Elect a clown, get a circus.
216
Trump and crew represent the worst group of ignorant,incompetent,corrupt and mean individuals to inhabit the Whitehouse. However,the Republican Congress will not act to oust them because retaining power is paramount. Patriotism was a facade that went out the window long ago.
164
An item from the long list of things that "Nobody Knew" in Trumplandia:
The media loves a secret!
The media loves a secret!
7
So the Russians did interfere in the election.
So did AIPAC, Wall Street, Big Pharma, Big Oil, the Chamber of Commerce,... and anybody else that could afford it, because this is the best 'democracy' money can buy.
So, yes, let's find out "exactly what happened and who was involved" and maybe it's time to change a system so corrupt that it leads to an orange ignoramus in the White House.
So did AIPAC, Wall Street, Big Pharma, Big Oil, the Chamber of Commerce,... and anybody else that could afford it, because this is the best 'democracy' money can buy.
So, yes, let's find out "exactly what happened and who was involved" and maybe it's time to change a system so corrupt that it leads to an orange ignoramus in the White House.
109
I have tried to find the source of a comment made by someone in the Trump campaign last fall and quoted on NPR which, paraphrasing, basically said: " We do not have to will. Clinton just has to lose." Isn't that what happened? The fake news that was disseminated on Facebook and other social media created doubt about Clinton and led to increased distrust and her ultimately loss.
37
Mr. Blow,
I despise Trump as much as you do, but what you describe as your journalistic instinct leaves much to be desired. You may recall your frame-by-frame analysis of video of the jail cell where Sandra Bland committed suicide. According to you, entirely benign actionts by deputies proved that she was murdered. This is just one example of the conspiracy theories you have touted over the past year.
I despise Trump as much as you do, but what you describe as your journalistic instinct leaves much to be desired. You may recall your frame-by-frame analysis of video of the jail cell where Sandra Bland committed suicide. According to you, entirely benign actionts by deputies proved that she was murdered. This is just one example of the conspiracy theories you have touted over the past year.
20
What do you mean "if not years." That is just both completely ridiculous and unacceptable.
18
Riveting. Makes "House of Cards" look quaint. All that's missing (so far) is a body or two!
62
Didn't the now President during the campaign call for the Russians to hack Clinton's emails? Doesn't that factor bigly?
111
Oh, my.
Now we know it was Susan Rice who directed the illegal surveillance of the Trump transition team.
https://www.bloomberg.com/view/articles/2017-04-03/top-obama-adviser-sou...
I wonder how she will look in an orange jumpsuit.
Give it up on the Russia stuff.
This "investigation" has been going on since July and they haven't found anything yet. Leakers to the NY Tiimes have repeatedly said there is no evidence of wrong doing. Ex DNI Clapper said the same thing last month.
We know if anything had been found it would immediately have leaked to the media. If they haven't found anything in 9 months, and during the period when the alleged "collusion" was happening, they never will.
Now we know it was Susan Rice who directed the illegal surveillance of the Trump transition team.
https://www.bloomberg.com/view/articles/2017-04-03/top-obama-adviser-sou...
I wonder how she will look in an orange jumpsuit.
Give it up on the Russia stuff.
This "investigation" has been going on since July and they haven't found anything yet. Leakers to the NY Tiimes have repeatedly said there is no evidence of wrong doing. Ex DNI Clapper said the same thing last month.
We know if anything had been found it would immediately have leaked to the media. If they haven't found anything in 9 months, and during the period when the alleged "collusion" was happening, they never will.
15
Your opening sentence says it all, "We are still NOT conclusively able to connect the dots...."
For this President, It is guilty until proven innocent. Not treated the same. And you wonder why he is defensive and aggressive toward the Times and their fellow major newspapers.
For this President, It is guilty until proven innocent. Not treated the same. And you wonder why he is defensive and aggressive toward the Times and their fellow major newspapers.
15
Very well written. Thanks-
26
“I will tell you this, Russia: If you’re listening, I hope you’re able to find the 30,000 emails that are missing.”
Does collusion depend upon deception? Did the American public choose to vote without knowledge of collusion or in spite of it? Is today's POTUS merely the personification of a more insidious and widespread problem: Us?
Does collusion depend upon deception? Did the American public choose to vote without knowledge of collusion or in spite of it? Is today's POTUS merely the personification of a more insidious and widespread problem: Us?
50
As dots are connected, conjecture goes on and on and on. The longer it takes a real, visible, audible shoe to drop, the more this seems like Benghazi, Benghazi, Hillary Clinton, Benghazi, Benghazi, Benghazi.....
8
You're spitting in the wind Charles. Keep wasting your time.
9
So after weeks of raw hysteria, all Mr. Blow has is an OPINION POLL?
And the fact that Devin Nunes proved him wrong, by showing that Trump had been monitored indeed?
Wow!
And the fact that Devin Nunes proved him wrong, by showing that Trump had been monitored indeed?
Wow!
11
Charles, you seem to bemoan the fact that RT is seen as more credible to gullible Americans than the NYT.
But you do not dwell on why that may be so.
But you do not dwell on why that may be so.
6
I don't think the NYT realizes how deep the denial instinct goes at the top. Trump CAN'T believe that he won based on anything but his "brilliance". And he's surrounded by sycophantic toadies who will ride this train until it runs off the tracks and explodes, and damn the good of the country in the mean time.
42
Michael Flynn will offer whatever benefits Flynn at the moment. Why does NYT give the concept of revelation any credibility?
10
Although I don't approve of the metaphor, Mr. Blow is flogging a dead horse if he believes that question of possible Russian meddling is relevant, or provable.And if it were, so what? Every nation intervenes in affairs of other nations. Did not Obama's WH allocate 300 million to send pol. operatives to Israel to defeat NETANYANU in his re election bid? Little known fact that Pierre Messmer, De Gaulle's def. minister regularly dispatched French army veterans of Algerian conflict to Argentina to prop up dictatorships beginning with Gen. OGANIA in early 1960's, and policy was continued through the camarilla of Leopoldo Galtieri in 1983.Counter insurgency meant also use of torture.What is of more concern to us "inconditionnels du Trumpisme"r cuts in domestic programs such as those written about in NK's column which will hurt rural and urban poor who nonetheless remain loyal to the Donald. This is scandalous, regrettable in context of an admin. in which c-in-c's relatives and son in law r worth hundreds of millions and counting.How mean spirited!Added to presence of son in law who sits in on foreign policy meetings, and who has no experience in the field, series of missteps is adding up for the admin. Talleyrand said "c'est pire qu'un crime; c'est une faute!"The "fautes" ,or blunders r accumulating, and loyalty of TRUMP supporters has its limits.Mr. Blow writes well, but needs to readjust his focus.
8
The thought of the sanctimonious Pence as President is deeply troubling. The revelation about being afraid to be alone with a woman is a mirror to his condemnation of all women. This brings to light the guilt by association, to Eve, of original sin that men like Pence put on all women. Many on the religious firmly believe that since all whores are women then all women are whores and can only atone themselves by subservience to a man. Pence needs to shown for what he really is, a man with a bible in one hand and a whip in the other.
70
Calling upon Putin - IN PLAIN SIGHT AND EARSHOT OF THE AMERICAN PEOPLE - to hack Clinton and disrupt the Presidential election is still treason -plain sight and earshot notwithstanding.
60
Trump supporters will support him NO MATTER WHAT. His voting base will only defect when they actually lose entitlements and other governmental support. Given the Congressional log jams and infighting, it may be quite a while before any legislation is passed which will harm his base. It would actually be to America's benefit if some of The Donald's wacko promises are kept. Only when the ship lists enough to signal doom will passengers abandon ship.
109
An old man that's all bluster and unable to get anything done. That's called impotence.
46
Thank you Mr. Blow for writing so eloquently about how many of us feel. This whole Russian saga is so alarming. It amazes me that Congressional Republicans continue apace as if nothing untoward is happening in the administration. Things have got to change and soon.
38
How is it possible that a majority of Republicans don't care to look at whether our democracy is being infiltrated and influenced by the Russians? Is their blind obedience to Trump more important that patriotism and America's security? This beggars belief. Awake up! This is not a partisan issue! You'll still have a Republican president. But it's starting to look like Trump's campaign slogan shouldn't have been "Make America Great Again." It should have been "Make America Russia's Puppet."
22
Cold, frightening facts about collusion with Russia -- sworn enemies of Democracy and of the United States of America -- are absolutely wasted on drumprubbers.
Rub-a-dub-dumb!
Rub-a-dub-dumb!
12
I really hope this investigation plays out and is not swept under the rug of partisanship. But let's move beyond current events a bit. Now that the cat is out of the bag, it seems reasonable to expect that in ALL future presidential elections:
- bored teenagers in Moldavia/Timbuktu/Katmandu/East-Jesus will plant fake stories in click-bait ads.
- Russians/North-Koreans/ISIS and other bad actors will hack into sloppily kept databases and release emails impugning whichever candidate least favors their agenda.
- Twitter-storms over idiotic comments will distract from the process of real governance.
- "News" websites even more egregious than Breitbart (or to the left as well) will arise and be cited by voters and legislators as proof of their point of point of view.
In an Internet era where there are few or no barriers for anyone to publish any nonsense that they either naively believe or for malicious purposes, it seems that... what's the right phrase... political literacy? becomes more and more important. Trump, not as an individual, but as a phenomenon, maybe what we get here on out, unless somehow we learn how to cope with the age of information. Circling back to education...
- bored teenagers in Moldavia/Timbuktu/Katmandu/East-Jesus will plant fake stories in click-bait ads.
- Russians/North-Koreans/ISIS and other bad actors will hack into sloppily kept databases and release emails impugning whichever candidate least favors their agenda.
- Twitter-storms over idiotic comments will distract from the process of real governance.
- "News" websites even more egregious than Breitbart (or to the left as well) will arise and be cited by voters and legislators as proof of their point of point of view.
In an Internet era where there are few or no barriers for anyone to publish any nonsense that they either naively believe or for malicious purposes, it seems that... what's the right phrase... political literacy? becomes more and more important. Trump, not as an individual, but as a phenomenon, maybe what we get here on out, unless somehow we learn how to cope with the age of information. Circling back to education...
13
What if Trump starts a war we can't finish with N. Korea? That is one of my nightmare scenarios.
25
How many dots to connect before the truth hits you over the head. Meaning guilty as charged. There is alt-news, fake news and the facts. As a program many years ago had a signature phrase, "just the facts mam, just the facts." Sorry if not perfect, but it still means something to get at the facts.
8
Column after column in the NYT attempting to link Trump and associates with the Russian interference in the election and the net result - a deafening silence. Not one iota of evidence to show that any collusion has occurred despite the criminal leaking of classified information. About those criminal leaks - right about now Donna Rice is sweating bullets and talking to her lawyers. The real conspiracy and criminality of Obama's administration is now being unmasked.
14
Different liberal columnists have written this same essay over and over again. I'm not sure why we need to hear it again. But I do wonder at why the contrary evidence of collusion is never mentioned. In particular there has been testimony by intelligence leaders that there is no evidence of collusion. Why do you discount that counter evidence? And what's wrong with waiting until we have some real information from the FBI's probe? This essay is getting pretty stale.
11
Correct me if I am wrong but I believe that Obama is eligible to run again in 2020. Take hope, America.
22
It would be worth the parade of hierarchical reprobates called on to replace Trump.
Worth biting my nose to spite my face to see Trump do the perp walk.
Oh for that day...
Worth biting my nose to spite my face to see Trump do the perp walk.
Oh for that day...
25
"The list foes on and on." Well, couldn't the impeachment process keep on going down the list? And I'm still wondering: how are we supposed to cope with an election stolen by treason? Is there no remedy? Just rap some knuckles? Send them to the cloakroom and make them stand in the corner for an hour?
18
A mafia family, in all it's ramifications. They make offers, and deals, that
can't be refused. PEROID.
can't be refused. PEROID.
I had to laugh when I read this line:
"The journalistic caution in me..."
The same 'journalistic caution' that kept Mr. Blow from hyping the false "Hands up, don't shoot" narrative? The same 'journalistic caution' that was evident when infamously criticizing Yale campus police before all the facts were known about an encounter with his son?
If Mr. Blow has indeed suddenly developed 'journalistic caution' does that not count as a positive outcome of a Trump presidency?
"The journalistic caution in me..."
The same 'journalistic caution' that kept Mr. Blow from hyping the false "Hands up, don't shoot" narrative? The same 'journalistic caution' that was evident when infamously criticizing Yale campus police before all the facts were known about an encounter with his son?
If Mr. Blow has indeed suddenly developed 'journalistic caution' does that not count as a positive outcome of a Trump presidency?
14
Why everyone in Washington is not running around in circles to get to the bottom of this is beyond me. There should be no more "governing," no more legislation, no Supreme Court nominees... everything should be at a FULL STOP and the investigation should be the ONLY thing that anyone focuses on, 24/7, until we get to the bottom of this.
There are SO MANY dots with Russian names surrounding our so-called President, his family and his so-called Administration, even his campaign chest with its dark, seemingly-shrouded donors, that it resembles a veritable "Milky Way" constellation of ties to Russian and Putin.
And if it is found to be true, how far and wide does it reach ? And does that not call into question the legitimacy of this election -- and those installed by the election ?
The outrage that so many of us out here in the vast wasteland of what we used call America is bubbling over.
Meanwhile, the obfuscation and deflection by Trump and his minions should by stoking the fires of inquiry further.
But what do we hear from the GOP majority ? сверчки.
Hmm, could it be that there are ties to Russia there, too... ?
There are SO MANY dots with Russian names surrounding our so-called President, his family and his so-called Administration, even his campaign chest with its dark, seemingly-shrouded donors, that it resembles a veritable "Milky Way" constellation of ties to Russian and Putin.
And if it is found to be true, how far and wide does it reach ? And does that not call into question the legitimacy of this election -- and those installed by the election ?
The outrage that so many of us out here in the vast wasteland of what we used call America is bubbling over.
Meanwhile, the obfuscation and deflection by Trump and his minions should by stoking the fires of inquiry further.
But what do we hear from the GOP majority ? сверчки.
Hmm, could it be that there are ties to Russia there, too... ?
22
I firmly believe that if it were proven beyond any doubt that the Russians had interfered with our election with the collusion of Trump, those who voted for him would still support him. They want him to be president. They do not want Pence particularly or any other candidate, Republican, Democrat or other. They love his sticking it to all those politically correct others and the Muslims and Mexicans and African-Americans. They like that his is not a wimp; he's an alpha male. Take away their benefits, prove his is a traitor, they will still support him.
18
Face it, Trump said it himself, why can't we just be friends with Russia?
If that didn't heed warning and scare the American people, what will?
No offense but I bet those people who supported Triump after that wouldn't mind if Trump thought it would be okay to be friends with North Korea either.
So sick of sissy Republican Congressmen/women using the excuse "well he's our president" and basically we must not be too hard on him!
Nixon was our president too. We remember. What is that supposed to mean, he's our president?.
Congress, get on with it. Demand his taxes, get the interrogations going. Get rid of Trump and get his family out of DC. This is not a monarchy.
If that didn't heed warning and scare the American people, what will?
No offense but I bet those people who supported Triump after that wouldn't mind if Trump thought it would be okay to be friends with North Korea either.
So sick of sissy Republican Congressmen/women using the excuse "well he's our president" and basically we must not be too hard on him!
Nixon was our president too. We remember. What is that supposed to mean, he's our president?.
Congress, get on with it. Demand his taxes, get the interrogations going. Get rid of Trump and get his family out of DC. This is not a monarchy.
13
After months of investigation we have learned - what? That people who do business in the world meet and talk to Russians. Wow.
11
I read Malcolm Nance's book, "The Plot to Hack America," published prior to the election, in September 2016. It's all there, Charles. Talk to him.
11
There is a 95% chance the liberal democrats are off their rocker, absolutely bonkers with the results of the election. Hillary lost bigly get over it will you?
9
Multiple investigations, no evidence, no smoking gun, no money trail, no sex tapes...nothing at all. What is real is Blow's obsession with Trump and now the Russian, his outlandish conspiracy theories, his blind hate and his total lack of anything important to say. Very Sad.
12
Folks -- I'm a pretty liberal democrat. Nothing, and i mean nothing, about this situation depresses me as the number of comments here to the effect that "we need to declare the 2016 election void and have a do-over election."
Read your constitution. Absent a revolution that tears up the constitution (and all the carnage that likely entails) -- cannot happen.
Elections do have consequences. Here we are -- and while Trump does seem to be on a path to resignation or removal, that is the constitutional limit ... unless one imagines Pence found to have colluded too?
Frankly, I doubt that ... but even if true and Pence is removed, then we get Ryan.
Tear your hair out, gnash your teeth ... act like the petulant children the right always caricatures you to be ... you will not change this with ignorant gabble-gabble.
And the worst of it is did you vote? Who did you vote for?
Read your constitution. Absent a revolution that tears up the constitution (and all the carnage that likely entails) -- cannot happen.
Elections do have consequences. Here we are -- and while Trump does seem to be on a path to resignation or removal, that is the constitutional limit ... unless one imagines Pence found to have colluded too?
Frankly, I doubt that ... but even if true and Pence is removed, then we get Ryan.
Tear your hair out, gnash your teeth ... act like the petulant children the right always caricatures you to be ... you will not change this with ignorant gabble-gabble.
And the worst of it is did you vote? Who did you vote for?
13
Read Eric Berman's comment -
"If it can be established that he or his minions colluded in this tampering, then he should be removed from office. But more than that, the election should be annulled, and all the people who were brought into power should be removed from office and a new election called. Unprecedented? Yes, but we can fix it through constitutional remedies."
I agree and have been writing this in previous comments.
Must removed all the incompetent people appointed to this administration and cabinet. Why are Jared and Ivanka and Bannon making policy for US !
Clean out this entire disgusting bunch from our government and jail those have been criminals.
SOON !
"If it can be established that he or his minions colluded in this tampering, then he should be removed from office. But more than that, the election should be annulled, and all the people who were brought into power should be removed from office and a new election called. Unprecedented? Yes, but we can fix it through constitutional remedies."
I agree and have been writing this in previous comments.
Must removed all the incompetent people appointed to this administration and cabinet. Why are Jared and Ivanka and Bannon making policy for US !
Clean out this entire disgusting bunch from our government and jail those have been criminals.
SOON !
Ask our Great Leader Jared. He is aided in every endeavor by his lovely wife, Queen Ivanka. So wonderful they were voted into office by a landslide. Hughhhh!
14
If when Mr. Blow says the Russians interfered in our election he means they hacked into the email accounts of the DNC and other prominent democrats and published their emails revealing the truth about how they REALLY felt about people then he is right. Just remember the Russians didn't make up anything. They just published the words of the democrats. I mean even Mr. Blow has to admit that is just to FUNNY!!! I remember when I got my first email account I was told "be careful what you send it can always come back to haunt you, emails never go away". The Democrats must have forgot that very important advice.
If Trump colluded with the Russians, yes, it was terrible, bad, awful.
But there were still enough people who voted for him, which is the far bigger problem. Blaming the Russians for our own stupidity isn't a solution, it's an excuse.
Do we really think that the people who chose to believe fake news like that preposterous Comet Pizza Parlor story would have voted for Hillary if only that story or other in that vein never existed?
"Oh, so you're telling me Hillary really wasn't running an underage sex slave ring in that pizza parlor? Excellent, that was the only thing holding me back from voting for her."
If that makes you sleep better at night, then I'm happy for you.
This Russia thing was a real "thing", but at this point we need to start focusing on protecting our democratic society from within and worry less about external, adjunct adversarial actors like Russia.
But there were still enough people who voted for him, which is the far bigger problem. Blaming the Russians for our own stupidity isn't a solution, it's an excuse.
Do we really think that the people who chose to believe fake news like that preposterous Comet Pizza Parlor story would have voted for Hillary if only that story or other in that vein never existed?
"Oh, so you're telling me Hillary really wasn't running an underage sex slave ring in that pizza parlor? Excellent, that was the only thing holding me back from voting for her."
If that makes you sleep better at night, then I'm happy for you.
This Russia thing was a real "thing", but at this point we need to start focusing on protecting our democratic society from within and worry less about external, adjunct adversarial actors like Russia.
7
American leadership should not concoct a plan around Trump's punishment if alleged accusations come true. If he colluded, get him out and deal with Pence as the president. We should not play games with our damaged democracy. You break the rules, you go. Period. A terrible Trump presidency would increase a Democrat's chance of winning in 2020 over an impeached Trump with Pence in office? It's cartoonishly Machiavellian. Treason is treason. Then again Mitch McConnell has been playing the cartoonishly Machiavellian game since Obama was elected.
15
Blow is shocked that Russia interfered in our election by hacking e-mails.
How irresponsible and careless is it,for our political leaders or anyone else for that matter, to put sensitive and potentially damaging statement in e-mails that can be hacked by any country in the world and many teen age hackers?
Russians are now laughing at the political paralysis and divisiveness in the U.S. exemplified by Blow's Opinions that are no different than "hate speech" directed towards Republicans and Trump.
Blow's Opinions are not part of any solution, but worsen the problem.
How irresponsible and careless is it,for our political leaders or anyone else for that matter, to put sensitive and potentially damaging statement in e-mails that can be hacked by any country in the world and many teen age hackers?
Russians are now laughing at the political paralysis and divisiveness in the U.S. exemplified by Blow's Opinions that are no different than "hate speech" directed towards Republicans and Trump.
Blow's Opinions are not part of any solution, but worsen the problem.
5
Mr. Blow: I bet you €10 against $1 that Mr. Trump will be reelected for a second term; his type presidency is in tune with the majority of white voters in the swinging states, and he will carry again the Electoral College, and not the popular vote.
Besides his voters are true believers in him, and that is very contagious. Finally they will do masterful job distorting the truth and getting the geography right for 2020; pray that it wont be a third term!!!
Besides his voters are true believers in him, and that is very contagious. Finally they will do masterful job distorting the truth and getting the geography right for 2020; pray that it wont be a third term!!!
3
Coincidence? Don't be ridiculous. I will never forget the day Trump himself invited Russia to hack into Mrs. Clinton's campaign and expose her emails.
If the typical Republican voter was actually even a little patriotic, that should have been a big, red flag. But no, they were too busy clapping their hands and jumping up and down like little children, yelling "Lock her up, lock her up."
And now the head hand-clapper who led the chant, Michael Flynn, wants immunity to tell his story. Oh, and he also received payments from Russians for services rendered.
Give me a break.
Equally revealing are the various GOP attempts to confuse, obfuscate, or discredit the ongoing investigation. Shameful, if not actually treasonous.
If the typical Republican voter was actually even a little patriotic, that should have been a big, red flag. But no, they were too busy clapping their hands and jumping up and down like little children, yelling "Lock her up, lock her up."
And now the head hand-clapper who led the chant, Michael Flynn, wants immunity to tell his story. Oh, and he also received payments from Russians for services rendered.
Give me a break.
Equally revealing are the various GOP attempts to confuse, obfuscate, or discredit the ongoing investigation. Shameful, if not actually treasonous.
11
Question / Request for NYT. I would like to see an article that details what would happen IF the entire election is considered fraudulent. I think that this is a question most Americans would want answers to. It would seem illogical to follow lines of succession that were created via a fraudulent election.
11
You forgot to put in 'religious' zealot Charles. As an atheist I shudder to live under a Pence presidency, for I am not among the billions who believe ones affinity for god grants them immunity from the evils of human nature. In truth religion often only hastens those evils.
10
Does anyone really doubt how Trump got inserted into the oval office?
How the nausea came upon our land after the "Election" and remains to this day?
The majority of American's spoke !
Then came the republicans in the Electoral College, thwarting democracy, denying the Will of Our People, finishing Putin's work. Traitors! Every one.
How the nausea came upon our land after the "Election" and remains to this day?
The majority of American's spoke !
Then came the republicans in the Electoral College, thwarting democracy, denying the Will of Our People, finishing Putin's work. Traitors! Every one.
6
Dum Dum Don at the CIA with forgetful Flynn close behind. A Russian consultant at the CIA. What could go wrong?
We may not be able to connect the dots, yet, but like a George Seurat masterpiece, the picture becomes clear when seen from the right distance. Add up all of the dots and it becomes a frightful surrealistic picture.
To be clear, there was a witch hunt of Hillary by the GOP on behalf of the Russians - knowingly or not.
To be clear, how does an American get swept up in foreign surveillance of our adversaries, spies, hackers, and other nefarious characters? Innocently?
To be clear, what is a former 3-star general and former DIA chief doing in Russia seated next to Putin earning lots of money for speeches? By the way, can we have a transcript of Forgetful Flynn's speeches?
Impeachment? Not while the GOP is in power.
We may not be able to connect the dots, yet, but like a George Seurat masterpiece, the picture becomes clear when seen from the right distance. Add up all of the dots and it becomes a frightful surrealistic picture.
To be clear, there was a witch hunt of Hillary by the GOP on behalf of the Russians - knowingly or not.
To be clear, how does an American get swept up in foreign surveillance of our adversaries, spies, hackers, and other nefarious characters? Innocently?
To be clear, what is a former 3-star general and former DIA chief doing in Russia seated next to Putin earning lots of money for speeches? By the way, can we have a transcript of Forgetful Flynn's speeches?
Impeachment? Not while the GOP is in power.
8
All the Russians had to do was start the ball rolling and our predjudices and imaginations carry it from there. Not that all this takes much imagination.
5
Just how all this turns out depends on the aims of big money. The Trump admin is full of Mercer-Bannon mercenaries implementing a fanatical dismantling of government. The GOP Congress is beholden to the Koch bros and other corporate big-wigs mostly interested in getting richer.
Which faction will succeed is up for grabs, but the American people are just spectators.
Which faction will succeed is up for grabs, but the American people are just spectators.
3
I think people ( pundits especially ) are overlooking the obvious.
Take the assumption that Russians colluded with this administration and enact a coup d'etat of the United States. The evidence ( circumstantial or not ) is piling up and investigations may or may not clearly uncover the truth
However, who is to say that the Russians or the American colluders have stopped ? It sure looks like they haven't .
Which is why members of Congress go to the White House to get ''evidence'', release that evidence to the press, and then come back to the White House the very next day to warn them of said evidence, and no one bats an eye.
The press have already moved on to the next tweet.(s)
Take the assumption that Russians colluded with this administration and enact a coup d'etat of the United States. The evidence ( circumstantial or not ) is piling up and investigations may or may not clearly uncover the truth
However, who is to say that the Russians or the American colluders have stopped ? It sure looks like they haven't .
Which is why members of Congress go to the White House to get ''evidence'', release that evidence to the press, and then come back to the White House the very next day to warn them of said evidence, and no one bats an eye.
The press have already moved on to the next tweet.(s)
4
All I can say at this juncture is that our system of three-branched government is getting stress-tested, or put through a wringer.
I have high hopes that it will all come through and set things right.
But I have deep, dark fears as well - fear that we have crossed the Rubicon on the low quality of all the bit players today.
I have high hopes that it will all come through and set things right.
But I have deep, dark fears as well - fear that we have crossed the Rubicon on the low quality of all the bit players today.
4
THANK YOU FOR YOUR CONTINUING SEARCH FOR THE TRUTH!
7
Isn't all of this a fishing expedition? You don't actually accuse Trump of anything except "colluding" with the Russians....colluding to do what exactly? The word sounds like he's doing something illegal, but actually could mean he's "colluding" with the Russians to end world hunger....what exactly did they collude in doing? To affect the outcome of the election? How in the world did the Russians and Trump do that? And if so, where is your evidence they did....whatever it is they did? This is all smoke and mirrors while you try to keep the nation's attention off of what really should be investigated: Obama's surveillance of Trump during the election and transition.
7
If Trump and company are hung up on the proposal that President Obama wire-tapped them, there must be some tidbits of information that they are really afraid of will be revealed.
7
Google: Zinoviev Letter to see how Russian-related foreign interference in elections dates back nearly a century--and how MI6 investigated and kept their findings secret so as not to embarrass the new government.
1
I have spent three years writing that if freedom and democracy are not of primary importance and economics is of primary importance than Russia and China are far more important to America's future than Canada, Mexico and the EU.
Hillary's plurality of three million votes not withstanding economics seem to have won the day. I hope that the only real question is the same as the question the Israelis and Palestinians must answer, Will it be a single nation, two nations or a multi state solution?
Hillary's plurality of three million votes not withstanding economics seem to have won the day. I hope that the only real question is the same as the question the Israelis and Palestinians must answer, Will it be a single nation, two nations or a multi state solution?
2
Mr. Blow, please consider this rationale for those of us who would rather have Trump still hanging around next year when the midterm elections take place - what you term a "callously calculating school of thought" (and as one who ascribes to this school of thought, I agree with your characterization): you yourself have described my personal reason for taking this stance: the horrific order of succession we will be faced with upon impeachment. However, if a "crippled" Trump is still on the political stage closer and closer to the crucial mid-term elections, there is, in my very humble opinion, a greater chance for the crucial change of control in Congress to be effected. With this shift in power, the danger of a Pence administration (or heaven forbid, Ryan or any of the others you name) can be averted.
7
We know that Russia meddled in our election. We know that Trump invited hackers, on stage, loudly, and in public to hack Hillary's emails.
That's not collusion? Inviting and encouraging someone to harm your opponent in order to favor you? Aside from the other ton of circumstantial evidence -- this isn't enough?
That's not collusion? Inviting and encouraging someone to harm your opponent in order to favor you? Aside from the other ton of circumstantial evidence -- this isn't enough?
Why worry about the creepy line of succession if Pence, Ryan, etc. are only in line because of an invalid election? If proven that Hillary Clinton won the election except for Putin's interference, and let's never forget Comey's, why not just inaugurate Hillary President?
The entire GOP knew exactly what was going on right from the beginning. They're ALL complicit. I can't believe they didn't see the inevitable bad long term outcome when McConnell made that deal with the devil Putin in exchange for a "win" at any cost.
This fiasco will be the death of the GOP, and a few of them - like McCain and Graham - know it. They warned McConnell during the campaign about it, but McConnell plowed ahead anyway.
The GOP did this to themselves.
This fiasco will be the death of the GOP, and a few of them - like McCain and Graham - know it. They warned McConnell during the campaign about it, but McConnell plowed ahead anyway.
The GOP did this to themselves.
3
Making sausage is always messy. You choose the best, least dishonorable, most practical, and politically feasible way to get it done. We need to have as many people in the room as we can get, and we have to cultivate the votes.
As long as half the country is more church than state, with the will to believe in conspiracy theories like Birtherism, 9-11ism, and Pizzagate and disbelieve in facts like climate change, the Russian intervention into our election, and that the president is a liar, the country will continue its decline. The “century” part of the American Century is already gone. Let’s hope that the “American” part doesn’t go too.
7
If Trump cheated, the Presidency should go to Hillary. That's the way it was in grade school, and it's true today.
4
Speaking of the "dwindling odds of coincidence," it is no coincidence that Susan Rice, who, for decades, has willingly done the dirty work of D presidents, was just "unmasked" as Obama's unmasker prime mover.
5
Now that factions in the US (and elsewhere; you know where I mean) have discovered how easily it is to mislead and then lead sizeable portions of US voters, I am afraid that the likely course for the future is for all factions to use the same misbegotten tools. Fake News will not die! It will be enhanced and proliferate to serve many ideas, both laudable and foul. The person who is able to save 21st century Western polity will be the one who figures out how to break the cycle. It is, I fear, a task of Sisyphean proportions.
1
who suffers from paranoid delusions? Obviously CB does. So do most of his loyal readers. Just face some facts: No evidence exists of any collusion between Trump's team and the Russians. The hacking of the DNC didn't affect a single vote. The dots CB and others see are probably the result of being dropped on their head at some point.
2
How do we know the Russians hacked no voting machines especially in the three states that put him over the top? Why were recounts halted in those states? NY Times investigate!
Impeach and Replace with the person who received the most votes in the elections. Please note nearly 3 million is substantially more than 80,000 that Trump won with in the election. She will never commit treason by colluding with the Russians. Who believes the electoral college should be abolished since it is so easily manipulated? Who believes the Russians stopped with propaganda?
Impeach and Replace with the person who received the most votes in the elections. Please note nearly 3 million is substantially more than 80,000 that Trump won with in the election. She will never commit treason by colluding with the Russians. Who believes the electoral college should be abolished since it is so easily manipulated? Who believes the Russians stopped with propaganda?
5
We've gone from a GOP congressional oversight body that was hell bent on bringing to light any and everything Hillary, Benghazi, emails, Clinton foundation etc. The shoe doesn't seem to fit the other foot, when it exposes the GOP's fraudulent behavior. Folks see their hypocrisy, and realize their "need to get to the bottom" of an issue was totally politically driven. Now our democracy is under attack, and the GOP is complicit in that effort. Shameful is an understatement - treasonous is closer to the point.
There also needs to be follow up on the military raids being conducted without consideration to civilians - when the military is unchecked, we have problems, when we slash diplomacy efforts, we have problems, when we kill innocent people our enemies are emboldened. These are known outcomes, we learned the hard way; why do we allow this con artist to create changes in policy and practices we know will harm us. Foolish!
There also needs to be follow up on the military raids being conducted without consideration to civilians - when the military is unchecked, we have problems, when we slash diplomacy efforts, we have problems, when we kill innocent people our enemies are emboldened. These are known outcomes, we learned the hard way; why do we allow this con artist to create changes in policy and practices we know will harm us. Foolish!
1
I'm not joyful about this. I'm frightened. I look at the protests in Russia against a government that is run by the incredibly rich and realize this could be us. We could lose our democracy and other democracies could fall after that. Yes, I wish this had been a normal election but we have to pursue this no matter what. Yes, I am mortified by the present president but neither do I like the alternatives Mr. Blow mentions. Going from a hair-triggered narcissist to a true believer may be marginally better but Pence is far more dangerous than Trump because Pence sounds sane and speaks like a human and combs his hair. Thank you for this opinion piece, Mr. Blow. You have jarred me from denial although I'm not completely happy with that.
3
Reading this made me understand why my friends, family, colleagues have a depression hovering over us. We despise this president for so many reasons and yet even if Trump goes, something will always remain. A deep cynicism about the office of the president. I'm sure it's how people in authoritarian countries feel. Powerless.
6
Fear of Pence is no reason to fear a Trump-less future. The election was stolen. The first big domino has to fall. Pence is a cardboard, fascist, Christian soldier. With Trump gone by 2018 and a damaged Republican brand, Pence cannot get elected nationally, and the midterms will become mid-turns away from the tyranny brought upon us by the evil and the ignorant. Letting Trump wreak havoc until some indefinite time only allows his handlers to tighten their grip. Trump knows in his heart that he is destined to ignominious failure. His "so called" success owes primarily to the fact that others repeatedly saved his financial fortunes or abetted his scheming. Time to pay up.
2
Here's my question: What are the odds that these all-consuming side shows will ever cease to dominate the political landscape in this country?
It's all we think about, all we talk about, and all we write about. It's all Congress deals with. And it consumes a President who is already over stressed, and under prepared to deal with the difficult role of governing the country, not to mention trying to squirm his way out the jams he gets himself into on a regular basis.
I don't think the odds are too good. There's just too much out of control, and a complete lack of leadership from the White House, or from Congress.
Maybe the mid-term elections will offer some kind of a resolution.
It's all we think about, all we talk about, and all we write about. It's all Congress deals with. And it consumes a President who is already over stressed, and under prepared to deal with the difficult role of governing the country, not to mention trying to squirm his way out the jams he gets himself into on a regular basis.
I don't think the odds are too good. There's just too much out of control, and a complete lack of leadership from the White House, or from Congress.
Maybe the mid-term elections will offer some kind of a resolution.
The Russians interfered to get the Republican ticket, headed by Trump, elected. The entire administration was the recipient of the help. Pence should not be rewarded. A new election is necessary. That is the only way the stench of this will go away.
3
So if Pence goes down with Trump that leaves a weakened and disliked Paul Ryan in charge but hopefully after 2018 without control of the Senate and maybe not even of the House. That will limit the harm he can do until we can elect a decent Democratic president in 2020.
1
The circumstantial evidence isn't additive, it's multiplicative. If you are suspected of a crime, the fact you owned the same caliber of gun as the perp isn't enough. But if you were known to hate the victim, have no alibi, profit from his murder, and flee the city--- well then, you'd better hire a very good attorney. We have reached this level of suspicion with Donald Trump.
If indeed there was strong Russian influence and meddling (and collusion from Trump), which becomes less-and-less a conjecture and more-and-more a certainty with every passing day, what would be the necessary steps to invalidate the election, itself? Why should ill-gotten fruit affect the correction?
Logically and ideally, the second-place candidate would assume the presidency until the next election. Since Hillary won the popular vote, handily, a most strong case can be made for this.
If indeed there was strong Russian influence and meddling (and collusion from Trump), which becomes less-and-less a conjecture and more-and-more a certainty with every passing day, what would be the necessary steps to invalidate the election, itself? Why should ill-gotten fruit affect the correction?
Logically and ideally, the second-place candidate would assume the presidency until the next election. Since Hillary won the popular vote, handily, a most strong case can be made for this.
Yes, Pence is a zealot for a variety of far right causes. But overall a relatively sane one, not one given to idiotic tweeting, trafficking with Putin, a Mexican wall, hanging around beauty contests or blatantly lying to the American people.
Given a choice between him and Trump for the next three years and ten months -- and that regrettably is the only choice we are ever likely to get -- I would trade Trump for Pence in a New York minute
and celebrate Trump's departure with fireworks.
Given a choice between him and Trump for the next three years and ten months -- and that regrettably is the only choice we are ever likely to get -- I would trade Trump for Pence in a New York minute
and celebrate Trump's departure with fireworks.
4
Trump's literally running away and hiding in rooms.
He's aged by years just in 3 months.
A presidency stalled because a judge found sufficient evidence his campaign was breaking laws and approved surveillance on Trump associates. Of course references to him would come up if associates are talking his plans.
That should be the confidence breaker.
Secondly, Trump's tweets keep calling attention to his troubles. Doubtful he has a clear understanding the FISA Court, and what it means to get such a warrant.
As Politifact said of Trump's tweets these days --"Hillary Clinton, John Podesta, and Uranium to Russia– – “Trump is downplaying reality here.”
As PolitiFact said further:
“In his tweets, Trump seems to suggest that the Clintons and their associates were working on behalf of Russia’s interests. That’s hard to square with the intelligence community’s conclusion that Russia interfered in the election in order to harm Hillary Clinton and elect Trump instead.”
Now Trump faces a law suit on inciting violence at a rally.
This presidency: disintegrating.
He's aged by years just in 3 months.
A presidency stalled because a judge found sufficient evidence his campaign was breaking laws and approved surveillance on Trump associates. Of course references to him would come up if associates are talking his plans.
That should be the confidence breaker.
Secondly, Trump's tweets keep calling attention to his troubles. Doubtful he has a clear understanding the FISA Court, and what it means to get such a warrant.
As Politifact said of Trump's tweets these days --"Hillary Clinton, John Podesta, and Uranium to Russia– – “Trump is downplaying reality here.”
As PolitiFact said further:
“In his tweets, Trump seems to suggest that the Clintons and their associates were working on behalf of Russia’s interests. That’s hard to square with the intelligence community’s conclusion that Russia interfered in the election in order to harm Hillary Clinton and elect Trump instead.”
Now Trump faces a law suit on inciting violence at a rally.
This presidency: disintegrating.
6
We don't have a Trump problem; we have a GOP problem.
Without the path the GOP has trod since the days of Nixon, there would have been no route for a racist authoritarian fraud like Trump and his circle to reach the White House, and there would not have been so many willing enablers in Congress and the state governments.
And none of it would have been so easy without the raging inequality that has enabled the super rich .1% to finance it for their own gain.
Follow the money. It is the life blood of oligarchs around the world. Like calls to like.
Without the path the GOP has trod since the days of Nixon, there would have been no route for a racist authoritarian fraud like Trump and his circle to reach the White House, and there would not have been so many willing enablers in Congress and the state governments.
And none of it would have been so easy without the raging inequality that has enabled the super rich .1% to finance it for their own gain.
Follow the money. It is the life blood of oligarchs around the world. Like calls to like.
10
The extensive ties between Trump and his inner circle with the interests of Russian oligarchs (led by their Chief Oligarch, Mr. Putin) are undeniable. The bizarre BFF relationship between Trump and Putin has been "front and center" on our TV screens for almost two years now. And by now we know all the player's names by heart - Manafort, Flynn, Page, Cohen, Tillerson, et al.
And that's the problem. It's all starting to feel "normal". What would have seemed two years ago to be beyond the realm of the wildest fiction (an American president as a "Manchurian Candidate" of Russia) is now reality. All we're doing now is arguing over how many Trumpian angels can stand on the head of the Kremlin's pin.
Every day that the Trump administration remains in office inexorably solidifies its inherent credibility and legitimacy. To paraphrase John Dean, "We have a cancer that IS the Presidency."
And the sooner we cut this cancer out of the American body politic - the higher the odds that the patient - We the People - will survive this cancer.
And that's the problem. It's all starting to feel "normal". What would have seemed two years ago to be beyond the realm of the wildest fiction (an American president as a "Manchurian Candidate" of Russia) is now reality. All we're doing now is arguing over how many Trumpian angels can stand on the head of the Kremlin's pin.
Every day that the Trump administration remains in office inexorably solidifies its inherent credibility and legitimacy. To paraphrase John Dean, "We have a cancer that IS the Presidency."
And the sooner we cut this cancer out of the American body politic - the higher the odds that the patient - We the People - will survive this cancer.
9
All I can say that all the dots fits perfectly.
This is also to the Citizens who were too busy to vote as they say, so we get Donald Trump for the next four years or perhaps eight .
Whatever lies Trump is tweeting are just lies as a distraction from the truth which is haunting him each day. This man is also mentally incapable to be the leader of this Country.
So he has assigned his own tiny circle and family members to do the work which includes Steve Bannon who emerged from under the rock for the first time in many years.
While over bloated egotist Trump plays Golf !
This is also to the Citizens who were too busy to vote as they say, so we get Donald Trump for the next four years or perhaps eight .
Whatever lies Trump is tweeting are just lies as a distraction from the truth which is haunting him each day. This man is also mentally incapable to be the leader of this Country.
So he has assigned his own tiny circle and family members to do the work which includes Steve Bannon who emerged from under the rock for the first time in many years.
While over bloated egotist Trump plays Golf !
5
What I find interesting to think about in light of the recent Senate committee testimony on Russian planted stories being picked up and amplified by Trump is the role of Fox news. Fox commentators had an inexplicable fondness for Putin during Obama's presidency - I would be interested in an investigation into any connections between Fox and the Russian state.
3
Ryan is the only legitimate successor because the outcome of a fraudulent election is illegitimate, and thus Pence and the whole Cabinet are disqualified from taking office. Ryan, however, was actually voted into office, weasel or no.
2
If I'd never heard anything about any of this, and someone just now presented all the available public information about Trump admin ties to Russia, prima facie it would be blatantly obvious there were multiple forms of collusion. It is simply a matter of partisan cover up that Trump is not already on his way to impeachment hearings. It's a nauseating abdication of constitutional and legal responsibility of the part of the GOP. Are knowledgable Republicans really so full of hate for "liberals" that they cannot put country above party? Are un/misinformed Republicans really so closed off to facts and truth that they are unwilling to consider the obvious?
