's what?
34
Whew. Now it makes sense why Bob Kraft was doing was with POTUS at Mar-a-Lago when the nuclear football (!!!) made a casual appearance. He is a loyal friend ! Thank heavens. (and, unlike many others, he actually has some experience with footballs) How hard can to throw a football around ?
5
The rich people who run this planet, whether they reside in our country (on either side of the aisle), or in China, Italy, México or wherever, make me sick. They are all alike. We, the entire planet, ecosystems and all, are just pawns in their cheap, telenovela maneuvering and self-agrandissement. What shallow, inconsequential dressed-up apes they are and what complex networks completely devoid of anything worthwhile they have created and on which they construct a visual manifestation of their fragile egos, destroying everything good in their paths. They repackage and sell to us what once was free and commonly shared. Instead of collectively turing our backs on them, most of us want to be them. We clamor to reprogram ourselves--and our children--to become consumers 24/7 not only in every aspect of our lives (food, clothing, shelter, education, arts, entertainment, whatever), but to imitate them and, like Ivanka's new jewelry line, be the cheap version of their rapacious, empty existence. Trump's presidency has merely stripped the last shred of pretense off the whole mess.
31
Trump isn't a president, he's a don. A Mafia-style don. Loyalty first, then figure out all the hard stuff later. How many 'made men' on his team? Nobody knows for sure.
28
If you owned, nurtured and ran a business of any size, will you look for Loyalty, or Performance?
If you choose to answer that question, you probably don't own or run a business anymore. It really is that simple.
And that could explain the multiple bankruptcies that our Dear Leader has had. While running casinos!
If you choose to answer that question, you probably don't own or run a business anymore. It really is that simple.
And that could explain the multiple bankruptcies that our Dear Leader has had. While running casinos!
17
A fascinating, terrifying article. It's now clear that Omarosa and Trump are birds of the same feather, thinking that if you speak big, you can be big. In reality, they are both ultimately empty individuals, all sound and fury signifying nothing.
66
Trump....Loyalty...sounds very familiar.
The term Hitler oath refers to the oaths of allegiance, or Reichswehreid, sworn by the officers and soldiers of the German Armed Forces and civil servants of Nazi Germany between the years 1934 and 1945. The oath pledged personal loyalty to Adolf Hitler in place of loyalty to the constitution of the country.
The term Hitler oath refers to the oaths of allegiance, or Reichswehreid, sworn by the officers and soldiers of the German Armed Forces and civil servants of Nazi Germany between the years 1934 and 1945. The oath pledged personal loyalty to Adolf Hitler in place of loyalty to the constitution of the country.
31
Trump ueber alles? Sean Spicer was well respected and now the butt of jokes. Kellyanne Conway has sold herself as the one with "alternative facts". How many supported Trump for one item, as evangelicals for abortion, at the cost of everything else? How many would make a deal with a devil?
14
Loyalty to him. His loyalty to others is a totally different story -- there is none.
In this context I offer my services, in a staff position, as Chief Contradictor. Whatever he says, whenever he says it, however he says it, etc. I will, without fail, contradict him, being fiercely loyal to that position and to demonstrate that his judgement in my appointment was fully correct.
In this context I offer my services, in a staff position, as Chief Contradictor. Whatever he says, whenever he says it, however he says it, etc. I will, without fail, contradict him, being fiercely loyal to that position and to demonstrate that his judgement in my appointment was fully correct.
8
Trump has always been about making as much money as quickly as possible even if it meant cutting corners. He never hid it. The 1% voted for him because he would drastically cut taxes, and the poor voted for him because they thought he would make them rich. Deep down, Trump's thugs believe that the poor are poor because they are stupid. They will believe anything. Well,now we know that they did.
Never in history have two successive presidents be so different, and I don't mean Coke vs Pepsi different. I mean Château Haut-Brion vs swamp water different.
Never in history have two successive presidents be so different, and I don't mean Coke vs Pepsi different. I mean Château Haut-Brion vs swamp water different.
21
One of these "loyal, not experience(d)" cronies will have their "Heckuva job, Brownie" moment. In fact, we'll be lucky if it's just one.
Who will it be?
Who will it be?
8
We're having it. HE'S " in charge ".
3
Trump is an extremely weak individual. Instead of surrounding himself with brilliant minds to give him advice, he seeks out extremely uninformed, inexperienced, and not very bright people. This is his business if he wants to run his personal affairs that way. As the POTUS, this affects all of us and demonstrates the lack of care he has for the citizens of his country. Americans will suffer as a result of his pettiness and greed.
49
It has not even been a 100 days and we are judging his performance. Regardless who he appoints, things are happening. Unfortunately I don't agree with most of what he has done but they are happening. It is best we judge the President by results rather than who he appoints. President Obama appointed a very capable Ms. Clinton as secretary of state and she was hardly successful. President Obama's success was mostly due to his decision making rather than who he appointed. He had to make the call to send a Seal Team to kill Osama. We really don't care who the defense secretary was at that time.
1
really? things are happening? 'things' happened during katrina and sandy too...none of it was good though.
15
that was my point too. I said I don't agree with what he is doing. Stock market is rising and creating incredible wealth - yes for the top 1% and not necessarily because of Trump - but it is happening. And only yesterday the Times wrote that small businesses are expanding. That is what "happening" means.
Based on your logic, we should wait for a total melt down of the US health insurance industry before opposing Trump Care. How many people need to die for a lack of health care until you are satisfied that it's time to complain?
7
Trump's own inexperience and lack of curiosity make it even more critical that he have quality personnel around him, as well as cabinet members independent enough of him to speak up. Instead, the blind lead the blind and back-scratchers stick together.
We all pay the price for this cynicism.
We all pay the price for this cynicism.
23
In order to have a substantial White House job in this administration, you evidently don't need to know anything or to have accomplished anything previously -- just have the right connection. The only response to such people from experienced government staff, many of whom have spent years acquiring real knowledge and expertise, will be contempt. As dedicated civil servants, they will respond to the orders given by these people; but they will never respect them. Respect, as they say, is earned, not bestowed.
96
The contempt by self-supposed elites was exactly why Trump won. It is the rocket fuel that makes Americans so angry, I can easily see Trump re-elected. Hurrumph away.
1
Trump's loyalty mirrors Putin's (now considered the richest man in the world...oh my). "After his seventh bankruptcy and the cancellation of all his bank lines of credit. ... The money to build Trump's projects flowed almost entirely from Russian sources. In other words, after his business crashed, Trump was floated and made to appear to operate a successful business enterprise through the infusion of hundreds in millions of cash from dark Russian sources. He was their man....his real estate deals were used to hide not just an infusion of capital from Russia and former Soviet states, but to launder hundreds of millions looted by oligarchs."
http://www.globalsecurity.org/military/world/para/russian-organized-crim...
Will he be as loyal to his mafia associates in New York, New Jersey, and of course--provided by Russia?
http://www.msnbc.com/am-joy/watch/trump-s-alleged-mob-ties-849856067969
https://www.wsj.com/articles/donald-trump-dealt-with-a-series-of-people-...
http://www.motherjones.com/politics/2016/09/trump-russian-mobster-tokhta...
http://www.globalsecurity.org/military/world/para/russian-organized-crim...
Will he be as loyal to his mafia associates in New York, New Jersey, and of course--provided by Russia?
http://www.msnbc.com/am-joy/watch/trump-s-alleged-mob-ties-849856067969
https://www.wsj.com/articles/donald-trump-dealt-with-a-series-of-people-...
http://www.motherjones.com/politics/2016/09/trump-russian-mobster-tokhta...
I wouldn't say he values loyalty over experience, I would say he values blind loyalty over basic competence.
252
So much for draining the swamp. Trump has brought swamps from TV and from Trump Towers to the White House.
16
The blind leading the blind. The stupid instructing the even more stupid. The corrupt passing on the best tips and tricks. Ladies and Gentlemen, THIS " administration " is the greatest con trick in American history. Bigly.
70
This is the same cabinet that Trump boasted had the highest IQ of any cabinet! Of course they don't. But that's what happens when cronyism and nepotism fuel our appointments. Aptitude and qualifications are lost, as is any objectivity at assessing your chums once they are in power.
212
Folks, just remember who the Head of the Department of Energy is now.. Rick Perry who couldn't think of the name of the Agency he vowed to get rid of.
Hang on, we haven't seen nothing yet.
Hang on, we haven't seen nothing yet.
4
The biggest problem with his cabinet is that everyone of them is taking on a job without any preparation nor guidance beyond what they bring with them. If Trump had some experienced government professionals who know what these people must do to gain control and to function well, then they could be guided into their jobs and those who have the talents might display them. Instead, it's everyone going their separate ways and continual contradictions from different people in the administration.
1
In writing his response to Hillary Clinton’s IQ scores, Donald Trump was sitting at his desk and saw a bottle of hand sanitizer with the numbers of 99.99%...that is where he gleaned the numbers of his retort of answering 99.99% of the questions of the IQ test correctly. He states his IQ is 156. In comparison, Stephen Hawking – IQ 160.
Dr Amanda Potter, psychologist, British Psychological Society: “While having a sufficient cognitive ability or IQ is important for any individual to succeed, both emotional intelligence and social intelligence are also critical.”
She added all three types of intelligence were important for the success of an individual.