1
Republican chairs of committees and committee majorities stymie any effort for a full investigation. Looking at the "Not Necessary" polling stats indicates that almost 60% of Republicans don't care how they win, just as long as they win. Their partisan priorities are more important than the possibility that the executive administration might be compromised by foreign nation-state collusion, funding, and support. RIP United States of America.
Yet another strong editorial from Charles Blow. Mr. Blow speaks of the unappealing line of succession standing behind a weakened President Trump. But the question I would ask is this: if sufficient evidence emerges to impeach Donald Trump, then why should we treat the line of succession as legitimate? After all, it is entirely based on the outcome of the election. And if the election is compromised, then why should the Republicans have the luxury of passing along a treasonously won presidency to the next in line?
1
The partisan divergence concerning the necessity of investigating the Trump/Russia connection shouldn't be surprising. I imagine the same divide existed long ago during the Watergate scandal. I was a teenager then, but I remember people who believed NIxon was innocent until the bitter end, and even after his resignation.
No one knows yet how extensive the digital invasion was. Trump's margin was only 70K votes over three midwestern states with a popular vote loss of nearly 3 Million.
If the national election was compromised by collusion with the Russians, the results should be declared invalid and a new Special Election should be held. We cannot let our country be ruled by a foreign power's needs and wishes.
If the national election was compromised by collusion with the Russians, the results should be declared invalid and a new Special Election should be held. We cannot let our country be ruled by a foreign power's needs and wishes.
3
Whole lot of astroturfing going on here. In the article and the comments.
After 10 or so months of investigation no one, I repeat, no one has come forth with any evidence how Russia "hacked" our election or even if they hacked.
There are clear law violations - leaks of surveillance, unmasking American citizens caught in legal surveillance of foreign nationals. It is telling that the Left is focused on the evidence-less Russian hacking while ignoring the evidence rich real violations.
NY Times probably won't post this comment either since it is contrary to the meme it is pushing.
After 10 or so months of investigation no one, I repeat, no one has come forth with any evidence how Russia "hacked" our election or even if they hacked.
There are clear law violations - leaks of surveillance, unmasking American citizens caught in legal surveillance of foreign nationals. It is telling that the Left is focused on the evidence-less Russian hacking while ignoring the evidence rich real violations.
NY Times probably won't post this comment either since it is contrary to the meme it is pushing.
3
What we already know is bad enough but perhaps even worse is not that Trump colluded with the Russians or even if he was just simply happy to exploit Russian interference (akin to suborning treason), but rather that millions of Trump voters and elected or appointed Republican officials are willing to defend him for what we already know or simply ignore it.
The rightwing wrapping themselves in the flag of patriotism was always a lie but their willingness to wrap themselves in the flag of Russia and its dictator for the sake of power (and a tax cut) is the ultimate in treason.
The rightwing wrapping themselves in the flag of patriotism was always a lie but their willingness to wrap themselves in the flag of Russia and its dictator for the sake of power (and a tax cut) is the ultimate in treason.
3
The Russian hacking of our presidential election and its outcome have demonstrated severe weaknesses in our democracy. Most importantly, half the electorate seems incapable of or constitutionally averse to critical thinking. Thus many were easily swayed by the latest and loudest nonsensical propaganda. And those were the ones who bothered to show up on election day! The possible installation of a Russian stooge in the white house may be the least of our problems.
Mr. Blow's point about the order of succession is the salient point. This administration, disastrous as it is, was elected and can only be unseated at the ballot box in 2020 and checked in 2018. That is where Democrats should focus all their energy. And they need to do so by showing they are better able to govern, by putting forward constructive proposals on health care, family leave, education you name it, even if the proposals don't go anywhere for now. No callous cynical political maneuvers please! They only lead to more protest votes.
1
"To be sure, Donald Trump is a despicable man and an awful president who deserves whatever he gets. He is crude, a liar, a bully and a cheat. He is vainglorious and vengeful."
How did we get to this point? Never in my life have words like these been used to describe an American president. But they describe Donald Trump perfectly. It's very disturbing and frightening. Hopefully one this horrible chapter is over, no one so inept and despicable will again be elected in the US. But the voters who put him in office are even more frightening.
How did we get to this point? Never in my life have words like these been used to describe an American president. But they describe Donald Trump perfectly. It's very disturbing and frightening. Hopefully one this horrible chapter is over, no one so inept and despicable will again be elected in the US. But the voters who put him in office are even more frightening.
2
Maybe it's my state of mind (in despair) but it seems to me that no matter what happens to anyone with this administration, either or both of two things have been made clear: 1 - the damage has been done, and this type of "hidden interest" (inter-governmental or financial) will become our future; 2 - as per Menkin's dictum, our country has voted in the cynical people it deserves, and we will just see more of it in the future.
Schiff indicated there was evidence of collusion that didn't fall, like the rest, into the category of "circumstantial". No wonder Nunes must find ways to delegtimize his committee, even if that means deligitimizes himself in the process. so be it that the spineless crawl and crumble on the Trump landmines. Ryan seems to think his only job is to write legislation, even though he can't even do that. Ryan and Priebus are the dangerous ones that keep selling the extreme of corruption to the American people, either by silence or chant. Their willingness to be more ameliorating toward our enemy than Democrats is sinister, deluded, and deeply deeply damaging. They've been at it a long time; they are at a crossroads. Nunes--Russians? or American Voters that include a majority of Democrats?
2
Regarding the issue of succession: if the election itself is proven to have been stolen through collision and coordination, why would the rules of succession apply? Would not the very legitimacy of the WH be at issue? We have never encountered such a scenario. Is what we're experiencing analagous to Watergate and Nixon's resignation? Did the Watergate break-in raise questions about the very legitimacy of Nixon's election? I'm having trouble understanding why succession and not a new election would be the appropriate remedy. I am not arguing one way or the other. I just have unresolved questions, pardon my ignorance.
1
Realizing the extent to which our democracy has always relied on the honor system was both a frightening and proud moment for me. Frightening because of our vulnerability to those without honor and yet proud that the system had held together for so long. It's a testament to the integrity of so many who came before. Any who may remain but have not spoken out must find the courage to do so and remember they are Americans first.
I am not holding out hope that Dumpty will be taken down for tax evasion like Al Capone or for Nixonesque tampering with the election. We need a critical mass of good people to reestablish civility and rebuild community in this country, or this despot will only be replaced by another one.
I am not holding out hope that Dumpty will be taken down for tax evasion like Al Capone or for Nixonesque tampering with the election. We need a critical mass of good people to reestablish civility and rebuild community in this country, or this despot will only be replaced by another one.
3
These dots are beginning to look more like a George Seurat painting than abstract assemblage. As the investigative image becomes more and more evident, who in the Republican party will be brave enough to admit to seeing what is becoming clear to the rest of us? Tampering, foreign influence, collusion... This is not about Democratic resistance, it's about American insistence. It's about someone in Congress insisting that the truth and people represent more than party and lies.
1
It's indeed likely that good enough a number of pieces can be collected and verified sometime on the far away future: collusion or outright favor spreading and sharing between some on the Russian side and Mr. T and/or some of his current/former associates (including his family members).
But there would be enough number of Americans (mainly Republicans, rich or poor) who would say:
So what?
Indeed, the US is in a crisis, giving Chinese Communist Party (money hungry dictators) and Russians (ditto) big innocent looking smiles.
But there would be enough number of Americans (mainly Republicans, rich or poor) who would say:
So what?
Indeed, the US is in a crisis, giving Chinese Communist Party (money hungry dictators) and Russians (ditto) big innocent looking smiles.
1
Any impeachment of Mr Trump based upon Russian involvement in the 2016 election will undoubtedly disqualify Mr Pense and the entire administration as well. That leaves Speaker Ryan in line to complete the term. After falling into the congressional outhouse, Mr Ryan could emerge smelling like the proverbial rose.
Our Speaker is smarter, colder, more calculating than the President. Too cautious to lie, he reasons with the subjective and his "conservative principles", constituents be damned.
Thus, faced with an impeachmment dilemma, Americans may be better off keeping the ogre we have in the White House tied up in court and disfunction rather than replacing him with a Speaker who represents only his donors.
Our Speaker is smarter, colder, more calculating than the President. Too cautious to lie, he reasons with the subjective and his "conservative principles", constituents be damned.
Thus, faced with an impeachmment dilemma, Americans may be better off keeping the ogre we have in the White House tied up in court and disfunction rather than replacing him with a Speaker who represents only his donors.
1
Hillary Clinton won the election by some three million votes. Yet the Electoral College chose to hand the presidency over to someone obviously unfit to serve because of inexperience, ignorance, mental instability, and clandestine connections to greedy billionaires.
How about an op-ed piece on the Electoral College. Anyone?
How about an op-ed piece on the Electoral College. Anyone?
5
"Once is happenstance, twice is coincidence, thrice is enemy action". Not my words, but that of the infamous and fictitious Auric Goldfinger. There are just too many, far more than one can keep track of, coincidences for all of them to be red herrings. The odds are staggering, even if we were betting at the rigged gaming tables of the now defunct Trump Taj Mahal.
We two-thirds through but the first 100 days of the worse administration in modern history, and the amount of circumstantial evidence against Trump is already piled high. We have a very long way to go, my friends.
We have not reached the beginning of the end. We have not even reached the end of the beginning. We are still in the beginning of the beginning, and it is just going to get worse for this ignoramus in chief.
DD
Manhattan
We two-thirds through but the first 100 days of the worse administration in modern history, and the amount of circumstantial evidence against Trump is already piled high. We have a very long way to go, my friends.
We have not reached the beginning of the end. We have not even reached the end of the beginning. We are still in the beginning of the beginning, and it is just going to get worse for this ignoramus in chief.
DD
Manhattan
3
"We are still not conclusively able to connect the dots" is the opening sentence of this editorial and should be the tip off that the reader need not waste their time reading further and should move on to more constructive endeavors. This is yet another hysterical McCarthyite smear piece. Here we are 10 months after the FBI informed both candidates that Russians were attempting to hack their computer systems. This has to be one of the most covered stories of the decade and yet not a shred of conclusive evidence proving collusion between Russia and the Trump campaign has been made public. I would say "We are still not conclusively able to connect the dots" and never will because they are unable to be connected except in the minds of paranoid conspiracy theorists.
3
Charles, nice and thoughtful column.
The ringer here is that we know for sure the extent of Russian interference in the presidential/vice presidential election. There were 1,000 trolls for Russia planting fake stories, including one about Hillary leading a child sex ring at a D.C. pizza parlor.
This means the election was neither free nor fair and must be negated. A new election for president/vice president must be called while an Independent Prosecutor goes after the entire Trump team who must leave their positions. South Korea is pursuing a 60-day new election which is ample time for the US to reboot our election for president/vice president.
Career government professionals can run the government in the meantime and all legislation and Executive Orders since January 20 are voided and paused until a new president/vice president is sworn in. Ryan might be the figurehead during this time but he wouldn't be able to do anything with bills.
The ire of the American people would be so high, he would be neutered especially considering the new presidential/vice presidential campaigns and daily reveals of Trump team corruption and collusion with the Russians.
The ringer here is that we know for sure the extent of Russian interference in the presidential/vice presidential election. There were 1,000 trolls for Russia planting fake stories, including one about Hillary leading a child sex ring at a D.C. pizza parlor.
This means the election was neither free nor fair and must be negated. A new election for president/vice president must be called while an Independent Prosecutor goes after the entire Trump team who must leave their positions. South Korea is pursuing a 60-day new election which is ample time for the US to reboot our election for president/vice president.
Career government professionals can run the government in the meantime and all legislation and Executive Orders since January 20 are voided and paused until a new president/vice president is sworn in. Ryan might be the figurehead during this time but he wouldn't be able to do anything with bills.
The ire of the American people would be so high, he would be neutered especially considering the new presidential/vice presidential campaigns and daily reveals of Trump team corruption and collusion with the Russians.
1
"It is not clear to me that America — and indeed the world — can survive a full-term Trump presidency."
Mr. Blow's words are prescient. In fact, we may cast aside all talk about independent investigations and impeachment, as they will not happen before 2020, if ever. Those who recall Watergate (as I do) remind us that those proceedings took nearly two years, and ask us to be patient. My response is simple: both houses of Congress were controlled by Democrats during this part of Nixon's second term. Independent investigations will not take place, nor will impeachment proceedings be started.
This leaves us with Mr. Blow's concern about our survival. Those who believe there is some tipping point -- with this cascade of revelations involving the Russians -- that will force this Congress to act, are naive. Haven't they yet seen that there is no disclosure horrific enough to call this Republican Congress to action? Those who place their hopes on the 2018 mid-term elections would do well to look at the electoral map, as well as our citizens' thus far relative passivity.
At this point, those of us who live in this country have only two choices for the next several years, if not longer. For those who have the means, we may leave. For those of us who don't, we will have to live in a very different America -- one where corruption reigns absolute, where the social safety net is shredded, and where civil rights and civil liberties are stripped away. It is really that simple.
Mr. Blow's words are prescient. In fact, we may cast aside all talk about independent investigations and impeachment, as they will not happen before 2020, if ever. Those who recall Watergate (as I do) remind us that those proceedings took nearly two years, and ask us to be patient. My response is simple: both houses of Congress were controlled by Democrats during this part of Nixon's second term. Independent investigations will not take place, nor will impeachment proceedings be started.
This leaves us with Mr. Blow's concern about our survival. Those who believe there is some tipping point -- with this cascade of revelations involving the Russians -- that will force this Congress to act, are naive. Haven't they yet seen that there is no disclosure horrific enough to call this Republican Congress to action? Those who place their hopes on the 2018 mid-term elections would do well to look at the electoral map, as well as our citizens' thus far relative passivity.
At this point, those of us who live in this country have only two choices for the next several years, if not longer. For those who have the means, we may leave. For those of us who don't, we will have to live in a very different America -- one where corruption reigns absolute, where the social safety net is shredded, and where civil rights and civil liberties are stripped away. It is really that simple.
1
Whatever Russia did, it didn't influence the result of
the election. The campaign was conducted over 18 months.
Voters knew a lot about Trump and Clinton. They made their
decision based on what they heard and the issues they
were concerned about. Illegal immigration, poor quality
jobs, stagnant wages, perpetual trade deficit Trump
addressed and Clinton didn't. It was a back lash
the liberal policies and Russia didn't create it.Same issues
influenced Brexit vote and there is no evidence of
Russian interference. All over Europe, the back lash
against open border, anaemic growth, unemployment
and immigration happening without help from Russia.
Give credit to the people who can understand the issues.
The phantom of collusion doesn't negate the fact that
Putin disliked Clinton and perceived her as trouble maker.
He had enough incentive to expose her double face-
divergent views on policies in private and the public
utterances. Given her image of lying and untrustworthiness
Clinton lost. Russia didn't create an untrustworthy Clinton.
the election. The campaign was conducted over 18 months.
Voters knew a lot about Trump and Clinton. They made their
decision based on what they heard and the issues they
were concerned about. Illegal immigration, poor quality
jobs, stagnant wages, perpetual trade deficit Trump
addressed and Clinton didn't. It was a back lash
the liberal policies and Russia didn't create it.Same issues
influenced Brexit vote and there is no evidence of
Russian interference. All over Europe, the back lash
against open border, anaemic growth, unemployment
and immigration happening without help from Russia.
Give credit to the people who can understand the issues.
The phantom of collusion doesn't negate the fact that
Putin disliked Clinton and perceived her as trouble maker.
He had enough incentive to expose her double face-
divergent views on policies in private and the public
utterances. Given her image of lying and untrustworthiness
Clinton lost. Russia didn't create an untrustworthy Clinton.
1
This administration has a Real Wives feel to it. People watched the primaries and the debates like it was another version of American Idol. The gravity of what happened seems lost on the GOP/conservative base, both those in congress and those home in Trumpland. The press challenge is to report on the circus without turning it into spectacle, like the last days of Rome.
Today's episode speculates on whether Flynn's story is worth immunity. His lawyer offered a "teaser." Honestly? A teaser? Like a movie trailer? Where do I text my vote? We all know how much donald loves his ratings, and if he's for giving immunity then we should probably be against it.
Either flynn committed crimes and has had a sudden burst of conscience (or awareness that his crimes are about to be discovered) and wants to give the prosecution the Smoking Gun, or our Constitution is a joke to these players.
Conscience seems unlikely.
Today's episode speculates on whether Flynn's story is worth immunity. His lawyer offered a "teaser." Honestly? A teaser? Like a movie trailer? Where do I text my vote? We all know how much donald loves his ratings, and if he's for giving immunity then we should probably be against it.
Either flynn committed crimes and has had a sudden burst of conscience (or awareness that his crimes are about to be discovered) and wants to give the prosecution the Smoking Gun, or our Constitution is a joke to these players.
Conscience seems unlikely.
It is clear to most thinking people that, 1. Donald J. Trump is utterly unfit to be President of the United States and, 2. The November 8, 2016 election is severely tainted - bad enough if only by Russian interference, unconscionable if collusion by the Trump regime is proven.
The only way past this unacceptable situation is to declare the November election results null and void. This would entail removing Trump, Pence and all appointees from their positions.
Obviously, a replacement strategy is required. I offer the idea of a temporary Co-Presidency with former Presidents Barack Obama and George W. Bush serving as an experienced, bipartisan team until new elections can be held. In the same spirit of bipartisanship, all legislation in the House and Senate would require a 60% approval vote, giving members no option except to find compromises that attract bipartisan support.
Finally, given the history of the 2016 election cycle and the last decade-plus of increasing partisanship, the failure of the Electoral College to accurately reflect the will of the people, and the out-of-all-control role of big money in politics, the United States must hold a Constitutional Convention designed not to further imbalance the power toward wealthy or states-rights interests, but to return to power the voice of the people in defense of personal liberty and equal justice under the law.
'Radical' solution? Perhaps. Continuation of the status quo? Unthinkable.
The only way past this unacceptable situation is to declare the November election results null and void. This would entail removing Trump, Pence and all appointees from their positions.
Obviously, a replacement strategy is required. I offer the idea of a temporary Co-Presidency with former Presidents Barack Obama and George W. Bush serving as an experienced, bipartisan team until new elections can be held. In the same spirit of bipartisanship, all legislation in the House and Senate would require a 60% approval vote, giving members no option except to find compromises that attract bipartisan support.
Finally, given the history of the 2016 election cycle and the last decade-plus of increasing partisanship, the failure of the Electoral College to accurately reflect the will of the people, and the out-of-all-control role of big money in politics, the United States must hold a Constitutional Convention designed not to further imbalance the power toward wealthy or states-rights interests, but to return to power the voice of the people in defense of personal liberty and equal justice under the law.
'Radical' solution? Perhaps. Continuation of the status quo? Unthinkable.
2
This is indeed a witch hunt. The fact of the matter is that Trump and his team spoke with many foreign people during his campaign and during his wait for officially taking office. Those people included some Russians. So what? Obama spoke with Russians and promised them more flexibility once he won re-election. Hillary spoke with Russians and helped them purchase a large portion of US uranium production capability, and also happened to receive a donation to her foundation from Russians. The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia showered Mrs. Clinton with tens of millions of dollars in gifts to her foundation and campaign contributions. On and on goes the list.
It is perfectly normal behavior for politicians to speak with foreigners who are concerned about the attitudes and actions of the US government. What is not normal, and in fact is illegal, is to have an outgoing administration target the incoming POTUS and his team with electronic surveillance and then to leak the material to the public via a press that is overtly hostile to Trump and his team. This is the real story of concern, whether you like Trump or hate him. A horrible precedent has been set if we ignore the breach of the law committed by the outgoing Obama administration. In the future we will look back to the failings of our law enforcement and our "free press" with horror when the precedent allows this breach to become normalized. We are on a very slippery slope & moving towards a true police state.
It is perfectly normal behavior for politicians to speak with foreigners who are concerned about the attitudes and actions of the US government. What is not normal, and in fact is illegal, is to have an outgoing administration target the incoming POTUS and his team with electronic surveillance and then to leak the material to the public via a press that is overtly hostile to Trump and his team. This is the real story of concern, whether you like Trump or hate him. A horrible precedent has been set if we ignore the breach of the law committed by the outgoing Obama administration. In the future we will look back to the failings of our law enforcement and our "free press" with horror when the precedent allows this breach to become normalized. We are on a very slippery slope & moving towards a true police state.
1
The press has to keep digging. First, and already exposed, is the mendacity, ignorance and incompetence of Trump. Second, and well established, is Russian interference in the election. Third, there are strong indications that Trumpworld is hiding something and there are some grounds for believing that collusion with Russia may be that thing (possibly among others). Fourth, however, there may be much deeper things, so far not the subject of speculation, which might explain some of the preceding. An example might be oligarchs owning Trump's debt or Trump laundering oligarchs' money, both of which could be used by Russia to control his behavior. Or there may be completely different things that are hidden, or even, conceivably, none at all. The important thing is for the press not to congratulate themselves or become distracted purely by the details or exposure of Russian election interference but to continue digging until it is quite certain that there is nothing more to be found in Trumpworld. There's a better than even chance there is more because people like Truthless Trump always cut corners.
1
I have never been as concerned and frankly, as fearful for our nation as I am now. I realize that this isn't 1861 and the South hasn't succeeded. Certainly those were darker times. And the terrible 20th century wars, then the middle east, the economy, and terrorism has tested our grit as a people. And to be sure, Nixon was in a category of his own. However, there is something about this administration that seems so dark on a basic, decency level. Trump, his family, his appointees, his toadies and sycophants are so arrogant, self serving and blatantly in your face that I'm amazed somebody hasn't taken a swing at someone. They embarrass us as a nation and make me personally ill.
We must not get distracted by the smoke and mirrors and slick diversion tactics. There are dots to be connected and we as a nation must connect them. We must stay engaged everyday.
We must not get distracted by the smoke and mirrors and slick diversion tactics. There are dots to be connected and we as a nation must connect them. We must stay engaged everyday.
"Russia has already unveiled an incredible vulnerability in our electoral process..." Mr. Blow suggests that it will be hard to overcome this weakness and protect ourselves in future elections. I can't help but think that there is an obvious, if draconian, solution. Just eliminate the comments sections on most websites. This was trench warfare and the comment threads were the trenches. I don't think that such a change steps on actual 1st Amendment rights. And I am mindful of the irony of offering this idea in the comments section. But it would put an end to the sort of digital fog that settled over the 2016 election.
What appears to be might not be. All presidents end up consumed with foreign affairs no matter how much they start out with domestic plans. Trump will not be an exception. How he handles it will determine if he, and we, survive. The North Korea "problem" is a hair trigger away from exploding. Will Trump accept a nuclear threat from them, using deterrence as the policy? The more he loses on the domestic front, the more likely the answer to that will be no. He wants to form an alliance with Russia and China, his go it alone threats are to try to set that up. As neither of those countries sees Korea as a threat to themselves, what's in it for them? Will Trump be removed from office before he starts a war?
If Trump and his team colluded with Russia to impact the election of our 45th president in Trump's favor, then we have to correct the mistake by holding another election. If Russia influenced the presidential race, it is reasonable to assume that down ballot races were also affected. If that is the case then, the only way to handle this unprecedented catastrophe is to call a mulligan on the whole of the 2016 election. It would be difficult and time consuming, but we already have the process in place to fix a very huge error.
This Russian-Trump administration collusion mess gives me a strong sense of deja vu. In the Bridgegate scandal, two of Governor Christie's underlings got jail time while Christie, although politically washed up, remains free and unsullied by a felony conviction. It might be harder than we hope it is to link Trump directly to the Russian meddling. His underlings may well fall on their swords for him. So, as Mr. Blow says, the order of succession isn't very encouraging. Except for the fact that none of Trump's possible successors is likely to go dancing around a fire with a box of dynamite the way Trump is doing on the international stage. It makes it hard for me to know what to wish for. The best case scenario, politically, would be for Trump to limp into the 2018 mid-terms with a 30 percent favorability rating, and drag the party down with him. That would be just what they deserve. However, if we all go up in a mushroom cloud, midterms become quickly irrelevant.
1
Flynn's "story" may just be an engineered piece of fluff designed to exonerate Trump. Flynn is the first to take the fall on the sword for Trump, and I don't foresee him suddenly growing a conscience after all the nastiness of Trump's campaign he was involved in. Once fallen, you are committed to the person you took the fall for, lest we forget Scooter Libby. I think there will be a lot of politics involved and whitewashing of facts that will hide the truth of what actually happened between the Russians and Trump's people, and Russia will be complicit in the cover up as well. The election was tampered with, end of story. Trump, who has had nothing but praise for Putin, invited the Russians to interfere in the election on national TV, they complied. That alone was an act of treason, and should have been treated as such.
No, there are too many coincidences from Paul Manafort's involvement with Russian politicians to Flynn's conversations with the Russians for there not be any fire from all that smoke. Putin didn't want Clinton in a position of power, and now she is not.
No, there are too many coincidences from Paul Manafort's involvement with Russian politicians to Flynn's conversations with the Russians for there not be any fire from all that smoke. Putin didn't want Clinton in a position of power, and now she is not.
I would argue that, if it is determined that the GOP candidate was installed under the anachronistic electoral college system as a result of collusion with the Russians, standard succession cannot apply. If we found that the Trump campaign had stuffed ballot boxes in WI, PA and MI, we wouldn't be suggesting that Pence would succeed him. This collusion could be tantamount to stuffing ballot boxes. And, if the GOP candidate was "elected" because of undue influence and foreign interference, with which his campaign colluded and conspired, it also does not go without saying that the GOP speaker of the house should be the beneficiary of this criminal/treasonous activity. This would call for a paradigm shift from the one that applies when a legitimately elected president dies, or is impeached for crimes unrelated to his election. Sure, the constitution doesn't address this -- why would it?! -- but the only solution that would be fair to American voters and the opposing party would be a new election. Those with unclean hands -- including the party -- cannot benefit from the clown's wrongdoing.
By all means!
"Let's have the investigation."
All I ask is that we keep in mind that it's now been nearly five months since Election Day and no evidence whatsoever has been reported. It's therefore understandable if, every now and then, the subject of this investigation might forget that some people actually take these shoot-from-the-hip allegations seriously.
For those who point out that "17 agencies" say they're "confident" that the Russians interfered with the election, let's not forget that nobody's questioning that the Russians interfered with the election -- just as they have for decades and just as our government does in many other countries' elections. The inquiry -- let's not forget! -- is aimed at figuring out whether Trump and Russia conspired to steal the election from Hillary Clinton. NOT whether the Russians interfered (which nobody disputes), and NOT whether Trump tried to win (obviously). The question is whether they worked together to accomplish that. None of those "17 agencies" has ever expressed any opinion whatsoever on that question, much less offered any evidence.
Like it or not, Hillary Clinton supporters have got to start facing reality here: She lost. Trump won, and she lost. Trump wanted her to lose. Maybe the Russians wanted her to lose too, but that's not the point. The point is whether Trump and Russia worked together to cause her to lose. That's the question, and pointing to "17 agencies" opining on a different question doesn't change that.
"Let's have the investigation."
All I ask is that we keep in mind that it's now been nearly five months since Election Day and no evidence whatsoever has been reported. It's therefore understandable if, every now and then, the subject of this investigation might forget that some people actually take these shoot-from-the-hip allegations seriously.
For those who point out that "17 agencies" say they're "confident" that the Russians interfered with the election, let's not forget that nobody's questioning that the Russians interfered with the election -- just as they have for decades and just as our government does in many other countries' elections. The inquiry -- let's not forget! -- is aimed at figuring out whether Trump and Russia conspired to steal the election from Hillary Clinton. NOT whether the Russians interfered (which nobody disputes), and NOT whether Trump tried to win (obviously). The question is whether they worked together to accomplish that. None of those "17 agencies" has ever expressed any opinion whatsoever on that question, much less offered any evidence.
Like it or not, Hillary Clinton supporters have got to start facing reality here: She lost. Trump won, and she lost. Trump wanted her to lose. Maybe the Russians wanted her to lose too, but that's not the point. The point is whether Trump and Russia worked together to cause her to lose. That's the question, and pointing to "17 agencies" opining on a different question doesn't change that.
1
Mr. Blow points out the rot up and down the entire chain of succession with the administration and without.
It bears repeating, again, that Donald Trump is NOT the disease, he is the symptom.
The Republican Party has been purveying snake oil for at least 40 years regarding taxation, economic policy, wages, employment, science, healthcare, etc. In so doing, they have prepared fertile ground for the propaganda the Russians and their cronies used to inflict this disaster on the US.
Until we again demand evidence based proposals and logical policy we are doomed to suffer from this disease.
It bears repeating, again, that Donald Trump is NOT the disease, he is the symptom.
The Republican Party has been purveying snake oil for at least 40 years regarding taxation, economic policy, wages, employment, science, healthcare, etc. In so doing, they have prepared fertile ground for the propaganda the Russians and their cronies used to inflict this disaster on the US.
Until we again demand evidence based proposals and logical policy we are doomed to suffer from this disease.
1
It is infuriating that the Republicans dedicated a massive effort to the attempt to crucify Hillary for breaking an email server rule that her predecessors disregarded yet are willing to turn a blind eye to Trump's strongly alleged treasonous collusion with Russia to help him gain office. There is a smoking gun, ten smoking guns....
The only way to know what is going on is to follow the money. We must have a special prosecutor to investigate Trump's financial ties to the Russian's and Putin via the Bank of Cyprus, Deutsche Bank, Russian investors in his property, the Russian Mafia in Trump Tower, and the strong links between Russia and Trump's cabinet members and associates including Wilbur Ross, Felix Sater, Roy Tillerson, Jeff Sessions, Mike Flynn, Carter Page, Paul Manafort, Roger Stone etc., etc..
Furthermore, Trump’s tax returns must be released to the special prosecutor. The Republicans can run, but they cannot hide. Our national security is at stake. We must demand Trump's full independent investigation, and we must completely reject the band of cowards known as the Republican Congress in 2018.
The only way to know what is going on is to follow the money. We must have a special prosecutor to investigate Trump's financial ties to the Russian's and Putin via the Bank of Cyprus, Deutsche Bank, Russian investors in his property, the Russian Mafia in Trump Tower, and the strong links between Russia and Trump's cabinet members and associates including Wilbur Ross, Felix Sater, Roy Tillerson, Jeff Sessions, Mike Flynn, Carter Page, Paul Manafort, Roger Stone etc., etc..
Furthermore, Trump’s tax returns must be released to the special prosecutor. The Republicans can run, but they cannot hide. Our national security is at stake. We must demand Trump's full independent investigation, and we must completely reject the band of cowards known as the Republican Congress in 2018.
3
The close ties that so many in Trump's circle have had for many years with Russia/Putin makes me wonder if the Russian overthrow of our government was in planning for some time. This Russian government proxy then inhabited an obvious vehicle called the Republican party whose supporters are not exactly long on insightfulness and patriotism, and used it to gain control of our government. I hope this is as crazy as it sounds but this whole mess is already beyond anyone's most far-fetched nightmares. If true, we could live to witness the end of the American empire. The obvious question would then be, what would these people stand to gain from this scenario? I don't think we can say at this point beyond wild speculation.
What we do know is that Trump and Republicans have already completely destroyed American credibility in the world. We are already a weaker country than we ere just a few months ago. We are now just one step away from handing over complete control via Neil Gorsuch as the final nail in the coffin of American exceptionalism.
Republicans have been building to this point for many years. They might finally be in a position to completely bring down the US unless Democrats and Independents can resist strongly enough.
What we do know is that Trump and Republicans have already completely destroyed American credibility in the world. We are already a weaker country than we ere just a few months ago. We are now just one step away from handing over complete control via Neil Gorsuch as the final nail in the coffin of American exceptionalism.
Republicans have been building to this point for many years. They might finally be in a position to completely bring down the US unless Democrats and Independents can resist strongly enough.
There is another obvious "coincidence". The unrelenting fawning and obedience of Trump for all things Putin.
Putin has already built and used mis-information and election sabotage functionality to subvert and replace functioning democracies with autocracies/kleptocracies that were friendly to him in several countries.
Our new administration appears to be utterly corrupt, wasting no time to collect money from favor seekers both domestic and foreign, in absolute defiance of decency and the Constitution.
Trump's taxes and a forensic audit into his and his cronies financial dealings would show just how much money has flowed into their pockets from Putin et al.
The simple number of high administration officials who have already received payments (or anticipate payments) from Russia should be a smoking gun.
Putin has already built and used mis-information and election sabotage functionality to subvert and replace functioning democracies with autocracies/kleptocracies that were friendly to him in several countries.
Our new administration appears to be utterly corrupt, wasting no time to collect money from favor seekers both domestic and foreign, in absolute defiance of decency and the Constitution.
Trump's taxes and a forensic audit into his and his cronies financial dealings would show just how much money has flowed into their pockets from Putin et al.
The simple number of high administration officials who have already received payments (or anticipate payments) from Russia should be a smoking gun.
After the collapse of the Soviet Union, the demise of the Warsaw Pact, and the withdrawal of Soviet Russian forces from eastern Europe, NATO, the most powerful military alliance in history whose membership population approaches one billion people, expanded right up against Russia's borders in spite of oral promises not to do so, and set up a nuclear-capable missile system near the borders with Russia, a country with a population of about 120 million and a GDP about the size of Italy's and one which is heavily out-spent, out-gunned and out-manned by NATO whose conventional forces far exceed Russia's in every respect. Beyond that, before President Obama left office, he approved a program for a trillion dollar revamp of America's nuclear arsenal.
His predecessor, George W. Bush, arbitrarily withdrew the United Sates from the Anti-Ballistic Missile Treaty with Russia ( an act not mentioned here) under Russian, and Chinese, objections.
This editorial brazenly beats the drum for war and lays the blame, predictably, on the other side.
It is a drumbeat for war not with a third-world country with a ragged army and no air force to speak of. It is a call for war against the second largest nuclear state which, like the US, has the power to extinguish human life on this planet hundreds of times over. And not only is there nothing to talk about, but even talking has become an act of treason.
The headline should be: "The species ends here."
His predecessor, George W. Bush, arbitrarily withdrew the United Sates from the Anti-Ballistic Missile Treaty with Russia ( an act not mentioned here) under Russian, and Chinese, objections.
This editorial brazenly beats the drum for war and lays the blame, predictably, on the other side.
It is a drumbeat for war not with a third-world country with a ragged army and no air force to speak of. It is a call for war against the second largest nuclear state which, like the US, has the power to extinguish human life on this planet hundreds of times over. And not only is there nothing to talk about, but even talking has become an act of treason.
The headline should be: "The species ends here."
IMO there is enough evidence to be alarmed and ready for meaningful investigations publicly aired by an independent committee.
There are too many Trump people involved with Russia before and after the election.
There is no record of as many talks with the Russians occurring with other nations and little reason to support the Russian entanglements. That is not coincidence.
We have an invisible secretary of state and a frightened state department. What actually does Tillerson do besides shun his employees?
There are too many economic alliances between members of Trump's team and the oligarchs. There is money laundering, real estate sales.
If this had happened during the last administration there would have been calls for bloodletting.
The truth will rear its ugly head eventually. Trump is damaged goods regardless. His supporters may not move away from him but they will be damaged too.
The ugliness of this, the shameful money grabs and the installation of the 'Jaranka' unit into the mix only says how conflicted things are and Trump needs the family to handle it all.
It is hard to witness but none of us should turn away. This is real.
There are too many Trump people involved with Russia before and after the election.
There is no record of as many talks with the Russians occurring with other nations and little reason to support the Russian entanglements. That is not coincidence.
We have an invisible secretary of state and a frightened state department. What actually does Tillerson do besides shun his employees?
There are too many economic alliances between members of Trump's team and the oligarchs. There is money laundering, real estate sales.
If this had happened during the last administration there would have been calls for bloodletting.
The truth will rear its ugly head eventually. Trump is damaged goods regardless. His supporters may not move away from him but they will be damaged too.
The ugliness of this, the shameful money grabs and the installation of the 'Jaranka' unit into the mix only says how conflicted things are and Trump needs the family to handle it all.
It is hard to witness but none of us should turn away. This is real.
1
I'm hoping that the investigation into the ties between the Trump campaign and the Russian government drags on for another year and a half. It would have several huge benefits.
First, it would tie up this despicable excuse for an administration and slow their initiatives. Second, it would derail the Republican agenda, a cruel agenda that targets our most vulnerable citizens. Third, it would energize the electorate and return control of the House of Representatives to the Democrats on 2018.
Most of all, it would provide the country with a premium source of entertainment as these incompetent and unethical people fall all over each other at first claiming nothing happened, then claiming that their hands are clean, then seeking immunity for their testimony against each other.
You couldn't write this stuff!!
First, it would tie up this despicable excuse for an administration and slow their initiatives. Second, it would derail the Republican agenda, a cruel agenda that targets our most vulnerable citizens. Third, it would energize the electorate and return control of the House of Representatives to the Democrats on 2018.
Most of all, it would provide the country with a premium source of entertainment as these incompetent and unethical people fall all over each other at first claiming nothing happened, then claiming that their hands are clean, then seeking immunity for their testimony against each other.
You couldn't write this stuff!!
4
Charles Blow wants to have his cake and eat it too.
On the one hand, he instinctively "knows" that there was/is collusion between Trump and Putin. There just has to be, because of all the dots literally bouncing off one another in the mass media echo chamber.
This is the same belief system employed by George W. Bush, who just "knew" deep within his gut that Saddam had weapons of mass destruction. This visceral knowledge proceeded to quickly infect the mass media as they became literally inbedded in the war fever hive-mind. By the time rational thought overcame their guts, it was too late.
The gist of the column is, maybe it's all true, so let's give faith and coincidences the benefit of the doubt. But as philosopher W.K. Clifford writes, "it is wrong, always and everywhere, to believe anything on insufficient evidence."
That Blow wavers about RussiaGate still being "conjecture" with mere "suggestions of impropriety" betrays his own lack of faith in the official narrative.
There's plenty of real, solid evidence against Trump, evidence that in a just society would have sentenced him to prison decades ago. But rather than admit that he is merely the end-product of a corrupt political system, that he's a lot like those too big to fail corrupt financial institutions that get bailed out time and time again, we pursue McCarthyism in the name of neoliberal predatory capitalism.
Enough with instinctive journalism. It's time not only for a gut check but for a reality check.
On the one hand, he instinctively "knows" that there was/is collusion between Trump and Putin. There just has to be, because of all the dots literally bouncing off one another in the mass media echo chamber.
This is the same belief system employed by George W. Bush, who just "knew" deep within his gut that Saddam had weapons of mass destruction. This visceral knowledge proceeded to quickly infect the mass media as they became literally inbedded in the war fever hive-mind. By the time rational thought overcame their guts, it was too late.
The gist of the column is, maybe it's all true, so let's give faith and coincidences the benefit of the doubt. But as philosopher W.K. Clifford writes, "it is wrong, always and everywhere, to believe anything on insufficient evidence."
That Blow wavers about RussiaGate still being "conjecture" with mere "suggestions of impropriety" betrays his own lack of faith in the official narrative.
There's plenty of real, solid evidence against Trump, evidence that in a just society would have sentenced him to prison decades ago. But rather than admit that he is merely the end-product of a corrupt political system, that he's a lot like those too big to fail corrupt financial institutions that get bailed out time and time again, we pursue McCarthyism in the name of neoliberal predatory capitalism.
Enough with instinctive journalism. It's time not only for a gut check but for a reality check.
21
Here's the difference -- Bush directly acted on his "gut feeling". This column expresses an intuition about similarly circumstantial evidence not to call for an impeachment, but to call for an impartial investigation into the matter. Having a gut feeling and investigating whether it's true is *very* different from having a gut feeling and acting on it before it's confirmed or denied.
1
That false equivalence is beneath you, Karen. The present situation of a multitude of 'coincidences' and W's ability to look into Putin's 'soul' are on the same level of 'gut check?' Please.
Oh, if only you could call Vote of Non-Confidence and initiate another election.
29
The Trump - Russia story continues to perplex .I'm all for getting rid of Trump but going to the ancient , politically ensnared, worn out tale of the Russian bogeyman , as many suggest, is the wrong way to do it- lots of smoke , no fire. The better way is to impeach the man by getting sufficient new Democratic legislators in 2018. The Dems ,however, need to brighten up their platform in order to win : jobs, single payer healthcare , infrastructure program and ending its neo-liberal corporate agenda.
As far as Trump the Russian spy is concerned- the case is built upon a Hillary Clinton excuse for her loss to Trump - Russian hacking. As former intelligence directors declared , this is an evidence free ideological assertion. Moreover, Times reporter James Risen notes, it could take years to ever get to the bottom of the charges. And then there are the contacts between Trump supporters and the Russians. Business, even shady business , the kind of business Dems like John Podesta and the Clinton Foundation engaged in. Better to beat Trump et. al. in 2018 at the ballot box.
As far as Trump the Russian spy is concerned- the case is built upon a Hillary Clinton excuse for her loss to Trump - Russian hacking. As former intelligence directors declared , this is an evidence free ideological assertion. Moreover, Times reporter James Risen notes, it could take years to ever get to the bottom of the charges. And then there are the contacts between Trump supporters and the Russians. Business, even shady business , the kind of business Dems like John Podesta and the Clinton Foundation engaged in. Better to beat Trump et. al. in 2018 at the ballot box.
6
Was Evelyn Farkas telling the truth on Morning Joe, or was she lying?
“that the Trump folks, if they found out how we knew what we knew about…the Trump staff’s dealing with Russia, that they would try to compromise those sources and methods.”
Is it not eminently reasonable to infer from this statement by Farkas that the “how” in question, the methods by which intelligence was supposedly gathered, consists of surveillance of the “Trump folks?”
“that the Trump folks, if they found out how we knew what we knew about…the Trump staff’s dealing with Russia, that they would try to compromise those sources and methods.”
Is it not eminently reasonable to infer from this statement by Farkas that the “how” in question, the methods by which intelligence was supposedly gathered, consists of surveillance of the “Trump folks?”
4
Perhaps more than just "eminently possible." Check out the tale of Susan Rice's "unmasking" requests. https://www.bloomberg.com/view/articles/2017-04-03/top-obama-adviser-sou...
Funny, but I can't find any mention of Rice and "unmasking" in the Times. I must have missed it...
Funny, but I can't find any mention of Rice and "unmasking" in the Times. I must have missed it...
1
I will do my best to support any congressional candidate who supports impeachment. 2018 should be a one-issue election platform.
18
The Trump succession line is indeed horrible but yes, Donald Trump is the most ill-tempered & ill-suited man of the lot to be the face of America. Our faith in the political system has been greatly tested perhaps as no other time in history. My fear is that four years of a Trump presidency normalizes our collective despair that our government is permanently broken no matter who is in charge. Fresh faced candidates of the 2020 election, no matter how truly qualified, noble and ethical, might be viewed as a mere rearranging of the deck chairs on the Titanic in the minds of an increasingly cynical electorate. We all now know that any scoundrel with a big bank account & an even bigger sense of self can be elected to the Presidency. A do-nothing, obstructionist & obstreperous Republican congressional majority under Democratic President Obama certainly tested anyone's notion of an effective federal government as an institution run by elected officials who engage in compromise, bipartisan cooperation & civility. The Republican Frankenstein candidate in Donald Trump winning the White House was the final crushing blow to decency in American government, at least as seen by many progressives.
Yet, there is always the sliver of hope that in a time of such utter darkness, despair & clueless leadership that we as a nation will come together in search of decency and a collective common goal of a greater good. Still, the dark forces of Russia, fake news & social media loom large.
Yet, there is always the sliver of hope that in a time of such utter darkness, despair & clueless leadership that we as a nation will come together in search of decency and a collective common goal of a greater good. Still, the dark forces of Russia, fake news & social media loom large.
9
One of the problems with our constitution is that we have no way to have a recall election for the president. The electoral college was supposed to protect us from this problem but they obviously did not do their job and need to be replaced with a one person, one vote system. However, with the current system in place, we are stuck with either Donald Trump or Mike Pence until 2020. I favor an impeachment (and imprisonment) of Trump but we would still be left with Pence.
17
I can no more imagine the perspective cast in waiting if there is an impeachment of Trump – however, I am willing to endeavor the possibility it becomes reality. I cannot get out of my head the blatant disrespect this person has for the office he holds; and it bemuses, in fact, infuriates me when I continue to see talking Republican heads on television still supporting him all for the sake of pushing their political agenda.
If this investigation finds tangible evidence of collusion, and it touches Trump directly - then let the trials of his impeachment begin. Yes, I am willing to take my chances with who is next in line.
If this investigation finds tangible evidence of collusion, and it touches Trump directly - then let the trials of his impeachment begin. Yes, I am willing to take my chances with who is next in line.
10
Or prospective team in waiting......
I believe Flynn wants immunity, so that he can white wash the narrative. Trump tweeting that Flynn should be given immunity, supports this reason for wanting immunity.
10
"It is absolutely clear that the Russians did interfere in our election. This is not a debatable issue. This is not fake news. This is not a witch hunt. This happened."
Except that's a blatant lie. We know absolutely nothing of the kind. We know it makes perfect sense for the Russians to have hacked and that, if forced to come to a conclusion, that would be the one that makes the most sense.
That is NOT warrant saying "this absolutely happened," especially when the foundation for such certainty—the CrowdStrikes report—has come under fire and been walked back by the entity that wrote it.
Odd how that fact never makes it into these echo-chamber cheerleader pieces.
This isn't journalism; it's not even a good persuasive piece. The only people who applaud this are people who already believe the narrative.
Except that's a blatant lie. We know absolutely nothing of the kind. We know it makes perfect sense for the Russians to have hacked and that, if forced to come to a conclusion, that would be the one that makes the most sense.
That is NOT warrant saying "this absolutely happened," especially when the foundation for such certainty—the CrowdStrikes report—has come under fire and been walked back by the entity that wrote it.
Odd how that fact never makes it into these echo-chamber cheerleader pieces.
This isn't journalism; it's not even a good persuasive piece. The only people who applaud this are people who already believe the narrative.
7
Interesting that the Sunday Times Book Review section featured a book on evangelicals by Frances FitzGerald. I can't decide whether an evangelical nut like Pence would be an improvement over a cheat like Trump. The next several down the list of succession are no bargains either. How did the Party of Eisenhower get so corrupt? My guess is Nixon's southern strategy.
7
Never in my wildest dreams did I think most Republicans would be so casual and dismissive of Russian assaults on our election system. It boggles the mind. The GOP lust for power and control--and their unbridled hatred of the the only black man and the only woman ever poised to assume the presidency--outweighs everything.
10
Sunlight is the best disinfectant! The quest to expose and reveal the traitors and their treason is the most important imperative of our times. If what we have thus far is "circumstantial evidence", that certainly whets our appetite to see this sordid affair through to the end. The problem is that the Trump regime will obstruct. Hopefully, that obstruction alone could be the basis of indictment and impeachment. The Republicans will only remove Trump when he is a clear liability to them. The majority who voted against Trump must empower the congressional resistance to accept no compromises.
At this point, depending upon the Federal agencies to "do the right thing" raises skepticism. We can't tell what impulses Comey might wake up with on any given day. His focus on Clinton's emails while knowing the Russia game was afoot suggests confused priorities at the very least. He is seeming like the stereotypical obtuse "bulldog, flatfoot" that is lampooned in the movies of the 40s and 50s. The DNC was a confused and inept bunch in 2016; producing Debbie Wasserman Schultz vs the KGB. The Wassermans lost the narrative and the battle.
If the people want justice and the return of democracy they (we) have to demand it. Politicians blow with the wind (Hillary Clinton comes to mind), the people are here to stay, unless Trump and the Nazis are allowed to destroy us. At what point do you say: "over my dead body", sooner or later?
At this point, depending upon the Federal agencies to "do the right thing" raises skepticism. We can't tell what impulses Comey might wake up with on any given day. His focus on Clinton's emails while knowing the Russia game was afoot suggests confused priorities at the very least. He is seeming like the stereotypical obtuse "bulldog, flatfoot" that is lampooned in the movies of the 40s and 50s. The DNC was a confused and inept bunch in 2016; producing Debbie Wasserman Schultz vs the KGB. The Wassermans lost the narrative and the battle.
If the people want justice and the return of democracy they (we) have to demand it. Politicians blow with the wind (Hillary Clinton comes to mind), the people are here to stay, unless Trump and the Nazis are allowed to destroy us. At what point do you say: "over my dead body", sooner or later?
1
As much as I would hate Pence at least I wouldn't worry about nuclear holocaust or war under Trump.
2
Mr. Blow, we need journalists with your kind of courage and intelligence. Thank you for all you do for us, and know that every day at least one prayer is uttered for your safety.
9
Trump, Ryan, Flynn, Pence, McConnel are all faces that prove the American electorate are dumber than we thought. People who vote for politicians who will cause them pain do not understand the benefits of a democracy. Trump will hurt us. This is not a drill and it's not a comedic theatrical play.
7
Let us just have four years minus two months of continued Trumpism: lying, cheating, diddling the ladies, and various continuing embarrassments. We got what we voted for; no surprises there. And unless we have another war to add to the Bush/Obama debacle, we shall probably survive, much diminished unfortunately, but surviving.
1
I think we'll never know for sure whether Russian interference in the 2016 presidential election on behalf of Trump changed the outcome. But, at this point you'd have to be a brainwashed Trump worshipper to deny Russia did in fact interfere in our election. The only question is if Trump or people associated with his campaign colluded with the Russians to undermine our political system and if that amounts to treason.
Putin's aim is to hobble, if possible break up, the western alliance. That's why he supports nationalists like Trump, Marine Le Pen and anti-EU politicians in Europe. Like Trump, Marine Le Pen is a Putin admirer and supports Russia's annexation of Crimea. If elected president she has also vowed to end sanctions against Russia and take France out of EU and NATO. Not surprisingly, a Russian bank with Kremlin connection recently provided 9 million euro "loan" to Le Pen's party.
Putin's aim is to hobble, if possible break up, the western alliance. That's why he supports nationalists like Trump, Marine Le Pen and anti-EU politicians in Europe. Like Trump, Marine Le Pen is a Putin admirer and supports Russia's annexation of Crimea. If elected president she has also vowed to end sanctions against Russia and take France out of EU and NATO. Not surprisingly, a Russian bank with Kremlin connection recently provided 9 million euro "loan" to Le Pen's party.
4
It's still all venting. Get the handcuffs out and I'll start reading the NYT for more than the cooking section again.
3
No conclusive dots?? When it walks like a duck and quacks like a duck, its a DUCK, trying to duck the issue. Understanding the seriousness of the issues, we cannot go forward without more proof, but it is THERE and if all the presidents men and all the twisted arms of the presidents men are getting in the way, come out, come out wherever you are "deep throat", and let Woodward and Bernstein do the job...and put Rachael in charge.
3
Why should it be so hard to say? If if what is apparent proves to be true and Trump is duly removed from office for collusion or cover up, then his election was illegitimate and all political appointments and actions deriving from it are too, including the election of Pence as VP. In that case, a new election and a restart is the only solution. While that is being conducted, Speaker Ryan would be the Constitutionally correct caretaker President and his powers should be limited to only those needed to keep the government running until a non-hacked election produces a legitimate President. Given the gravity of all this, it should be everyone's first priority to carry the clearly necessary investigations surrounding Trump to their honest conclusion. In the meantime, nothing further should be done that would have to be undone in the case of a restart. (Need I say "Gorsuch"?).
3
Tom: You should get started on writing a new U.S. Constitution. Happily, that should keep you busy enough so that you wont be able to write these comments in the future.
"We are still not conclusively able to connect the dots on the question of whether there was any coordination or collusion between members of Donald Trump’s campaign and the Russians who interfered in our election to benefit him."
Yes. You still have no evidence of collusion.
However, there is plenty of evidence that Hilary and the DNC scuttled the candidacy of Bernie Sanders.
Yes. You still have no evidence of collusion.
However, there is plenty of evidence that Hilary and the DNC scuttled the candidacy of Bernie Sanders.
5
It is not a matter of who is corrupt within the Trump orbit....but perhaps who is
the most corrupt.....It is obvious that Putin is winning this battle by intentional
corrupting the corruptible: that being the most corruptible and demented Trump
himself...Let's see Trump's financial entanglements....and then perhaps
dismiss him as too mentally unstable to remain as President.
That is the goal...dethrone Trump.....the Humpty Dumpty ...Trumpster...off
his golden tower....and then pity him for being Putin's receptive PAWN...
and then Trump's Court of Fools can Exit .....stage ...trap door into prison.
the most corrupt.....It is obvious that Putin is winning this battle by intentional
corrupting the corruptible: that being the most corruptible and demented Trump
himself...Let's see Trump's financial entanglements....and then perhaps
dismiss him as too mentally unstable to remain as President.
That is the goal...dethrone Trump.....the Humpty Dumpty ...Trumpster...off
his golden tower....and then pity him for being Putin's receptive PAWN...
and then Trump's Court of Fools can Exit .....stage ...trap door into prison.
2
Is it wrong to want to impeach the impeared?
Sorry, I kid the Republicans.
Sorry, I kid the Republicans.
2
"the impaeared"....what do you mean RjW.."impeared" what does "impeared" mean..
Please explain yourself...so I and others might not find YOU to be impaired
perhaps..(joking of course) cbr.
Please explain yourself...so I and others might not find YOU to be impaired
perhaps..(joking of course) cbr.
A fun game to play with this article is to replace all mentions of Trump and Russia with Hillary and the email scandal, then imagine if the article would still be posted in the NYT.
Sadly, we continue to be left with the dregs of society trying to run our country, whether Democrat or Republican.
Sadly, we continue to be left with the dregs of society trying to run our country, whether Democrat or Republican.
2
Trump is a cosmic joke on America, a snort by the Queen of Karma! This is how ignorance and bigotry are rewarded--we are made to wear the yoke of the buffoon turned emperor.
BTW, the word coincidence appears to have mutated. There are lots of coincidences in life, innocent and random, but now coincidence seems to mean "events that don’t just occur in the same time-frame but have some underlying agency, such as a trend in climate change or human action.”
The hands of the Trump gang are all over the Russia story.
BTW, the word coincidence appears to have mutated. There are lots of coincidences in life, innocent and random, but now coincidence seems to mean "events that don’t just occur in the same time-frame but have some underlying agency, such as a trend in climate change or human action.”
The hands of the Trump gang are all over the Russia story.
Cb -- it ain't April fool's day, but maybe you wrote this Saturday. Hate to tell you, but it is not at all clear the Russians interfered in our election. I know your columns are fact free zones merely designed (if there is anything at all approaching a design in this incoherent mess) to make your acolytes froth at the mouth, but come on.
But to be clear -- there is no evidence the hacking of the DNC/Podesta e-mails and leaks interfered with our election. The Russians may have wanted to embarrass HRC or maybe they just enjoy having cyber fun over a nice bottle of vodka but it is a huge stretch to say that obtaining and releasing some e-mails that were more embarrassing to the DNC staff than HRC is a stretch. There were lots of leaks - like the locker room talk tape that were more problematic for Trump than anything released about HRC through wikileaks. Face it, we already knew HRC was power mad and corrupt, nothing that was leaked was new news except perhaps that the DNC and Podesta weren't very good at cyber security.
So CB -- your headline reads -' "Dwindling Odds of Coincidence" and your first paragraph references multiplying dots (to be connected by the paranoid I suppose). But in your column you provide no evidence for either assertion.
So here's the way the real world works (unlike the journalism world you inhabit). You make an assertion, you must provide some facts. Pretty simple, isn't it? So, please rewrite, and provide evidence.
But to be clear -- there is no evidence the hacking of the DNC/Podesta e-mails and leaks interfered with our election. The Russians may have wanted to embarrass HRC or maybe they just enjoy having cyber fun over a nice bottle of vodka but it is a huge stretch to say that obtaining and releasing some e-mails that were more embarrassing to the DNC staff than HRC is a stretch. There were lots of leaks - like the locker room talk tape that were more problematic for Trump than anything released about HRC through wikileaks. Face it, we already knew HRC was power mad and corrupt, nothing that was leaked was new news except perhaps that the DNC and Podesta weren't very good at cyber security.
So CB -- your headline reads -' "Dwindling Odds of Coincidence" and your first paragraph references multiplying dots (to be connected by the paranoid I suppose). But in your column you provide no evidence for either assertion.
So here's the way the real world works (unlike the journalism world you inhabit). You make an assertion, you must provide some facts. Pretty simple, isn't it? So, please rewrite, and provide evidence.
2
The real problem is that our know-nothing, white supremacist republicant friends love to hate. Trump provides the hate fuel. He verbalizes their deep resentment. Now the people on disability in Ohio and the corn farmers that voted for him are scared. But they still support the kleptocracy. Go figure. Fright Power!
4
"...We continue to learn of new contacts between people in Trump’s orbit and Russians..."
two words for you sir, tony podesta.
two words for you sir, tony podesta.
This election was not valid. Hillary won. Brave leaders must somehow force this election to be held again. Trump is not and never will be accepted as the true President. There were just way too many "incidents" to sway voters away from Hillary. She was robbed, and most of all, the entire Nation was robbed! We must have a new election. Admit that the election was too "fooled" with to be legit. Until this is settled, the Nation and the World is gonna suffer.
4
I must strenuously disagree with Charles Blow: Donald Trump needs to be legally removed from office to protect the integrity of the Republic. Yes, Mike Pence is a zealot, as is Paul Ryan, but Orren Hatch is simply a total apologist who can take "the high moral ground" one day, and the next go 180 degrees and STILL claim he's taking "the high moral ground", even if it is to justify poisoning puppies and kittens.
But let's remember one key thing about Mike Pence: He respects the institutions and might WELL get rid of the rot in the WH including Bannon, Miller and anyone related to Trump. Pence would get more support from Dems if he then replaced the obvious incompetents like DeVos and Carson, and the totally corrupt like Mnuchin, Wilbur Ross, and even Tillerson (though he could teeter on that one).
Why? Remember: When Pence was booed and then lectured at "Hamilton", while Trump went ballistic, Pence calmly told his daughter and nieces that this was the sound of freedom. Pence was a congressman and a governor so he's actually a politician.
In other words, the United States WILL survive Mike Pence and while the laws enacted under him may be awful and destructive, the institution will survive.
But under Donald Trump the very structure of the institution is under attack, from Freedom of Speech, Press and Religion, to the independence of the courts, and to Congress being an independent equal power in the nation. Impeachment is needed to lance the boil and clear the infection.
But let's remember one key thing about Mike Pence: He respects the institutions and might WELL get rid of the rot in the WH including Bannon, Miller and anyone related to Trump. Pence would get more support from Dems if he then replaced the obvious incompetents like DeVos and Carson, and the totally corrupt like Mnuchin, Wilbur Ross, and even Tillerson (though he could teeter on that one).
Why? Remember: When Pence was booed and then lectured at "Hamilton", while Trump went ballistic, Pence calmly told his daughter and nieces that this was the sound of freedom. Pence was a congressman and a governor so he's actually a politician.
In other words, the United States WILL survive Mike Pence and while the laws enacted under him may be awful and destructive, the institution will survive.
But under Donald Trump the very structure of the institution is under attack, from Freedom of Speech, Press and Religion, to the independence of the courts, and to Congress being an independent equal power in the nation. Impeachment is needed to lance the boil and clear the infection.
3
While Mr. Blow's caution in asserting that Donald Trump's and the Russians cheated in the election is understandable, what is not so understandable is the reluctance to declare Hillary Clinton the logical alternative--since she won the popular vote by a significant margin.
America has been done in by the misogyny and gullibility of too many voters. There can be no doubt that the Russians have helped create the false "scandals" around Mrs. Clinton in addition to providing Trump and his minions with tens of millions of dollars.
The Democrats seem to be muddled about what to do, and need to come together to decide what actions should be taken when evidence comes out that Trump & Co. committed criminal acts to win the election.
America has been done in by the misogyny and gullibility of too many voters. There can be no doubt that the Russians have helped create the false "scandals" around Mrs. Clinton in addition to providing Trump and his minions with tens of millions of dollars.
The Democrats seem to be muddled about what to do, and need to come together to decide what actions should be taken when evidence comes out that Trump & Co. committed criminal acts to win the election.
2
As Mr. Blow reminds us, Russia interfered in the election. That is a known, proven fact. Did the Russians openly collude with the Trump campaign? A lot of circumstantial evidence suggests so, but there are other possibilities. For example, the Russians were already very familiar with Trump's first campaign chair, Paul Manafort, thanks to his work for a pro-Russian politician in Ukraine. Even without directly contacting Manafort, the Russians might have chosen to lend their assistance, and Manafort, who knew full well how elections could be manipulated, would recognize the source of that assistance. No need for an official handshake; a subtle nod would be enough to establish the quid pro quo.
Once Manafort was replaced by Bannon, the disinformation campaign only intensified. Bannon took advantage of the groundwork laid by the Russians. Using his political research firm, Bannon further targeted pro-Trump voters, and used Breitbart to disseminate even more pro-Trump/anti-Clinton stories. This material would then slide from the fringe to the Faux News, and on to major media outlets. (For example, consider the wiretap story’s migration from Breitbart to the NYTimes front page).
Russia had nothing to lose, and everything to gain. Likewise, the Trump campaign had nothing to lose — after all, it was very unlikely that Trump could win on the merits of his candidacy alone. For both of them it was a win-win scenario. American democracy, however, has suffered an incalculable loss.
Once Manafort was replaced by Bannon, the disinformation campaign only intensified. Bannon took advantage of the groundwork laid by the Russians. Using his political research firm, Bannon further targeted pro-Trump voters, and used Breitbart to disseminate even more pro-Trump/anti-Clinton stories. This material would then slide from the fringe to the Faux News, and on to major media outlets. (For example, consider the wiretap story’s migration from Breitbart to the NYTimes front page).
Russia had nothing to lose, and everything to gain. Likewise, the Trump campaign had nothing to lose — after all, it was very unlikely that Trump could win on the merits of his candidacy alone. For both of them it was a win-win scenario. American democracy, however, has suffered an incalculable loss.
1
Thank you, Charles! I'm glad you the stamina to keep up this awful task you've pledged to focus on.
It is just so embarrassing and shameful that any of us has to spend time focusing on a man so dangerous, deceitful and even pathological to behold, that it taints us all to do so.
So, thank you! For persisting. For wonderful prose. And your laser focus.
It is just so embarrassing and shameful that any of us has to spend time focusing on a man so dangerous, deceitful and even pathological to behold, that it taints us all to do so.
So, thank you! For persisting. For wonderful prose. And your laser focus.
1
Interesting how only LIBERAL post get approval.
2
Ok, I admit I only read the article to the point of speaking of Mike Pence taking over. NO, NO WAY. This is an illegitimate presidency, won by Russian interference and collusion (how many friggin' dots do we need?) and there should be no President Mike Pence ever.
We need new elections. That is the only way to solve this. Our democracy is at stake. Mike Pence is just as tainted as Trump.
New Elections Demanded!
We need new elections. That is the only way to solve this. Our democracy is at stake. Mike Pence is just as tainted as Trump.
New Elections Demanded!
2
Our democracy that you say is at stake does not have a concept of "new elections" You will get your next chance to vote on a president in 2020.
If you want an election before then you will have to change the Constitution. Good luck with that.
If you want an election before then you will have to change the Constitution. Good luck with that.
There is enough conclusive evidence to convict Traitor Trump and many in his administration for collusion with Russia and racketeering. Anyone else and a Democrat would be handcuff and jailed. Impeachment proceedings would have started right after inauguration. I am sick of the media saying otherwise. Folks have gone to jail for less.
1
I think the days of 'impartial' investigations are over. You know, like 'impartial Supreme Court.'
Here are some suggestions:
Here are my suggestions:
Call for another election.
Extreme Vet every single player in line or succession
and every single appointment.
Demonstrate that anyone breaking the rules is in for serious jail time.
Force Congress to get big money out of government, especially out of elections.
Demonstrate through 2018 elections that cheaters lose.
Even if we can't get a great government until the next election, we can at least get a clean one.
Here are my suggestions:
Call for another election.
Extreme Vet every single player in line or succession
and every single appointment.
Demonstrate that anyone breaking the rules is in for serious jail time.
Force Congress to get big money out of government, especially out of elections.
Demonstrate through 2018 elections that cheaters lose.
Even if we can't get a great government until the next election, we can at least get a clean one.
Our government gets dirtier by the day.
I am less interested in what Blow and the Times seem to be obsessing over, "Who know what & when" than "What do we do about it?" I am not talking about who goes to jail or how to embarrass Trump, I am talking about a foreign country interfered in our election. What do we do about this? How do we make this painful enough that they will not be tempted to do so again? Let's start by freezing the assets of all Russian businesses in the US. If we have conclusive proof that Russia did this, then we should confiscate those assets, we should also expel the Russian diplomatic corps. We should make it clear that if such a thing is attempted again, we would view it as an act of war.
This will set off a round of tit for tat, but our confiscations will hurt Russia a lot more than Russia's will hurt us. The possible exception being Secretary of State Tillerson, that may no be altogether a bad thing.
This will set off a round of tit for tat, but our confiscations will hurt Russia a lot more than Russia's will hurt us. The possible exception being Secretary of State Tillerson, that may no be altogether a bad thing.
2
I love the photo of Trump at the C.I.A. As usual, his seriousness supposedly indicates that he understands what he sees. Such a fraud!
The president, family and Russian co-conspirators/ traitors will be pardoned by another dreadful president pence.
You will never be able to connect the dots conclusively when it comes to discovering any collusion involving the Russian government. They don't work that way.
These are the masters of stealth, and they've had years to perfect it.
The only thing for certain is that Mr. Trump has walked into a trap he can't get out of -- and unfortunately, he has dragged this country along with him.
I lived next to the Soviet Sektor in Europe, and I have no doubt of their ability to infiltrate any system in order to undermine it.
They did it here, and they'll do it again with the upcoming elections in Frnce and Germany. This is not fake news.
If Americans can't wake up to the fact that Trump is not a wholly democratically elected president, connecting the dots to Russia is way beyond their reach.
Somehow removing him from office would be the logical solution, but Mr. Blow is correct in pointing out there is no relief in the line of succession; whether its Pence, Ryan, Hatch, or Tillerson -- there's no doubt, they've all been placed there by malicious G.O.P. design, but I'll take it one step further.
None of this is coincidence.
These are the masters of stealth, and they've had years to perfect it.
The only thing for certain is that Mr. Trump has walked into a trap he can't get out of -- and unfortunately, he has dragged this country along with him.
I lived next to the Soviet Sektor in Europe, and I have no doubt of their ability to infiltrate any system in order to undermine it.
They did it here, and they'll do it again with the upcoming elections in Frnce and Germany. This is not fake news.
If Americans can't wake up to the fact that Trump is not a wholly democratically elected president, connecting the dots to Russia is way beyond their reach.
Somehow removing him from office would be the logical solution, but Mr. Blow is correct in pointing out there is no relief in the line of succession; whether its Pence, Ryan, Hatch, or Tillerson -- there's no doubt, they've all been placed there by malicious G.O.P. design, but I'll take it one step further.
None of this is coincidence.
2
Very shortly after the election I wrote in Comments that I intended to begin every post involving Trump with the sentence: Impeach Donald Trump. I didn't keep that resolution, but another I made I have hewed to. I have not used the upper case "P" when typing the phrase president Trump. Avoiding the phrase entirely is so natural it isn't an issue. Petty behavior perhaps, but it's my way of addressing Trump that the NYT lets slip by. Approximately 100% of the rest of my forms of address for him violate one Comments Cops rule or another, if not all of them at once.
Two things to keep in mind when dealing with smoke vs fire: Smoke kills more victims than does the fire itself. It is also much more difficult to control.
As for the percentages of poll respondents shown in the sidebar: remember that declared Republicans comprise less than 40% of the voting public, which itself is barely over 50% of the total citizenry of America. So when you read that 59% of Republicans do not believe it necessary to get to the bottom of this crisis (and crisis it is), at most that means that 0.4x0.5x0.6 = 0.12 or 12% of Americans think this is a tempest in a teapot.
Two things to keep in mind when dealing with smoke vs fire: Smoke kills more victims than does the fire itself. It is also much more difficult to control.
As for the percentages of poll respondents shown in the sidebar: remember that declared Republicans comprise less than 40% of the voting public, which itself is barely over 50% of the total citizenry of America. So when you read that 59% of Republicans do not believe it necessary to get to the bottom of this crisis (and crisis it is), at most that means that 0.4x0.5x0.6 = 0.12 or 12% of Americans think this is a tempest in a teapot.
1
" I have not used the upper case "P" when typing the phrase president Trump."
I did the exact same thing whenever I referred to our Dear Leader obama.
I did the exact same thing whenever I referred to our Dear Leader obama.
Impeachment is not beyond the realm of possibility if Trump's treason can be shown. The legal standard, after all, is "high crimes and misdemeanors," and for an elected official there is no higher crime than treason. Even with a GOP-controlled Congress impeachment would still be possible if Trump's approval rating continues to plummet -- as it will assuredly do as more concrete evidence of collusion with the Russians emerges. It's important to remember that Nixon was impeached on the eve of the mid-term elections -- with the participation of Republicans nervous about being unseated in those elections. Nevertheless, I wouldn't hold my breath with this Congress whose core is a cadre of reactionary ideologues determined to wreak cruel, reactionary policies on the American people. But that's O.K. Who needs impeachment? Arguably better would be the current situation where Trump's low polling encourages the most fanatical among the GOP's reactionaries to subvert Trump -- to neuter him. I would prefer a neutered Trump to a replaced Trump since his replacement, the snake Pence, is an exponentially more effective politician who could do a lot more damage.
Approximately two seconds after the DNC emails were hacked to reveal that the Democratic Party essentially fixed the campaign to Hillary's advantage against Sanders, the cry went out that "The Russians did it!" Not the Ukrainians, mind you, not Mossad, not a false flag by any of a hundred secret agencies, not a 10th grader with an Atari computer, but the Russians, case closed.
Except for Mrs Clinton who keeps blaming FBI Director Comey for her loss, her loss of the election that is because she won the vote overwhelmingly in spite of Russia's best efforts.
Neither the FBI/Homeland security report nor the CIA/NSA report, nor Senate testimony by intelligence officers, all rich and repetitive with accusations, gave one photon of evidence about who was behind the "interference in American democracy" though they all agreed that "it did not effect the outcome of the elections."
If Mr Blow has such evidence, any evidence, any photon of proof, would he please reveal it to set our minds at ease about who the culprit who interfered with the elections but "did not effect the outcome" was.
Except for Mrs Clinton who keeps blaming FBI Director Comey for her loss, her loss of the election that is because she won the vote overwhelmingly in spite of Russia's best efforts.
Neither the FBI/Homeland security report nor the CIA/NSA report, nor Senate testimony by intelligence officers, all rich and repetitive with accusations, gave one photon of evidence about who was behind the "interference in American democracy" though they all agreed that "it did not effect the outcome of the elections."
If Mr Blow has such evidence, any evidence, any photon of proof, would he please reveal it to set our minds at ease about who the culprit who interfered with the elections but "did not effect the outcome" was.
We have a con artist and mentally challenged man occupying the presidency. He has surrounded himself with every type of lowlife, cheating thief and conniver striving to enrich themselves at the expense of the American people.
Congress loves their perceived power and party much more than they care for their constituents and the country. They are useless and spineless.
A clear and present danger exits in this country, and it's the President of the United States being manipulated by vested interests and a foreign power, Russia.
Trump is incapable of doing anything rational, sane or productive for this country. He is, however, enriching himself and his grafting family and his hangers on.
The country has been had.
Congress loves their perceived power and party much more than they care for their constituents and the country. They are useless and spineless.
A clear and present danger exits in this country, and it's the President of the United States being manipulated by vested interests and a foreign power, Russia.
Trump is incapable of doing anything rational, sane or productive for this country. He is, however, enriching himself and his grafting family and his hangers on.
The country has been had.
1
I never hear you Americans say a word about your interference in the elections of other nations, a tradition going back at least to the days of Woodrow Wilson. Your collective hissy fit is becoming tiresome.
Like Mr. Blow, I'm reluctant to see Pence become president if Trump is impeached. The people of Indiana across the political spectrum were thrilled when this sycophant was taken off our hands as governor.
Nevertheless, what keeps me up at night are images of Trump trying to manage a real crisis. So far, he's pretty much shown he is incapable of doing much of anything. He can sign executive orders, and that's about it. Imagine if the U.S. needed to take major military action or stumbled into a trade war with China, Europe, Mexico, etc. Trump would only make it worse. Then, as he continued to fail, his desperation to "win" might lead to something far more sinister.
I'm not saying Pence would do much better, but at least he wouldn't be turning around to family members and asking, "Ivanka and Jared, what would you do?" He might actually talk to people who have experience with managing crisis situations.
If things go the way I expect, the Democrats will win the House and/or the Senate in 2018. Then, whoever is president will be tossed out in 2020.
In the meanwhile, let's hope and pray that nothing major happens. You know, something that requires more than half a brain to solve.
Nevertheless, what keeps me up at night are images of Trump trying to manage a real crisis. So far, he's pretty much shown he is incapable of doing much of anything. He can sign executive orders, and that's about it. Imagine if the U.S. needed to take major military action or stumbled into a trade war with China, Europe, Mexico, etc. Trump would only make it worse. Then, as he continued to fail, his desperation to "win" might lead to something far more sinister.
I'm not saying Pence would do much better, but at least he wouldn't be turning around to family members and asking, "Ivanka and Jared, what would you do?" He might actually talk to people who have experience with managing crisis situations.
If things go the way I expect, the Democrats will win the House and/or the Senate in 2018. Then, whoever is president will be tossed out in 2020.
In the meanwhile, let's hope and pray that nothing major happens. You know, something that requires more than half a brain to solve.
1
Giving immunity would be the worst approach for any investigation.
Flynn has been so out in front on the immunity request - followed by the Trump endorsement of it, that my guess is it is itself a dead end. And a ploy by Flynn (in spite of being fired) and Trump to distract attention once again.
At best Flynn's done a lousy job of disclosing all his past Russian related income - or maybe something that possibly opens up a perjury-light scenario, but no election meddling. His "bigly" story will turn out to be a bigly nothing. (At which point he is ready to join the media circuit or take over as head of a new reality show called Military Apprentice and make millions)
Trump then gets to claim that if the star witness had nothing to say in connecting dots, no one else and nothing else should matter... case closed.
Flynn has been so out in front on the immunity request - followed by the Trump endorsement of it, that my guess is it is itself a dead end. And a ploy by Flynn (in spite of being fired) and Trump to distract attention once again.
At best Flynn's done a lousy job of disclosing all his past Russian related income - or maybe something that possibly opens up a perjury-light scenario, but no election meddling. His "bigly" story will turn out to be a bigly nothing. (At which point he is ready to join the media circuit or take over as head of a new reality show called Military Apprentice and make millions)
Trump then gets to claim that if the star witness had nothing to say in connecting dots, no one else and nothing else should matter... case closed.
1
Yes, Pence is a zealot for a variety of far right causes. But overall a sane and careful one, not a man given to idiotic tweeting, trafficking with Putin, a Mexican wall, hanging around beauty contests or blatantly lying to the American people.
Given a choice between him and Trump for the next three years and ten months -- and that regrettably is the only choice we are ever likely to get -- I would accept Pence in a New York minute and celebrate Trump's departure by lighting fireworks.
Given a choice between him and Trump for the next three years and ten months -- and that regrettably is the only choice we are ever likely to get -- I would accept Pence in a New York minute and celebrate Trump's departure by lighting fireworks.
1
Yes, we would trade one miscreant for another by impeachment. That's ok. When this one goes down we go after the next one and the next one. That's a better price to pay then allowing the worst miscreant to continue.
1
I wonder whether, one day a month or so, we should declare a moratorium on discussions of Trump's many failings. All of the journalists I read (well, they're all NYT) are so vituperative, and all of us so depressed, that one day without deep criticism might clear our minds of all the negative energy. Just saying.
1
The Benedict and Russia go way back in time together. The election was just one item on their agenda. The proper focus is to view the Benedict as an employee of the Russians. Use this as your guide to understanding what is going on and it will all make sense.
INVESTIGATE AND PROSECUTE RUSSIAGATE! There is treason afoot.
INVESTIGATE AND PROSECUTE RUSSIAGATE! There is treason afoot.
It's simple. An innocent man would not only show his taxes but would publicly announce that he and his associates would all step aside, not mettle in any investigation, cooperated in any way deemed necessary to get to the truth for the sake of this country and everyone who has given his/her life and limb for it.
Period.
Period.
226
If any good comes out of the current crisis, if may be a new dedication among the electorate to think critically about their choices and to be more prudent with their votes. Of course for a representative democracy to serve the people and their best interests, we all need to muster the little the time and energy it requires to vote.
6
Most Trump voters are not rethinking their choice. If they were capable of doing that, given his behavior during the campaign, they would never have voted for him in the first place.
Our democracy has been hijacked but it did not start with Trump or Russia. The Citizens United ruling was the snowball that led to the avalanche in which we are now buried and frantically and fruitlessly digging.
16
Those who feel apprehensive of a Trump impeachment because they fear his even more draconian replacements are wrong. Trump country is beginning to suffer the fallouts to severe cuts in social programs, yet are loathe to admit they were wrong to vote for Trump. Replace him with someone else, like Pence, who lacks charisma and who the Trumpists did not choose, and you'll find both the presidency and republican congress in free fall.
9
The US government is a shambles, the remainder of the free world looks on in horror.
12
"To be sure, Donald Trump is a despicable man and an awful president who deserves whatever he gets. He is crude, a liar, a bully and a cheat. He is vainglorious and vengeful."
I really don't see what your opinions of Mr Trump have to do with it.
I really don't see what your opinions of Mr Trump have to do with it.
3
Notice at the top of the page it says "The Opinion Pages". That's what expressing his opinion has to do with it.
It's an OPINION piece. That clear it up any?
For one who professed he was an outsider in Washington and would shake things up once he was elected, he has delivered on his promise. In 100 days he has wrought a tsunami of destruction, deconstruction and deletion of what is holy in Government. He is at war with all of allies except with our arch enemy, Russia and Putin. Each and every Trump's crony seems to have a Russian Connection. Trump the outsider, has bested the best of insiders who seem like amateurs. I disagree with you though. We cannot wait for 2018. If 100 days in Office can do so much damage, 2018 is just too, too faraway. I'd like to see a vanquished Trump not a crippled one for as they say, an injured lioness is more dangerous.
8
I feel that the electoral process we have in the US at the moment might be best protected against foreign interference if the time allotted to campaigning be shortened. It would be in line with how most other democratic governments in the world function and would limit false news' impact as there would be less time to sensationalize the non-existent and become more difficult to desensitize the electorate on what matters.
3
That might be true, but remember that the brainwashing of the Trump electorate took many years to accomplish, outlasting many election cycles, and will be almost impossible to undo. Russian interference was not the work of a year, but a plot whose origins started when Trump lost the ability to finance his projects (or bankruptcies) domestically and had to turn to Russian oligarchs. As far as fake news goes, in the age of the Internet, sensationalization world wide takes place in under 24 hours, and is very hard to walk back with the truth.
It is possible that Pence may be swept up enough into Russian collusion that he would be tainted. The best hope for our country is that there would be a scenario in which Congress would choose a President to serve out the term as happened when Gerald Ford was selected. John McCain would be the best person upon which consensus might be reached.
4
Gerald Ford was not "selected" by the congress. He was Speaker of The House. Next in succession.
It's certainly hard to believe Pence knew nothing in a campaign that went on this long. Unless he is so passive he doesn't assert himself. That thing about not dining with women and having to keep himself safe from sex outside marriage was so antiquated it makes you wonder where his head is.
There was no collusion between Trump or his people during the the election campaign. There was no reason for it: each knew what the other wanted and acted accordingly.
2
Here a pure fantasy solution to the succession issue: Trump is removed from office for illegally conspiring with the Russians to effect his election. That also invalidates the election of Mike Pence and all the appointments Trump has made--including his Supreme Court nominee. During the impeachment process, Democrats in the House make a deal with decent Republicans to elect a moderate Republican Speaker, removing Paul Ryan from the list. We could get an acceptable Republican president out of the deal. Thinking Republicans would go along with picking a Democrat to succeed is too much fantasy even for me.
2
"Decent Republicans" ? Where?
1
The founders made a huge mistake by setting up the order of ascension in the way they did. What should happen, if there's an impeachment and removal, is the party in power loses its majority, including the White House. It makes zero sense to reward the GOP, in this case, with the guy they wanted in the first place instead of Trump.
Perhaps, as others have mentioned, the election should just be held again, and with completely open debates this time that do not restrict things to just the duopoly. Because, really, when you get down to the nitty gritty, it's both parties which have failed to earn their power, with the GOP being the greater failure and the greater threat. But neither wing of the duopoly deserves to hold the reins of government. They've both abused and exploited their positions of power countless times.
In the near-term, however, if Trump is removed, it's just flat out wrong that ANY Republican gets to take his place.
Perhaps, as others have mentioned, the election should just be held again, and with completely open debates this time that do not restrict things to just the duopoly. Because, really, when you get down to the nitty gritty, it's both parties which have failed to earn their power, with the GOP being the greater failure and the greater threat. But neither wing of the duopoly deserves to hold the reins of government. They've both abused and exploited their positions of power countless times.
In the near-term, however, if Trump is removed, it's just flat out wrong that ANY Republican gets to take his place.
4
With the propaganda wing of the Administration selling misdirection one of the things that is very scary is that many Trump voters don't see anything wrong. It is one of the many reasons Nick Kistof is too naive about how we should treat Trump voters.
5
It looks like it is not just Russian influence on the administration that we should be concerned with. There is an all-too-cozy relationship between Kushner and China that should be investigated as well, such as business dealings. It looks like a tossup whether Russia or China will be the highest bidder for the US of A.
7
This country needs to get answers to the questions being asked by our intelligence agencies. It is getting the answers that we will accomplish something that is badly needed these days; the truth. Trump is everything negative that columnists, editorial boards and concerned citizens have discussed since the day this man was sworn into office. But getting to the truth of Russia's involvement in the elections and the truth as to whether any Americans, those associated with Trump or not, were involved in that heinous act, is ultimately the goal we should all seek.
3
Since it is clear to all but trump that the Russians tampered with our election process, and we have only focused on the presidency here, perhaps it is time for state governors to weigh in and vote on whether we should recognize this election as a genuine choice of the people. The Russians are clearly doing this in Europe. We would be better to have a new election, if at all possible, than continue one in which most of the nation now feels is a fraud. Isn't this how democracy works. It is how other organizations work. Tour de france winners have been stripped of their titiles, Olympic medalists have had their medals taken away, the process of electing the president should be no less than what we do in other arenas, except that in this case, the nation --and the world--may truly be at stake. TYhe question is "are we adult enough to conceed that we have been had by the Russians"?
4
Even if a smoking gun were found, and even if were connected to the stubby little hand of Trump, and even if there were live, streaming video of him shooting somebody, his mesmerized mob wouldn't care.
He said so, so it's true, and I believe him on this single, tiny matter at least.
It's plain as the nose on his face that Trump and his motley family and various White House thugs, er, staff have conflicts of interest, wouldn't know an ethic if it hit them in the face. They don't care if they violate laws against nepotism, self-dealing, dealing with enemies, spill secrets, or in other ways do themselves a lot of good at the public trough. Trump's mob thinks that's just fine. The GOP thinks it's wonderful.
He spends 3 million dollars each weekend at Mara Legoland. That's a lot of money for most of us, but it's just lunch for the Trumps. It's our money, but never mind. Nobody cares about that. I'm sorry I brought it up.
Trump sure has drained the swamp. Of all credibility and value. And he's brought in his own brand to populate it. What a variety! There's vermin, rodents, snakes, bugs and something that blasts out tweets in the night. All for his mob's nighttime viewing.
Thanks Trump voters. Thanks GOP.
He said so, so it's true, and I believe him on this single, tiny matter at least.
It's plain as the nose on his face that Trump and his motley family and various White House thugs, er, staff have conflicts of interest, wouldn't know an ethic if it hit them in the face. They don't care if they violate laws against nepotism, self-dealing, dealing with enemies, spill secrets, or in other ways do themselves a lot of good at the public trough. Trump's mob thinks that's just fine. The GOP thinks it's wonderful.
He spends 3 million dollars each weekend at Mara Legoland. That's a lot of money for most of us, but it's just lunch for the Trumps. It's our money, but never mind. Nobody cares about that. I'm sorry I brought it up.
Trump sure has drained the swamp. Of all credibility and value. And he's brought in his own brand to populate it. What a variety! There's vermin, rodents, snakes, bugs and something that blasts out tweets in the night. All for his mob's nighttime viewing.
Thanks Trump voters. Thanks GOP.
9
The story alleging Flynn and Woolsey met to discuss kidnapping the Turkish cleric appears to have taken a backseat to the Russia stories. Yet, if Flynn and Woolsey did conspire to kidnap the cleric and it's proven to be fact, that would place them both at risk of being charged with a federal crime under 18 USC, Section 1201. If convicted they could face a life sentence. I'd be looking for a deal if I was involved in that plot.
As we learn more about the relationships between Trump's men and Turkey, I keep wondering how these 'coincidences' fit into the Russian election/money laundering scheme, There are so any different tentacles to this, it's beyond comprehension. I still say, "Follow the money," because in the end, the two most prominent names in this incredible story are greedy, immoral, and corrupt people; Trump and Putin.
As we learn more about the relationships between Trump's men and Turkey, I keep wondering how these 'coincidences' fit into the Russian election/money laundering scheme, There are so any different tentacles to this, it's beyond comprehension. I still say, "Follow the money," because in the end, the two most prominent names in this incredible story are greedy, immoral, and corrupt people; Trump and Putin.
4
We may learn the truth later rather than sooner but rest assured there are more than a few dirty hands in this mess. The web of lies is so thick in the trump administration that someone is going to spill the beans.
4
When Trump resigns or is impeached because of Russian collusion or other crimes--for instance his violations of the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (see e.g. http://www.newyorker.com/magazine/2017/03/13/donald-trumps-worst-deal)--the whole tainted regime has to go, including Pence. I hope this happens after the 2018 elections, so that Speaker Nancy Pelosi becomes president in the order of succession.