Emotional Intelligence: being aware of, control, and express one's emotions, and to handle interpersonal relationships judiciously and empathetically. "emotional intelligence is the key to both personal and professional success" (Daniel Goldman)
Social Intelligence: An aggregated measure of self/social-awareness, evolved social beliefs and attitudes, capacity to manage complex social change. Social intelligence defines humans.
Trump
1.Antisocial Personality Disorder (deceitfulness, repeatedly lying, use of aliases or conning others for personal profit or pleasure.)
2.Borderline Personality Disorder (a pattern of unstable/intense interpersonal relationships, alternating between extreme idealizations and devaluation.)
3.Narcissistic Personality Disorder (Has a grandiose sense of self-importance)
Dr Amanda Potter, psychologist, British Psychological Society: “While having a sufficient cognitive ability or IQ is important for any individual to succeed, both emotional intelligence and social intelligence are also critical.”
She added all three types of intelligence were important for the success of an individual.
Emotional Intelligence: being aware of, control, and express one's emotions, and to handle interpersonal relationships judiciously and empathetically. "emotional intelligence is the key to both personal and professional success" (Daniel Goldman)
Social Intelligence: An aggregated measure of self/social-awareness, evolved social beliefs and attitudes, capacity to manage complex social change. Social intelligence defines humans.
Trump
1.Antisocial Personality Disorder (deceitfulness, repeatedly lying, use of aliases or conning others for personal profit or pleasure.)
2.Borderline Personality Disorder (a pattern of unstable/intense interpersonal relationships, alternating between extreme idealizations and devaluation.)
3.Narcissistic Personality Disorder (Has a grandiose sense of self-importance)
2
Incompetents, in over their heads -- just like their boss. And the entire country will be dragged down to their level unless Congress acts immediately to impeach and remove 45 (and his cabal of sycophants) under the 25th Amendment.
124
Ah, yes. These poor unsuccessful fools. All who criticize them are far, far more intelligent and wiser too...
1
I'm glad you figured it out, Mark, maybe now you'll listen to us.
5
Everyone in the White House ultimately reports to us, not just the president. Trump's cynical appointments are for people who gladly do his own bidding, nit ours. And with Trump's unprecedented paths to corruption, it is that much more important that he not have a group of "yes" men and "yes" women.
10
Grow up. The people appointed by the POTUS report to HIM, not us. We judge their performance after the fact, not before. That's how it works...
Thanks, I was just trying to figure out if I should invest in the red-hot stock market. This article answers that question (and you didn't even throw in Jared Kushner - oh, yeah, see above article, under Shady Real Estate deal with China).
Remember Harriet Myers?
Remember what happened to the country under the guy that tried to put her on the Supreme Court?
Remember what happened to the economy under the guy that hired "Heckuva job Brownie"?
This will be worse.
Remember Harriet Myers?
Remember what happened to the country under the guy that tried to put her on the Supreme Court?
Remember what happened to the economy under the guy that hired "Heckuva job Brownie"?
This will be worse.
47
I think Omarosa may be the least qualified of the bunch.
I believe the Apprentice and now working for the White House may be the only actual jobs she has had.
I believe the Apprentice and now working for the White House may be the only actual jobs she has had.
11
What amazes me about her is that given her performance track record and her obvious, verifiable lies, you have to ask, "How does a person like that continue to be employed?" Oh sure, Trump doesn't care about things like that, but in the real world-- which she is not in, granted-- falsification of credentials would eventually lead to employment termination.
15
Mr. Greenblatt has told reporters that after so many years at Mr. Trump’s side, “I know how he thinks; I know how to get his bidding done.” Wow! Maybe he can let us in on how he "thinks"
10
Didn't Trump's supporter mindlessly chant DRAIN THE SWAMP throughout the entire election? Didn't Trump and some moderates assuage people by promising Trump would bring only the best into his cabinet to help guide the clueless new President?
147
They also mindlessly chanted "Lock her up."
He continues to spew outlandish lies, still not held accountable for them and his supporters still believe him. The art of the con mastered!
He continues to spew outlandish lies, still not held accountable for them and his supporters still believe him. The art of the con mastered!
6
They lied! Conflict of interests abound. investigate unethical administration appointee.
2
He promised a lot, like much better health care at much less cost.
This is Trump's precise problem. What he needs most is people with the right kind of experience to advise him intelligently, truthfully and thoroughly on all affairs foreign and domestic. People who can tell him "no". People who can keep him disciplined. People who can hold him accountable. Unfortunately, Donald Trump never seemed to learn how to take responsibility for his words and actions. Just look at the accusations thrown carelessly out about the Obama administration wiretapping his phones. He should suffer the negative consequences of his blatant lies just like any other person would have to. Anything else is unacceptable.