7
Just as other countries have done "do-overs" upon finding the election flawed or compromised--should not the US priding itself on its own democracy--have an election do-over? Trump is unfit for President by his own behavior: corruption (profiteering in office), dishonesty (Flynn got fired for lying to Pence--why shouldn't Trump be fired for lying to get elected and then repeatedly lying to all of us?), ineptness and, of course, Russian connections.
But, our GOP Congress more loyal to party than nation, has not yet asked for the financial records that would show to which countries Trump is indebted. We know it's not US banks, they would not lend to him. A Russian money-laundering operation working from Trump Tower, Trump's loans come from Deutche Bank, just convicted of major Russian money-laundering--ASK!
But, our GOP Congress more loyal to party than nation, has not yet asked for the financial records that would show to which countries Trump is indebted. We know it's not US banks, they would not lend to him. A Russian money-laundering operation working from Trump Tower, Trump's loans come from Deutche Bank, just convicted of major Russian money-laundering--ASK!
6
And what if the NEW election doesn't turn out the way you like?
"... the election should be annulled ... and a new election called."
I know: If the new election turns out wrong, we annul that one too. Sooner or later, voters will get it right. It might take half a dozen elections, even more, but sooner or later...
Or we could come up with some actual evidence to support our (so far) baseless accusations of a Trump/Russia conspiracy to steal the election from Hillary Clinton. There's a thought!
"... the election should be annulled ... and a new election called."
I know: If the new election turns out wrong, we annul that one too. Sooner or later, voters will get it right. It might take half a dozen elections, even more, but sooner or later...
Or we could come up with some actual evidence to support our (so far) baseless accusations of a Trump/Russia conspiracy to steal the election from Hillary Clinton. There's a thought!
1
There is evidence. The puzzle pieces are beginning to fill in.
The longer the scandal & the investigations drag on, the more people in that line of succession become part of the scandal. There's evidence that Pence knew Flynn was an agent of a Turkey & received money from Russia well before Flynn resigned; there's evidence that Ryan has taken affirmative steps to derail or taint the House investigation. So you have to go to Hatch before you get someone who isn't probably helping (directly or indirectly) Putin puppetize our presidency. Also, I am hopeful that the Times & other serious news media will strive to clarify that the issue isn't just what happened during the election. The issue is what's happening now? For example, without much public information, our military is stepping up involvement in the Syrian civil war. Are we only acting against ISIS (as was US policy under Obama?) OR are we now supporting Russian actions to support Assad? What actions are we taking to support or delegitimize the EU or NATO? Why has our State Department been so gutted? Trump's base isn't likely to know or care much about those initiatives -- they do not grow out of "populist" or conservative campaigns or any America-centered groups. They are, however, in Russia's interests.
6
Trump's closest people have been caught lying about and hiding their Trump=Russian links, including Sessions, Flynn, Kushner, Manafort, Page, Pence, Tillerson, Giuliani, et al. It is likely more will be revealed.
These are not suspicions or conjecture -- these are known facts about people who lied for Trump. The question is, why. And what else are they doing now -- we have also heard several are "erasing their mobile devices and online accounts". This alone casts suspicion. What else will they do? Can we trust any of Trump's people to tell the truth. It is unlikely.
So the specter of revealing the entire truth, with a clear smoking gun is unlikely. Unless they begin to turn on each other, especially on the fear-mongerer-in-chief himself, it is unlikely we will have definite facts to implicate the crooked Trump, Pence, and others.
The best we can hope for is to continue the investigations. However, with Nunes showing himself to be a Trump loyalist rather than an impartial "find of facts", he is discredited. The NY Times and respectable media should ignore much of Nunes' nonsense. Let him do what he wants, and quietly observe his behaviors. As he becomes more desperate to be in the "news", he will slowly bungle. Hopefully revealing implicative wrong-doings he knows about Trump that he is currently hiding.
Slow and steady... continue investigating Trump's treason!
These are not suspicions or conjecture -- these are known facts about people who lied for Trump. The question is, why. And what else are they doing now -- we have also heard several are "erasing their mobile devices and online accounts". This alone casts suspicion. What else will they do? Can we trust any of Trump's people to tell the truth. It is unlikely.
So the specter of revealing the entire truth, with a clear smoking gun is unlikely. Unless they begin to turn on each other, especially on the fear-mongerer-in-chief himself, it is unlikely we will have definite facts to implicate the crooked Trump, Pence, and others.
The best we can hope for is to continue the investigations. However, with Nunes showing himself to be a Trump loyalist rather than an impartial "find of facts", he is discredited. The NY Times and respectable media should ignore much of Nunes' nonsense. Let him do what he wants, and quietly observe his behaviors. As he becomes more desperate to be in the "news", he will slowly bungle. Hopefully revealing implicative wrong-doings he knows about Trump that he is currently hiding.
Slow and steady... continue investigating Trump's treason!
3
Will all this be enough to stop the family of the president from using the US Treasury as a personal piggy bank? How many rounds of golf will be paid from the funds which help schools provide lunches or Meals on Wheels? Will the security for his family's homes come out of funds HUD makes available for struggling American working families to make their home improvements? Do any of the billionaires in his cabinet feel the slightest twinge of empathy for the working class who voted for their boss, but not them? When do his supporters stop falling for the misdirection constantly thrown out by his administration and its propaganda arm Fox? We're experiencing the reality of living in a cult on a national scale with this presidency, how long before we become Iran or North Korea? And we're only into the 3rd month in this presidency.
4
Donald Trump's electoral college victory was handed to him by the ignorant, stupid, fearful and gullible people of this country that bought into his hate and vengeance and false promises.
This less than intelligent man, was and is an easy tool to be used by the likes of Vladimir Putin and Steve Bannon. The Russians colluded in influencing Trump's victory. There is evidence to back that up.
Now, it's going to take intelligence, perseverance and smart brainpower to remove this aberration from office. The rot goes deep in his administration, and the final results will be monumental to say the least.
Donald Trump is guilty. He knows it and the American people know it. His lies, bluster and threats will serve him for only so long. His day of reckoning is approaching. It's just a matter of time.
Not all Americans are stupid. The majority of voters voted against him and he knows it.
This less than intelligent man, was and is an easy tool to be used by the likes of Vladimir Putin and Steve Bannon. The Russians colluded in influencing Trump's victory. There is evidence to back that up.
Now, it's going to take intelligence, perseverance and smart brainpower to remove this aberration from office. The rot goes deep in his administration, and the final results will be monumental to say the least.
Donald Trump is guilty. He knows it and the American people know it. His lies, bluster and threats will serve him for only so long. His day of reckoning is approaching. It's just a matter of time.
Not all Americans are stupid. The majority of voters voted against him and he knows it.
7
Every time trump says "nothing to see here" or "witch hunt" or "fake news" it's clear that this is worrying to him.
The truth will come out, as it always does. And that scares donny to death.
The truth will come out, as it always does. And that scares donny to death.
4
If Russkie tampering aided Trump during the campaign, it certainly aided Trump during the primaries! Why did the GOP not pick up on it and make it end? Why are they so quiet about it now?
The enemy of my enemy IS NOT REALLY my friend.
The GOP mindset is closer to the kleptocratic mindset of the Kremlin. How did that come to be? I think it was cementing in tax pre-eminence of capital over labor that occurred after Nixon. The system needs to stop enabling half the national income going to ten percent of our families. That's the 'coincidence' that needs to stop.
The enemy of my enemy IS NOT REALLY my friend.
The GOP mindset is closer to the kleptocratic mindset of the Kremlin. How did that come to be? I think it was cementing in tax pre-eminence of capital over labor that occurred after Nixon. The system needs to stop enabling half the national income going to ten percent of our families. That's the 'coincidence' that needs to stop.
1
Connected dots?
Let's see Trump tax return and see what dots emerge.
Coincidence that he wil not release them? I think not.
Let's see Trump tax return and see what dots emerge.
Coincidence that he wil not release them? I think not.
I don't know or care if Trump colluded with the Russians.
I am more concerned with North Korea, Iran and oppression in the middle east.
I am also concerned about my kids' future, whether my job will be offshored and my social security.
If Trump and a few of his cronies make a few billion off of some Russia conspiracy, then they earned it.
Now is a particularly bad time for a "crippled Trump". Liberals need to stop trying to cripple him and start finding common ground for the benefit of the country and the world.
I am more concerned with North Korea, Iran and oppression in the middle east.
I am also concerned about my kids' future, whether my job will be offshored and my social security.
If Trump and a few of his cronies make a few billion off of some Russia conspiracy, then they earned it.
Now is a particularly bad time for a "crippled Trump". Liberals need to stop trying to cripple him and start finding common ground for the benefit of the country and the world.
1
I want to know why the Fairness Act cannot be enacted once again [when we elect a Democrat] as it was Reagan who decided to abolish it. Can anyone tell me why President Clinton or Obama didn't reinstate it? I believe without it, our rural citizens will never believe in truth again without this occurring as they will continue to believe in 'Conway alternate facts'. Fox will have no reason to exist since they would lose their ability speak to the public only those alternate facts.
It was all about Hillary. Putin and his KGB hate her and fear her, because she has the ability to maintain the Western alliance against Russian overreaching, organizing economic sanctions and among other positive containment steps.
The KGB just wanted to cast some hint of illegitimacy on her inevitable (so it seemed) administration. The idea that the American voting public could be so bigoted, uninformed, and easily manipulated to make Mr. Trump a viable choice did not cross their minds. Or Trump's, either, apparently.
The KGB just wanted to cast some hint of illegitimacy on her inevitable (so it seemed) administration. The idea that the American voting public could be so bigoted, uninformed, and easily manipulated to make Mr. Trump a viable choice did not cross their minds. Or Trump's, either, apparently.
2
"But I also understand the order of succession and that, too, gives me pause."
Indeed. A Pence-Ryan-McConnell trio would replace the present delusional cabal with the undistracted pursuit of a narrow-minded fundamentalist corporate Theocracy. The "dismantling of government" would be replaced by the imposition of "Christian values", less regulation, lower taxes, fewer benefits, and smaller government.
The benefits would be abandoning the Wall and the lowered likelihood of WW III.
Indeed. A Pence-Ryan-McConnell trio would replace the present delusional cabal with the undistracted pursuit of a narrow-minded fundamentalist corporate Theocracy. The "dismantling of government" would be replaced by the imposition of "Christian values", less regulation, lower taxes, fewer benefits, and smaller government.
The benefits would be abandoning the Wall and the lowered likelihood of WW III.
1
Some here have expressed concern that we might not survive four years of Trump. I'm worried that we might not even make it to the 2018 mid-terms. Already we're seeing the leader of North Korea and our "leader" of the U.S. facing off like two fourth graders--and I'm being generous with that assessment--playing Chicken with each other. Only they're not using toy guns, they're playing with ballistic missiles.
I'm trying to hope that if the possibility of Trump plunging us into a nuclear holocaust with his undisciplined speech and behavior ever materializes, our military leadership will have the sense to break their oaths to obey the Infant-in-Chief and refuse to follow orders to enable the nuclear codes.
In the meantime, I hope the FBI and the Senate Intelligence Committee (I have no faith in the House investigation ever proving itself capable of an independent report as long as Devin Nunes remains the chair) do their jobs thoroughly but as quickly as possible for everyone's sake and that they find so many impeachable offenses, up to and including treason, that this presidential nightmare will end quickly and decisively.
I also agree with other commenters that Trump's income tax returns be subpoenaed, NOW!
Call your congressional leaders! Bug the daylights out of them--Democrats or Republicans--they do NOT work for the Executive branch of our government, they serve us! If there's nothing to see in these returns then there should be no problem in revealing them.
I'm trying to hope that if the possibility of Trump plunging us into a nuclear holocaust with his undisciplined speech and behavior ever materializes, our military leadership will have the sense to break their oaths to obey the Infant-in-Chief and refuse to follow orders to enable the nuclear codes.
In the meantime, I hope the FBI and the Senate Intelligence Committee (I have no faith in the House investigation ever proving itself capable of an independent report as long as Devin Nunes remains the chair) do their jobs thoroughly but as quickly as possible for everyone's sake and that they find so many impeachable offenses, up to and including treason, that this presidential nightmare will end quickly and decisively.
I also agree with other commenters that Trump's income tax returns be subpoenaed, NOW!
Call your congressional leaders! Bug the daylights out of them--Democrats or Republicans--they do NOT work for the Executive branch of our government, they serve us! If there's nothing to see in these returns then there should be no problem in revealing them.
Speaking of dots: When the “Flynn Lied to Pence” dot first surfaced, my first question was whether Flynn lied to Pence, or simply fell on his sword (as one might expect from a “good soldier”) to protect his “mission”. A mission given to him by his superior(s)- Pence, Trump, both?
Given the subsequent dots that have surfaced, especially Flynn’s desire for immunity, this scenario appears, to me, to be even more plausible.
Am I the only one thinking about this possibility? I’ve read many columns and comments, and I’ve not yet seen any mention of this possibility. If I’ve missed it/them, I apologize to the author(s) of such.
Whatever the truth, I share the thought of another commenter that Flynn cannot be trusted to tell the truth, even with immunity
Given the subsequent dots that have surfaced, especially Flynn’s desire for immunity, this scenario appears, to me, to be even more plausible.
Am I the only one thinking about this possibility? I’ve read many columns and comments, and I’ve not yet seen any mention of this possibility. If I’ve missed it/them, I apologize to the author(s) of such.
Whatever the truth, I share the thought of another commenter that Flynn cannot be trusted to tell the truth, even with immunity
1
As usual, I agree with, and appreciate, Mr. Blow's points of view. However, I think he too easily dismisses the "brazenly political" perspective of having a "crippled Trump" administration.
Let's consider the potential choices logically...
A Trump impeachment may in fact be worse for our country. It would replace a blustering and dangerous president with a potentially more artful one, who may in fact be more successful at doing harm.
Avoiding impeachment, but crippling Trump, could contain his harm, while at least allowing the danger of his positions to be visible.
We avoid impeachment and we don't cripple him. We just go forward, business as usual.
Is there another choice I am missing here?
Let me be clear: I wish we didn't have to be at this point! Investigations must move forward cleanly, with proper legal results. Most of us have no real power in influencing the outcome. I'm speculating about, or perhaps preparing for, as is Mr. Blow and everyone else, the various potential outcomes.
Let's consider the potential choices logically...
A Trump impeachment may in fact be worse for our country. It would replace a blustering and dangerous president with a potentially more artful one, who may in fact be more successful at doing harm.
Avoiding impeachment, but crippling Trump, could contain his harm, while at least allowing the danger of his positions to be visible.
We avoid impeachment and we don't cripple him. We just go forward, business as usual.
Is there another choice I am missing here?
Let me be clear: I wish we didn't have to be at this point! Investigations must move forward cleanly, with proper legal results. Most of us have no real power in influencing the outcome. I'm speculating about, or perhaps preparing for, as is Mr. Blow and everyone else, the various potential outcomes.
1
This is what we know:
- The Obama Administration started investigating the Trump Campaign in July.
- The investigation involved surveillance (gathering of information by surreptitious use of electronic devices).
- The hearings confirm President Trump’s claim that his campaign was being surveilled by Obama Administration US Intelligence.
If you believe Russia interfered with the US Presidential Election you should be able to answer two questions?
- How did the Russians tamper with voting machines? How?
- How did the Russians tamper with the Electoral College? How?
TALK ABOUT COLLUSION WITH RUSSIA!
Do you remember this?
Obama open mic slip: 'After my election I have more flexibility'
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zsfgXkkQmP8
- The Obama Administration started investigating the Trump Campaign in July.
- The investigation involved surveillance (gathering of information by surreptitious use of electronic devices).
- The hearings confirm President Trump’s claim that his campaign was being surveilled by Obama Administration US Intelligence.
If you believe Russia interfered with the US Presidential Election you should be able to answer two questions?
- How did the Russians tamper with voting machines? How?
- How did the Russians tamper with the Electoral College? How?
TALK ABOUT COLLUSION WITH RUSSIA!
Do you remember this?
Obama open mic slip: 'After my election I have more flexibility'
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zsfgXkkQmP8
1
Don't we still have laws against treason America?
It is time to enforce them.
It is time to enforce them.
3
Prurience over prudence. Perfectly said. Even though it is clear that Russia did meddle in a way to facilitate a Trump victory one must not ignore the almost complicit role of many American media outlets in this regard. CNN, for example, provided 24/7 coverage of all things Trump giving him millions of dollars of free advertising. Just as the press failed to expose the facts leading up to W's Iraq war it failed in its coverage of the Trump campaign. Indeed, I recall Carl Bernstein underscoring this particular failure of the media many times during the course of this disastrous election claiming that the media shirked its responsibility to fully vet either candidate. Let us hope the media will make up for this inadequacy over the next four years.
1
“Oh, what a tangled web we weave...when first we practice to deceive.”
Sir Walter Scott
Sir Walter Scott
1
As far as the resolution of the Russian question, an expert testified the other day at the Senate Intelligence hearings that the evidence trail might best be followed by tracing the line of Russian bodies being discovered around the world. Looks like the FSB is trying to clean up after itself.
As far as the information the White House gave to Nunes to give to Trump after an "impromptu" press conference, my question is why were Trump and his people communicating with foreign agents anyway? And what were they communicating about? It seems to me the very fact they were recorded incidentally while the FBI and NSA were monitoring "bad dudes" threatening our country is a pretty damning revelation. The problem is not that Trump, et.al., were incidentally wiretapped or surveilled, the problem is what were they talking with these foreign agents about and why.
4
Thank you.
Over time, the facts about Donald Trump, and his children and in-laws, and the dirty records of his recruits for powerful government positions (Flynn, Manafort & Co.), will be exposed, and his collusion with Russian oligarchs made clear. Not only the New York Times and Rachel Maddow are tracking these networks. Internet spies in the Baltics, and no doubt England, France, and Germany are digging as well because they justifiably fear Russia.
In the meantime, we have Donald Trump (and Steve Bannon) as Presidents of the United States.
Trump is a practiced liar and cheater. He assumes most men are cheaters (he doesn't care much about women) and that the skilled liars become winners. The poor ones flame out.
But he really had no idea that the United States was SO BIG when he ran for the presidency. He assumed he could dominate the nation as if it were a private real-estate company, and could ask Ivanka and Jared to handle peace in the Middle East, the reorganization of the federal government, and lots of other stuff.
I look forward to the day he is fully exposed.
But there's another problem. Those folk (us) who read the New York Times, or WAPO, or Slate or the LA Times, aren't speaking to the many, many voters who opted for Trump and still support him.
We don't understand the whole country either.
Over time, the facts about Donald Trump, and his children and in-laws, and the dirty records of his recruits for powerful government positions (Flynn, Manafort & Co.), will be exposed, and his collusion with Russian oligarchs made clear. Not only the New York Times and Rachel Maddow are tracking these networks. Internet spies in the Baltics, and no doubt England, France, and Germany are digging as well because they justifiably fear Russia.
In the meantime, we have Donald Trump (and Steve Bannon) as Presidents of the United States.
Trump is a practiced liar and cheater. He assumes most men are cheaters (he doesn't care much about women) and that the skilled liars become winners. The poor ones flame out.
But he really had no idea that the United States was SO BIG when he ran for the presidency. He assumed he could dominate the nation as if it were a private real-estate company, and could ask Ivanka and Jared to handle peace in the Middle East, the reorganization of the federal government, and lots of other stuff.
I look forward to the day he is fully exposed.
But there's another problem. Those folk (us) who read the New York Times, or WAPO, or Slate or the LA Times, aren't speaking to the many, many voters who opted for Trump and still support him.
We don't understand the whole country either.
3
Impeachment is unlikely. Even if it is shown that Trump and his rat's nest engaged in treason, many that voted for him would continue to support this reptile (don't ask me why). What would most help the Democrats in 2018 and 2022, as this Traitors Tale continues to unfold, as the evidence becomes more definitive, will be continuing to show how the top Republicans refuse to pursue those that have attacked our democracy; how they are willing to ignore treasonous acts by this Administration in pursuit of hollow political victories. The Democrats need to demand over and over and over again that Trump release his full tax return history. Americans understand that refusing to reveal tax returns more likely than not means Donald is trying to hide something, and if I were calling the shots I would hammer away at this issue.
Assuming the Democrats come up with a candidate this time that is not reviled by so many, they could make significant gains and win the presidency. But if they focus-in on a candidate that so many of their own voters strongly dislike, they'll just end up shooting themselves in the foot again.
Assuming the Democrats come up with a candidate this time that is not reviled by so many, they could make significant gains and win the presidency. But if they focus-in on a candidate that so many of their own voters strongly dislike, they'll just end up shooting themselves in the foot again.
I pray that Michael T. Flynn isn't representative of what our Military has to offer. It seems far too many men in Uniform (lately) are willing to SELL their uniform for a quick 30 pieces of filthy lucre.
1
America doesn't have months or years. This man cheated to get power and must be removed. Congress has enough information to nullify this election. Action must be taken because right now Trump operates under "carte blanche" as President of the United States. He made Felony charges against Obama and when proven unfounded felt no need for apology. So Yeah he feels pretty protected. A Mad Man has been set loose in the Oval Office.
1
If the FBI had evidence of Russian interference in 2016, why didn't they speak out about it?
Why did Comey only speak out about the investigation of new Clinton emails?
Why didn't President Obama act to inform the public and take steps to avoid a tainted election?
Why did Trump appoint friend of Russia Tillerson as Sec of State although they never met until after the election?
All of this and other urgent questions and actions leave not only a feeling of criminal behavior, but the feeling that there is a lack of leadership in Congress, the Justice Department, the FBI, etc., that could possibly sort some of it out.
Those who don't seem to be Trump lapdogs seem also to be very cautious about losing campaign funds.
Are donors from the 1% guiding this entire situation and if so, has Democracy already disappeared?
Why did Comey only speak out about the investigation of new Clinton emails?
Why didn't President Obama act to inform the public and take steps to avoid a tainted election?
Why did Trump appoint friend of Russia Tillerson as Sec of State although they never met until after the election?
All of this and other urgent questions and actions leave not only a feeling of criminal behavior, but the feeling that there is a lack of leadership in Congress, the Justice Department, the FBI, etc., that could possibly sort some of it out.
Those who don't seem to be Trump lapdogs seem also to be very cautious about losing campaign funds.
Are donors from the 1% guiding this entire situation and if so, has Democracy already disappeared?
1
Question of Russian involvement in our elec
Good article. But, the more critical issue is not can Trump survive but can America survive? Republicans hold the key to a dilemma caused by Republicans. Perhaps, a recall petition of the president which has never happened would be the best solution. That would get rid of the entire administration.
What would it take to convince Mr. Blow or any other Trump hater that the Russia did not affect the election?
1
When journalists are too scared to look into Trump's Russian connections, as this article suggests, it may be because they have been bested at that game before, for instance during the BoNY scandal. It is hard to trace laundered money, even though Russia and many other dictatorships and banana republics around the world have made an industry of it and have involved as many American and other "money-cleaning" accomplices at banks and in industry to help them and to collude with them in their quest for iron-fisted, cruel power grabs (like the greedy Trump, Manafort, Kushner, etc), as Senate committees of yore and the IMF will tell you. Now that we see how colluding money launderers for Trump include, apparently, the highest officials in the US government, and the entire list of GOP next-in-lines you mentioned who would succeed ORange Cheato, we can assume they all have their dirty hands in the till, and that the financial boys who don't pay taxes or customs duties won't want this gravy train to end, and will screw up any investigations. Not that this route should not be tried, but it's probably better for the masses to take matters into their own hands and go hard for Democratic wins and full out civil disobedience from here on out. Thanks, Mr.Blow, for laying out the perilous choices here.
1
Our best hope is to keep President Trump off balance for four years and, as Mr. Blow suggests, rake in Democratic victories in 2018 and 2020. What we Democrats must do now is plan for these elections, find good candidates as soon as possible, work hard to win local and state offices, and put forth a clear policy agenda for the nation. Slamming Trump may be right and fun, but it doesn't replace good, hard political work and planning.
3
"Following this logic, a crippled Trump is better than a vanquished one." There's no maybe about this. We have a mentally unstable man with discretionary power over the world's most deadly toys, nukes. Get him out of there. I'll be happy to deal with religious zealotry of a Pence or any of the others over this deviant. Everyone who might succeed him will poison the water. The challenge is whether or not the democrats have intelligence to exploit it. Their track record on this is not encouraging.
2
Just consider who is running the Trump Regime? Donald is not a hands-on type guy, lest he get his fingerprints on anything that goes bad. Th provides for his usual approach: Grab all credit, and Shift all blame!
The Cabinet Officers and Agency Heads are mostly invisible--brought-out for the occasional photo-ops with Donald, and then sent back to their respective rooms. Office suites really.
Don't be distracted by First Son-in-aw, Jared Kushner, who seems like he is being sent to all six continents, except Antarctica. That's for show and, since he was not vetted through Confirmation Hearings, should he be running things.
Lurking in the Shadows is Steve Bannon. Also unveiled, he seems to specifically be kept out of sight. With Donald's high regard for: secrecy; loyalty, and ideological agreement. Perhaps Steve Bannon is truly calling the shots--but, always from behind the scenes..
https://thetruthoncommonsense.com
The Cabinet Officers and Agency Heads are mostly invisible--brought-out for the occasional photo-ops with Donald, and then sent back to their respective rooms. Office suites really.
Don't be distracted by First Son-in-aw, Jared Kushner, who seems like he is being sent to all six continents, except Antarctica. That's for show and, since he was not vetted through Confirmation Hearings, should he be running things.
Lurking in the Shadows is Steve Bannon. Also unveiled, he seems to specifically be kept out of sight. With Donald's high regard for: secrecy; loyalty, and ideological agreement. Perhaps Steve Bannon is truly calling the shots--but, always from behind the scenes..
https://thetruthoncommonsense.com
Just imagine if Hillary had won and the Russians had meddled. There would be such an outcry from the right wing that your head would be spinning! The hypocrisy is mind numbing from the right wing. Treason is too good a word to describe their comings and goings.
2
The immunity ploy sounds like another think-tank gotcha, similar to the Maddow tax return gambit. Those Russians can really play some chess!
1
Historians may be writing for our next Generation. Take a most ordinary American, a successful businessman named Trump, once the Capitalist symbol of the Goose who laid a gold egg, who does everything possible to get arrested but fails despite his attempt.
He becomes the most controversial president in contemporary times, an idol and hero to some because he is at One with the People. True, some of the powerful Shakers on Wall Street have also supported him during the presidential elections, investing some generous funds to ensure his entry at the White House.
Russia, under the thumb of Putin shunned in earlier days, has been in this scenario for the last few years. The leader, short in stature was once deemed 'ratty' by some of the officials in his midst before he took over. Putin, no dope, starts casting further doubt on Mr. Obama and his Presidency. He is not only going to show his Country that he can take care of detractors, but take over America because Trump is 'beautifully' malleable.
A great window of opportunity for the Barbarians at The Gate. Trump, vacuous at best with not an original thought in his mind, is not necessarily the danger here.
It is America facing this facade of a president and how We reacted. Our behavior when We witnessed a dangerous and costly game of Russian Roulette at our expense that may hinder our future Generation and the World at Large. 'We were too close to the picture to know what was going on' is not going to wash.
He becomes the most controversial president in contemporary times, an idol and hero to some because he is at One with the People. True, some of the powerful Shakers on Wall Street have also supported him during the presidential elections, investing some generous funds to ensure his entry at the White House.
Russia, under the thumb of Putin shunned in earlier days, has been in this scenario for the last few years. The leader, short in stature was once deemed 'ratty' by some of the officials in his midst before he took over. Putin, no dope, starts casting further doubt on Mr. Obama and his Presidency. He is not only going to show his Country that he can take care of detractors, but take over America because Trump is 'beautifully' malleable.
A great window of opportunity for the Barbarians at The Gate. Trump, vacuous at best with not an original thought in his mind, is not necessarily the danger here.
It is America facing this facade of a president and how We reacted. Our behavior when We witnessed a dangerous and costly game of Russian Roulette at our expense that may hinder our future Generation and the World at Large. 'We were too close to the picture to know what was going on' is not going to wash.
1
Anybody who does not strongly believe their was absolute collusion between the Trump campaign and Putin and his Russian spider web of spies must believe it was the Easter Bunny behind all this massive mounting mountain of evidence the press (Thank God) continues to unearth on a daily bases. Democracy cannot survive such fraud and criminal activity. When even Dick Cheney (Dick Cheney!) calls Russia`s interference an ACT OF WAR; what is it possibly going to take for Republicans to wake up and start acting in the best interest of the U.S./American people; instead of a fool like Trump?!
2
It's been nearly five months since Election Day, and all we have is "Well, it's hard to believe it's just coincidence?"
That's it?
Shoot-from-the-hip allegations are easy to toss out. But my goodness -- these have been around long enough that the allegers ought to have come up with SOME evidence by now.
That's it?
Shoot-from-the-hip allegations are easy to toss out. But my goodness -- these have been around long enough that the allegers ought to have come up with SOME evidence by now.
1
A favorite Albert Einstein comes to mind: " Whoever is careless with the truth in small matters cannot be trusted with large matters." I don't care what political party my fellow human beings identify with... Trump is dangerous, he can't be trusted with matters small or large. But more and most importantly, we the people, at this time in history can not be careless with the truth. In the name of humanity, we must move forward through the pain, embarrassment and anger and uncover the truth. Keep writing. Keep asking questions. Charles, your words inspire me to keep moving forward and do my part.
Rex Tillerson. How did an ExxonMobil CEO in the throes of a $600 billion dollar oil deal with Russia (currently sidelined by US sanctions) ever wind up on the short list-or a long list for that matter-for Secretary of State? This was the bell that should have been ringing loudest, but was never heard over the din of other awful-comedically awful-picks by Trump.
I believe three things in this discussion. First, Democrats should not help Republicans impeach Trump. I'd rather have Ivanka running things than Mike Pence and Paul Ryan.
Second, don't ever suggest that we should install Hillary Clinton. Ever.
Third, there is little time to reform the Democratic Party and oust the Corporate crooks than permeate it. Bernie Sanders can, with a lot of grassroots help, move the Party or start a Progressive one. THERE lies the most important action any thoughtful American should be contemplating.
I believe three things in this discussion. First, Democrats should not help Republicans impeach Trump. I'd rather have Ivanka running things than Mike Pence and Paul Ryan.
Second, don't ever suggest that we should install Hillary Clinton. Ever.
Third, there is little time to reform the Democratic Party and oust the Corporate crooks than permeate it. Bernie Sanders can, with a lot of grassroots help, move the Party or start a Progressive one. THERE lies the most important action any thoughtful American should be contemplating.
Coincidence? No way. Occam's Razor says the simple answer is more likely. Why are there so many seemingly coincidental Russian connections? Because there was a coordinated effort with Russia to interfere with the election result. Why are the Repubs so against an investigation? A) they love being in control (tax cuts for the one percenters), or B) they themselves are involved.
Add the Healthcare flop (and they want a do over?) to the upcoming budget failure (govt shutdown?) to the testimony of former interim Attorney General and Trump's approval slipping from 35% to 30% and you get the same effect as impeachment without the messy succession thing. The race to irrelevance is on!
1
If the presidential successors have all cozied up to Trump, might they not ALL have to go if it is found that they are all guilty of collusion and/or obstruction of justice? Then doesn't Congress get to elect someone?
I know, keep dreaming. But such strange things have happened in this election and "presidency" that it is not inconceivable that even stranger things are yet to happen.
The good thing that has come out of all this chaos, is the banding together of the people against this hypocrisy, corruption, bad policy and ill-prepared "leadership". However frail right now, it shows our system IS still working.
This is the importance of raising our voices in protest and of the free press to investigate and report the truth to the country and the world. This is NOT normal or acceptable and we will not accept this as the new normal. After all their hard work and sacrifice for this democracy, our forefathers and anyone who has fought to uphold this country's integrity and honor would be ashamed of us if we did.
I know, keep dreaming. But such strange things have happened in this election and "presidency" that it is not inconceivable that even stranger things are yet to happen.
The good thing that has come out of all this chaos, is the banding together of the people against this hypocrisy, corruption, bad policy and ill-prepared "leadership". However frail right now, it shows our system IS still working.
This is the importance of raising our voices in protest and of the free press to investigate and report the truth to the country and the world. This is NOT normal or acceptable and we will not accept this as the new normal. After all their hard work and sacrifice for this democracy, our forefathers and anyone who has fought to uphold this country's integrity and honor would be ashamed of us if we did.
Resentment of TRUMP among his most fervent supporters is rising, not because of alleged Russian meddling, because every nation tries to interfere in affairs of other nations, a common practice. Nothing new there. What we resent is cut in domestic programs which affect us, whereas Trump's relatives and cronies r cashing in big time. While covering Boer War as correspondent, Churchill wrote of Jameson's raid into the Transvaal in 1895 to seize gold and diamonds from the Boers. What will happen now, he asked himself, and then wrote, "Nothing seems to be happening, but nothing ever stops happening." 4 years later there was the Boer War, Britain's Viet Nam since it showed that Boer commando units living off the land--:"kommando"is a Boer word, were able to fight the greatest military power in the world to a standstill. Analogy with present political situation is that whereas it may be true that Trump has lost not one iota of support in his base for his blunders, including cuts in vital domestic spending programs which affect his constituents, there is an undercurrent of resentment and anger which is growing at the contrast between their desperation and extreme wealth of the President's circle--son in law and daughter r worth 800 million and counting.Time for Jared and Ivanka to join the Peace Corps or Vista to contribute to the commonweal, to see how other half lives. Their lavish life style is extremely bad publicity for an admin. that claims to speak for us common folk.
Does Donald Trump "own" FOX News? We'd all like to know.
1
Trump already incriminated himself when he publicly invited the Russians to hack Mrs. Clinton's emails.
"Dwindling Odds of Coincidence?" "Where there's smoke, there must be fire?"
Come on! It's been nearly five months since Election Day, and all we've got is hunches and suspicions and conjectures? No actual evidence? Doesn't that concern those who insist that Trump conspired with the Russians to steal the election from Clinton?
Come on! It's been nearly five months since Election Day, and all we've got is hunches and suspicions and conjectures? No actual evidence? Doesn't that concern those who insist that Trump conspired with the Russians to steal the election from Clinton?
Easy. The election was fraudulent and should be nullified. Obama has served a full 2 terms, and cannot continue to serve. Therefore, Joe Biden should be the interim President until we can have a new election.
The most important thing to recognize and act upon accordingly is this:
To avoid a fatal crash we all must vote in each and every ballot opportunity and vote like our lives depend on it! Scandal will not save us – ONLY OUR VOTES WILL!
Yes we need better candidates, better policies, and better messaging. But our demise will not come from progressive imperfection but rather from acceding the playing field.
Fact: ~42% of the people in USA will vote GOP period! Progressives could breathe life into their children and the GOP candidate could be an ax murderer and they'll still vote GOP.
They're mostly smart, mostly good workers, mostly good people, mostly good neighbors. But their physiological makeup compels them to vote Right Wing Authoritarian.
About 21% out of the 42% are immutably internally hardwired to favor Authoritarian policy and candidates (thus GOP).
The remaining ~21% are mostly intractably culturally conditioned to prefer the sound bites and propaganda the GOP spews and/or are one issue (abortion) voters. To change them would take decades we don't have.
Fact: at least 21% out of that 42% always vote. In 50% EVTO elections that gives the RWA candidate/issue 42% of the vote! Only a minor fraction of the remaining 21% have to vote to reach 51%+.
Fact: less than 60% EVTO favors a Trump; not until 64% EVTO does the worm turn!
I beg you 58% VOTE come 2018 and 2020. Else we are sunk as a great Nation! I beg you!
To avoid a fatal crash we all must vote in each and every ballot opportunity and vote like our lives depend on it! Scandal will not save us – ONLY OUR VOTES WILL!
Yes we need better candidates, better policies, and better messaging. But our demise will not come from progressive imperfection but rather from acceding the playing field.
Fact: ~42% of the people in USA will vote GOP period! Progressives could breathe life into their children and the GOP candidate could be an ax murderer and they'll still vote GOP.
They're mostly smart, mostly good workers, mostly good people, mostly good neighbors. But their physiological makeup compels them to vote Right Wing Authoritarian.
About 21% out of the 42% are immutably internally hardwired to favor Authoritarian policy and candidates (thus GOP).
The remaining ~21% are mostly intractably culturally conditioned to prefer the sound bites and propaganda the GOP spews and/or are one issue (abortion) voters. To change them would take decades we don't have.
Fact: at least 21% out of that 42% always vote. In 50% EVTO elections that gives the RWA candidate/issue 42% of the vote! Only a minor fraction of the remaining 21% have to vote to reach 51%+.
Fact: less than 60% EVTO favors a Trump; not until 64% EVTO does the worm turn!
I beg you 58% VOTE come 2018 and 2020. Else we are sunk as a great Nation! I beg you!
Please, we need to remove this bloviating incompetent now!! His behavior, his tweeting reveal a seriously disturbed individual. Enough is enough!!
You ignore another possibility Mr. Blow: the entire campaign will be found guilty of colluding with the Russians and so the election is determined a fraud...so Then the SCOTUS has to decide if we hold a new election (in which case Hillary wins) or Hillary is awarded the presidency based on winning three million more votes than the Dumpster! There is precedence for this in an election in Pennsylvania when the "winning" candidate was already in office, found guilty of electoral fraud, and the court installed the "losing" candidate. It was never appealed so the decision created a precedent. Wouldn't that be a just karma for SCOTUS giving gwbush the presidency?
In all of your adjectives describing Trump you missed a very important and defining one; coward. It might well be argued that cowardice is a week known trait of a bully and so it was not really missed but rather subsumed. But his cowardice really should be noted on its own. When folks truly do stand up to this man, and I use the term loosely, he runs. Look at the ACA fight, look at all the court fights, look at all his bankruptcies. Trump never stays in for the fight. He always runs. He is a coward.
1
Write on, Charles! Yes, we all hope "what goes around comes around" and that the disgusting cries that Hillary's associates immunity meant their guilt and the incitement to violence in the mantra led by Russian agent Michael Flynn at the Republican Convention result, as it should in "Lock Him Up!" One dot that seems clear is that Flynn and Rex Tillerson may have been be the quid pro quo (aka payback) for Russia's help in electing Donald Trump. It's increasingly the only scenario that makes any sense. There is plenty of potential guilt to go around from the enabling Republican Congress led by Paul Ryan and Mitch McConnell who have clearly made a Faustian bargain with Trump for the power it gives them along with foot-soldiers like Devin Nunes who clumsily tried, and actually probably succeeded, in crashing the House Intelligence Committee's investigation to the increasingly likely collusion between the Trump campaign and Russia. Whether our democracy can survive the constant blows to the "rule of law" from blatant ethics violations by the President, his cabinet members, and his family to potential violation of the very Constitution itself with its "emoluments clause" forbidding money from foreign interests is now in serious doubt. The Democrats are not united in resisting the Trump agenda and that leaves only the FBI under the suspect leadership of James Comey.
Like the so-called president himself tweeted...this is like Nixon and watergate.
WAIT A MINUTE. You are so wrong, this will be BIGGER AND MORE BEAUTIFUL than Nixon and Watergate.
I lived through that episode, and will wait and watch as the dots connect and for this administration to implode on itself.
Icing on the cake of course will be watching those who voted for him in those red states suffer.
WAIT A MINUTE. You are so wrong, this will be BIGGER AND MORE BEAUTIFUL than Nixon and Watergate.
I lived through that episode, and will wait and watch as the dots connect and for this administration to implode on itself.
Icing on the cake of course will be watching those who voted for him in those red states suffer.
Relative to the question of who takes over the White House if we can only get rid of Trump...
One of Chuck Schumer's arguments for rejecting the Gorsuch nomination is that Trump is still under a cloud. Particularly if Trump can be removed or if he resigns, can't that same argument be used for OUR removing each and every person chosen by Trump to be part of OUR government?
Thank you, as always, to Charles Blow!
One of Chuck Schumer's arguments for rejecting the Gorsuch nomination is that Trump is still under a cloud. Particularly if Trump can be removed or if he resigns, can't that same argument be used for OUR removing each and every person chosen by Trump to be part of OUR government?
Thank you, as always, to Charles Blow!
I have a simple view. If Trump is found to have had connections to and colluded with the Russian government, especially as it would have undermined our own government and the sovereignty of the United States, the whole lot of his administration, including all those who came on board with him, should be ejected and a special election (for all positions president and Congress that would have occurred in 2016) run immediately. It would be unfortunate that the new president would have be allowed a full 4 year term, but that would be the only way we can regain any confidence in our electoral system again, washing out the feces that man and his cronies have brought and starting from scratch.
"Russia has already unveiled an incredible vulnerability in our electoral process — the relatively cheap vehicles of information disclosure and propaganda advancement."
Well, not really. Russia neither invented propaganda (though they are long-term practitioners of it) nor the Internet. While social media and other Internet tools help make it easier to spread propaganda quickly (and enlist gullible people as unwitting assistants), election campaigns infected by misinformation are nothing new -- and historically, a lot of it has come from domestic sources. Consider birtherism. Consider all of the scaremongering in the 1960 campaign that JFK, a Catholic, would put the Pope in charge of a shadow government.
And there lies the problem of following the path suggested by the commenters who want the election invalidated and Clinton installed as president. The nature of a secret ballot election process with universal adult suffrage is (a) people can cast a vote for any reason, good or bad, (b) no one's vote can be invalidated because they voted for the "wrong reason", and (c) people who are gullible, prejudiced, or politically unsophisticated get to vote. This means that unless we want to muck with those principles, the only way to fight bad information is with better information. It's not that we are powerless against propaganda; it's that our power lies in the information arena, not in relitigating after the fact because not everything said during the campaign was true.
Well, not really. Russia neither invented propaganda (though they are long-term practitioners of it) nor the Internet. While social media and other Internet tools help make it easier to spread propaganda quickly (and enlist gullible people as unwitting assistants), election campaigns infected by misinformation are nothing new -- and historically, a lot of it has come from domestic sources. Consider birtherism. Consider all of the scaremongering in the 1960 campaign that JFK, a Catholic, would put the Pope in charge of a shadow government.
And there lies the problem of following the path suggested by the commenters who want the election invalidated and Clinton installed as president. The nature of a secret ballot election process with universal adult suffrage is (a) people can cast a vote for any reason, good or bad, (b) no one's vote can be invalidated because they voted for the "wrong reason", and (c) people who are gullible, prejudiced, or politically unsophisticated get to vote. This means that unless we want to muck with those principles, the only way to fight bad information is with better information. It's not that we are powerless against propaganda; it's that our power lies in the information arena, not in relitigating after the fact because not everything said during the campaign was true.
Whatever happened to extreme vetting for Paul Manufort and Michael Flynn? Either it worked and the intent was to collude with Russia or it was "amazing" incompetence. Which is it? What has this country come to if rank incompetence is the preferred alternative? "Sad"!
1
Democrats lost the election because they cheated Bernie Sanders. Their candidate was corrupt, and a security risk. Democrats are clueless and confused. They are a disgrace. Now we're stuck with a buffoon, who makes our country look like the planet of the apes.
Trump is the Manchurian Candidate until we find out otherwise and he continues to deflect attention from the ever-increasing and connecting dots.
Other countries, like China, Iran, and North Korea, do not share our world view and have similar capabilities as Russia. The U.S. is inviting more electoral interference and more if it doesn't confront this episode with vigor and haste, bipartisan or independent. It’s beyond worrisome that Russians targeted Trump with conspiracy theories during the campaign. He is easily manipulated and these efforts will continue.
Impeachment? If only. I’m tired of calling out House Republicans for their lack of spine, kowtowing to the executive branch, just because a Republican sits in the White House.
Other countries, like China, Iran, and North Korea, do not share our world view and have similar capabilities as Russia. The U.S. is inviting more electoral interference and more if it doesn't confront this episode with vigor and haste, bipartisan or independent. It’s beyond worrisome that Russians targeted Trump with conspiracy theories during the campaign. He is easily manipulated and these efforts will continue.
Impeachment? If only. I’m tired of calling out House Republicans for their lack of spine, kowtowing to the executive branch, just because a Republican sits in the White House.
Bloomberg BusinessWeek reported on Trump election data operation a little more than a week before the November election:
https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2016-10-27/inside-the-trump-bunk...
and then shortly after:
https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2016-11-10/trump-s-data-team-saw...
Given the lack of experience of the head of the Trump data shop (Brad Pascale used to do websites for Ivanka and Jared,) it is possible, but not likely that he, by himself, developed the sophisticated methods reported on by BusinessWeek. Giant albino alligator territory.
Given what we learned from former FBI Special Agent Clint Watts before the Senate Intellignce Committee last week, how much distance could there have been between Russian ''active measures'' and the Trump campaign?
Investigations take time. The only question is how much damage Trump and his team can do before they are brought down.
https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2016-10-27/inside-the-trump-bunk...
and then shortly after:
https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2016-11-10/trump-s-data-team-saw...
Given the lack of experience of the head of the Trump data shop (Brad Pascale used to do websites for Ivanka and Jared,) it is possible, but not likely that he, by himself, developed the sophisticated methods reported on by BusinessWeek. Giant albino alligator territory.
Given what we learned from former FBI Special Agent Clint Watts before the Senate Intellignce Committee last week, how much distance could there have been between Russian ''active measures'' and the Trump campaign?
Investigations take time. The only question is how much damage Trump and his team can do before they are brought down.
8
Let's have the investigation.
4
My Three Cents
How about "Let's not lose sight of the fact" that Comrade Flynn was negotiating the removal of sanctions with the Russians a month before he or anyone in Drumpf's posse - including Herr Drumpf - possessed State Authority to do so.
Covertly undermining the existing US governments foreign policy with any nation is a clear definition of High Treason.
And we all know the penalty for that.
How about "Let's not lose sight of the fact" that Comrade Flynn was negotiating the removal of sanctions with the Russians a month before he or anyone in Drumpf's posse - including Herr Drumpf - possessed State Authority to do so.
Covertly undermining the existing US governments foreign policy with any nation is a clear definition of High Treason.
And we all know the penalty for that.
It's easy to lose sight of what Hillary Clinton supporters have been claiming: that Trump and the Russians conspired to steal the election from Clinton. What happened AFTER the election doesn't matter, unless it suggests contacts started before the election. There's no dispute that Flynn talked to the Russian ambassador to the US after the election; Flynn lost his job for lying, not because he'd talked to the Russian ambassador. Several members of former Democratic administrations said that's standard operating procedure -- indeed, that Flynn arguably would have been shirking his duties had he NOT talked with the Russian ambassador.
Charles Blow would like us to forget this important distinction, since no evidence whatsoever has been found (or at least hasn't been reported) to support the allegations of a Trump/Russia conspiracy to steal the election from Clinton. Let's not lose sight of that.
Charles Blow would like us to forget this important distinction, since no evidence whatsoever has been found (or at least hasn't been reported) to support the allegations of a Trump/Russia conspiracy to steal the election from Clinton. Let's not lose sight of that.
3
Nit sure, sir, where you are getting your facts but 17 agencies of our government have concluded that indeed the Russians were influencing our election for many, many months before. Comey revealed last Monday that they have been investigating the Trump campaign and Russia connections since last summer.
9
Flynn didn't lose his job because he lied. He lost his job because the press exposed his lies. The Trump administration had been warned by Sally Yates three weeks before his firing that there was Kompomat on him, and Trump did nothing. I find it hard to believe they didn't know about his ties to Russia long before that warning.
We shouldn't lose sight of the fact that Trump and his administration keep lying about Russian ties and we keep finding out about those lies, and lies to coverup those lies.
As for the evidence to support allegations of coordination with the Russians? It's abundant. Here's a pretty good timeline from Business Insider: http://www.businessinsider.com/updated-trump-russia-election-timeline-fb...
We shouldn't lose sight of the fact that Trump and his administration keep lying about Russian ties and we keep finding out about those lies, and lies to coverup those lies.
As for the evidence to support allegations of coordination with the Russians? It's abundant. Here's a pretty good timeline from Business Insider: http://www.businessinsider.com/updated-trump-russia-election-timeline-fb...
152
You mean other than the fact that there are videos of the president on the campaign crowing for the Russians to hack the democrats and how great that would be?
7
The US has been interfering in other countries' elections for decades in an effort to resist Communist expansion and in most of these cases we put really "Bad Dudes" in power. "You think we are so innocent"? Also, Russia unveiled an incredible vulnerability in our cyber security, not electoral process. What's more important than anything is that Donald Trump unveiled an incredible vulnerability in millions of Americans who voted for this cruel man.
3
Into this putrid pit of stink we cannot forget to mention the so-called Christian Right that has emerged from the superior bank of Falwell's Moral Majority to the central bank of hypocrisy at FOX news. The tyranny of capitalism is about Greed.
Christians who fail to think seriously about the Seven Deadly Sins (which includes Greed) fail to contemplate the biblical antecedents of the seven deadly sins in their current form, not found in the Bible; one such antecedent to the Seven Deadly Sins is found in the Book of Proverbs 6:16–1 which reads:
"A false witness that speaketh lies" ( prime Example: FOX News)
I saw FOX's Sean Hannity in all his flaming arrogance -- attack Ted Koppel for hypocrisy. Blind-to-the-Truth-Hannity was -- is -- "Hypocrisy" at it's best. FOX News cannot tell a complete truth, is always spinning and dividing the American populace, including "so-called" Christians.
But do not forget FOX's rude and arrogant Tucker Carlson's attack on a serious environmental scientist, . . . and so on, and so on . . . Let's be honest folks. We are asked to speak honestly. It's biblical.
Christians who fail to think seriously about the Seven Deadly Sins (which includes Greed) fail to contemplate the biblical antecedents of the seven deadly sins in their current form, not found in the Bible; one such antecedent to the Seven Deadly Sins is found in the Book of Proverbs 6:16–1 which reads:
"A false witness that speaketh lies" ( prime Example: FOX News)
I saw FOX's Sean Hannity in all his flaming arrogance -- attack Ted Koppel for hypocrisy. Blind-to-the-Truth-Hannity was -- is -- "Hypocrisy" at it's best. FOX News cannot tell a complete truth, is always spinning and dividing the American populace, including "so-called" Christians.
But do not forget FOX's rude and arrogant Tucker Carlson's attack on a serious environmental scientist, . . . and so on, and so on . . . Let's be honest folks. We are asked to speak honestly. It's biblical.
10
Maybe the manifestation you cite is what we now mean by 'separation of church and state.
1
The most remarkable portion of this editorial piece is the CBS news poll accompanying the article which states that 59% of Republican voters don't feel that an investigation into the possibility of collusion between the Trump campaign and the Russian government is necessary. Are there that many people who vote for Republican candidates who feel that TREASONOUS BEHAVIOR is o.k. That, if true, is really frightening.
18
Hunches and suspicions don't count for much. Got any evidence -- even a shred?
"The known facts of Trump's bizarre Russo-centred behavior during and since the campaign persuades me that the collusion conspiracy goes solidly beyond theory."
"The known facts of Trump's bizarre Russo-centred behavior during and since the campaign persuades me that the collusion conspiracy goes solidly beyond theory."
We know there was a hack and we know that FIVE of Trump's top aids lied about their contacts with Russia. That's a bit more than a shred, thanks.
2
"The journalistic caution in me..."
Since when?
Since when?
1
Perhaps the most troubling aspect of all this - and we are spoilt for choice to pick one - is the blithe disregard Rupblicans, Republican voters, Trump supporters seem to show to the severity of this situation. It is unconsciouble that those who historically most exuberantly wrap themselves in the US flag would simply shrug off an inconvenience of 'their man' potentially being involved in high-treason, an an assault on the heart of our democracy, colluding with our enemies.
If partisanship is so far gone, so irredeembly tainted so as to permit this circumstance as simply too inconvenient for the rightward agenda, it bodes far worse for the future of the United States than the machinations of Vladimir Putin.
If partisanship is so far gone, so irredeembly tainted so as to permit this circumstance as simply too inconvenient for the rightward agenda, it bodes far worse for the future of the United States than the machinations of Vladimir Putin.
10
Mr. Blow, your comments are spot-on. There's one additional important consideration that will exist whether Trump remains in office or the succession order gives us Pence, Ryan or the government equivalent of the third-shift punch press operator: Will we be able to overcome the enormous hits to ethics and compliance? This administration has revealed gaping holes in our ethics laws, and now that the doors to corruption have opened widely, we may not be able to close them again.
4
It may be all smoke and no fire, but it's worth remembering that most of the victims of a burning building are killed by the smoke, not the fire.
218
The Republicans main goal was to win the election to get a conservative justice confirmed on the Supreme Court. That alone would stop the agenda of Progressives for many years to come --or so they think. It started with the despicable act of not allowing a hearing for Obama's Supreme Court pick, Merrick Garland in 2016. When it became apparent that Trump would be the front runner, they had to cover for his massive illegal and immoral behavior. Principles (if they ever had any) were thrown out the window! Let's watch what happens to the Trump investigations when Gorsuch is confirmed. They will have to engage the nuclear option to confirm. Mind you, the republicans want complete and total control over all three branches of government. Getting the Supreme Court on their side will be the stopgap they need when they lose the Senate and the House. This is the party of tyrants. King George III and the former Soviet Union would never have never imagined they would go this far in their addictive thirst for power!
184
It is always the same. The scam is so big and so blatant the people believe it must somehow be legitimate.
6
In describing the dark situation we're in, given and the lack of good paths to resolving the fiasco that was last year's election, I would like to hear some discussion of invalidating the election.
If we reach the conclusion that the results of the election are not valid in the first place, then the problem of our current administration being made up of Putin sympathizers becomes a non-problem, since their presence in the administration would likewise be invalidated.
Yes, it is unclear what the next step would be, but surely we, the American people, can come up with a solution that does not involve placing in Trump's place any of the people who were brought there by an illegitimate president in the first place.
If we reach the conclusion that the results of the election are not valid in the first place, then the problem of our current administration being made up of Putin sympathizers becomes a non-problem, since their presence in the administration would likewise be invalidated.
Yes, it is unclear what the next step would be, but surely we, the American people, can come up with a solution that does not involve placing in Trump's place any of the people who were brought there by an illegitimate president in the first place.
Well, if they are all guilty of Treason, and they are, then we would have to transfer power to the person who won the popular vote, fix gerrymandering, nullify everything Trump has done, ban all his players from politics and kill citizens united.
4
I want a thorough investigation, and for the Democrats and courts to put the Republicans in a holding pattern until the 2018 elections.
It is clear that Mercer financed Bannon, Conway, Cambridge Analytics and Russian programmers to flood our media with lies and propaganda to throw targeted vulnerable voters to Trump delegates.
It is clear that there was one goal: lining the pockets of Koch network and Russian billionaires.
Fortunately votes count more than money.
It is clear that Mercer financed Bannon, Conway, Cambridge Analytics and Russian programmers to flood our media with lies and propaganda to throw targeted vulnerable voters to Trump delegates.
It is clear that there was one goal: lining the pockets of Koch network and Russian billionaires.
Fortunately votes count more than money.
1
"fortunately, votes count more than money..." Yes, that's why Hillary lost. She out spend Trump by a big margin and she lost also by a big margin (in electoral votes).
I too wonder about just what Flynn is hiding. Trump never had the intelligence or leverage to develop a relationship with Russia. Manafort, Flynn and Tillerson, on the other hand, did. I suspect Trump was played by appealing to his ego, but the real movers and shakers did not include him. But they, teamed with Trump, were very good at selling American voters a bill of goods.
"...the best liberal motivator for success in the 2018 midterms and the 2020 presidential election"
Except the Dems have learned nothing from this election as they are, at the moment, scolding and accusing the Bernie Sanders voters of not only being unwitting agents but also active agents of Russia. If you are looking to the Democratic Party to save you, you will be waiting a long time. They just don't seem to know how to win political elections anymore. You have to actually get as many people as possible, who are also closer to you ideologically, to vote for you. Instead the strategy appears to be shun the left and shame Republicans to disown their "Russian-affiliated" party and come over the Democrats side. Worked so well last election.
Except the Dems have learned nothing from this election as they are, at the moment, scolding and accusing the Bernie Sanders voters of not only being unwitting agents but also active agents of Russia. If you are looking to the Democratic Party to save you, you will be waiting a long time. They just don't seem to know how to win political elections anymore. You have to actually get as many people as possible, who are also closer to you ideologically, to vote for you. Instead the strategy appears to be shun the left and shame Republicans to disown their "Russian-affiliated" party and come over the Democrats side. Worked so well last election.
1
Where are the Trump defenders?
2
I do believe that we must keep pursuing this Russian investigation. Otherwise, we are allowing this administration (potentially) and Russia to set the bar very low for standards of elections and the presidency for a long time to come. We also need to address the emoluments and the ethics of this administration and take action as necessary.
1
A crippled Trump administration is far more advantageous to Democrats at the mid-terms than a vanquished one would ever be. But, the safety and security of our country will improve the moment he is successfully impeached. Setting aside politics and the potential for mid-term advantage, the sooner Trump's hands are removed from power the better.
2
On what basis have we crossed into "this is not debatable" territory? Even the intelligence agencies called their findings "assessments" in which they have varying degrees of confidence. And now we're supposed to treat Russian meddling in our election as having been proven beyond a reasonable doubt? Talk like that will just make this whole episode look like hysteria in hindsight.
2
The tie gets longer and the days go by....
3
As the clock ticks on this investigation, our democracy loses it's ability to defend itself and the damage across the board becomes a path to greater dangers to all in this already very dangerous world. We are losing ground and the truth needs to see the light of day of we are to recover from this egregious attack on our country from the outside as well as within. Over the last many years, the conservative element in our government has been driving a focused effort to take control of our government to serve the Oligarchy and only the oligarchy. They have skillfully set the stage for the likes of 45 and Bannon to swoop in and wreak havoc. As a country we will require serious effort to get back on track and recover from this. The direction we have been going has the potential to end us as a Democracy if we don't stop their efforts. We have the ultimate power in the vote, which is under attack by gerrymandering and regressive policies being implemented as a result of the SCOTUS unwise decision to take the shackles off of the folks who would take such measures. The response to the lack of oversight was swift and impactful. A day does not go by without the Repubs doing something to take away our rights, privacy and choices that should be taken for granted in our Republic. To those who see no point in voting? You have been provided with an excellent example and reason that your vote is important. If not, then think of everyone else and their children. VOTE. While you still can...
2
Thank you for nearly summarizing what's going on. It's hard to believe that we lived through a period of McCarthyism where innocent people were accused of being Communists and now we have a President who did everything to court their help with getting him elected. He's definitely a traitor and should be impeached on those charges. Thanks again Charles for your excellent column.
Mr. Blow correctly looks beyond all the short-term politics and focuses on the serious and potentially fatal body-blow that our constitutional system of liberal democracy has suffered as a result of the Russian intervention in the 2016 election.
Our faith in the fairness and independence of our electoral system will never be the same, whatever happens to Mr. Trump and his associates going forward. While there will be much outrage, my fear is that the overwhelming reaction of the public will be cynicism, apathy, and withdrawal. Our democracy will be a shell of its former self.
This is the real tragedy of the Russian intervention, which was presumably their intention all along. These are sad days indeed.
Our faith in the fairness and independence of our electoral system will never be the same, whatever happens to Mr. Trump and his associates going forward. While there will be much outrage, my fear is that the overwhelming reaction of the public will be cynicism, apathy, and withdrawal. Our democracy will be a shell of its former self.
This is the real tragedy of the Russian intervention, which was presumably their intention all along. These are sad days indeed.
3
Sorry, Charles, there is no scenario in which "impeachment" is the appropriate response to a Presidency if it is found that it was gained, wholly or in party, by theft or collusion with our enemies. One doesn't let the thief of a Van Gogh pass it on to his heirs. No, it is confiscated and returned to the rightful owner. Then, on top of that, the criminals are punished. So, any result that installs a successor to Trump, whether or not he is directly found to have participated -- and by the way his open "joke" asking the Russians to hack his opponent should be taken for the request that it was -- neither he nor his team should be allowed to profit from those actions.
4
Part of the problem may well be that this country has a lengthy history of NOT dealing with malicious political events -- the JFK assassination, Tonkin Gulf, Nixon's subverting the Vietnam Peace negotiations, Reagan and the hostages and Iran Contra, Bush admin's lies, and so on. Only Watergate (somewhat) and the S & L scandal led to anyone being jailed.
So the new perpetrators know they could either avoid prosecution, get pardons, or somehow be part of "putting this all behind us". And the American public continues to be like Dorothy and her crew facing the Wizard. We are sheep led by wolves.
So the new perpetrators know they could either avoid prosecution, get pardons, or somehow be part of "putting this all behind us". And the American public continues to be like Dorothy and her crew facing the Wizard. We are sheep led by wolves.
1
If Republicans considered a Supreme Court nomination during the final year of Obama's Presidency to be invalid, then certainly a nomination from a president under investigation for foreign collusion must be invalid.
Block the Gorsuch nomination until the investigation is complete.
Block the Gorsuch nomination until the investigation is complete.
3
A really great piece, as always.
My thought is that those in power have a responsibility to get Trump out of office as soon as possible if he does turn out to be compromised. I don't think it would be good to, say, keep him hobbled until 2020, because if another 9/11 happens in this country, that's that. I don't want to think about what Trump would do to seize and consolidate power if something like that were to happen.
I don't like Mike Pence, but I also don't fear a dictatorial power grab from him either. I just can't see it.
My thought is that those in power have a responsibility to get Trump out of office as soon as possible if he does turn out to be compromised. I don't think it would be good to, say, keep him hobbled until 2020, because if another 9/11 happens in this country, that's that. I don't want to think about what Trump would do to seize and consolidate power if something like that were to happen.
I don't like Mike Pence, but I also don't fear a dictatorial power grab from him either. I just can't see it.
It's not difficult. If Trump himself is shown to have been colluding with Russian hackers, i.e., "more than circumstantial evidence" is found that he did so, then he should be impeached. Yes, Mike Pence is quite far right in his thinking, but he is not crazy. I'd take Pence is a second if we could find a way to get rid of Trump.
May I say here that even if the Russian meddling were not in collusion with the Trump campaign, or even if it were shown that there was no effect on the outcome, the apparent financial links among Russian and US actors should be sufficiently troubling.
It must be understood that in today's Russia, there are no clear divisions among government, supposedly private industry and organized crime, and their activities. Money and information flow unimpeded. The oligarkhiya are men whose ruthlessness and utter absence of loyalty to anyone or anything but their own power was found appalling by New York's organized-crime figures. The idea that our ethically insouciant president and his enablers are beholden to or impressed by such operators should appall us all.
It must be understood that in today's Russia, there are no clear divisions among government, supposedly private industry and organized crime, and their activities. Money and information flow unimpeded. The oligarkhiya are men whose ruthlessness and utter absence of loyalty to anyone or anything but their own power was found appalling by New York's organized-crime figures. The idea that our ethically insouciant president and his enablers are beholden to or impressed by such operators should appall us all.
1
Seeing no Russian interference in our election as long as it produced the "right" result is only the latest, but largest, hypocrisy of the Republican Party. There is the black hole of American politics.
1
The "incredible vulnerability in our electoral process" is the incredible ignorance of the American electorate. Russian hacking merely brought petty squabbles among Democratic officials to light. Sound minds, however repulsed by these revelations, should have seen that they pale in comparison with the greed, incompetence, and demagoguery offered by the other side. The hacking revelations played into a visceral dislike of Hillary Clinton and her inner circle, even among millions of voters whose political views were much better represented by the Democratic platform. The 2016 election was not a case of Russia "stealing" an election -- it was a massive case of misplaced voter priorities. Hopefully, the Trump Administration will serve as a wake-up call for all Americans to vote on issues and substance, rather then emotion and innuendo.
For a moment, simply reverse roles and imagine if former President Obama was in the predicament(s) Trump is in.
What would you think?
What would you think?
I find it extremely unlikely that all these Trump cronies were meeting with the Russians during the campaign and that the subject of Russian hacking and Russian trolls was never discussed. DT asked the Russians to hack HRC- and they did.
The fact that so many of the Trump associates and nominees including DT himself had so many financial and personal ties to Russians is a bit suspect in the first place-( especially Flynn and Manafort) but why does the DT campaign staff need to meet with Russians during the campaign as well?
DT's son even alluded to a Russian connection which is why DT didn't want to release his tax returns that might show he owes money to Russian banks.
I assume there is no recording of these meetings with the Russian ambassador and I also assume people will lie to cover up- so the only thing we have is to connect the dots. Charles Blow and many others suspect there are way too many coincidences here.
Finally-the Russians claim they assumed HRC was going to win. That may be true- but if so, why wouldn't they want to have the same or more meetings with members of HRC incoming team?
It seems to me that the only logical conclusion is that they were meeting to collude with or at the very least inform the DT team that they are helping them to get elected- and that they owe Putin- and oh yeah, they also have the blackmail recording of DT in Moscow.
Did they meet with our allies as much as they did with the Russians- who are adversaries of this country?
The fact that so many of the Trump associates and nominees including DT himself had so many financial and personal ties to Russians is a bit suspect in the first place-( especially Flynn and Manafort) but why does the DT campaign staff need to meet with Russians during the campaign as well?
DT's son even alluded to a Russian connection which is why DT didn't want to release his tax returns that might show he owes money to Russian banks.
I assume there is no recording of these meetings with the Russian ambassador and I also assume people will lie to cover up- so the only thing we have is to connect the dots. Charles Blow and many others suspect there are way too many coincidences here.
Finally-the Russians claim they assumed HRC was going to win. That may be true- but if so, why wouldn't they want to have the same or more meetings with members of HRC incoming team?
It seems to me that the only logical conclusion is that they were meeting to collude with or at the very least inform the DT team that they are helping them to get elected- and that they owe Putin- and oh yeah, they also have the blackmail recording of DT in Moscow.
Did they meet with our allies as much as they did with the Russians- who are adversaries of this country?
1
Too bad John Podesta handed over his email credentials.
And too bad Obama couldn't keep us safe from Russian interference. The cerebral, cool and calm president provided no protection against the "act of War" (as noted by Friedman in an earlier OP-ED piece) agains the US by Russia.
And too bad Obama couldn't keep us safe from Russian interference. The cerebral, cool and calm president provided no protection against the "act of War" (as noted by Friedman in an earlier OP-ED piece) agains the US by Russia.
Whatever the consequences of a Trump impeachment might be, e.g., Pence, Ryan, Hatch, Tillerson et al., must not deter us from pursuing an aggressive independent investigation of the Trump/Russia connection wherever that investigation may lead. Truth is more important. Not only is there a possibility that Trump is innocent of wrongdoing, there is a possibility that he has and is engaged in wrongdoing far worse than we may be presently imagining. We need to know.
1
That there is no process spelled out for invalidating an election only speaks to the utter depravity of Republican campaign behavior.
However, no nominally fair observer could countenance that the party holds on to an illegitimately won position. If Trump is illegitimate, so too is Pence.
Both parties have, on occasion, forged new legislative ground. Both parties have an emphatic interest in proclaiming that no matter the circumstances, no foreign power will have a controlling hand in American politics.
Declaring the election invalid, if evidence supports such a claim, and trying again is the single legitimate approach to this situation.
Should Republicans resist, as one hopes they would not, they will have made plain their willingness to accept foreign influence in matters of State, and they will have sacrificed the flag with which they are forever wrapping themselves up.
However, no nominally fair observer could countenance that the party holds on to an illegitimately won position. If Trump is illegitimate, so too is Pence.
Both parties have, on occasion, forged new legislative ground. Both parties have an emphatic interest in proclaiming that no matter the circumstances, no foreign power will have a controlling hand in American politics.
Declaring the election invalid, if evidence supports such a claim, and trying again is the single legitimate approach to this situation.
Should Republicans resist, as one hopes they would not, they will have made plain their willingness to accept foreign influence in matters of State, and they will have sacrificed the flag with which they are forever wrapping themselves up.
Even if they find collusion with the Russians it was only voter suppression that they engaged in. Even if impeached for criminal voter suppression, what then? The GOP loves voter suppression and now they've learned a new, more lethal, cheaper and more easily concealed way of doing it. Allowing ISPs to sell our browsing history just makes it easier to do without having to execute data breaches. They won't need any Russians to interfere. Our Democracy is doomed no matter what happens next.
Putin has pulled the greatest espionage caper in history
1
It is disturbing that with what we already know about Trump and his band of degenerates, they are still being allowed to enact laws and he still signs Executive Orders with wild abandon, as if this is business as usual, making every effort to sabotage investigations into the extent of their involvement in the Russian interference.
And all the while Putin is quietly preparing for America a dish served best when it's cold.
And all the while Putin is quietly preparing for America a dish served best when it's cold.
1
There is no scenario that would make me sleep at night.
Trump is impeached, Pence becomes president. Hooray for religion and back alley abortions.
If Pence is found complicit, Ryan becomes president. Goodbye social programs, hello tax cuts and exploding debt.
Gonna be some long sleepless nights either way.
If we could only get Obama to pinch-hit while we hold new elections.
Trump is impeached, Pence becomes president. Hooray for religion and back alley abortions.
If Pence is found complicit, Ryan becomes president. Goodbye social programs, hello tax cuts and exploding debt.
Gonna be some long sleepless nights either way.
If we could only get Obama to pinch-hit while we hold new elections.
1
Hillary was -- at one point -- an excellent candidate.
For years, up until November, 2012, Hillary maintained an approval rating in the high 50s / low 60s. But when President Obama won reelection in 2012, the propaganda machine of the GOP set its sights fully on the next likely frontrunner.
In the process, the non-existent blame for Benghazi -- politicized way out of proportion; terrorists did it, not our govt -- was shifted from Obama to Hillary.
By 2014, Hillary's favorability plummeted by 25 points and she was widely seen as the most "dishonest" candidate, despite Trump's potential entrance in the race. In two years she went from a well-regarded Secretary of State to the worst thing that ever happened to America.
By 2016, in the public eye, Hillary's achievements were non-existent and she was faulty to the point of criminality, large groups even seeing her as "evil."
I couldn't understand how a woman voted as Most Admired Woman in the World for 20 of the past 23 years was so thoroughly demonized.
But now I do.
And it cost her the election. Not because of her record, her talents, her values or her vision, but because of manufactured lies about her that gained currency through the efforts of a foreign power's polished propaganda machine.
As with any candidate, she was certainly not without her faults, but in no sane, honest world can Donald Trump appear to be better in any way than Hillary Clinton.
For years, up until November, 2012, Hillary maintained an approval rating in the high 50s / low 60s. But when President Obama won reelection in 2012, the propaganda machine of the GOP set its sights fully on the next likely frontrunner.
In the process, the non-existent blame for Benghazi -- politicized way out of proportion; terrorists did it, not our govt -- was shifted from Obama to Hillary.
By 2014, Hillary's favorability plummeted by 25 points and she was widely seen as the most "dishonest" candidate, despite Trump's potential entrance in the race. In two years she went from a well-regarded Secretary of State to the worst thing that ever happened to America.
By 2016, in the public eye, Hillary's achievements were non-existent and she was faulty to the point of criminality, large groups even seeing her as "evil."
I couldn't understand how a woman voted as Most Admired Woman in the World for 20 of the past 23 years was so thoroughly demonized.
But now I do.
And it cost her the election. Not because of her record, her talents, her values or her vision, but because of manufactured lies about her that gained currency through the efforts of a foreign power's polished propaganda machine.
As with any candidate, she was certainly not without her faults, but in no sane, honest world can Donald Trump appear to be better in any way than Hillary Clinton.
7
In 3 more months we will begin the electoral cycle for mid-term Congressional elections. If the American public fails to use those as a referendum on Trumpism and toss out Republicans then they will have bought into whatever bad things may befall them. And the left, the "elites", the media, and the intellectual classes should not be soft on the voters in this period just because they may have some personal hardship which justifies in their mind supporting the badness. The stupid and wicked need to be shamed and called out openly when patient restraint and kindness fail to move them to a better place...
No, not impeachment.
A trial for committing treasonous acts and following that, incarceration. Impeachment is a mere slap on the wrist.
A trial for committing treasonous acts and following that, incarceration. Impeachment is a mere slap on the wrist.
1
A new poll asks "Do you think it is necessary...for the FBI to be investigating possible links between associates of the Trump campaign and the Russian Government?"
Result: 63% agree (Democrats, 82%; Independents 65%, Republicans 35%)
A lot of people wonder that Republicans in Congress, who used to hate Russia with a passion, don't seem to be bothered as much about Putin influencing our election.
The difference is that they used to view Russia as the Communist menace. Now all they see is a kleptocratic oligarchy led by a man with no morals and autocratic tendencies who lies to his people. From a Republican standpoint, "What's not to like?"
Result: 63% agree (Democrats, 82%; Independents 65%, Republicans 35%)
A lot of people wonder that Republicans in Congress, who used to hate Russia with a passion, don't seem to be bothered as much about Putin influencing our election.
The difference is that they used to view Russia as the Communist menace. Now all they see is a kleptocratic oligarchy led by a man with no morals and autocratic tendencies who lies to his people. From a Republican standpoint, "What's not to like?"
3
Mr. Blow is gently suggesting that this whole election tricks fiasco has been reported with an unconsciously pro-Trump twist, probably the result of basic psychobiological responses to threatening bullies. We back down when a psychopath stares back into our eyes and denies the truth. What bias am I referring to? Time and again it is stated by competent journalists that "there is plenty of smoke, but we have no evidence yet of collusion." This is patently false. There is actually plenty of evidence of collusion; but these reporters, and I am not talking about FOX, have been deflected by the fear of being attacked by the Trump troops as biased, fake etc. To say time and again that there is no evidence of collusion, but just plenty of "smoke," is actually misreporting. What these journalists should be saying is: "While there is mounting evidence of collusion, there is no PROOF yet." Or to state this otherwise: "There is not yet sufficient evidence to establish collusion beyond a reasonable doubt." Charles Blow is showing us, correctly I believe, that we are already getting close to the point of being "beyond a reasonable doubt." As the "dots" keep adding up, they merge into each other, creating a very dark picture where the dots themselves can no longer be told apart.
4
A few facts to Dana and those who recommend this commenter:
1. The majority of progressives like myself voted for Clinton despite grave misgivings.
2. It wasn't the fabricated scandals. It was statements such as "I am proud to call Henry Kissinger a friend and mentor." She said it during a televised debate. I am a boomer and Kissinger is a war criminal.
3. Sanders was among the first to call Trump out, using graphic language: "He is delusional, he is a liar," etc. He is killing himself going into Trump territory and sitting with Trump voters to help them understand that they are voting against their interests.
4. Grassroots movements either spawned by or supporting the Sander's campaign have worked hard organizing protests, town hall meeting, petitions, supporting opposition candidates, introducing court actions, etc., to take Trump down. They are not pontificating. They are doing the heavy lifting. The Dems, not so much.
5. Most people WANT the so-called leftist vision: Medicare for all, free state colleges, death of Citizen's United, etc. In fact the architects of Medicare in the 60's saw it as a universal plan, not just for the elderly.
6. Your candidate was a human sedative, she had been recycled so many times. Don't blame it all on the Russians, please.
7. Read news not exclusively from the Times. The NY Times and its editors and columnists continue to be very stingy with their coverage of progressives. Do some research and tell me why you think that is.
1. The majority of progressives like myself voted for Clinton despite grave misgivings.
2. It wasn't the fabricated scandals. It was statements such as "I am proud to call Henry Kissinger a friend and mentor." She said it during a televised debate. I am a boomer and Kissinger is a war criminal.
3. Sanders was among the first to call Trump out, using graphic language: "He is delusional, he is a liar," etc. He is killing himself going into Trump territory and sitting with Trump voters to help them understand that they are voting against their interests.
4. Grassroots movements either spawned by or supporting the Sander's campaign have worked hard organizing protests, town hall meeting, petitions, supporting opposition candidates, introducing court actions, etc., to take Trump down. They are not pontificating. They are doing the heavy lifting. The Dems, not so much.
5. Most people WANT the so-called leftist vision: Medicare for all, free state colleges, death of Citizen's United, etc. In fact the architects of Medicare in the 60's saw it as a universal plan, not just for the elderly.
6. Your candidate was a human sedative, she had been recycled so many times. Don't blame it all on the Russians, please.
7. Read news not exclusively from the Times. The NY Times and its editors and columnists continue to be very stingy with their coverage of progressives. Do some research and tell me why you think that is.
1
I'm not sure what the process would be, but I agree with a few other comments here that another election would be proper if Trump were found guilty of collusion to win election, that the "order of succession" would be irrelevant.
That would include a new staff, new cabinet nominations, rolled back executive orders, etc. I'm probably dreaming. Actually I am dreaming... this has been a nightmare.
That would include a new staff, new cabinet nominations, rolled back executive orders, etc. I'm probably dreaming. Actually I am dreaming... this has been a nightmare.
2
Well said. Trump remains a dangerous charlatan but so do his enablers, particularly smooth fox-like talker Pence, and 'angelical' hypocrites Ryan and McConnell. But speaking about collusion, how about candidate Trump's public encouragement for the Russian's hacking of candidate Clinton? That should count, shouldn't it? Or ought it be left alone as an empty threat from a big- mouth angry charlatan?
1
Charles Blow's point about the odiousness of succession is correct. Trump is a malignancy, the others are purulent infections that often accompany. The removal of Trump from office is a priority. The real cure is the ballot box. Vote them out by starting to block their agenda by a 2018 election that returns the house and senate to dems and independents.
Thank you for reminding us of the nefarious succession! It gives us the best possible picture of where we are in the swamp. And with a line of tornadoes, real and virtual, predicted.
Good luck to us all. This AND Mother Nature with her knickers in a twist.
Good luck to us all. This AND Mother Nature with her knickers in a twist.
1
It's time for Democrats to reach across the aisle and help the minority among Republicans who are of character, conscience and patriotism leave the party of treason. The goal should be a Democratic majority this year. Then impeach the whole chain of succession until the last Trumpist is removed.
Yeah, Flynn has a story to tell. The operative word being story. As in fiction.
1
Most countries, including the United States, strive to influence elections in other countries. Mexico’s “meddling” in the U.S. 2016 was far more effective than Russian meddling. Mexico’s foreign ministry issued an email statement condemning candidate Trump’s comments on illegal immigration that said, "We continue to stand by our position that these comments reflect prejudice, racism or plain ignorance." Mexico’s state-subsidized newspapers, radio stations and television stations editorialized against Trump. “Reforma” published a poll showing that 83 percent of Mexicans prefer Hillary Clinton, compared to 3 percent for Donald Trump as the future U.S. president. And thousands of Mexican nationals, sometimes waiving Mexican flags, took part in anti-Trump marches and demonstrations in U.S. cities. Although Mexican nationals couldn’t vote, they worked as volunteer campaign workers. Mexican meddling help Clinton win the popular vote.
. A headline during the election was - Trump's plan to seize Iraq's oil: "It's not stealing, we're reimbursing ourselves". The word "reimbursing" is now being used in context with Trump's assertion that he will force Mexico to pay for the wall. Trump reiterated that he would have seized Iraq's oil recently at a speech at to the CIA. A "trade" war might not look so bad as compared with the prospect of Trump using military force to seize Mexican gulf oil assets to reimburse the cost of the wall. In terms of the worst things that could ever happen to the USA, military conflict with Mexico when at least 10% of the American population is of Mexican heritage has to be high on the list.
A war with Mexico over payment for the wall is not the only potential war Trump might cause.
“…The question then becomes what did Putin hope to gain by aiding Trump? What Russia and Putin desperately need is money. Even if Putin asked Trump to have the American Treasury transfer, say $200 billion to Russia, that is not going to happen. Absent writing Russia a big check, how could Trump cause Russia to gain $200 billion? The answer would be a $50 increase in the price of oil.
We know what has caused most of the oil price spikes in the last 50 years. That has been wars in the Middle East. The first oil shock came with the 1973 war. Twenty percent of oil traded worldwide moves by tanker through the Strait of Hormuz.."
http://seekingalpha.com/article/4034048
A war with Mexico over payment for the wall is not the only potential war Trump might cause.
“…The question then becomes what did Putin hope to gain by aiding Trump? What Russia and Putin desperately need is money. Even if Putin asked Trump to have the American Treasury transfer, say $200 billion to Russia, that is not going to happen. Absent writing Russia a big check, how could Trump cause Russia to gain $200 billion? The answer would be a $50 increase in the price of oil.
We know what has caused most of the oil price spikes in the last 50 years. That has been wars in the Middle East. The first oil shock came with the 1973 war. Twenty percent of oil traded worldwide moves by tanker through the Strait of Hormuz.."
http://seekingalpha.com/article/4034048
1
Investigate him, impeach him, and then reveal the verdict a week before his reelection vote. That's the best way to rid the world of Donald Trump and his administration. I suppose this sentiment numbers me among the brazenly political and callously calculating. We're in damage control mode now though. Clinton lost and Trump was inaugurated. The list of possible happy outcomes is immediately diminished by this fact.
The sad truth is the chances of any legitimate investigation are dismal and the chances for impeachment are even worse. The only way we'll see this happen is with a Democratic majority in both houses of Congress. I expect to see a resurrected William Taft dancing the Charleston on a thumbtack first. Assuming the evidence even still exists of course. I'm sure the digital paper shredders are hard at work.
What's the solution then? I sure don't know. I actually watched a Republican representative tell a town hall that he doesn't care about their opposition because they're too small a minority to concern him. This is true. He politely skipped over the fact that he represents one of the most blatantly gerrymandered districts in the entire country. So you tell me: What's the next step? Conventional activism apparently doesn't work anymore.
The sad truth is the chances of any legitimate investigation are dismal and the chances for impeachment are even worse. The only way we'll see this happen is with a Democratic majority in both houses of Congress. I expect to see a resurrected William Taft dancing the Charleston on a thumbtack first. Assuming the evidence even still exists of course. I'm sure the digital paper shredders are hard at work.
What's the solution then? I sure don't know. I actually watched a Republican representative tell a town hall that he doesn't care about their opposition because they're too small a minority to concern him. This is true. He politely skipped over the fact that he represents one of the most blatantly gerrymandered districts in the entire country. So you tell me: What's the next step? Conventional activism apparently doesn't work anymore.
1
DJT is done.
Too many ties to Russian contacts that are documented and that various members of the trump team have already admitted to - publicly!
Let's let due process play out and remove DJT once the unbiased details are assembled.
Too many ties to Russian contacts that are documented and that various members of the trump team have already admitted to - publicly!
Let's let due process play out and remove DJT once the unbiased details are assembled.
2
I don't believe "they" will allow an election in 2018.
I spent much of the past two years, commenting on the fact that "they" would "steal" the 2016 election, and I feel confirmed by the actual crime.
The congressman who represents the gerrymandered district where I reside, pay taxes, and vote, is Ted Budd. He is a gun store owner. I would like to ask him a question and I would invite the NY Times to contact him and ask the same: For all these years we have listened to the pro-gun arguments and it always came down to; "We need our guns to protect us against government tyranny."
If this is NOT government tyranny, what exactly would you call it?
And Congressman Budd doesn't even have the guts to say "no."
I spent much of the past two years, commenting on the fact that "they" would "steal" the 2016 election, and I feel confirmed by the actual crime.
The congressman who represents the gerrymandered district where I reside, pay taxes, and vote, is Ted Budd. He is a gun store owner. I would like to ask him a question and I would invite the NY Times to contact him and ask the same: For all these years we have listened to the pro-gun arguments and it always came down to; "We need our guns to protect us against government tyranny."
If this is NOT government tyranny, what exactly would you call it?
And Congressman Budd doesn't even have the guts to say "no."
Yes, let impeachment procedures against the worst president in the history of this country, one that is obviously suffering from projection defense mechanism, a grandiosity complex, narcissism and other mental illnesses while murdering his own native language to boot, begin.
Weasel Paul Ryan won't start those procedures. Democrats need to win the majority again during the next midterm election.
Once that zealot Mike Pence succeeds the Orange One in the presidency, the former will have no chance to win the election of 2020.
Weasel Paul Ryan won't start those procedures. Democrats need to win the majority again during the next midterm election.
Once that zealot Mike Pence succeeds the Orange One in the presidency, the former will have no chance to win the election of 2020.
Let Trump do what he wants. After he leaves office, we will have the attorney general see if he broke the law and send him to prison if he did. With his children.
Russia has their fake news propaganda deeply imbedded in our websites by now. What is to say that they are not still spreading and influencing our online discourse? Soon we will have our own here in America. When Trump allowed our 'clicks' to be sold and analyzed last week, was he not giving the Mercer family their needed access to our internet for their company Cambridge Analytica? That company developes user profiles that can be targeted with 'information' on the internet. Cyber security going forward should be our first concern.
The horrors of the Trump administration are becoming legend on a daily basis. Just plain grabbing as much money as you can. The 'fresh' faces have turned into plain incompetence. That the Trump administration does not publicly condemn the internet sabotage by Russia is also raising eyebrows.
Follow the money. Trump may or may not have colluded with the Russians to timely release hacked emails. Trump's tax returns hold more promise for information as there is also the great possibility that Trump has been laundering money for the Russian oligarchs for years. I believe that that is why he is holding onto his tax returns. That is the one bit of information he is desperate to keep hidden.
As for Flynn, I think his big promised 'story' is nothing more than his conspiracy theory of deep state abuses by Obama that he will be able to finally tell all. He knows that his 'work' for Turkey might get him in trouble so he wants immunity.
The horrors of the Trump administration are becoming legend on a daily basis. Just plain grabbing as much money as you can. The 'fresh' faces have turned into plain incompetence. That the Trump administration does not publicly condemn the internet sabotage by Russia is also raising eyebrows.
Follow the money. Trump may or may not have colluded with the Russians to timely release hacked emails. Trump's tax returns hold more promise for information as there is also the great possibility that Trump has been laundering money for the Russian oligarchs for years. I believe that that is why he is holding onto his tax returns. That is the one bit of information he is desperate to keep hidden.
As for Flynn, I think his big promised 'story' is nothing more than his conspiracy theory of deep state abuses by Obama that he will be able to finally tell all. He knows that his 'work' for Turkey might get him in trouble so he wants immunity.
Fake president Tweetie Pie is looking and acting more and more like a cornered rat (or perhaps a Russian mole?). Let us hope that enough Republicans in Congress have the courage and decency to uphold their oath of office to defend the country and the constitution, rather than let Tweetie Pie him off the hook with his continued attempts at distraction and diversion. And if the facts of the case lead to what seems increasingly likely to be a conclusion of collusion to illegally affect the presidential election, we should follow Tweetie's own advice and LOCK HIM UP!