82
Having "People who can tell him 'no', People who can keep him disciplined, People who can hold him accountable..." will not improve things.
In the past, when Trump was young, he did hire experienced people for his Trump Shuttle ("airline"). They told him, you can't save money by flying your planes with only 2 instead of the required 3 pilots (for safety reasons -- the next week, one of his planes crash-landed in Boston). He was told that giving out free "casino chips" (from his own casino) would not attract customers but WILL throw away cash (casino chips are 1:1 replacements as cash, they are not like a coupon). Trump ignored them. Because he was using his own airline to buy casino chips from his dying casino.
The root problem is not from Trump not wanting experienced, caring, or expert staff. As he did in the past, he would simply ignore them. Narcissistic personality disorder is a serious disorder -- those afflicted have a grandiose sense that they are superior and no one else knows. Trump ignores those who say things he does not want to hear. If you tell him there's a better way, his answer will be either: "I knew that, and was only testing you" or "No, I know the best way."
As for his demands for loyalty, there's a different darker reason:
His need stems from his extreme paranoia -- of hiring "Brutus".
In the past, when Trump was young, he did hire experienced people for his Trump Shuttle ("airline"). They told him, you can't save money by flying your planes with only 2 instead of the required 3 pilots (for safety reasons -- the next week, one of his planes crash-landed in Boston). He was told that giving out free "casino chips" (from his own casino) would not attract customers but WILL throw away cash (casino chips are 1:1 replacements as cash, they are not like a coupon). Trump ignored them. Because he was using his own airline to buy casino chips from his dying casino.
The root problem is not from Trump not wanting experienced, caring, or expert staff. As he did in the past, he would simply ignore them. Narcissistic personality disorder is a serious disorder -- those afflicted have a grandiose sense that they are superior and no one else knows. Trump ignores those who say things he does not want to hear. If you tell him there's a better way, his answer will be either: "I knew that, and was only testing you" or "No, I know the best way."
As for his demands for loyalty, there's a different darker reason:
His need stems from his extreme paranoia -- of hiring "Brutus".
1
Cronyism is the first hallmark of a would-be dictator, and we know already that cronyism has been the hallmark of Trump's strategic choices. He has nominated unqualified, unsuitable people to nearly every cabinet post, and those who show any kind of independent streak (like Rex Tillerson) are sidelined in favor of other cronies (Breitbart, Kushner). Unless Trump can find cronies, he is willing to leave posts unfilled--the most unfilled posts ever.
The end result is a government full of sycophants who have no independent agency.
Top-down politics is expected in the U.S. system, but never to this extent, and when the guy at the top is a narcissistic sociopath with virtually no knowledge about anything other than his own interests, we are facing a total collapse of government--and an incipient dictatorship led by a fool.
The end result is a government full of sycophants who have no independent agency.
Top-down politics is expected in the U.S. system, but never to this extent, and when the guy at the top is a narcissistic sociopath with virtually no knowledge about anything other than his own interests, we are facing a total collapse of government--and an incipient dictatorship led by a fool.
262
While what you describe is accurate it's not so unusual in a third world country, which is the new administration's mentality and where the US is headed except that we will have more money and a big military. And isn't that what's important in this country.
1
A reality TV show cast of the highest order.
But nothing close to government.
But nothing close to government.
92
Loyalty is always demanded by the insecure and inept.
Someone must tell El Jefe he/she is a genius.
Someone must tell El Jefe he/she is a genius.
66
Squeeky Fromm did a better job vetting her boyfriends than Trump does with the people he surrounds himself.
58
I think the word you are looking for is sycophants.
133
These so-called advisors are the incompetents who are advocating shutting down the Coast Guard, the TSA, the EPA, and NOAA just to fit some grandiose notion of fulfilling Trump campaign promises.
86
The cynicism is mind-boggling as not all undocumented workers and immigrants come from Mexico. The Atlantic reported recently that more of these people enter the U.S. from Asia: China, India, and South Korea. As to the EPA and NOAA, without environmental protections and reporting -- people can be kept in the dark. Already Trump's minions have started to remove the scientific reports, data, and statistics paid for by U.S. citizens. And they have started to muzzle the agencies and employees. The loyalty code masks incompetence and will eventually be exposed as criminality.
1
I don't believe they are incompetent. I believe they will do exactly what they've been hired to do: the bidding of the 1%ers. Trump has made government more efficient by eliminating the need for corporate lobbyists.
One hopes that an outcome of this administration is a new-found understanding amongst 46.4% of our voting citizens about the importance of a good, honest, government.
I won't hold my breath.
I won't hold my breath.
107
You don't need to be competent or have expertise in your field, to get a Trump appointment. Just use Kellyanne Conway's playbook and you'll not only be appointed, you'll also get to say and do whatever you want without consequences.
61