Far too many people assume that Flynn will provide some testimony damning to the president. Don't forget that Flynn is a soldier, and is quite capable of falling on his sword if he thinks that will further a noble cause. The danger with giving him immunity is that he shows up in court and says "It was all me and my idea. Trump never knew anything about it. I did it on my own," and then walks out a free man, leaving the prosecutors with nothing.
1
Unless there is a direct smoking gun, the Republicans will not impeach Trump. Their governance will be one of factions uniting behind the desires of this or that corporate group. That factional incoherence plus court filings resulting from whistleblowers will mitigate some of the potential damage as will their incompetence. No, we'll be better served by the mess and a lengthy investigation and Mr. T's responses to it.
I am reminded of the the scene in Godfather 2 where Michaels wife, played by Diane Keaton, explains that her marriage is unholy, like an abortion or words to that effect.
Her renunciation of all that Michael and his 'sicilian thing' stood for is exactly how most people are thinking about Trump.
It all must end now! Sound familiar!
Her renunciation of all that Michael and his 'sicilian thing' stood for is exactly how most people are thinking about Trump.
It all must end now! Sound familiar!
the alarm bells went off for me when trump started repeating RT talking points, way back in june.
132
And some of us were equally alarmed when our Democratic friends bought into the 'crooked Hillary' RT talking points and fake news, of course designed to tap into and use their rightful outrage with the DNC for how it pushed Bernie Sanders' campaign aside - used for their nefarious goals of getting Trump into the White House. Many third-party voting Democrats now realize they were played like a three-dollar fiddle.
Here is the message that president Trump should, but, will not send to the American people:
"It is clear that Russia meddled in our election. Of course, this is intolerable and cannot be condoned. I totally support the F.B.I. and the congressional investigations looking into this most serious matter. I will support the investigations in any way possible and encourage my current and former associates to fully participate in the investigation should they be called to testify.
No one should call the investigations "fake" or a "hoax." Our intelligence agencies have conclusively determined that Russia attempted to influence our election. I have full confidence in the F.B.I. and the other intelligence agencies that have reached this conclusion. Our democracy is at stake and Russia must be held accountable as well as any of my current or former associates that may have colluded with Russia.
Russia continues to try to hack into our systems as well as unlawfully influence elections in Europe. I will now be sending an urgent message to Mr. Putin alerting him to the serious consequences he and his country will face unless he immediately halts all sabotage actions here and abroad."
"It is clear that Russia meddled in our election. Of course, this is intolerable and cannot be condoned. I totally support the F.B.I. and the congressional investigations looking into this most serious matter. I will support the investigations in any way possible and encourage my current and former associates to fully participate in the investigation should they be called to testify.
No one should call the investigations "fake" or a "hoax." Our intelligence agencies have conclusively determined that Russia attempted to influence our election. I have full confidence in the F.B.I. and the other intelligence agencies that have reached this conclusion. Our democracy is at stake and Russia must be held accountable as well as any of my current or former associates that may have colluded with Russia.
Russia continues to try to hack into our systems as well as unlawfully influence elections in Europe. I will now be sending an urgent message to Mr. Putin alerting him to the serious consequences he and his country will face unless he immediately halts all sabotage actions here and abroad."
98
trump send THAT message? Thanks for the morning laugh.
When pigs fly...
I don't like Trump at all. I think he never should have been elected. I strongly believe that he arrived at the presidency through Russia's tampering with public opinion at crucial stages of our election. If it can be established that he or his minions colluded in this tampering, then he should be removed from office. But more than that, the election should be annulled, and all the people who were brought into power should be removed from office and a new election called. Unprecedented? Yes, but we can fix it through constitutional remedies.
But to even imagine that Pence should then be considered the legitimate successor, or that the presidency could pass to Ryan or on down the usual track except to find a caretaker president while we have new elections--no, that would only confirm the legitimacy of the Republican victory and the whole point is that it is the fruit of a poisoned tree. Cut down the tree.
But to even imagine that Pence should then be considered the legitimate successor, or that the presidency could pass to Ryan or on down the usual track except to find a caretaker president while we have new elections--no, that would only confirm the legitimacy of the Republican victory and the whole point is that it is the fruit of a poisoned tree. Cut down the tree.
597
They've got a very deep bench. Annulment and do-over is the only option.
Collusion with a foreign enemy should make this election illegitimate and another election should be called. Until this president is officially cleared of all suspicion his powers should be frozen.
Guilty until proven innocent. Is that what you believe in Arkansas? II'll bet you thought the Clinton's innocent in the Whitewater debacle? How about the commodity trading scandal where they had 1000% returns on their investments? Gave them the benefit of the doubt there didn't you?
Here in red, red Idaho one even hears the word "impeachment" uttered! But, as Mr. Blow points out, if impeachment were to happen the options aren't very hopeful, with Pence as Prez, and I think Congress would elect his VP. What a gigantic mess!
179
Yes, and Pence is more likely to be re-elected in 2020 than Trump would be.
1
Hi neighbor! I'm in Pocatello!
I agree with your comment. Nice to know there are like minded people here in Idaho!
I agree with your comment. Nice to know there are like minded people here in Idaho!
Hypothetically: after Trump is impeached and Mike Pence becomes President, he would appoint a Vice-President approved by Congress. The others in the line of succession would not just move up a position. If it came to that, it would mean a resurgence of bipartisanship or Democrats in control of Congress after mid-term elections. That would provide the opportunity for a "unity government" with a Democratic VP. Hypothetically.
4
You have offered us a laundry list of marginally and/or totally despicable cabinet and congressional leaders from which to formulate our immediate future. Moving the next step to Pence is nearly as frightening as continuing with Trump.
I would rather see Trump policy stopped at every turn than to see a President Pence. Can Trump be curtailed and stifled in two or four years, whatever it takes? More important, will America awaken to this sham elected leadership or are we merely jump-starting more years of intransigence and "no's."
I would rather see Trump policy stopped at every turn than to see a President Pence. Can Trump be curtailed and stifled in two or four years, whatever it takes? More important, will America awaken to this sham elected leadership or are we merely jump-starting more years of intransigence and "no's."
23
Smoke & Fire. What are we - stupid? How can any American, Republican or Democrat, not insist on an unfettered and relentless inquest into the jack-hammering of the foundations of what actually does make America great? We need a white-hot light shone into this threat to our democracy. Meanwhile, it would appear the looting of our country has begun through this malignant White House and it's appointment of Trump's immediate family to positions of great power and influence - unchallenged by the GOP whose only interest is in preservation of their Congressional dominance. Where is the outrage from even the most ardent conservative members of the House and Senate? What does it take for Mitch McConnell and his cohorts to stand up and act like patriotic Americans?
51
Because the GOP Congress blocks a full investigation out of partisanship. How can they NOT ask for Trump's financial records? We do not know which countries Trump owes massive amounts of money to--we just know it's not US banks; they have refused to lend to him for years.
For lack of political expedience, the answer would most clearly appear to be "far too much". Love of country never smelt so sour.
That last question contains your answer. If you do not stand now for freedom, in my view you are a traitor to this country.
California Congressman Eric Swalwell has the definitive webpage which magnificently charts out the ties between the Russian government and this Trump administration. Highlighted well are the massive connections/extensive linkages between Trump and 11 of his associates to the Kremlin and to Russian business interests. Swalwell is a national treasure, and a presidential run ought to be in his future.
https://swalwell.house.gov/issues/russia-trump-his-administration-s-ties
https://swalwell.house.gov/issues/russia-trump-his-administration-s-ties
29
The prospect of "coincidence" seems far beyond the "albino alligator" of fantastical thinking to me. The known facts of Trump's bizarre Russo-centred behavior during and since the campaign persuades me that the collusion conspiracy goes solidly beyond theory.
With the backdrop of decades of confrontation with Russia, we suddenly experienced unstinting praise for a mendaciously murderous autocrat, abandonment of support for Ukrainian autonomy, and willful ignorance of Putinesque misdeeds. All of this came suddenly out of the blue from nowhere.
Coincidence? Not likely. Treason? Much more likely.
www.endthemadnessnow.org
With the backdrop of decades of confrontation with Russia, we suddenly experienced unstinting praise for a mendaciously murderous autocrat, abandonment of support for Ukrainian autonomy, and willful ignorance of Putinesque misdeeds. All of this came suddenly out of the blue from nowhere.
Coincidence? Not likely. Treason? Much more likely.
www.endthemadnessnow.org
34
The chain of succession does make one dread the possibilities if Trump ever
got thrown out. I wonder if the whole administration could be removed. Trump
installed everybody in his administration. If a criminal creates a criminal organization do we jail the crime boss and then let his second in command in place to run the organization the jailed boss created? In Trump's case. there is the problem Ryan, who was already there and already in the line of succession
but, as far as the rest of them go? Healthcare was complicated enough. Impeachment looks pretty complicated too.
got thrown out. I wonder if the whole administration could be removed. Trump
installed everybody in his administration. If a criminal creates a criminal organization do we jail the crime boss and then let his second in command in place to run the organization the jailed boss created? In Trump's case. there is the problem Ryan, who was already there and already in the line of succession
but, as far as the rest of them go? Healthcare was complicated enough. Impeachment looks pretty complicated too.
16
As always, well said Mr. Blow. For anyone in the dark about bots and sock puppets and misinformation and how those things affect gullible conservatives that crave black and white answers at any cost, watch Homeland this season. It's a spot on depiction of how our election was influenced and probably stolen by Russia. Thanks to the stupid, racist, and gullible we are all at terrible risk, here and abroad, including our planet. Void the election and give it to Hillary!!! She won in reality. Get all these malicious racist hateful clowns out of there.
33
And who interfered in another country's electoral process and got Yeltsin elected again? The Russian Connection, no matter how widespread or incidental, has nothing to do with the Democratic National Committee's ham-fisted malpractice and tone deaf arrogance of the last 20-30 years. They've lost near everything to the Republicans and are setting up the conditions to continue the inexorable march to one party rule. It is all by design, in service to those controlling the purse strings.
2
I agree with your opinion but the real harm in all this are the dwindling odds that this country will ever be able to recover from such voter stupidity and/or remorse. Regardless of investigations, if steps are not taken to replace the clown and his court within the next 40 days, we are more likely stuck in reverse and our trip downhill picks up terminal velocity.
20
Paul Ryan, Devin Nunes and Mitch McConnel's behavior in the light of these events have been SO outrageous that I am left with one conclusion: They must have been hacked, too.
None of them strike me as evil or unpatriotic men--yet their behavior cannot be explained as anything but unless you consider something else: that they are under some sort of threat. It sounds CRAZY conspiracy-like, even, but I cannot come up with any other explanation because this FLIES on the face of their past behavior.
None of them strike me as evil or unpatriotic men--yet their behavior cannot be explained as anything but unless you consider something else: that they are under some sort of threat. It sounds CRAZY conspiracy-like, even, but I cannot come up with any other explanation because this FLIES on the face of their past behavior.
10
Devin Nunes has connections to a winery some of whose wine is exported to, believe it or not, Russia.
I also am coming to the conclusion that Ryan and McConnell have been hacked or compromised. Why else would these supposed patriots stand around fish-faced while our country is being dismantled and destroyed with the help of Putin?
I also am coming to the conclusion that Ryan and McConnell have been hacked or compromised. Why else would these supposed patriots stand around fish-faced while our country is being dismantled and destroyed with the help of Putin?
I have to disagree. McConnell DOES strike me as evil.
The filibuster exists as a band aid on the gross insult to intelligence of radically unequal representation in the Senate. When that goes, the gloves will come off in the war of the minority on the majority.
4
With due respect to Mr.Blow, for elucidating the unfortunate possibilities that are flooding his mind about Russia's role in our presidential election, he does not raise the chance that there was no collusion between Trump and or his campaign's staff in this matter. Whatever, one's speculation about the dots here, I think that Americans need to be clearly updated about Trump's effects on the nation and its residents; his positions; his executive orders; his conflicts of interest; the actions of Pence and cabinet heads. It is time to return to the newsreel form as a way to educate the public about this presidency in all its important iterations. Speculation seems like an indulgent exercise at this dangerous time.
39
A US General gets fired, and starts doing gigs for the russians, and you think this is over hyped?
253
FW Armstrong. Thank you for your response. I did not write that Mr. Blow's 'speculations' were hype. My thoughts are that' speculation' doesn't lead to the answers with regard to the important questions that the governmental investigations are seeking to resolve. My concern is about how uninformed much of our citizenry is; how we are subjected to 'fake' news; Trump and his people are employing the 'fake new' tactic to misinform and distract; many of us are confused about what is 'true'. I think working at educating the people is a major challenge. If Trump goes, we are still going to have several mighty divisions between our people, which are destabilizing our country and our democracy.
2
That is all well and good, but unless FOX becomes truly, fair & balanced, the people who should see all you said, sadly, never will.
2
We're playing Trump-Ball and he's very good at it. He pops-up a high 140 character lie (often ending with "sad") and then he watches us and the media chase it around like dizzy outfielders. We spend weeks tracking it down with great reporting and comments, and he just like that he pops out another. A bonus for him is that 1/3 of the country is rooting for and believing him in spite off the truth. We're exhausted chasing, while he tweets away and our democracy burns. Sad.
17
Regarding Trump's tweets, Wolf Blitzer is like a cat chasing a light from a flashlight. If the media would just disregard the shiny object, they would get to the truth that much faster.
A bonus for him is that 1/3 of the country is rooting for and believing him
............
In the first place, only 25% of the elegible voters voted for him, and by a general count only about 1/6th of the nation would be his original supporters, but now that the polls --as of today, printed right here in THIS NEWSPAPER--have revealed a great DISsatisfaction with about 33% in favor of Trump, that would mean only about 20 million here think (if one can say that) he is OK and they will soon be proven to be wrong.
............
In the first place, only 25% of the elegible voters voted for him, and by a general count only about 1/6th of the nation would be his original supporters, but now that the polls --as of today, printed right here in THIS NEWSPAPER--have revealed a great DISsatisfaction with about 33% in favor of Trump, that would mean only about 20 million here think (if one can say that) he is OK and they will soon be proven to be wrong.
1
There is a lot more here. I believe the F.B.I. is doing more than just investigating the collusion angle. I believe they are investigating to see which of the Trump Administration has been compromised by the Kremlin, including Trump. Are Trump and members of his Administration currently being blackmailed by Putin? Trump sure behaves like he is being blackmailed.
20
Keep digging- we know there's truth in here somewhere.
17
For no fire, there is certainly an awful lot of smoke. Buf finding one's way through the smoke of obfustication, denials, stretching the truth to the breaking point is the challenge. The great issue before us will Congress have the gumption to form a bi-partisan independent fact-finding committee, or will the DOJ appoint an independent prosecutor?
Even then we must be careful what we wish for. Trump is most dangerous because he doesn't know what he doesn't know. But that is also a protection against a potential President Pence, who is far more politically savvy and may have a hardline agenda that would make Trump look downright liberal at his most "conservative."
What a mess altogether.
Even then we must be careful what we wish for. Trump is most dangerous because he doesn't know what he doesn't know. But that is also a protection against a potential President Pence, who is far more politically savvy and may have a hardline agenda that would make Trump look downright liberal at his most "conservative."
What a mess altogether.
7
Thank you Charles for these incisive, necessary columns. We must be reminded every day how awful and dangerous this administration is.
7
The first time it happens is happenstance.
The second time is coincidence.
The third time is enemy action.
The 99th time is exactly what it seems to be.
The man, his coterie and his ardent supporters are colluding to undermine the United States in favor of foreign interests for the purpose of self aggrandizement.
The "good" Americans who continue to deny the reality of what Donald Trump and his merry band have attempted are the current day versions of the "good" Germans of the 1930s. Unless they wake up, they will carry this stain for the rest of their lives.
The second time is coincidence.
The third time is enemy action.
The 99th time is exactly what it seems to be.
The man, his coterie and his ardent supporters are colluding to undermine the United States in favor of foreign interests for the purpose of self aggrandizement.
The "good" Americans who continue to deny the reality of what Donald Trump and his merry band have attempted are the current day versions of the "good" Germans of the 1930s. Unless they wake up, they will carry this stain for the rest of their lives.
18
The lack of a "smoking gun" shouldn't dissuade us from connecting the dots & drawing conclusions. Many legal cases turn entirely on circumstantial evidence & it can be just as powerful as "direct" evidence. If you go to sleep one night & there is no snow on the ground & wake up the next morning, to see the ground covered in snow, you assume it snowed during the night. Unless you woke up at 2:00 AM & actually saw the snow falling, you are basing your judgment on purely circumstantial evidence. With the Trump administration, we're seeing more & more dots to connect showing up every day. The evening news every night has its Trump reveal and its climate-change weather disaster of the day.
What started as a wisp of smoke over the next hill becomes a massive smoke cloud, steadily growing. Like the snowy ground, it is legitimate to assume something is burning over there. It is not only the actions of the Trump people and the Russians that line up so closely during the campaign and transition, & continue to do, but the extraordinary efforts of the Trump campaign to derail & discredit not only the media (like Watergate & Nixon), but their attempts to fog up the House & Senate intel committees (both headed by Republicans), & the FBI, an agency of Trump's own Justice Department. When you go to the lengths they went to with the Nunes misdirection & other gambits trying to short-circuit the investigation, it becomes almost certain there is something they're trying desperately to hide.
What started as a wisp of smoke over the next hill becomes a massive smoke cloud, steadily growing. Like the snowy ground, it is legitimate to assume something is burning over there. It is not only the actions of the Trump people and the Russians that line up so closely during the campaign and transition, & continue to do, but the extraordinary efforts of the Trump campaign to derail & discredit not only the media (like Watergate & Nixon), but their attempts to fog up the House & Senate intel committees (both headed by Republicans), & the FBI, an agency of Trump's own Justice Department. When you go to the lengths they went to with the Nunes misdirection & other gambits trying to short-circuit the investigation, it becomes almost certain there is something they're trying desperately to hide.
10
I agree with Blow's observation that "...there would be no resistance from me..." regarding Trump's impeachment. I think, however, that there is a better resolution - to schedule a new election prior to 2020, perhaps in conjunction with the 2018 election. Yes, there would be tremendous disruption in governmental activities, but it is the only way to avoid continuing the disastrous mismanagement by the current Republican administration, whose election was "bigley" tainted from the beginning.
7
if President Obama was sincere when he said income inequality was the number 1 issue of our time, than it is his time, this week before the Gorsuch Supreme Court vote, to emerge back into the public sphere and spend his political capitol by educating his fellow citizens , the public, in a very public way, that Gorsuch's appointment to the Supreme Court will institutionalize income inequality in this country for decades to come.
By opposing Gorsuch, asserting himself again in our political affairs at the height of his popularity, Obama will be seen as a statesman for the ages and a fighter against all the injustices and unfairness the Trump presidency has ushered in to the world.
If he stays out of it, and keeps in the shadows, his charchter should be questioned, and history will see him not as a giant to the people, but merely a tool of the powerful in their system of quasi oligharcy.
By opposing Gorsuch, asserting himself again in our political affairs at the height of his popularity, Obama will be seen as a statesman for the ages and a fighter against all the injustices and unfairness the Trump presidency has ushered in to the world.
If he stays out of it, and keeps in the shadows, his charchter should be questioned, and history will see him not as a giant to the people, but merely a tool of the powerful in their system of quasi oligharcy.
6
The Trump Administration is like a bunch of 6 year old kids playing house. They all don't have a clue what real government is or what responsibility and care for the nation means.
Whether or not the dots are ever connected between Russian collusion and Trump campaign is more a distraction from the bigger disaster of the let's pretend we know how to govern playing out in the White House.
At some point, the playhouse will fall down. The kids will all be crying.
The question is where are the adults. Will they step in before or after someone gets hurt.
Whether or not the dots are ever connected between Russian collusion and Trump campaign is more a distraction from the bigger disaster of the let's pretend we know how to govern playing out in the White House.
At some point, the playhouse will fall down. The kids will all be crying.
The question is where are the adults. Will they step in before or after someone gets hurt.
5
How does one even begin to calculate the "odds of coincidence" in our current situation? We are at a point in our history where rational civics lessons may be useless, where political actors (not just elected national representatives) are so vested in manipulating human irrationalities that we are going to have serious trouble regaining our balance. We see people more interested exploiting those irrationalities than in fostering civic cooperation and the general public good. Those divisive actors have better tools than ever to exploit the political equivalent of graphic comics/novels.
We have a president who either does not understand confirmation bias or figures that the concept is antithetical to his needs. Maybe it's both. Our Constitution itself needs protection from these sorts of behaviors.
We are most certainly over-analyzing the president's tweets and other bizarre quips, but that does not make them any less dangerous for our national health: https://www.foreignaffairs.com/articles/2017-01-25/reading-trump . Here is the concluding sentence from that essay:
"But Trump’s seemingly cavalier and imprecise use of language [lying] does have a price: it helps turn a liberal order led by the United States into possibly a Hobbesian one where might makes right."
We have a president who either does not understand confirmation bias or figures that the concept is antithetical to his needs. Maybe it's both. Our Constitution itself needs protection from these sorts of behaviors.
We are most certainly over-analyzing the president's tweets and other bizarre quips, but that does not make them any less dangerous for our national health: https://www.foreignaffairs.com/articles/2017-01-25/reading-trump . Here is the concluding sentence from that essay:
"But Trump’s seemingly cavalier and imprecise use of language [lying] does have a price: it helps turn a liberal order led by the United States into possibly a Hobbesian one where might makes right."
1
This is not just impeaching Trump, it is a matter of a fake election. The Russians interfered in what Trump calls our sacred election process. Only bad things about the Democrats were leaked when the GOP obviously have even more skeletons in their closet. This was topped off by the head of the FBI, who is supposed to be apolitical, announcing just before the election that they found more of Clinton's emails, but we don't know their relevance. They turned out to be meaningless.
Our sacred election process has been tainted. There are still blind Trump followers who don't understand why they are losing their health insurance when they only wanted to get rid of Obamacare, why changing EPA rules will not bring back coal mining, and why farmers won't have anyone to pick their crops. They would still vote GOP. We still need to have another election.
Pence should no be next in line. He is baggage from the fake election. The former President should move back into the White House till we have a real election untainted by the Russians and before Trump leads us into yet another war. The GOP are, of course, scuttling any investigation.
Trump continues to surround himself with unqualified friends and his children in violation of anti-nepotism laws. With the GOP majority in both houses, we will continue to have a fake president who is totally unqualified for the job in intellect and personality. The president's ear is for sale to the highest bidder and those who stay at Trump hotels.
Our sacred election process has been tainted. There are still blind Trump followers who don't understand why they are losing their health insurance when they only wanted to get rid of Obamacare, why changing EPA rules will not bring back coal mining, and why farmers won't have anyone to pick their crops. They would still vote GOP. We still need to have another election.
Pence should no be next in line. He is baggage from the fake election. The former President should move back into the White House till we have a real election untainted by the Russians and before Trump leads us into yet another war. The GOP are, of course, scuttling any investigation.
Trump continues to surround himself with unqualified friends and his children in violation of anti-nepotism laws. With the GOP majority in both houses, we will continue to have a fake president who is totally unqualified for the job in intellect and personality. The president's ear is for sale to the highest bidder and those who stay at Trump hotels.
7
And it just came out that Trump didn't just have help beating Hillary.
Marco Rubio is now saying HIS campaign was attacked by the Russians.
Looks like this goes back farther and Trump received help to win the primaries, too. This would explain the inexplicable hiring of Paul Manafort in early 2016.
And in retrospect, did it make any sense that Trump's lies were so readily accepted?
He had a ton of online help, and this should make more than a few powerful Republicans very angry.
Marco Rubio is now saying HIS campaign was attacked by the Russians.
Looks like this goes back farther and Trump received help to win the primaries, too. This would explain the inexplicable hiring of Paul Manafort in early 2016.
And in retrospect, did it make any sense that Trump's lies were so readily accepted?
He had a ton of online help, and this should make more than a few powerful Republicans very angry.
6
I disagree with your assertion that if Trump is impeached, that Pence would become president and the rest of his abominable cabinet will remain in power.
If it is proved that the Trump campaign did in fact collude with Russian agents to steal the election, not only should Trump be impeached but his entire cabinet and administration – including Supreme Court nominee – should be removed as fruits of a “poison tree.” Hillary Clinton in fact won the election, and if there isn’t a new election held, or a new meeting of Electoral College electors without Trump delegates, Hillary Clinton should be the president and her cabinet, her administration, her Supreme Court nominee, her policies and budget put into place. It is clear that the Trump forces, helped along with Russian disinformation campaign combined with voter suppression, were able to tilt the scales just enough if the swing states to take the Electoral College. Let’s be reminded that Clinton won the popular vote by almost 3 million, while Trump was able to take the Electoral votes of 3 states with just 70,000 votes combined.
If it is proved that the Trump campaign did in fact collude with Russian agents to steal the election, not only should Trump be impeached but his entire cabinet and administration – including Supreme Court nominee – should be removed as fruits of a “poison tree.” Hillary Clinton in fact won the election, and if there isn’t a new election held, or a new meeting of Electoral College electors without Trump delegates, Hillary Clinton should be the president and her cabinet, her administration, her Supreme Court nominee, her policies and budget put into place. It is clear that the Trump forces, helped along with Russian disinformation campaign combined with voter suppression, were able to tilt the scales just enough if the swing states to take the Electoral College. Let’s be reminded that Clinton won the popular vote by almost 3 million, while Trump was able to take the Electoral votes of 3 states with just 70,000 votes combined.
12
But why are 75% of republican voters against this investigation? It boggles the mind.
5
Trump received 58% of the white vote in 2016 including 63% of white men and 54% of white women. They don't mind what bothers or boggles your mind. Coming from the state of Chris Christie and Corey Booker I suspect that your mind was already boggled.
There is another alternative to impeachment. If provable collusion between the Trump campaign and the Russians can be shown on a scale that indicates the likelihood that it caused Trump/Pence to be elected, indictments of those involved for espionage and/or treason could well lead to court action to set aside the election results based on election fraud. The federal courts would be asked to set aside the results and order a new election. This would ultimately be decided by the Supreme Court........place your bets. There is precedent for courts setting aside fraudulent election results and ordering new elections. Hope springs eternal.
5
So, is this before or after Neil Gorsuch?? -- You do know that he's on the same Steve Bannon-wavelength, don't you?
Let's face it, with Trump nominees stacking the Supreme Courts, there's not much chance of anything happening.
But by all means, don't give up on Hope.
Let's face it, with Trump nominees stacking the Supreme Courts, there's not much chance of anything happening.
But by all means, don't give up on Hope.
Vladimir Vladimirovich Putin intended to interfere in American politics and elections by any means in order to instill chaos and confusion about the credibility and competence of America's divided limited power democratic republic form of government.
Normally that is the job of Congress, the White House, the Supreme Court, mass media, Wall Street and the military-industrial complex.
The notion that Trump's team had the competence to conspire, collude and cooperate with Putin in order to achieve a specific outcome mistakes the puppet for the puppeteer master and the dummy for the ventriloquist. Poor Vladimir Putin has two jobs now- President of Russia and the United States. But he can't get any competent help to assist him in being our real American President.
Normally that is the job of Congress, the White House, the Supreme Court, mass media, Wall Street and the military-industrial complex.
The notion that Trump's team had the competence to conspire, collude and cooperate with Putin in order to achieve a specific outcome mistakes the puppet for the puppeteer master and the dummy for the ventriloquist. Poor Vladimir Putin has two jobs now- President of Russia and the United States. But he can't get any competent help to assist him in being our real American President.
2
It seems like what got hacked by the Russians has been completely forgotten, i.e. the sabotaging of the Bernie Sanders campaign by high-level people in the Democratic Party. That story needs to be pursued as well and should be easier to investigate than stuff going on in the Kremlin.
1
If Trump colluded with Russia in election fraud, the election should be invalidated. Allowing Pence,, Ryan, Tillerson, etc. to enjoy the fruits of the poisoned tree would be unjust. We must have either a new election or Hillary granted the win. The odds of so many Russian connections in the Trump administration are simply impossible for it to be coincidence.
5
Obama was right...trump is "woefully unprepared" for the office of president. He and his entourage will bring nothing but trouble.
4
Election fraud and election tampering is a federal crime. Anyone for whom sufficient evidence of such can be produced is subject to prosecution-which for the president of the United States would require articles of impeachment and a vote by congress to indict the president, at which point , Trump would be removed from office and Pence would assume the presidency. This is also not good, just lame.
In less then 100 days Trump has become a lame duck. Pence was and is a real lame duck. In no event should the Office of the President be seen as being a receptacle of lame ducks or broken down politicians.
In less then 100 days Trump has become a lame duck. Pence was and is a real lame duck. In no event should the Office of the President be seen as being a receptacle of lame ducks or broken down politicians.
2
A large part of the danger of a continuing Trump administration is that we will become numb to it, much like the frog in the increasingly heated water. He must be removed at the earliest even though Spence is no prize. At least he appears to be sane.
2
The Democratic Party has a lot o answer for in this situation. Their ineptitude and willingness to push lying Hillary regardless of the consequences has brought us here today. It's doubtful Trump will be removed so the Democrats needs to concentrate on a strategy to return to power.
Really?? ... "Lying Hillary"? That trope is dead -- or, didn't you know she received 3 MILLION more votes than Trump???
If we learn that Russia caused the wrong person to become president, then that election has become “Fake.” This should be grounds for a new election. I vote for Bernie Sanders, the modern day Robin Hood.
1
I continue to believe that if the Trump campaign is found to have colluded with the Russians the entire administration must go and that includes Pence. Then we should either have a new short election or give Hillary the presidency because Trump would have won illegally. I don't see any alternative because we need to show that this can never ever happen again.
3
The FBI Director pointed out in his testimony to the House Intelligence Committee stated that the FBI was also investigating whether any member of the Trump campaign engaged in criminal activity in its contacts with the Russians. It would seem to me (and I'd be interested in being told otherwise) that this could negate the results of the election: The Presidency would have been obtained by illegal means. What would happen at that point, I do not know.
Maybe a special election? But, at least, no Pence, Ryan, etc.! Anything short of that will be worse that leaving Trump in office. Trump, by dint of his political naiveté would likely not succeed in foisting his agenda on us. Pence and Ryan might be more successful.
Maybe a special election? But, at least, no Pence, Ryan, etc.! Anything short of that will be worse that leaving Trump in office. Trump, by dint of his political naiveté would likely not succeed in foisting his agenda on us. Pence and Ryan might be more successful.
2
The election issue is simply a red herring that will never be proven. This is about MONEY LAUNDERING on a grand scale ! The worse thing to happen to these players is that DJT won the election. Otherwise they could have contimnued under the radar.
3
As the moment when we have evidence for collusion, watch Trump divert our attention with, say, a pre-emptive strike on North Korea.
We are in the hands of evil men.
We are in the hands of evil men.
3
Shame on the third party nihilists who allowed this to happen. They are complicit in this national wound. They knew better, but had to have a fit.
3
First, any member of law enforcement will tell you that it is coincidences that are exceedingly rare! Still we need to understand the who, what, where and when of potential collusion before deciding how to proceed.
One thing is certain though. Our founders could never have imagined these circumstances. Affirmation of collusion calls the entire election into play. The ONLY solutions are to 1. convene the electoral college again, or 2. hold the election again.
The line of succession for the presidency must eliminate the vice president and secretary of state or any other cabinet member as they would be from the poisionous tree! We could live with Orrin Hatch as temporary president.
I know this sounds radical. But, these are unprecedented times, which no one ever imagined could happen. What is ethical should rule.
One thing is certain though. Our founders could never have imagined these circumstances. Affirmation of collusion calls the entire election into play. The ONLY solutions are to 1. convene the electoral college again, or 2. hold the election again.
The line of succession for the presidency must eliminate the vice president and secretary of state or any other cabinet member as they would be from the poisionous tree! We could live with Orrin Hatch as temporary president.
I know this sounds radical. But, these are unprecedented times, which no one ever imagined could happen. What is ethical should rule.
1
Towards understanding Putin's interference in our elections, it's helpful to look at which American figures accept, and which deny our intelligence agencies' assessments about the interference, and when they have accepted and/or denied those assessments.
During the Oct. 19, 2016 debate between Trump and Clinton, when the topic of Putin's interference in our elections arose, Trump forcefully denied that Russia had interfered in the elections. "Our country has no idea," he said, adding about Clinton "She has no idea."
Subsequently once elected, Trump was shown proof of Russian interference, and publicly acknowledged that the intelligence is authentic and that Russia interfered in our elections. However, Trump has since returned to calling the "Russia story" "fake" and "fake news."
Meanwhile, in September of 2016, when President Obama wanted to make a bi-partisan public announcement about Russian interference, McConnell rejected that initiative, saying that he was not convinced by the intelligence and that if Obama made any announcements about Russian interference, he, McConnell would accuse Obama of doing so for partisan purposes.
Senators John McCain and Lindsey Graham acknowledge that Russia interfered in our elections. Maybe Charles Blow could now follow up with Senator McConnell to see whether he acknowledges the Russian interference, and if so, why he, McConnell, acknowledges it now but did not in September of 2016.
During the Oct. 19, 2016 debate between Trump and Clinton, when the topic of Putin's interference in our elections arose, Trump forcefully denied that Russia had interfered in the elections. "Our country has no idea," he said, adding about Clinton "She has no idea."
Subsequently once elected, Trump was shown proof of Russian interference, and publicly acknowledged that the intelligence is authentic and that Russia interfered in our elections. However, Trump has since returned to calling the "Russia story" "fake" and "fake news."
Meanwhile, in September of 2016, when President Obama wanted to make a bi-partisan public announcement about Russian interference, McConnell rejected that initiative, saying that he was not convinced by the intelligence and that if Obama made any announcements about Russian interference, he, McConnell would accuse Obama of doing so for partisan purposes.
Senators John McCain and Lindsey Graham acknowledge that Russia interfered in our elections. Maybe Charles Blow could now follow up with Senator McConnell to see whether he acknowledges the Russian interference, and if so, why he, McConnell, acknowledges it now but did not in September of 2016.
2
I'm sure that audiences who appreciate comedy are pulling for a crippled, ineffective, but enduring President Trump. He's moderately entertaining himself, in a dark sort of way, but his impersonators and the wags who mock him are downright hilarious. I don't see nearly as much fun with a President Pence. Pence is more of a quiet mischief-maker, which could pose a problem for comedians. Trump is a goldmine, though, for comics--and journalists. As a lover of comedy, I'd say, as long as his policies are obstructed successfully, impeaching Trump would be inadvisable...strictly on the grounds of his entertainment value.
It seems not that long ago that CB and other Progressives lamented the lack of respect for our President. Yet, here we are. Instead of offering constructive criticism it is all vitriol. The populace has spoken and your candidate lost. Now it is time to root for America, not to undermine it.
We're rooting for America, alright, but not for this fraudulent, corrupt regime that demonstrates their disrespect for us and the truth every single day. To repeat, we're rooting for America . . . to survive and reject these gangsters before the damage they are doing domestically and globally is irreversible.
What is perhaps more worrying than the Russian interference itself is our partisan response, if the polls Mr. Blow cites are an accurate reflection of general opinions. The attitude seems to be, Russian interference is fine if it helped our candidate. What would be Democrats' response if Hillary Clinton had won the Electoral College and the presidency but lost the popular vote, with suggestions that her campaign had collaborated with a foreign government?
The presidential succession is what the vote decided along with the Electoral College's infamous shirking of it's admittedly ambiguous responsibility.
"Ambiguous" legalistically.
Because human beings interpret and apply the Constitution.
Our great nation's fragility is reality.
"Fragility" is of course my subjective or biased interpretation of our situation.
We are most deliberately not a pure democracy.
Our founders tried to hedge mob stupidity, irrationality and imprudence.
That's my contemporary interpretation.
They weren't unwise people.
Never mind their also slavery complication, which was true at the time.
It's water over the dam, darnit.
"Ambiguous" legalistically.
Because human beings interpret and apply the Constitution.
Our great nation's fragility is reality.
"Fragility" is of course my subjective or biased interpretation of our situation.
We are most deliberately not a pure democracy.
Our founders tried to hedge mob stupidity, irrationality and imprudence.
That's my contemporary interpretation.
They weren't unwise people.
Never mind their also slavery complication, which was true at the time.
It's water over the dam, darnit.
1
Stepping back for a moment, however the third act of this play turns out, Donald Trump's place in history is secure.
For generations to come, he will be remembered for the success of his remarkable marketing skills that got him into the White House, his abject failure as president and the extremely shallow, selfish, treasonous man revealed behind the curtain.
For generations to come, he will be remembered for the success of his remarkable marketing skills that got him into the White House, his abject failure as president and the extremely shallow, selfish, treasonous man revealed behind the curtain.
1
Thank you, Mr. Blow. I appreciate your single-minded approach to this. We need to keep the public's attention focused on the magnitude of the betrayal here.
I have noticed in the comments that there is a sense of anxiety - a fear that Trump will not be caught.
Here is what people should know. First, the Trump campaign was described as chaotic. And look at the administration now. They don't know what they are doing and the blunder from mistake to mistake. So during the campaign it is was even worse. In addition, there was a belief inside and outside the Trump campaign that Trump could never when. Trump was more than happy to engage with Russia (as we know he is more than happy to do anything and will win at any costs) because he was too stupid to appreciate the illegality of his dirty tricks. He didn't think it would matter becuase he never thought he would win.
My point is that these clowns left a trail of evidence that will be very easy to find. As has been well documented, Roger Stone, was bragging that the DNC attack was coming.
So the truth is going to come out. It will take a while because the case has to be perfect. In a world in which "alternative facts" are a thing and truth depends on your politcial party, the evidence has to be overwhelming. But it will come out.
I agree, getting rid of Trump is not so simple. We are left to choose among a bunch of really horrible options.
But it is a start.
I have noticed in the comments that there is a sense of anxiety - a fear that Trump will not be caught.
Here is what people should know. First, the Trump campaign was described as chaotic. And look at the administration now. They don't know what they are doing and the blunder from mistake to mistake. So during the campaign it is was even worse. In addition, there was a belief inside and outside the Trump campaign that Trump could never when. Trump was more than happy to engage with Russia (as we know he is more than happy to do anything and will win at any costs) because he was too stupid to appreciate the illegality of his dirty tricks. He didn't think it would matter becuase he never thought he would win.
My point is that these clowns left a trail of evidence that will be very easy to find. As has been well documented, Roger Stone, was bragging that the DNC attack was coming.
So the truth is going to come out. It will take a while because the case has to be perfect. In a world in which "alternative facts" are a thing and truth depends on your politcial party, the evidence has to be overwhelming. But it will come out.
I agree, getting rid of Trump is not so simple. We are left to choose among a bunch of really horrible options.
But it is a start.
10
Who is checking to see if Nunes had contact with Russians while on Trump's team?
26
Devon Nunes "Russian Connection" ~ Tulare California
Nunes family Vineyards are signed to an exclusive distribution deal with Russia's larges alcoholic beverage distributor.
The Russian connections in the Trump administration continue to multiple…..Coincidence?? Hardly.
Nunes family Vineyards are signed to an exclusive distribution deal with Russia's larges alcoholic beverage distributor.
The Russian connections in the Trump administration continue to multiple…..Coincidence?? Hardly.
I think that what you are saying Mr. Blow is that if it looks like collusion, walks like collusion, and sounds like collusion, it probably is. However, given the GOP mindset I doubt that anything will be done. Since Watergate the GOP has lived to defeat, demean, and denigrate the Democrats, liberals, and anyone who doesn't drink from the same poisoned tap as they. What's really ironic is that the party that was terrified of the Soviet Union, who helped with the 1950s witch hunts is the party that had help from a Soviet style Russia in getting their candidate elected into office. And the people who met with them after the election lied about the meetings. Had they not lied none of this would be going on.
Ethically challenged and morally dubious describes this entire administration to a Trump.
Ethically challenged and morally dubious describes this entire administration to a Trump.
43
Incalculable damage is being done to the country, to say nothing of our institutions of government, by this protracted carping about the election of 2016. There is neither precedent nor mechanism for setting aside election results nor any provision for electoral "do-overs”, period. That said, it's long since past time for people to stop complaining about things in the past that they can't change and start working on corrective and productive actions for the future.
9
Are you speaking to the Democrats here? Trump is still litigating the election to judge by the number of his tweets that bring up Clinton.The Democrats are more interested in hand wringing about whether Bernie or Joe would have been better candidates & would have won despite Russian interference.
It isn't as if demonstrated collusion between Trump & the Russians & a potential impeachment would hand the White House over to the Democrats, Mike Pence would be President if Trump was impeached, not Clinton. Pence's hands are "clearly" clean, whether or not they are actually clean.
The point of the brouhaha is to get to the truth of the matter, whether the Russians used their skills to tilt the election towards Trump. It isn't as if this kind of Russian nonsense hasn't been going on in Europe for years. Clearly the Russians would have interfered, regardless, but to have people on the inside of the Trump campaign aiding & abetting this is clearly a crime.
Whether it is a crime will be judged by the bipartisan committee formed, if Devin Nunes doesn't keep undermining it. The rest of Congress & the White House can go about governing as usual but if the spectacular failure of Nobamacare is an example of their skills at governance, good luck with blaming that on the Democrats. Trump tried & Everyone laughed. Trump is finding that it is easy to make all kinds of promises (judging by his "hard budget") but not so easy to carry them out. That is where skill is involved.
It isn't as if demonstrated collusion between Trump & the Russians & a potential impeachment would hand the White House over to the Democrats, Mike Pence would be President if Trump was impeached, not Clinton. Pence's hands are "clearly" clean, whether or not they are actually clean.
The point of the brouhaha is to get to the truth of the matter, whether the Russians used their skills to tilt the election towards Trump. It isn't as if this kind of Russian nonsense hasn't been going on in Europe for years. Clearly the Russians would have interfered, regardless, but to have people on the inside of the Trump campaign aiding & abetting this is clearly a crime.
Whether it is a crime will be judged by the bipartisan committee formed, if Devin Nunes doesn't keep undermining it. The rest of Congress & the White House can go about governing as usual but if the spectacular failure of Nobamacare is an example of their skills at governance, good luck with blaming that on the Democrats. Trump tried & Everyone laughed. Trump is finding that it is easy to make all kinds of promises (judging by his "hard budget") but not so easy to carry them out. That is where skill is involved.
Incalculable damage is being done to the country, to say nothing of our institutions of government, by the sinister results of the subverted election of 2016. The drunks are at the wheel and driving us toward a cliff. They only corrective action I can see is to seize the wheel.
Maybe the rest of us do not like sticking our heads in the sand, hoping a mentally ill man will not destroy us all.
Isn't there something in our vast body of law that addresses the situation wherein if an election is influenced by collusion between a candidate and foreign government, especially an enemy, then the election would be invalidated? And there would then be a new election rather than default to the succession protocols since they would be fruit of the poison tree?
14
I think the legal term is "sour grapes"
More than one commenter has written, "Election invalid; thus Trump and his entire administration are invalid; thus, there is no line of succession; ergo, the election should be done over or Hillary should be installed." I couldn't agree more with the sentiment, but there's no Constitutional provision for a fraudulent election. Should this play out, it will end up in the courts. Without legal precedent (perhaps some local cases of election fraud?) and no Constitutional mechanism, what outcome could satisfy a divided nation? Our country is truly in uncharted waters - the rocks lay directly ahead.
It would be reasonable to assume that Trump's Tweet would not have supported immunity for Flynn if Flynn were planning to implicate the President in a conflict of interest scenario or collusion with Russian interference in our election. But we cannot assume that Trump can reason his way from a principle to a precept for action--unless the principle is simply self-interest rather than any ethical consideration.
So I conclude that when Flynn testifies, he would be cooperating in a cover-up in telling "his story" to either Congressional Intel committee. No, subpoena him and let him take the Fifth Amendment. We need prosecution of any American cooperating in election interference just as much as we need the facts!
So I conclude that when Flynn testifies, he would be cooperating in a cover-up in telling "his story" to either Congressional Intel committee. No, subpoena him and let him take the Fifth Amendment. We need prosecution of any American cooperating in election interference just as much as we need the facts!
26
If Trump is impeached and convicted of high treason the people he picked will be illegitimate; not ethical by common standards.
A new election without Wealthy Citizens United with all the money they can use for unethical influence against Not-wealthy Citizens is needed to save our nation.
Freedom is freedom to speak ones thoughtful mind freely and have ones thoughts given respectful consideration. Freedom does not mean doing anything you desire no matter how much damage or chaos it creates for other people.
A new election without Wealthy Citizens United with all the money they can use for unethical influence against Not-wealthy Citizens is needed to save our nation.
Freedom is freedom to speak ones thoughtful mind freely and have ones thoughts given respectful consideration. Freedom does not mean doing anything you desire no matter how much damage or chaos it creates for other people.
17
Coincidences or not, it seems that an independent investigation is warranted to salvage the faith of the people in the government.
If no one did anything of concern, nothing will be found.
If no one did anything of concern, nothing will be found.
15
"If no one did anything of concern, nothing will be found"
Not necessarily true, and that's the problem. The various investigations including and especially the F.B.I.'s investigation are not being conducted to remove any suspicion of wrongdoing, but rather to find wrongdoing that is illegal and prosecutable. What happens if the F.B.I. discovers wrongdoing that they feel is not prosecutable? Will that information even get out of the F.B.I.? What if the F.B.I. finds information that is grossly illegal and prosecutable, but is so sensitive to national security and classified that they cannot act on it, or even share it?
Not necessarily true, and that's the problem. The various investigations including and especially the F.B.I.'s investigation are not being conducted to remove any suspicion of wrongdoing, but rather to find wrongdoing that is illegal and prosecutable. What happens if the F.B.I. discovers wrongdoing that they feel is not prosecutable? Will that information even get out of the F.B.I.? What if the F.B.I. finds information that is grossly illegal and prosecutable, but is so sensitive to national security and classified that they cannot act on it, or even share it?
Best case is for Pence to be implicated and and in two years dems win the house then impeach.
9
It strains credulity to believe Pence is just a babe in the woods. He's dirty like all the others.
I certainly agree that there really is no "good" outcome to any of the potential scenarios and huge questions remain on what would happen if the worst is revealed as truth. The offenses being investigated are not the offenses of one person, but the collective violations of an entire campaign. The reality is that evidence of this crime if it does exist does not just delegitimize 45, but his entire administration and all of the appointments and executive decisions he made while in a position that was acquired through acts of treason. American citizens would not tolerate living with under the damaging remnants of an illegitimate administration nor should they have to. There would be no option but to demand a new election and put profound limits on the powers of the "acting, place-holder" government put in place until the new elections could be held. Who ever thought we would have to be entertaining such dystopian thought exercises, but such is the sad reality of our time.
13
Tax Returns, Tax Returns, Tax Returns!
18
It's too bad that the public hearings about Russia's attacks on our elections have been sidetracked because they could have been highly instructive to voters in both France and Germany who are probably seeing very similar attempts being made to disrupt their elections. 70 years of peace would seem to be worth maintaining yet what we're witnessing are intense and coordinated attacks against both European unity and the guarantor of peace - NATO. Instead, the world is treated to early morning twitter tantrums by our tweeter in chief who, for all the world, appears to be doing his best to distract and divert attention from our investigations and sow doubt about the veracity of our and the rest of the free world's intelligence agencies.
The coincidences between these actions, the timing of these actions and the details of the Steele Dossier are increasingly hard to ignore and both we and our allies need to pay attention to what's happening instead of yelling 'squirrel' and hoping that the hunting dog gets run over by an oncoming vehicle.
The coincidences between these actions, the timing of these actions and the details of the Steele Dossier are increasingly hard to ignore and both we and our allies need to pay attention to what's happening instead of yelling 'squirrel' and hoping that the hunting dog gets run over by an oncoming vehicle.
10
As SOS, HRC interfered with Russian elections in an effort to undermine Putin. She has admitted publicly that Russian interference in our recent election was in large part retaliation for her actions. Why is this being left out of all the media coverage. And the most recent reports I have heard have said that yes, the Russians were interfering, that the US Government was aware of and monitoring it, that the candidates being targeted included Trump and Sanders, that they were completely unaware of it, and that the government decided not to inform them about what was going on.
And why have the Democrats aligned themselves with the Neocons? It is the Neocons who took us into Iraq who most hate Trump's coziness with Putin. I voted for Obama as a vote against the Neocons and the Iraq War. I voted for Trump for the exact same reasons.
And why have the Democrats aligned themselves with the Neocons? It is the Neocons who took us into Iraq who most hate Trump's coziness with Putin. I voted for Obama as a vote against the Neocons and the Iraq War. I voted for Trump for the exact same reasons.
1
Strawman argument. You create a false narrative and then ask why no one has followed up on it.
HRC issued public statements during elections in Russia stating, correctly, that the elections were not 'free and fair'. A citizenry with access only to state controlled media tends to vote reflective of their misinformation. That level of 'interference' is not quite equal to thousand of Russian bots, hundreds of millions in laundered money to Trump, a campaign and transition team composed of Putin beholden operatives.
The irony is that right wing corporate controlled media swung many US voters with whacky conspiracy theories. US voters turned out to be nearly as gullible as Russians, without the excuse of no access to competing, correct data. (Propaganda did not produce an 80% majority for Trump, as Vlad enjoyed, in fact not even a plurality. But still enough votes swung to put a Russian stooge in the Oval office.)
The irony is that right wing corporate controlled media swung many US voters with whacky conspiracy theories. US voters turned out to be nearly as gullible as Russians, without the excuse of no access to competing, correct data. (Propaganda did not produce an 80% majority for Trump, as Vlad enjoyed, in fact not even a plurality. But still enough votes swung to put a Russian stooge in the Oval office.)
Tragically, with gerrymandering and money in politics to the extent we see today, Trump and his cabal are merely the current iteration of corruption. Unless the American people awaken to that reality and the electoral consequences we are now suffering as a direct result, and there is virtually no evidence to that effect, dark days are ahead.
19
"interfere in our election" can mean many things, from changing the voting machines to just news releases aimed to influence.
The Russians did something. We don't know exactly what, it is yet to be determined in public.
It makes a big difference just what the "interference" was. Some of that we do all the time, they do all the time, and it has never been a real problem. Some of course could be a very big problem.
Release of verifiable true information is not the same outrage as tinkering with voting machines. Leaks are not the same as planting lies, and neither is the same as changing the numbers.
The Russians did something. We don't know exactly what, it is yet to be determined in public.
It makes a big difference just what the "interference" was. Some of that we do all the time, they do all the time, and it has never been a real problem. Some of course could be a very big problem.
Release of verifiable true information is not the same outrage as tinkering with voting machines. Leaks are not the same as planting lies, and neither is the same as changing the numbers.
8
It would be nice if at every Trump and Republican event people would come to chant loudly, "Lock him up."
99
For what reason? Spite isn't a law. And you wonder why you lost.
1
"Lock them ALL up."
We may never know exactly what happened but beneath the surface of bluster and blunder of this administration are at least two frightening challenges we need to confront: 1) Now that a master marketer and his extremist billionaire cohort have proven that our electoral process can be manipulated, positioning a dangerous self-proclaimed enemy of the state, Steve Bannon, in an unelected position of such power, how do we get him out before a lot more damage is done, and 2) Is the outcome of the 2016 election so tainted that the order of succession should be situationally voided, and everyone connected with the Trump administration should be rejected and legally replaced?
Without even mentioning the obvious smoke, which sadly may never be "proven", even though most Americans rightly know that it's pretty obvious that there has been some collusion, the LA Times had a devastating Op Ed yesterday on the presidency.
28
IK,
Thanks for sharing. Just read it and will read the other parts that are forthcoming. I'm at a loss for words right now because if these actions were done by Mrs. Clinton or President Obama, some sort of medical or impeachment proceedings would have begun by now.
The election of Mr. Trump was the perfect storm. The rise of social media, the innate hatred of a Black Man who was our president, the rise of false narratives, the vail of Christianity and the illusion of religious freedom, the greed of non philanthropic wealthy folks and the naivety of poor folks, the bitterness that "my candidate" didn't make it past the primaries, the people that didn't know who to believe that stayed home, the press's misogyny and laser like focus on minimal issues, Russian interference, inexperience and lukewarm pastors that had no business supporting a candidate regardless of party. I am really most disappointed in some of my Brothers and Sisters who confess Jesus Christ came in the flesh and is the Son of God than any other factor. So much so that I fellowship with a small group of people on a phone conference versus going to a church to hear a pastor that has used the pulpit for personal or political gain. These things should not be, but they are and it brings tears to my eyes. I have to give President Trump, Mr. Pence, Vladimir Putin and all of our government branches to the Lord because it is weighing on my heart and I hate to see my country like this. All I can do is pray.
Thanks for sharing. Just read it and will read the other parts that are forthcoming. I'm at a loss for words right now because if these actions were done by Mrs. Clinton or President Obama, some sort of medical or impeachment proceedings would have begun by now.
The election of Mr. Trump was the perfect storm. The rise of social media, the innate hatred of a Black Man who was our president, the rise of false narratives, the vail of Christianity and the illusion of religious freedom, the greed of non philanthropic wealthy folks and the naivety of poor folks, the bitterness that "my candidate" didn't make it past the primaries, the people that didn't know who to believe that stayed home, the press's misogyny and laser like focus on minimal issues, Russian interference, inexperience and lukewarm pastors that had no business supporting a candidate regardless of party. I am really most disappointed in some of my Brothers and Sisters who confess Jesus Christ came in the flesh and is the Son of God than any other factor. So much so that I fellowship with a small group of people on a phone conference versus going to a church to hear a pastor that has used the pulpit for personal or political gain. These things should not be, but they are and it brings tears to my eyes. I have to give President Trump, Mr. Pence, Vladimir Putin and all of our government branches to the Lord because it is weighing on my heart and I hate to see my country like this. All I can do is pray.
3
Yes, it's the first of four parts and highly recommended reading:
http://www.latimes.com/projects/la-ed-our-dishonest-president/#nt=oft13a...
http://www.latimes.com/projects/la-ed-our-dishonest-president/#nt=oft13a...
1
The LA Times editorial last night was one of the most incredible things I think I have ever read in my life; it is newsworthy all on its own.
....and watching MSNBC this morning was same with Mika and Joe suggesting it was time to invoke the 25th Amendment. And these are his friends.....
....and watching MSNBC this morning was same with Mika and Joe suggesting it was time to invoke the 25th Amendment. And these are his friends.....
Re: line of succession if president is impeached due to Russian meddling: I recently heard that the meddling included tampering with street maps in big cities in states like Michigan, which resulted in disqualifying legitimate voters by poll workers who couldn't find the street the voter claimed to live on, according to a trusted British source. If this is found to be true, the president would not be legitimate, the vice president would also be disqualified. If this cheating affected the House and Senate, we would have a different line of succession, and cabinet heads appointed by an illegitimate president would also be questionable. Would this then be a question for the Supreme Court? And assuming the president had appointed a justice by then, would he / she be legitimately able to vote on the question?
27
When I think of the damage Trump et al have done in two months, it is terrifying to consider what they will do in the next two years.
Simply waiting for the mid-terms is not enough. Neither will a constant barrage of emails and letters to one's congress person, although there is satisfaction in such annoyance. My neighbors, and some good friends voted republican; the least I can do, and it will cost friendships, is to remind them of what that vote has wrought. i can only hope they wake up to the disaster our rep. is; Mark Meadows, chair of the so-called Freedom caucus, should be out to pasture.
Simply waiting for the mid-terms is not enough. Neither will a constant barrage of emails and letters to one's congress person, although there is satisfaction in such annoyance. My neighbors, and some good friends voted republican; the least I can do, and it will cost friendships, is to remind them of what that vote has wrought. i can only hope they wake up to the disaster our rep. is; Mark Meadows, chair of the so-called Freedom caucus, should be out to pasture.
35
"Remember, democracy never lasts long. It soon wastes, exhausts, & murders itself. There never was a democracy yet that did not commit suicide." - John Adams
"When Fascism comes to America, it will be wrapped in the flag & carrying the cross." - Sinclair Lewis
"I see in the near future a crisis approaching that unnerves me & causes me to tremble for the safety of my country...Corporations have been enthroned, an era of corruption in high places will follow, & the money-power of the country will endeavor to prolong its reign by working upon the prejudices of the people until the wealth is aggregated in a few hands & the Republic is destroyed." - Abraham Lincoln
"There is...an artificial aristocracy founded on wealth & birth, without either virtue or talents....The artificial aristocracy is a mischievous ingredient in government, & provisions should be made to prevent its ascendancy.” - Thomas Jefferson
"We can have a democratic society or we can have the concentration of great wealth in the hands of the few. We cannot have both." - Louis Brandeis, Supreme Court Justice
"If Tyranny & Oppression come to this land, it will be in the guise of fighting a foreign enemy." - James Madison
The accumulation of all powers, legislative, executive, & judiciary, in the same hands, whether of one, a few, or many, & whether hereditary, self appointed, or elective, may justly be pronounced the very definition of tyranny. - Federalist No. 47
We have been warned again and again...
"When Fascism comes to America, it will be wrapped in the flag & carrying the cross." - Sinclair Lewis
"I see in the near future a crisis approaching that unnerves me & causes me to tremble for the safety of my country...Corporations have been enthroned, an era of corruption in high places will follow, & the money-power of the country will endeavor to prolong its reign by working upon the prejudices of the people until the wealth is aggregated in a few hands & the Republic is destroyed." - Abraham Lincoln
"There is...an artificial aristocracy founded on wealth & birth, without either virtue or talents....The artificial aristocracy is a mischievous ingredient in government, & provisions should be made to prevent its ascendancy.” - Thomas Jefferson
"We can have a democratic society or we can have the concentration of great wealth in the hands of the few. We cannot have both." - Louis Brandeis, Supreme Court Justice
"If Tyranny & Oppression come to this land, it will be in the guise of fighting a foreign enemy." - James Madison
The accumulation of all powers, legislative, executive, & judiciary, in the same hands, whether of one, a few, or many, & whether hereditary, self appointed, or elective, may justly be pronounced the very definition of tyranny. - Federalist No. 47
We have been warned again and again...
With regard to neighbors and friends, being confrontational rarely results in a positive outcome. If your goal is to get them to see things differently you need to think strategically and not respond based on feelings.
Some ideas.
Find common ground. Do they want safe schools, safe streets, clean water, reasonably priced healthcare, decent jobs...?
Of course! We all do. Then the question becomes HOW to achieve these goals. You've already found the common ground.
Now search for solutions based on what has worked in the past, or in other places. What does the science say?
In this way you help your neighbors to start making RATIONAL political decisions.
There's no need to delve into the divisive issues, abortion, Trump/Russia... These will only put up walls between you and your neighbors and you won't reach your goal of changing their views.
Some ideas.
Find common ground. Do they want safe schools, safe streets, clean water, reasonably priced healthcare, decent jobs...?
Of course! We all do. Then the question becomes HOW to achieve these goals. You've already found the common ground.
Now search for solutions based on what has worked in the past, or in other places. What does the science say?
In this way you help your neighbors to start making RATIONAL political decisions.
There's no need to delve into the divisive issues, abortion, Trump/Russia... These will only put up walls between you and your neighbors and you won't reach your goal of changing their views.
1
The standards of evidence could be compared to other areas. In the issue of trust-busting, usually corporations didn't DIRECTLY collude with each other, not even a face-to-face nod-and-wink at the top level, but consequences were felt by the consumer. This is not only about the specific disinformation and other cyberinfluence by Russian agents, we have to ask did the Trump organization move to distance themselves from that foreign interference, or did they embrace it as their opportunity?
The threshold of guilt can also be compared to RICO investigations in which criminal organizations keep their leaders 'clean' of specific crimes, with scanty information on how much the boss knows about the details of the crimes, but the boss has somehow given assent to the outcomes.
The threshold of guilt can also be compared to RICO investigations in which criminal organizations keep their leaders 'clean' of specific crimes, with scanty information on how much the boss knows about the details of the crimes, but the boss has somehow given assent to the outcomes.
7
Your remarks about succession remind me that since there is not historical precedent for an invalid election, what would be the process for the V word (void the election) rather than the I word, (impeachment). Is there any legal basis for holding another election?
64
What's troubling to me is the 59% of Republicans who don't think an investigation is necessary. A hostile foreign power has definitely meddled in a presidential election - where is the outrage from these flag-waving, constitution-loving patriots?
Party over country - in this circumstance, that is doubly despicable.
Party over country - in this circumstance, that is doubly despicable.
126
Hard to believe 59% are Tories at heart but then they voted for a Tory. Tory, someone who supported royalty over Democracy.
The American people need to demand, with an insistency and resolve heretofore never seen, and independent investigation. Republicans who hinder an independent investigation have to be held accountable for aiding and abetting treason and money laundering.
Some Trump supporters wouldn't care if he put portraits of Lenin, Stalin, Mao, Castro, and Hitler in the Oval Office & bows down to them daily, as long as he & the GOP congress make massive tax cuts for the rich. Corps & financial institutions are only interested in getting restrictions that protect the public from their predation removed. Evangelicals just want to overturn gay rights & abortion. The alt-right just wants a nation run by white males & a return to Jim Crow & segregation (some want to allow only whites in the country). Some are so desperate, having been ignored by both parties since Reagan took office, that they continue to blindly hope Trump will deliver on his promises to them (the way he did when he hustled scams like Trump U., Trump Steaks, Trump made in China clothes, Trump Shuttle, & Trump Vodka). Some want to see neo-fascism replace democracy, where those who don't agree with them can be silenced or punished. Some just like to see an outsider "give it" to the establishment and all of the people they hate and fear - the "other." The rest are part of a cult of personality that has arisen around Trump, the ultimate manipulative conman. With the exception of the corporations, banks, and billionaires, most are motivated by fear, hatred and rage, & they like Trump because he enables these feelings & gives them permission to come out into the open through his own behavior. If North Korea called Trump & offered help hacking the 2018 elections, he would say yes.
If it is determined that Trump won the election through collusion with the Russians, then that should disqualify his running mate--and the entire Republican ticket-- from the 'succession.' If Trump was falsely elected by means of treason, then there must be a legal barrier to having Pence--and indeed those who benefited from that lever--ascend to the Presidency.
40
"But I also understand the order of succession and that, too, gives me pause."
If the day comes when trump is impeached as a result of his campaign's collusion with the Russians, then it is both unacceptable and illogical that we respect the 'order of succession'.
Pence is where he is today because of that same collusion. Russia's intent to deny Clinton the Presidency has still succeeded.
The only acceptable outcome would be a new election free of foreign influence.
If the day comes when trump is impeached as a result of his campaign's collusion with the Russians, then it is both unacceptable and illogical that we respect the 'order of succession'.
Pence is where he is today because of that same collusion. Russia's intent to deny Clinton the Presidency has still succeeded.
The only acceptable outcome would be a new election free of foreign influence.
36
Flynn's motives for seeking immunity are related not so much to providing evidence of collusion by and between himself, the Russians and Trump administration and, or campaign as they are to avoid felony charges for other, as yet unclear, misconduct while in and out of government.
Likewise, the flamboyant long time Trump friend, consultant and whisperer, Roger Stone, has also come forward ( as recently as Friday night on Bill Maher) with an offer to testify before the committees to show, once and for all, that he is not linked to Russia, colluding with Russia, Gucifer, etc., But, Stone may be merely polishing his brand knowing full well he has nothing to offer. He is, like Nunes, just another distraction, possibly engineered by Trump's people to obfuscate, misdirect and confuse.
It will take time to follow the bread crumbs and see where they lead. In the meantime people seeking immunity, otherwise falling on their swords, opening their kimonos, need to be looked at with skepticism. The government , though slow, needs to make it's case, which takes time. Others need not try and make the case for them.
Likewise, the flamboyant long time Trump friend, consultant and whisperer, Roger Stone, has also come forward ( as recently as Friday night on Bill Maher) with an offer to testify before the committees to show, once and for all, that he is not linked to Russia, colluding with Russia, Gucifer, etc., But, Stone may be merely polishing his brand knowing full well he has nothing to offer. He is, like Nunes, just another distraction, possibly engineered by Trump's people to obfuscate, misdirect and confuse.
It will take time to follow the bread crumbs and see where they lead. In the meantime people seeking immunity, otherwise falling on their swords, opening their kimonos, need to be looked at with skepticism. The government , though slow, needs to make it's case, which takes time. Others need not try and make the case for them.
6
Among other things, he received annual salaries from Turkey throughout the campaign & never registered as a foreign agent until retroactively a couple of weeks ago, when the news went public. He has also received millions from at least one Russian oligarch. And, that's not even considering what he did to launder his secret payments. Who knows what he may have told the Russians during the months he had access to the PDB (highly secret President's Daily Briefing) during the transition and as National Security Advisor. There's also the very good chance that he did NOT lie to Pence, who claimed he only found out about Flynn when it went public. Long before Pence claimed to have found out that Flynn "lied" to him about non-involvement, Elijah Cummings, Acting AG Sally Yates, & even Flynn's own lawyers wrote or told the transition team (headed by Pence) about Flynn's long-term acting as an illegal, undeclared foreign agent for Turkey & possible other foreign powers. So, did Flynn lie to Pence or is Pence lying to protect himself? Would Flynn STILL be the National Security Advisor if the Fourth Estate hadn't dug up the goods on him.
As paranoid as it may be, our 'friends', the Russians, may be crafting a great deal of what may now 'leak' out about their involvement with the campaign of the current administration to maximally harm the United States going forward. Having seen just how untrustworthy President Trump is as a potential partner, why would they not double-down on their efforts to hijack the election so as to cripple our democracy for the foreseeable future?
4
It is equally likely that the Russians are (for now) keeping secret Trump's dependence on Russian financing, deep indebtedness to Putin's banks, & involvement in laundering oligarchs' money to use in the near future (once the public loses interest in the investigations) to quietly mold American policy, both foreign & domestic. The Russians are, no doubt, already putting the mechanisms in place to influence the elections of 2018 and 2020, just as they are doing today in France & Germany.
Just one case that should have already forced Trump's impeachment, removal, & criminal trial is the Trump Tower Baku (Azerbaijan), where Trump failed to do due diligence irequired by law, nvestigating his partners, Zia & Amar Mammadov (Foreign Policy mag calls them "The Corleone's of the Caucuses"). Zia (Treasury Secretary at the time) amassed billions on his $12,000 a year salary by laundering money from the Iranian Republican Guard through construction projects so the money could evade the sanctions & go to terrorist groups like Hezbollah. Trump has received money from this deal, which makes him a candidate for prison.
Frederic Bourke, of Dooney & Bourke handbags, conspired with Czech Viktor Kožený, ("The Pirate of Prague") to bribe Azerbaijani officials in 1998. Although Bourke didn't personally do the bribery, Kožený was his partner & Bourke failed to do due diligence. Bourke ended up with a $1 million fine and a year & a day in Jail. He never even received any money, unlike Trump.
Just one case that should have already forced Trump's impeachment, removal, & criminal trial is the Trump Tower Baku (Azerbaijan), where Trump failed to do due diligence irequired by law, nvestigating his partners, Zia & Amar Mammadov (Foreign Policy mag calls them "The Corleone's of the Caucuses"). Zia (Treasury Secretary at the time) amassed billions on his $12,000 a year salary by laundering money from the Iranian Republican Guard through construction projects so the money could evade the sanctions & go to terrorist groups like Hezbollah. Trump has received money from this deal, which makes him a candidate for prison.
Frederic Bourke, of Dooney & Bourke handbags, conspired with Czech Viktor Kožený, ("The Pirate of Prague") to bribe Azerbaijani officials in 1998. Although Bourke didn't personally do the bribery, Kožený was his partner & Bourke failed to do due diligence. Bourke ended up with a $1 million fine and a year & a day in Jail. He never even received any money, unlike Trump.
As others have noted, if the campaign was compromised then the results of the election are tainted. I am not aware of a legal recourse for this situation but we need to start thinking about the possibility.
The line of succession applies to someone legally elected and events taking place after that fact. I hope that someone is working on a mechanism for a new election to take place. If collusion actually took place, this would be the only way for the people to have confidence in the legitimacy of the President.
The line of succession applies to someone legally elected and events taking place after that fact. I hope that someone is working on a mechanism for a new election to take place. If collusion actually took place, this would be the only way for the people to have confidence in the legitimacy of the President.
26
Dems should learn from the GOP miscues and develop policies NOW to counter any GOP plans. At least then there is some debate on the merits of any policies.
The other benefit is that policy positions and details will be worked out and ready for when Dems take over the senate and WH in 2020.
The other benefit is that policy positions and details will be worked out and ready for when Dems take over the senate and WH in 2020.
3
No matter what the evidence, no matter how much corruption, how many lies, how many destructive policies Trump and his circle of grifters are shown to be responsible for, his lemming followers will cheer. The threat to American democracy is real and imminent. Look into the historical mirror of Europe in the 1920's and 1930's and you will see it all.
24
A good question to ask is: will this coup be obfuscated and lied about and all information buried for 50 years like the JFK assassination?
4
Unmentioned in this column is the possibility that the Republicans themselves will dispatch Trump when it suits them. They are, after all, not just his enablers, but the key to this tenure in the White House. To cite just one factor: They have the power to force the release of his tax returns, and since the comments sections isn't bound by journalistic ethics, I'm happy to state categorically that there is more than enough evidence of shady dealing in them to undo his "Presidency." The trendline is definitely moving in a downward direction for this administration, so besides being competent and less likely to get in his own way, a President Pence would rid the GOP of a troublesome focus of Progressive rage for 2018 and beyond. We're less than 100 days in at this point; if the situation hasn't improved by this November (and I suspect it will only get worse), expect the Republicans to pull the trigger on Trump.
6
Is there a rationale for a "fruits of the poisoned tree" argument? If Trump is illegitimate, does that make his cabinet choices also illegitimate?
18
In a contest governed by laws and norms, when a candidate cheats, the result is thrown out. If there is suspicion of cheating, the result is suspended until an expert panel can rule on the evidence. By the standard for stripping Olympic athletes of their medals, this president was convicted of doping long ago and should be bounced out in disgrace.
It's time to stop describing the United States as a 'democracy' if rules and laws stop having meaning.
It's time to stop describing the United States as a 'democracy' if rules and laws stop having meaning.
18
It is all a no-lose game for the Russians: America is destabilized, confused, no matter what. Witness the suspicions, the distractions, the investigations, the lack of trust in the democratic process and media, the huge divisions among us, the extreme policy changes, poor governance, the destruction of truth and objectivity.. We as a democratic republic need to not just resist, but join together around the need to survive together and prevail and build a future on a strong foundation.
14
Trump's best, and perhaps only, defense is the unsavory cast of characters lined up in possible succession. While none may be as individually as damaged an person as Trump, each carries the potential to do great damage to our Union. Furthermore, though each has his own list of failures trailing along (Pence rescinding his so-called religious freedom act in Indiana - Ryan his shattered reputation as an intellectual (make that ineffectual) - Tillerson has Exxon's funding of junk climate change denial science - Mnuchin has his certainly illegal foreclosures stealing the homes of tens of thousands) each is way more competent than our president. Well maybe Ryan isn't but the others have achieved something running large organizations or states beside bankruptcy that is.
It is Trump's incompetence, augmented by his nepotism and surrounding himself with sycophants that may be the best way to prevent the greatest disaster of which he has the potential to produce. However, I personally believe that he can't stand the heat and will crack under pressure long before impeachment becomes likely. Either way, I hope that the voters wake up and realize what a den of thieves the GOP has become andabegin the corrective process in 2018.
It is Trump's incompetence, augmented by his nepotism and surrounding himself with sycophants that may be the best way to prevent the greatest disaster of which he has the potential to produce. However, I personally believe that he can't stand the heat and will crack under pressure long before impeachment becomes likely. Either way, I hope that the voters wake up and realize what a den of thieves the GOP has become andabegin the corrective process in 2018.
15
It's not just the campaign and election, it's Trump's source of business funds. No American banks will lend to him. Then he was shut out by Deutsche Bank, and moved over to their private banking side. We're pretty sure a "disproportionate share of his assets" are Russian investors. These are clear foreign emoluments. All these financial records need to be subpoenaed and examined by an independent investigator, clearly with subpoena power.
22
When Trump is eventually impeached the baton cannot be passed on to another Trumpist who also colluded in and profited from stealing the election and spitting on our Constitution! Instead we MUST have a special election and start over. If this requires amending the Constitution, do be it.
14
You might consider, given Trump's demonstrated incompetence, that this is in fact all smoke. Where is the evidence Trump can do anything!
2
The executive orders have and will continue to inflict massive damage upon our society and indeed the earth itself.
I regard impeachment proceedings as prompted by the President's obstruction of justice in the seduction of the Chairman of the House Intelligence Committee, while under duly authorized investigation by the United States Congress. Now, if you'd like to worry about who comes next, don't talk to me about justice.
2
American voters were aware of Russia’s preference for Donald Trump only because Hillary Clinton made it a major talking point in her campaign speeches and debates. In an October debate, she said Putin backed Trump because “he’d rather have a puppet as president of the United States.” There no doubt Russian support cost Trump votes. The intelligence community report (“Assessing Russian Activities and Intentions in Recent US Elections”) states, “Beginning in June, Putin’s public comments about the US presidential race avoided directly praising President-elect Trump, probably because Kremlin officials thought that any praise from Putin personally would backfire in the United States.”
1
Trump income tax returns....
Trump income tax returns....
Trump income tax returns....
Trump income tax returns....
Trump income tax returns....
Trump income tax returns....
That's where you will find how to connect the dots!
Trump income tax returns....
Trump income tax returns....
Trump income tax returns....
Trump income tax returns....
Trump income tax returns....
That's where you will find how to connect the dots!
29
I am begining to suspect that the GOP establishment expected Trump to fail so miserably he would either quit in disgust or be impeached for being stupid enough to fall for Putin's direct measures and disinformation. That's why it cynically backed a man totally unfit for the job, hoping all along that Pence would end up being president. Trouble is that Pence Ryan, McConnell and the rest of the American Taliban were so eager to impose their right-wing Evangelical agenda on our country they overlooked the Russian meddling -- which may by itself amount to treason -- as well as ignoring the Trump family's mountain of conflicts of interest, ethics violations and blatant disregard for the emoluments clause. Pence, as transition chief, was in charge of vetting Trump's coterie, so he must have known about many of the Russian contacts as well as Flynn's lobbying on behalf of the Turks and Kushner's playing footsie with the Chinese. Yet he did nothing about it. So he may be swept up in whatever scandals ensue, as will Bannon, Ivanka and many of Trump's apparently unvetted Cabinet picks.
11
A Trump four years would be more acceptable than his successor. He is so inept that any damage to our country would be minimal. Pence and or Ryan would gut our democracy. Keep Trump in office, just keep the reins on. 2018 and 2020 will hopefully bring us back to normal. Fix the problem not make it worse. I am 88 years old, I hope I live long enough to see my COUNTRY on the right path again.
12
The only correct solution to the problem of this election being stolen by collusion with the Russians (a treasonous act!) is to disqualify Trump and give the presidency to the person that won it by a margin of almost 3 million votes, Hillary Clinton. Let's get some sane, competent and honest government again!
6
It took almost an entire year of investigations during the whole Watergate debacle to bring Richard Nixon down. I still believe Trump and his minions will be brought down. I have to believe it because I don't think this country and the world will survive if Trump remains in office for the next 4 years.
8
It's a worrisome tangle in the upper reaches of the US statutory line of succession and the worries go down the line like this for the first three: (1) Trump confidently calling for Russian help on email leaks of HRC and the Democratic Party; (2) Pence hearing about Flynn's questionable conduct and doing nothing about it for weeks; and (3) Ryan having talked to Nunes before Nunes went to the White House.
Yup, something bigger than Watergate is going on here.
Yup, something bigger than Watergate is going on here.
5
In a Court of Law, its innocent until proven guilty. In the court of Public Opinion, sometimes the evidence is overwhelmingly obvious. All that's missing is the investigation and trial to prove it.
In the case of Trump and the republican party, failure to investigate, or investigating with Devin Nunes as the principal investigator , simply adds to the obvious. Let's face it, with the resistance being put up by the republicans, and Nunes' already, damaged beyond repair reputation, the current "investigation into the "truth" has been devolving from the outset into a sham.
While this process unfolds, Trump and his cronies continue to drain, not the swamp, but the coiffeurs of the American people. With the Fox Bogus News' working full time to disseminate nonsense to its addicted viewers, Trump will go on for quite some time, given their ongoing desperation for a savior.
Dreams about impeaching Trump are just that.The only light at the end of this tunnel is the midterm elections, and given how people in this country vote and don't vote, that "light" could turn to darkness very quickly.
In the case of Trump and the republican party, failure to investigate, or investigating with Devin Nunes as the principal investigator , simply adds to the obvious. Let's face it, with the resistance being put up by the republicans, and Nunes' already, damaged beyond repair reputation, the current "investigation into the "truth" has been devolving from the outset into a sham.
While this process unfolds, Trump and his cronies continue to drain, not the swamp, but the coiffeurs of the American people. With the Fox Bogus News' working full time to disseminate nonsense to its addicted viewers, Trump will go on for quite some time, given their ongoing desperation for a savior.
Dreams about impeaching Trump are just that.The only light at the end of this tunnel is the midterm elections, and given how people in this country vote and don't vote, that "light" could turn to darkness very quickly.
2
We all knew before the election that Trump's business success rested, to a significant degree, on shafting every business partner that came into his orbit. What we are now learning is that his businesses also received major, if not primary, support from Iranian terrorist groups & Eastern European oligarchs who were laundering their billions gained from plundering their countries.
But you are dreaming if you think the Republican party intends to do anything about it, as long as Trump makes them wealthier than they already are. Trump just needs to keep changing all the rules in their favor and he is welcome to "shoot somebody in the head on 5th Avenue", as he once said, with no consequence.
But you are dreaming if you think the Republican party intends to do anything about it, as long as Trump makes them wealthier than they already are. Trump just needs to keep changing all the rules in their favor and he is welcome to "shoot somebody in the head on 5th Avenue", as he once said, with no consequence.
3
"An international embarrassment" is exactly what we have produced. It is staggering in its magnitude and produces daily travesties. How did this happen? Not so much through a lack of public education, but rather the loss of critical thinking. Lose this ability and one loses the ability to discern truth, and next to apprehend the consequences of the loss. We are living the consequences. When I look for the root of our problems, I see the lack of citizens who are truly intellectually engaged.
5
How is the truth brought to light when all the players are established liars? None of the Trump associates who might be involved have any problem manufacturing facts and truth. Being under oath wouldn't make any difference. These are people that are so cynical and so corrupt that breaking an oath means nothing to them. Many of them have already broken the law, so committing perjury makes no difference. So, what good are hearings? They are just a way for congressional representatives and senators to puff themselves up and look important for the cameras, while the administration apologists lob softball questions and administrative opponents play "gotcha." Getting to the bottom of this will take real investigative powers and an honest desire to find the answer, no matter which side it comes down on. Unfortunately, I can think of no one that can lead such an investigation. Everyone has an agenda.
3
Dear Mr. Blow,
The election was fraudulent. The line of succession if Trump were removed from office would not be valid.
The Presidency should belong to Hillary Clinton who won by almost three million votes.
The election was fraudulent. The line of succession if Trump were removed from office would not be valid.
The Presidency should belong to Hillary Clinton who won by almost three million votes.
257
To say that Hillary Clinton won the popular vote is to say she won a contest that never took place. The contest in presidential elections is for the electoral vote. Candidates campaign only in states where polls show they have a chance of success. Trump didn't campaign in California,, our most populous state, or in New York, our fourth most populous state.
1
Sadly, that is not what the Constitution requires.
2
I am in complete agreement! His every appointment should be deemed illegitimate. And nullified.
We need to start with a clean slate.
We need to start with a clean slate.
I would welcome Trump's departure from office, but such speculation is too early and based upon too little. I would prefer a restrengthened Democratic party at all levels and strong policy alternatives to the Trump-Pence-Ryan mess. Opposition without an alternative plan is plain useless.
84
The Dems' main objective here is just to "stick it to" Americans in fly over country who voted for Trump. Collateral damage doesn't seem to bother them. I also wonder why ties to Russia are bad, but treaties designed to ship jobs to Asian countries, like Obama's beloved TPP, don't seem to bother anyone on the left.
1
The Democrats seem to be completely incapable of articulating an understandable rationale for the public sector and a fiscal policy to implement it.
1
Absolutely agree. The last election seemed to prove that a bad plan boldly presented can beat a weak plan poorly presented.
The election revealed not just the vulnerability of our campaigns to foreign cyber-hacking, but also the vulnerability of our brains to being hacked by foreign actors through manipulations of social media and easy dissemination of fake news. It was the opening salvo in a new age of warfare. And Blow is right, the damage to our system is both hard to measure and hard to erase.
136
The so-called "Good News" that evangelicals espouse is fake too. That is why the legitimacy of US government rests on delegated powers from the people, not the authority of God.
It should NOT BE ERASED! It should be remembered by every American for all time. Taught in our schools, so that each & every citizen to come will be on the lookout for traitors such as these. Along with what they are (still) doing, what WE THE PEOPLE do about it should also be taught. If we sit by watching these totally immoral & cretinous (worst combination ever) so called 'elected' officials until the next elections, while they pass death legislation, do their best to destroy not only our country, but, the world, then we deserve them. It means that to a majority of the people of this country it IS politics as usual. Our brothers & sisters will be dying while we ho hum, file our nails, & say 'oh it's so awful just wait until the next elections'. Or we can follow what our Founding Fathers told us. When the traitors are in the (White) house we are to REVOLT & remove them. As we did in the first Revolutionary War. They give us the Obligation to fight these people infesting our government. Rid ourselves of them & fumigate the halls of Legislation & the Office of the president. There is not enough time that we can sit & waste it. Unless a majority feel that everyone not like them is free to kill. Since that means all of us hate some of us & therefore consider it a right to KILL those they don't like, then maybe, just maybe, the time has come for this country to fall. The sooner the better. Maybe our reign as stewards of this planet (all humans that is) should end.
The US Constitutional system of governance is one of the many special interest groups continually vying for power. It is not special or sacrosanct, everything is for sale or up for debate. Market forces and all.
Clearly the constitutional coalition is fractured at the moment, so other forces took advantage. Voting is one of the many expressions of power in the US, and not the only relevant one in the political sphere by far. It can occasionally shout the loudest, but not consistently.
Clearly the constitutional coalition is fractured at the moment, so other forces took advantage. Voting is one of the many expressions of power in the US, and not the only relevant one in the political sphere by far. It can occasionally shout the loudest, but not consistently.
6
It's not that Russia would have wanted "influence," exercising influence is too hard. What they most likely saw as advantageous -- based on their knowledge of Trump's business incompetence and personality disorders -- was a far easier asset to take advantage of: An America floundering as Trump played golf and watched his business dealing with greater interest than he did America's back, was more likely their hoped-for prize and their goal.
83
I think that what Putin expected was a Clinton presidency that was bogged down by Russian promoted scandals, making her presidency ineffective. Actually getting Trump in office was a windfall.
1
Yeah, every billionaire I know is crazy or stupid.
Rdam reminds us of what peevish jealousy sounds like when it escapes into the open air.
Rdam reminds us of what peevish jealousy sounds like when it escapes into the open air.
I agree 100%. Don has proven himself a useful idiot and an easy target for a sophisticated and devious enemy.
If collusion was found with the whole Trump team then the election of the Trump presidency was not valid. Which means to me, Pence would not move up to be president. The true winner with the most votes should go to Hillary. I am sure the Congress with it's majority of GOP would want to decide the issue but why should they have that right. This would have been a fraudulent election.
58
That would require amending the Constitution and electing the president by popular vote. Otherwise, making a change that would be hugely unconsitutional would be worse than the disease. That said, an administration headed by Pence would be more "effective" with the Republicsn agenda than Trump so far.
3
They shouldn't have the right as many of them are as guilty of treason as those in the WH are. They too must be removed. Those not part of the treason are guilty of being cowards & not fighting those who are traitors. When, as a legislator you are more worried about your 'job' than the country you were elected to protect, you should not keep your 'job' even for one term.
The decent people of this country should rise up & remove them, & the regime. If a true majority wants HRC, then she should be installed. If not, then I think President Obama should be asked to return & govern us until another election can be called. Say a year from now. Both parties should be forbidden from putting forth candidates or using their money for the election. Super Pacs should be outlawed, the government should give each candidate $10,000 as the only money they can spend on the election (plus no donations in 'kind', material goods like posters, vehicle rentals, TV or radio time, etc). No donations of any size, no using your own money. Just the 10 grand. No primaries. Any candidate who does not draw at least 25% of the vote should have to immediately repay the money given. None of which could be spent with their companies. Everything a candidate says would be fact checked. If found untrue, they would be penalized 1 million votes. That is serious enough to keep most honest. 2 candidates might be so close in votes a runoff is needed. In say a month. No more money spent, a weekly debate, then vote.
The decent people of this country should rise up & remove them, & the regime. If a true majority wants HRC, then she should be installed. If not, then I think President Obama should be asked to return & govern us until another election can be called. Say a year from now. Both parties should be forbidden from putting forth candidates or using their money for the election. Super Pacs should be outlawed, the government should give each candidate $10,000 as the only money they can spend on the election (plus no donations in 'kind', material goods like posters, vehicle rentals, TV or radio time, etc). No donations of any size, no using your own money. Just the 10 grand. No primaries. Any candidate who does not draw at least 25% of the vote should have to immediately repay the money given. None of which could be spent with their companies. Everything a candidate says would be fact checked. If found untrue, they would be penalized 1 million votes. That is serious enough to keep most honest. 2 candidates might be so close in votes a runoff is needed. In say a month. No more money spent, a weekly debate, then vote.
"It is not clear to me that America — and indeed the world — can survive a full-term Trump presidency."
I share your fears about the line of succession, but this one statement of yours tells me, and I suspect you as well, that Trump must be removed by any and all legal means. There is just no other political calulation worth making, all based on specualtion about the political future. If such speculation were worth much, we wouldn't be dealing with the cancer which has infected the oval office. Actually, it more like Ebola, a highly communicable disease.
I share your fears about the line of succession, but this one statement of yours tells me, and I suspect you as well, that Trump must be removed by any and all legal means. There is just no other political calulation worth making, all based on specualtion about the political future. If such speculation were worth much, we wouldn't be dealing with the cancer which has infected the oval office. Actually, it more like Ebola, a highly communicable disease.
51
There is a legal way. Read the Declaration of Independence. Our Founding Fathers put on us an Obligation in it. Why there & not in the Constitution? Because it is unchangeable. It is, was, & always shall be the same. Unlike the Constitution which was made changeable (by lots of hard work, that fails more times than it succeeds). What is the Obligation? To Revolt against any regime that seeks to destroy this country, that is ruled by traitors. They seek to destroy this country by destroying it's people. They seek to RULE us not govern us. That is not how this country was made. So, it is time to come together (ALL of us) & form the Citizens' Army to march to Washington to arrest & try all those guilty of this offense. Destruction of the USA by destroying what she stands for, destroying her people, destroying the world who looks up to us. In 1775 it was realized that England just wanted to take from her Empire, not give as our Mother. So, we didn't sit around begging to be allowed to hold a referendum, we just said, go away, this is our land. Out! We fought, many died. But, we decided that was worth it. I think it was. WE almost whimped out before the Civil War. Giving in to the Slave states, to keep 'them' happy. In the end, as with many, getting what they wanted wasn't enough. So, we had to fight them. We won. But, gave them most of the victory. We wouldn't be here today if we had taken their statehood, & full citizenship away for say 200 years. Governed them as territories.
1
If Trump and his associates were caught up "incidentally," then what were they doing so close to foreign operatives?
63
I think we saw some clear proof that there is strong evidence of collusion and other Russian connections to be found in the Devin Nunes incident. That was a clear attempt to muddy the waters and deflect attention from the real issue of 45's Russian connection to the false Obama wiretapping accusation. The clear fact that Ryan and the GOP are going to leave Nunes in his oversight position should tell every American that Congress is being run at the pleasure of the Executive Branch. There is much faith right now in the Senate Intelligence Committee investigation, but the chair has made no real commitment to investigation anything beyond the Russian interference in our election. Do not be surprised if the hearings stop there and the committee makes no move to look at the collusion/connection issue.
We really have a no-win situation here. The Republicans are calling all the shots and they will favor 45 regardless of the evidence any investigation might reveal. Our media--except for a very few who are investigating and reporting what they find--is complicit in Trump's election along with the Russians. Some Democrats are speaking out and resisting, but their solid minority position gives them few concrete alternatives on this issue or any other. The American people are making some noise, but not enough to influence the GOP to act against its own power. It is hard to see a way out of four years of this administration and the devastating consequences of that for all of us.
We really have a no-win situation here. The Republicans are calling all the shots and they will favor 45 regardless of the evidence any investigation might reveal. Our media--except for a very few who are investigating and reporting what they find--is complicit in Trump's election along with the Russians. Some Democrats are speaking out and resisting, but their solid minority position gives them few concrete alternatives on this issue or any other. The American people are making some noise, but not enough to influence the GOP to act against its own power. It is hard to see a way out of four years of this administration and the devastating consequences of that for all of us.
29
I agree in large measure, but I have to say that we are much better off than we would be had Pelosi not been re-elected Democratic Leader in the House. She is a gifted wrangler and a remarkable strategist. She knows full well that the Republicans are divided sufficiently to need Democratic vote to reach a majority on anything. She knows how to exploit that split. I expect some major battles and some major Republican losses on the budget. Just watch her work her magic.
2
I agree. Pelosi and Maxine Waters are doing great jobs in the House.
Read the Declaration of Independence. It provides the way. But, you must have courage. That may be a problem. Seems too many want to be like Russian citizens. Not allowed to make any decisions, but, allowed to complain as much as they please. They have fallen so far since WW2. Maybe all the courageous people died then & because of Stalin after.
We should not turn into them. WE used to have fight in us. Now it looks like we are a nation of wimps.
The Citizens' Army is now the optimum choice. Clean the den of traitors out, then do the same with congress. It will teach the rich to keep their mouths shut, as they used to. If they don't want to end up having done to them what they want done to everyone else.
We should not turn into them. WE used to have fight in us. Now it looks like we are a nation of wimps.
The Citizens' Army is now the optimum choice. Clean the den of traitors out, then do the same with congress. It will teach the rich to keep their mouths shut, as they used to. If they don't want to end up having done to them what they want done to everyone else.
I wish I had the know-how, but someone in the media needs to put together a big visual - people get that - a calendar maybe - of the days in question, and the events, with the Trump team's contacts and the Russian/Wikileaks actions in different colors to highlight the startling confluence of events, another set of colors entirely for Trump's and his emissaries (Giuliani, Spicer, Nunes etc) prescient predictions and actual events.
Maybe a timeline - I leave this to the visual experts - but it must be clean, simple, clear and visual, everything the Trump campaign has tried not to be - every red herring eliminated.
Arguably not showing cause and effect, but at least the ever growing list of "coincidences" that would ALL have to be true for the Trump administration explanations to be 100% true.
As the Trump team says - let the visual speak for itself.
Maybe a timeline - I leave this to the visual experts - but it must be clean, simple, clear and visual, everything the Trump campaign has tried not to be - every red herring eliminated.
Arguably not showing cause and effect, but at least the ever growing list of "coincidences" that would ALL have to be true for the Trump administration explanations to be 100% true.
As the Trump team says - let the visual speak for itself.
47
Yes! It's like "follow the Yellow Brick Road" - if all the paving stones are yellow and leading the same direction, that's the route to take. And those are the stones we have to get rid of!
1
Yes! A full-color spread in the Times, with exactly what you've described, would cause a lot of folks to have to admit the truth of the tampering, and the digital version could go even deeper to allow people to see the source of the facts for themselves. I have found Seth Abramson's "mega threads" on Twitter to be enormously helpful for the same reason: sequential presentations of facts, with links to underlying evidence, that form a devastating trail of breadcrumbs leading right to treason most foul. It's pretty devastating to click a link and see an article from The Guardian with damning info about Manafort, for example, and realize it was printed almost a year ago.
1
I think we observers all have to sprinkle our speculations with salt and as cliched as it may be, focus on what I believe lies at the heart of this scandal, not espionage although it factors in, not bumbling subterfuge, ditto, not even power, although that's number two, but money.
Money has tainted every single action and person related to this scandal. It, more than the dressing, ideology, is what motivates most of the major players and the Trump Administration is pickled in it. In fact, now more than ever it is what motivates politics including foreign relations and our quarrels over territory, real and symbolic, power, ditto, are all dependent on the acquisition and distribution of the same fuel.
I suspect that when all is revealed we will be able to trace every untoward move, every lie, every sleight of hand, every sad and sordid moment back to its completely banal source, money.
Money has tainted every single action and person related to this scandal. It, more than the dressing, ideology, is what motivates most of the major players and the Trump Administration is pickled in it. In fact, now more than ever it is what motivates politics including foreign relations and our quarrels over territory, real and symbolic, power, ditto, are all dependent on the acquisition and distribution of the same fuel.
I suspect that when all is revealed we will be able to trace every untoward move, every lie, every sleight of hand, every sad and sordid moment back to its completely banal source, money.
28
Trump was elected in the first place because so many Americans had lost faith in our political system. All these goings-on will exacerbate that cynicism. We need a leader with a positive vision who can unite the country and that leader is certainly not Donald Trump. Trump's petty actions have split the country apart regardless of whether he colluded with the Russians to rig the election.
The accompanying statistics that show a sharp partisan divide between those who do and do not want an investigation are telling and compelling. One would think that regardless of party affiliation virtually all Americans would want the issue pursued and appropriately resolved. This should be a pro-American, not a partisan issue. Have we become so untethered from our common welfare and national ethos that we can't commonly identify a national threat?
31
That there are hundreds if not thousands of "dots" now screaming at us, begging to be connected, is profoundly obvious. So many as to hardly be believable. The picture it will show is patently obvious. That the president himself, instead of pushing for a careful investigation, instead is the chief obscurer, speaks volumes. And that they are conspirators seems unquestionable. The big question is how to replace them with patriots who will reverse the damages done.
38
The Declaration of Independence tells us how to replace them. The same way we replaced England with a free country. Revolt.
1
@Alan Silverman: We can see how scared Trump is by his Monday morning tweets, all about Hillary and Obama. Deflect, deflect, deflect. But it's not working like it always has before and he is just plumb scared. Good. He knows there is an endgame to this and he doesn't like the prospects at all.
His presidency is an illegitimate one and must be dissolved.
His presidency is an illegitimate one and must be dissolved.
1
I appreciate the articulate genre, however, the "man" is in confined proximity even with regard to inhalation. There are without a doubt several aspects that are "spectacularly unpresidential" but i reckon he'd find his feet soon..
2
What are you trying to say? Your poetry is unntelligible!
The chain of succession were trump to be impeached is like the saying of being caught between a rock and a hard place. Currently, the Republicans themselves are stymying his destructive agenda. Their mission to destroy the fabric of society to line the pockets of the wealthy has been put on bold display and, for the moment, even they cannot agree on how much pain and suffering to impose. In 2018, I'm hoping liberals, moderates and those who felt uninspired to vote in 2016, come out to elect candidates who will stop trump's and the Republican agenda with a resounding majority.
18
It seems to me all this is happening because one day, a long time ago, money replaced God in importance. When I say "God", I mean what that concept encapsulates which is morality, ethics and rule of law. Isn't "higher authority" essentially a reference to rule of law? Not that corruption isn't the world's oldest remunerative undertaking (not profession as the corrupt don't profess what they're doing), but the religious abandonment of real and strenuous attempts to maintain the treasured ideals suggests the end result of the story/metaphor beginning with the want of a nail on a horseshoe.
6
Does anyone recall that prior to the 2014 Russian invasion of Ukraine, the Obama administration was pushing increased business ties with Russia? Both Obama and Biden led a trade missions to Moscow in 2009. Of course back then we were highly reliant upon Russia for transporting troops and supplies to Afghanistan. And clearly Obama was more conciliatory towards the Russians than Republicans, otherwise he wouldn't have told Medvedev that he could be more flexible after the election.
So the real truth is that Trump was pretty ineffective in doing lucrative business deals in Russia, especially compared to the $500,000 Bill Clinton received for giving a speech to a Kremlin affiliated bank.
So if you want to investigate business ties to Russia, let's investigate everyone's ties. Otherwise let's just focus on collusion between the Trump campaign and Russian intelligence. I doubt there is any evidence of the latter, because Putin didn't need to collude with Trump to disrupt the US election.
So the real truth is that Trump was pretty ineffective in doing lucrative business deals in Russia, especially compared to the $500,000 Bill Clinton received for giving a speech to a Kremlin affiliated bank.
So if you want to investigate business ties to Russia, let's investigate everyone's ties. Otherwise let's just focus on collusion between the Trump campaign and Russian intelligence. I doubt there is any evidence of the latter, because Putin didn't need to collude with Trump to disrupt the US election.
2
A quick review of Trump's accomplishments since taking office tells me that in fact he is incompetent as president, even with the "support" of the lapdogs on the right. Given his current trajectory, he is likely to have the whole system gummed up by 2018. Further, the incorrigible right-wing will be at each others throats under this "so-called" president. If we remove him from office we would face the possibility of a more competent Pence doing some more lasting damage. I say let the fool remain, and let him work to convince the hard-headed that they were duped by a con-man.
6
@Jim: Yes, there could be an advantage to Democrats with Trump remaining as president. What worries me a lot, is that North Korea will push Mr. Trump into a nuclear war. Strategy Politics is secondary to survival. If there were no nuclear weapons, I'd say your idea is sound. But.....there are. And both leaders are mentally ill. That's another aspect of this horrifying situation.
Let that sink in. Both leaders of North Korea and the United States are little boys who have never matured into men and both have mental illnesses that are debilitating to their people. If Jared and Ivanka had any sense of decency they would get Trump to resign. But they want to be Big Shots and Make Money so the good of the world is way secondary to that. Trump needs a great deal of help, just as Kim Jong Un needs helps. And nobody in either country will state the obvious. They are both un-sound.
Let that sink in. Both leaders of North Korea and the United States are little boys who have never matured into men and both have mental illnesses that are debilitating to their people. If Jared and Ivanka had any sense of decency they would get Trump to resign. But they want to be Big Shots and Make Money so the good of the world is way secondary to that. Trump needs a great deal of help, just as Kim Jong Un needs helps. And nobody in either country will state the obvious. They are both un-sound.
1
I'm beginning to come around on the whole "impeachment" thing. I used to think that, exit Trump...enter Pence, and then, exit Pence...enter Ryan....(turtles all the way down), would be a frying pan-fire kind of thing. But now, I'm thinking a President Pence could be an advantage, or at least, a lesser evil for the liberal/progressive cause. Removing Trump and installing Pence would throw the game back into the familiar internecine (inside the beltway) struggle. It might reorient the progressive community and get us out of the endless and self destructive focus on Trump the man and the disparagement of his supporters and wake us up to the necessity of formulating and promoting a message that may actually win elections at all levels. In that regard, absenting Trump from the picture could break apart the cohesion of his cult of personality followers, thereby returning to more familiar electoral grounds.
15
The appropriate remedy is, of course, #newelection.
19
Only 35% of Republicans feel the need for an investigation. A whooping 59% don't. That statistic by itself speaks louder than any words. America has been brazenly betrayed from within by one of its major two parties: Republicans.
45
The remedy has to match the wrong. An illegally or treasonously obtained election win can not be cured except by vacating it and winding the clock back pre-election. It renders the election void ab initio.
26
The Russian interference (and Comey's bumbling) have made for an illegitimate election. Decertify the results and hold a new one.
17
"There is something here, but I can’t yet put my finger on what it is."
Therein lies the problem with the Democratic establishment's obsession with Russian meddling in the election. Lots of accusations with so little connecting of the dots that not even Mr. Blow can draw a conclusion of what to think.
Assuming arguendo the Russians did spread propaganda in opposition to Clinton and supportive of Trump, it is imperative it be specifically listed and its impact empirically proven. In other words, Propaganda A (specifically stated) was heard by Voter A who then either decided to sit out the election or CHANGED her/his vote from Clinton to Trump. Without such evidence, it is all speculation and is leads to the conclusion Blow is reaching--"I can't put my finger on it."
There are so many awful things going on with the Trump administration, yet the Democratic Party apparatus remains obsessed with Russians influencing the election. Everyone who was critical of Clinton is accused of being influenced by Putin, as if an independent thinking person could not have come up with any criticism of Clinton absent Russian propaganda.
Stay tuned. Even if specific evidence of Russia influencing (whatever that means) the election is not produced, the charge will be made in 2018 and 2020 against anyone challenging the mainstream Democrat candidate. It will especially be leveled at the "Left" who Clinton supporters still blame for her loss.
Propaganda is always a two-way street.
Therein lies the problem with the Democratic establishment's obsession with Russian meddling in the election. Lots of accusations with so little connecting of the dots that not even Mr. Blow can draw a conclusion of what to think.
Assuming arguendo the Russians did spread propaganda in opposition to Clinton and supportive of Trump, it is imperative it be specifically listed and its impact empirically proven. In other words, Propaganda A (specifically stated) was heard by Voter A who then either decided to sit out the election or CHANGED her/his vote from Clinton to Trump. Without such evidence, it is all speculation and is leads to the conclusion Blow is reaching--"I can't put my finger on it."
There are so many awful things going on with the Trump administration, yet the Democratic Party apparatus remains obsessed with Russians influencing the election. Everyone who was critical of Clinton is accused of being influenced by Putin, as if an independent thinking person could not have come up with any criticism of Clinton absent Russian propaganda.
Stay tuned. Even if specific evidence of Russia influencing (whatever that means) the election is not produced, the charge will be made in 2018 and 2020 against anyone challenging the mainstream Democrat candidate. It will especially be leveled at the "Left" who Clinton supporters still blame for her loss.
Propaganda is always a two-way street.
11
Dear Republican - it's the mainstream Democratic candidate, not the "mainstream Democrat candidate."
1
Assuming ZERO Russian influence, laws could still have been broken. Americans deserve an independent, bi-partisan investigation.
1
"Assuming arguendo the Russians did spread propaganda in opposition to Clinton"....That is not an assumption, that is a fact. It is also not an assumption that there were way too many contacts with Russian interests and members of the Trump team. Now these all may have been initiated by the Russians, and no member of the team Trump may be guilty of collusion with the Russians, but it is pretty clear that the Russians for their part were far too friendly, and at the very least we need to understand what they were attempting and why.
2
"Russia has already unveiled an incredible vulnerability in our electoral process — the relatively cheap vehicles of information disclosure and propaganda advancement . . ."
If you doubt that the Russians can easily brainwash Americans by planting disinformation and passing it off as news, then you haven't been paying attention. Fox News has been doing this for years. Americans, particularly those on the right wing, are willing to believe anything that reinforces their prejudices. This is the phenomenon that powers Fox News, Breitbart, Rush Limbaugh, etc. Unless we can find a way for facts to defeat propaganda, I fear we are doomed as a nation.
If you doubt that the Russians can easily brainwash Americans by planting disinformation and passing it off as news, then you haven't been paying attention. Fox News has been doing this for years. Americans, particularly those on the right wing, are willing to believe anything that reinforces their prejudices. This is the phenomenon that powers Fox News, Breitbart, Rush Limbaugh, etc. Unless we can find a way for facts to defeat propaganda, I fear we are doomed as a nation.
319
My most grave concerns as to our current administration are not nearly as related to Russia's mingling into our elections (as bad as that is) as they are to our President's lack of candor transparency, and accountability (beginning with his refusal to release his taxes to the scrutiny of our American system), especially as to extensive business entanglements with foreign, perhaps adversarial, entities and countries, all of which pose risks too high where personal gain competes with the better interest of our national security. Equally disturbing is the lack of respect for our foremost institutions of trust and truth upon which our system is based each keeping in check the other - a balance of responsibility. It is hard to read this article and not recognizing and drawing parallels to methods that we are experiencing under the current administration...
Thank you, Alan. That is spot on. Is there anything tougher than pulling one's head out of the sand after it's been planted there for so long? I too fear that we're doomed as a nation; at least for very very many years. Not pretty.
Trump smearing our intelligence community over their exposure of Russian hacking and meddling as well as his repeating of fake news on the campaign trail undoubtedly had an effect. His followers are still spewing fake news against Hillary to deflect from Trump's scandals so to claim it had no effect is disingenuous. Trump's attempts to obstruct the investigation don't make him look innocent and his follower's opposition to investigation of his Russian make them look like they know he's guilty but don't care. They would no doubt vote for Putin before Hillary because they are right wing authoritarian followers who hate strong women and are brainwashed to hate Hillary especially.
While the thought of an impeached trump brings tears of sheer and utter joy to my eyes, the thought of Pence as president with Paul Ryan as sidekick-in-chief is unnerving to say the least. There is no easy way out of this mess (presidency). The only thing we can hope for is that the next 4 years go quickly, without too much damage done to the rest of us. Then everyone needs to get out there and vote this guy out. That does not mean you "pencil in" Big Bird's name because you won't vote for trump and don't like the Democratic candidate, nor do you have the option of sitting it out for the same reason (then have the audacity to go out and protest the next day because trump won). Try and push forward the candidate you would like to see on the Democratic ticket (sorry, folks, it won't be Bernie), and if your guy doesn't make it, well then "hold your nose" and vote for whoever does. This country will not come back from an additional 4 years of trump & co. In the meantime, 2018 midterms are coming up and we can at least begin there.
175
While generally I think your approach is spot on I think the notion of "not too much damage" seriously understates what has already been done and what is forthcoming given his cabinet picks.
It's hard to see how this could be overcome in a generation.
It's hard to see how this could be overcome in a generation.
7
Which is why firing Flynn for lying to Pence is key to the narrative. Pence was lied to as well as the story will go. Therefore, he is pure as the driven snow.
1
Why do you assume that people who protested did not vote. I voted AND I protested. All the people I know who were out protesting with me also voted.
2
What a mess! What authority exists to clean it up? Not the republicans who are looking forward to rolling back progress made for the good of the nation and its citizens since the New Deal of FDR. Not democrats who have about as much voice and credibility as wallpaper stuck in the background. Not the courts; only a few citizens have enough cash to pursue any complaint through the system. And the people who have the cash stand to gain more money and power from the turmoil and the confusion that is always associated with a mess that needs cleaning. So how long can the nation put up with what is happening? At the same time we must be very wary of any White Knights that come riding over the horizon. What a mess!
28
Money is the only thing that talks in this ratrace nation.
8
"Money doesn't talk, it swears..."
Bob Dylan, 1965
Bob Dylan, 1965
2
If we have respect for the investigatory process regarding misdeeds by Donald Trump and his associates relative to the Russians, then the course for the country is to take is clear.
We insist upon an honest, thorough and transparent investigation. The results of that investigation will be what they will be. If there is a whitewash, we will know it.
The problem, of course, is that Donald Trump has no respect for the process and is doing everything in the enormous power of the presidency to avoid an investigation. As often happens, the unlawful cover-up orchestrated by the main target creates a second, valid reason for punishment.
We need to go about our business, which includes pressing for a fair investigation and simultaneously mounting a good slate of candidates for local elections in 2017 and congressional elections in 2018.
We insist upon an honest, thorough and transparent investigation. The results of that investigation will be what they will be. If there is a whitewash, we will know it.
The problem, of course, is that Donald Trump has no respect for the process and is doing everything in the enormous power of the presidency to avoid an investigation. As often happens, the unlawful cover-up orchestrated by the main target creates a second, valid reason for punishment.
We need to go about our business, which includes pressing for a fair investigation and simultaneously mounting a good slate of candidates for local elections in 2017 and congressional elections in 2018.
36
I have enormous respect for Mr. Blow, so I was eager for him to elucidate the evidence of Russia's interference in the 2016 presidential election. I'm disappointed that his column is yet another platform for strident, conclusory assertions that the election was tainted by Russian government interference. Whenever I ask for this evidence on any online forum frequented by those who, like me, loathe Donald Trump, the response is that the evidence is classified, and that I'm a "Russian Troll" for asking for it. I'm left with the impression that some Democrats are desperate for an explanation for Clinton's loss other than her weakness as a candidate, and the rejection by a big part of the Democratic base of her pro-corporate, neoliberal ideology.
18
They're all income-supplemented by someone, foreign nation or Libertarian plutocrat.
It's important to recall--unceasingly--that Clinton would not have lost in a truly democratic election. She lost by a small number of votes in PA, MI, and WI, and in our grossly undemocratic system of electing a president (and only the president is elected this way in this country) this was enough to deny her the presidency. Trump's election was legal but not democratic. The law which gives sparsely populated states disproportionate power must be changed.
6
Unless this is the first thing you've read regarding Russian interference in the elections, you are aware that the intelligence services (FBI/CIA and so on) have unanimously concluded that such interference happened. So why do you need Mr. Blow to repeat it to you?
4
Ultimately only the professional sleuths at the FBI have the resources to nail this Administration. But will they? The same team that kept their Trump investigation hidden during the election while nailing Clinton for emails? Hopefully they are thorough and objective and extra-motivated by Trump's disdain for 'Intelligence'.
33
One can only hope the subpoenas start flowing.
19
Yes, Pence is awful. But he's unattractively awful. He doesn't have Trump's "charisma" or celebrity. Trump is the ultimate cult of personality for those who intone "I liked him on TV so I trust him to fix what's broken. Detestable or not, all those other republicans embody the very establishment voters voted against. There won't be cover for Pence. When he cuts housing assistance, fuel assistance, science funding etc. no one will say "hey, I like the guy, he doesn't mean what he says, he talks straight like on TV." Trump's a poor persons image of a rich person, all gilded and aspirational. And his movement can't survive without him. Cut off the head and the monster is just a bunch of separate flailing limbs--functionally not too different from what's happening now with Bannon/Trump in charge--but the supposedly straight talking, gruffly authoritarian, TV produced heart-of-gold that provides cover for all manner of deception, cruelty, racism and double dealing will be gone. I say he has to go. Trust in government can't be rebuilt until the cult of personality is laid to rest.
51
Brilliant, brilliant post. Thank you so very much.
For anyone who feels the need to suspend judgment re the trump-Russia regime, just ask yourself this: what would the republicans be doing and saying if 10% of what we KNOW about trump were alleged against Obama?
59
All good points Charles, however...
Why not call to REVOTE or reconvene the tainted election.
Impeach the election!!!
Why not call to REVOTE or reconvene the tainted election.
Impeach the election!!!
44
Cannot be done. No constitutional mechanism to do so.
Want a really scary thought? Suppose Pence were found to be involved too, and both Trump and Pence resign or are removed.
Then it is Ryan. You want Ryan?
Want a really scary thought? Suppose Pence were found to be involved too, and both Trump and Pence resign or are removed.
Then it is Ryan. You want Ryan?
Lock Obama up!
At a bare minimum, there should not be a vote on a lifetime Supreme Court nomination until we discern whether and, more importantly, why the Russians chose to be in league with the Trump campaign. Eight is enough. We were in no hurry last year, we should be in no hurry now. If Trump is clean, he should get his nominee. If he is a traitor, he should get, well, what traitors deserve.
53
The fact that Mike Flynn and Jared Kushner met with the Russians is suspect in and of it self. I have a hard time believing that Mike Pence did not know this. And anyone else with close connections to Trump. This includes Rex Tillerson. Can we have a redo of the election With a different set of candidates?
33
And the GOP had a fit when Bill Clinton met with Loretta Lynch during the campaign. The shoe is on the other foot and they want us to blink. Nope, no way.
There will be no election redo, and you probably know that. What you and NYT want is Paul Ryan as POTUS.
propaganda by the Russians is threatening our country and is not protected by any constitutional rights.
propaganda by domestic sources, and most difficult that includes propaganda by corporations is protected by first amendment.
If the bread crumbs can be traced back to Russia they can be illuminated and at least stopped. whatever tactics the Russians employed can be identified and plugged like a weakness in software that permits hackers access to our personal data stored on a computer.
What can be done about domestic propaganda there equally destructive but protected by first amendment and consumed by the voters?
propaganda by domestic sources, and most difficult that includes propaganda by corporations is protected by first amendment.
If the bread crumbs can be traced back to Russia they can be illuminated and at least stopped. whatever tactics the Russians employed can be identified and plugged like a weakness in software that permits hackers access to our personal data stored on a computer.
What can be done about domestic propaganda there equally destructive but protected by first amendment and consumed by the voters?
7
If there is shown to have been critical interference with the election, it should be voided and a special election held. There is no reason why an illegitimate officeholder and his running mate and appointees should be running the store until after the 2018 elections.
43
Mr. Blow,
The problem goes far beyond Donald Trump.
The American picture remains one of confusion. Socrates’ words Truth, Honesty, Beauty and Absolute Good no longer apply to the public domain. As was seen in the election campaigning, media deception is at an extreme. Vast numbers of Americans live in ignorance. The stature of America continues to decline throughout the world. Many problems remain unmet. And the greatest challenge of all; that of accommodating not just American, but human civilization, to the environmental demands of the planet remain largely unaddressed.
www.InquiryAbraham.com
The problem goes far beyond Donald Trump.
The American picture remains one of confusion. Socrates’ words Truth, Honesty, Beauty and Absolute Good no longer apply to the public domain. As was seen in the election campaigning, media deception is at an extreme. Vast numbers of Americans live in ignorance. The stature of America continues to decline throughout the world. Many problems remain unmet. And the greatest challenge of all; that of accommodating not just American, but human civilization, to the environmental demands of the planet remain largely unaddressed.
www.InquiryAbraham.com
27
Yes, the order of succession is enough to keep one up at night, but perhaps they are less impulsive as our current Commander in chief.
12
That Order of Succession kicks in if the President & VP disappear simultaneously. If Trump goes, Pence will succeed him & name a brand new VP. It's possible that further investigation will prove Pence is also tainted--in which case, his VP would move into the White House. (Time to install revolving doors?)
Pence's VP could be the next Gerald Ford. That chronology was somewhat different since Agnew left before Nixon due to flagrant corruption. The result would be the same--a placeholding Republican president, offering pardons for all....
Pence's VP could be the next Gerald Ford. That chronology was somewhat different since Agnew left before Nixon due to flagrant corruption. The result would be the same--a placeholding Republican president, offering pardons for all....
The die is cast - we are stuck with a many-headed monster, spewing its malevolence on us.
How best to thwart it is the dilemma.
How best to thwart it is the dilemma.
15
"At this point this is all conjecture." IT really doesn't matter who could be the next President of the United States, if there is no longer these United States. Yes, I believe Mattis is capable, but Trump, our so called president, is totally
lacking in self- control and says he "can fix it alone". Two hot heads (North Korea's and ours) does NOT exactly give the world any comfort. God has to intervene and save us from ourselves!
lacking in self- control and says he "can fix it alone". Two hot heads (North Korea's and ours) does NOT exactly give the world any comfort. God has to intervene and save us from ourselves!
6
Thank you for your diligence in pursuing the truth and your unrelenting faith that we can be relieved of this farce of an administration.The irony remains that the more 45 and company protest and distract,it becomes far more apparent that indeed there is much to hide. Even the most egotistical suspect would welcome any evidence of innocence. As this soap opera continues, we only get more clues and far more diversions.
18
The preponderance of evidence, both circumstantial and otherwise is compelling.
The tens of millions made on the palm beach mansion alone should be enough. It's value had not gone up that much, that fast. At least not in the conventional real estate market.
There's so much evidence now that a list is needed to keep track of it all.
The Times could have fun with that. Maybe place one along with the weather... or the commodity prices...or the editorials, every day until a new election is convened.
The tens of millions made on the palm beach mansion alone should be enough. It's value had not gone up that much, that fast. At least not in the conventional real estate market.
There's so much evidence now that a list is needed to keep track of it all.
The Times could have fun with that. Maybe place one along with the weather... or the commodity prices...or the editorials, every day until a new election is convened.
11
2018 and 2020, impeachment or not, will tell the tale.
Will the non-voters, third party nihilists, and "independents" come to their senses to retrieve our country from the madness?
If ever a country faces an existential choice, it is ours.
Will the non-voters, third party nihilists, and "independents" come to their senses to retrieve our country from the madness?
If ever a country faces an existential choice, it is ours.
23
As distressing as the maelstrom of likely illegal activity surrounding us is, what concerns me as much is the effect on the youth of America. They are bombarded with DC's lies, duplicity, crassness, "me first / my party first" attitudes and actions, etc. Do they see what is going on, think "ah, this is how to get ahead in life", recognize that having a moral core isn't needed and diligently hone their skills at being underhanded, thus perpetuating and multiplying the ugliness? Or do they see what is going on, recognize that something is seriously wrong and realize that when they take the reins they’ll have a lot of work waiting for them? Hopefully, it is the latter because there don’t seem to be many adults in DC today who are capable of doing it.
8
It's not just DC - it's the entire world and all it's supposedly sacred institutions - governments, corporations, sports. Look at a representative list of those who have been proven liars, cheats, and scofflaws; whose misdeeds had no consequences - NE Patriots become NFL royalty, Volkswagen becomes world's largest auto maker, DJT becomes POTUS.
Lying, cheating, deception and bigotry pays - that's the lesson our kids and anyone who is paying attention is learning.
Lying, cheating, deception and bigotry pays - that's the lesson our kids and anyone who is paying attention is learning.
1
Like so much of our history, our youth fall into two general camps.... those that want to protest, with a small percentage ready to stand up and take action. The other, far larger camp consists of those that refuse to pay attention, excusing themselves with claims of "it doesn't really impact me," or "none of it matters anyway." It's discouraging, but not hopeless.
1
I see an even harder problem: what to do it Trump knew nothing.
Trump has always been a destabilizing force. His supporters, including Russia, admire that and looked forward to its effect. With America in disarray, Putin has greater freedom of action in Europe and Asia. Collusion with Trump is unnecessary to that objective: feed him the right lines and the showman would run with them, unfettered by caution or filter.
Suppose that Trump was both the goal and the amplifier for Russian action but unwittingly so - the conman was really the patsy - then he is not impeachable. The outcome of the election was dictated by foreign actors but perhaps they acted without American help. Then now what? Do we live with it and suffer the chaos which is Russia's victory?
The only untainted (though diminished) branch of government is the Supreme Court. Perhaps the solution is for Congress to petition them to void the 2016 results and to require new elections in 2017.
Trump has always been a destabilizing force. His supporters, including Russia, admire that and looked forward to its effect. With America in disarray, Putin has greater freedom of action in Europe and Asia. Collusion with Trump is unnecessary to that objective: feed him the right lines and the showman would run with them, unfettered by caution or filter.
Suppose that Trump was both the goal and the amplifier for Russian action but unwittingly so - the conman was really the patsy - then he is not impeachable. The outcome of the election was dictated by foreign actors but perhaps they acted without American help. Then now what? Do we live with it and suffer the chaos which is Russia's victory?
The only untainted (though diminished) branch of government is the Supreme Court. Perhaps the solution is for Congress to petition them to void the 2016 results and to require new elections in 2017.
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Whether or not he knew the extent of collusion with the Russians, to say that he's not impeachable is to deny the daily evidence of all his other ethically and legally challenged activities. Part of the problem is that everyone is looking at the Russian interference saga, while completely ignoring the dangerous man behind the curtain.
Sorry, but there is no mechanism whatsoever to void a US election -- NONE.
If the President is guilty of some crime, then impeach him and try him.
If that happens, then the order of succession is very clear -- the VP, then the Speaker of the House. I think it goes along for 9 positions after that! So there is always SOMEBODY who would step in.
The left badly wants a "do over" but there are no do overs in US Government, which you'd know if you'd paid attention in 9th Grade US Government class OR read the Constitution.
If the President is guilty of some crime, then impeach him and try him.
If that happens, then the order of succession is very clear -- the VP, then the Speaker of the House. I think it goes along for 9 positions after that! So there is always SOMEBODY who would step in.
The left badly wants a "do over" but there are no do overs in US Government, which you'd know if you'd paid attention in 9th Grade US Government class OR read the Constitution.
The problem with keeping a crippled and very unstable Trump in office he still has enough power to for example, declare martial law, start a very nasty war without congressional approval, and continue, with his horrible family, to pillage the nation.
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Hopefully this is not wishful thinking, but I think there is no way that martial law would prevail. The Republicans might overlook a lot, but I don't see how they could overlook that. I don't think the military would support that either.
"This is all conjecture" is the only fact included in your drumbeat. Asking more questions than answering them is a sure sign that you're about to run out of stuff on Trump. Truly a sign of eliciting Fake News to keep your column going.
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Ha ha , you're funny. Donald, is that you? If it is, you're going down.
By the same argument as Charles’s – that enough manufactured innuendo aimed at destroying Trump’s agenda suggests fire when it’s merely a Hollywood smoke machine – Bill Clinton was proved a serial rapist. I never believed THAT about the Billster, regardless of all the hype manufactured to serve ideological interest. And I don’t believe that Trump cahooted with Russians. At least, not on the basis of ANYTHING that’s been made public so far, and you’d think those so resolved to use this issue to destroy Trump would lead with their best right-cross.
From the beginning of this ideologically self-interested Kabuki, I’ve been pointing out that it’s all smoke and mirrors intended solely to destroy an agenda by seeking to destroy its exponent, by any means available. Nothing has changed except that the pancake worn by the Kabuki actors has become thicker, the lipstick darker.
And Flynn. Don’t be immensely surprised if, after collecting gajillions in speaking fees, interview fees and maybe a massive book advance, Flynn delivers a hilariously anti-climactic admission that he bartered his legitimate Timex on the streets of Moscow for a Rolex knock-off. And thought he got the better deal.
You guys are being played, by pols with their OWN agendas and by players looking for an edge to play YOU. And it’s sad, because you have to wonder what FURTHER corruptions of legitimate political disagreement will be justified by Schumer’s and Charles’s desperation that Trump will succeed.
From the beginning of this ideologically self-interested Kabuki, I’ve been pointing out that it’s all smoke and mirrors intended solely to destroy an agenda by seeking to destroy its exponent, by any means available. Nothing has changed except that the pancake worn by the Kabuki actors has become thicker, the lipstick darker.
And Flynn. Don’t be immensely surprised if, after collecting gajillions in speaking fees, interview fees and maybe a massive book advance, Flynn delivers a hilariously anti-climactic admission that he bartered his legitimate Timex on the streets of Moscow for a Rolex knock-off. And thought he got the better deal.
You guys are being played, by pols with their OWN agendas and by players looking for an edge to play YOU. And it’s sad, because you have to wonder what FURTHER corruptions of legitimate political disagreement will be justified by Schumer’s and Charles’s desperation that Trump will succeed.
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Anti-climactic testimony is very unlikely. If Flynn has any chance of getting a congressional grant of immunity, he'll first have to give the committee a sense of what he'd say in his testimony. The proffer is intended to avoid any conflict with a possible pending criminal case by the DOJ (a la Ollie North). And given recent disclosures, if anyone has reason to be looking over his shoulder for the DOJ, it's Michael Flynn. After all, as a character connected to this drama once observed, "When you are given immunity, that means that you probably committed a crime."
The person who said that, last fall on "Meet the Press," was none other than Michael Flynn.
The person who said that, last fall on "Meet the Press," was none other than Michael Flynn.
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"Nothing has changed except that the pancake worn by the Kabuki actors has become thicker, the lipstick darker."
This just made my day, it's an absolute gem!
This just made my day, it's an absolute gem!
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NA:
Anyone NOT demanding congressional immunity these days is a fool. Given our charged politics, that destroy individuals without the slightest compunction if it serves a political purpose, you can be manipulated into saying that you never lusted after Scarlett Johansson in your mind, only to find yourself slapped with a perjury charge.
Anyone NOT demanding congressional immunity these days is a fool. Given our charged politics, that destroy individuals without the slightest compunction if it serves a political purpose, you can be manipulated into saying that you never lusted after Scarlett Johansson in your mind, only to find yourself slapped with a perjury charge.
Woe unto us! Our liberty will suffer for many years to come. Enjoy the filthy air and water, not to mention the illness and poverty.
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If all this smoke does not actually lead to a fire, I will eat my hat and yours. Why else would Trump continue to refuse to release tax returns and refuse to endorse and lead the calls for an independent investigation to clear said cloud of smoke from his manifestly tainted administration.
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There is no law that says the president MUST release his tax returns which are private. I would do the same thing if I was Presient Trump especially after the daily hatred and obstruction the democrats have inflected on this nation. Since Obama's IRS is all democrats, if something was so scandalous we all would have heard about it by now. No one cares if President Trump releases his tax returns except jealous socialists.
Simple thought experiment. Someone in Trump's election campaign approaches Trump at the beginning of his election campaign and says the Russians have information that can be damaging to the opposition. Would Trump have said "No" because of his high ethical standards? or "YES" because of his will to win at all costs?
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Charles, you make a good point. You ought to take it a bit further.
The Republican President and his Republican henchmen who control Congress face a credibility gap if not a credibility gulf. Trump and truth are estranged. Ryan, McConnell and Pence have an arm's length relationship with truth. Putin has had a string of successes in the Crimea, the Ukraine and in the US election. Putin is likely to try to extend that string at the expense of the US and NATO. Then Trump, Pence, Ryan and McConnell will understand that have sacrificed the credibility of the United States as well as their personal credibility. George W. Bush was willing to sacrifice the credibility of the United States to justify the Iraq war. It's a Republican thing.
Perhaps voters will find a way to just say no whenever a Republican candidate offers a glass of kool-aid.
The Republican President and his Republican henchmen who control Congress face a credibility gap if not a credibility gulf. Trump and truth are estranged. Ryan, McConnell and Pence have an arm's length relationship with truth. Putin has had a string of successes in the Crimea, the Ukraine and in the US election. Putin is likely to try to extend that string at the expense of the US and NATO. Then Trump, Pence, Ryan and McConnell will understand that have sacrificed the credibility of the United States as well as their personal credibility. George W. Bush was willing to sacrifice the credibility of the United States to justify the Iraq war. It's a Republican thing.
Perhaps voters will find a way to just say no whenever a Republican candidate offers a glass of kool-aid.
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It will be a mistake to give up trying to remove Trump from office because "the order of succession"could be worse. Mr.Blow's partial list of Trump's disqualifications was accurate but much too generous. He is in a league of his own in terms of the potential damage he can inflict on us and the rest of the world.
Many Democrats made a similar mistake during the election when they were looking at what they viewed as their candidate's imperfections instead of focusing on what should have been,and still is ,the most important goal-- to make sure Donald Trump is not the president of The United States .
Many Democrats made a similar mistake during the election when they were looking at what they viewed as their candidate's imperfections instead of focusing on what should have been,and still is ,the most important goal-- to make sure Donald Trump is not the president of The United States .
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We are arguing with a three year old who is being encouraged by a congress so desperate to rework the country in he image and likeness of their rich overlords at it is never going to end while Trump is in office. Begin the impeachment process now. The American people don't deserve better, but the world needs better from us.
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I would caution the press and all of us not to become too obsessed with the idea of the "smoking gun," i.e., proof of intentional collusion between Russian hackers and the Trump campaign. Of course, we need a full and impartial investigation, but it would be a mistake to conclude that in the absence of intentional meddling, the Trump campaign and administration are in the clear ethically. Russian connections are part of the complex web of business ties--some apparently nefarious--and debts of the Trump family. And building a team full of people with strong pro-Putin connections and shaping foreign policy according to what serves those business interests is a very serious problem. All of that should come to light in the investigation--and it will take some time.
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To unravel the "Trump Planet" financial ties to the Russian scheme...will take
an independent investigation....and ...it is happening sooner than you think.
Time cannot be wasted....and the coordinated intelligence bodies in the US and
allies we will find out what a mess this is...We will succeed.....and get rid of this
global threat to democracies ...and the reason it seems to take too long...is
because the investigation must be thorough...this is an international effort to
eradicate the effort by Russia to dismantle democracies everywhere...in the
world.....I only hope that we can dismiss Trump sooner than later....and keep
up the war against cyber malfeasance.
an independent investigation....and ...it is happening sooner than you think.
Time cannot be wasted....and the coordinated intelligence bodies in the US and
allies we will find out what a mess this is...We will succeed.....and get rid of this
global threat to democracies ...and the reason it seems to take too long...is
because the investigation must be thorough...this is an international effort to
eradicate the effort by Russia to dismantle democracies everywhere...in the
world.....I only hope that we can dismiss Trump sooner than later....and keep
up the war against cyber malfeasance.
I'm fairly certain you, the people liking this comment and the New York Times used the EXACT OPPOSITE argument when it came to all the circumstantial evidence of influence peddling that surrounded Hillary Clinton.
For months, that's all we heard—no smoking gun, no proof of quid pro quo, no problem.
And that really sums up this whole charade from both sides: "It's only a serious problem if the other side does it."
You all deserve each other, but America deserves better.
For months, that's all we heard—no smoking gun, no proof of quid pro quo, no problem.
And that really sums up this whole charade from both sides: "It's only a serious problem if the other side does it."
You all deserve each other, but America deserves better.
I'm no supporter of Flynn, but his wanting immunity for testimony may have everything to do with his certain knowledge that no matter his culpability, his principal value to Trump et al. is that of scapegoat. Whatever his real role in the Russian disinformation campaign, he will not come out of this without a back-full of daggers.
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