Draft dodger liar Trump calls for an investigation of Senator Richard Blumenthal for a 2010 claim of being a Vietnam Vet. Blumenthal WAS a vet, Trump IS a liar with no foot injury that he claimed to not serve in Vietnam. Twisting in the wind, Trump is twisting in the wind.
9
Anyone who believes anything Trump, or his "spokespeople" say about this, or virtually anything else, at this point, is gullible beyond measure. Their credibility is as extinct as the passenger pigeon.
10
Now that McGabe has contradicted Trump he will be fired too. Don't these folks know that if you don't go along with Trump you will get fired, it is one of the rules that all dictators/despots abide by.
7
Of course the termination did not impact his meeting with Lavrov. It was Lavrov who ordered the termination...
1
Mr. Trump again reaches into his bag of personal insults to deride someone he fears in the person of Mr. Blumenthal. It is time someone reversed the personal insult slinging to give Mr. Trump a taste of his own weapon. How about some insults regarding his prized hairdo, and his imperious marching around as if he was Mussolini heading up the brown shirts or was it black shirts, or his waterbug acrobatic antics jumping one way and then the other on major issues like the FBI director's tenure, or any of a host of ridiculous positions he has taken while avoiding dealing with the problems he said he would dispose of like magic once in office. Maybe we can shame Mr. Trump with his own insults but he is apparently not shame-able and cutting him down to insult size may be the best we can hope for.
1
Trump should select a new director more to his liking. Like Charlie McCarthy, for example.
Not one shred of evidence thus far of any collaboration between Trump and Russia to "steal the election," to quote the NYT's May 9th editorial. A few meetings between Trump aides and Russian diplomats do not a conspiracy make. Where is the actual evidence of the alleged collaboration?
And how was the election stolen? Did Russia hijack the voting booths or brainwash voters into voting for Trump? This is just a pipe dream by the media who still haven't accepted the outcome of the election that made their predictions of a Clinton landslide victory make them look completely foolish and out of touch with reality.
And how was the election stolen? Did Russia hijack the voting booths or brainwash voters into voting for Trump? This is just a pipe dream by the media who still haven't accepted the outcome of the election that made their predictions of a Clinton landslide victory make them look completely foolish and out of touch with reality.
3
if you step back and look at timelines and context , what and how Comey presented various investigations ( Clinton/Russian interference/Trump Admin. collusion) I would guess he knew he would be fired. So, he tried to get as much info that they had into the public realm so the investigations or the integrity of the FBI could not be stopped, obstructed or compromised when he was fired. We all know how Trump operates threat/bomb/fire, so did Comey.
2
The Trump-haters on here that wish 2018 can't come soon enough might want to reconsider:
The 2018 Senate map favors Republicans in a big way. The GOP will be defending just eight seats, while Democrats must fight for 23 — plus another two held by independents who caucus with Democrats.
What’s worse is the fact that many of the seats they must defend are in states won by Donald Trump.
The 2018 Senate map favors Republicans in a big way. The GOP will be defending just eight seats, while Democrats must fight for 23 — plus another two held by independents who caucus with Democrats.
What’s worse is the fact that many of the seats they must defend are in states won by Donald Trump.
2
These comparisons to Nixon are completely ridiculous. Nixon was a patriot next to Trump. In fact Nixon was superior to everyone of the Republicans that are in office today. Nixon was a bit of a crook but these guys are not just a bit of a crook, these guys are completely unequaled in their devoid of human decency. If these guys are America then America is rotten to the core. Where is a real man like Eisenhower when you need one. Right now the Republican Party stands for greed and racism and diversion.
15
I don't understand Republicans' certainty that this is all overblown.
The nation seems to disagree.
Ouch, Republicans:
http://www.realclearpolitics.com/epolls/latest_polls/
The nation seems to disagree.
Ouch, Republicans:
http://www.realclearpolitics.com/epolls/latest_polls/
3
Trump asked Comey if he is under investigation because his subconsciousness feels guilty. Then you can say that the biggest mistake of Comey is not putting Trump under investigation. Inference, Comey was fired because he was about to do.
Firing for sure is a Russian advise, or drive, this time. This entails that America is a readable book for Russia. I bet it is so since the assassination of Pres. Kennedy.
Firing for sure is a Russian advise, or drive, this time. This entails that America is a readable book for Russia. I bet it is so since the assassination of Pres. Kennedy.
1
I just want to thank the NYT for moderating the comments. Even when commenters disagree with each other, they do so civilly. This civility is wholly lacking on other websites, which makes reading comments there extremely painful, not to mention disheartening.
Thank you.
Thank you.
This Trump/Comey divorce is a train wreck in slow-motion. We’re watching D’s and R’s either jumping out the windows as they pass their districts or hanging on for the ride with no known destination… but an end. The train left the station when Trump effectively chopped of Comey’s head while the director watched it on TV. Should Comey really be the villain that the Trump sycophants now proclaim, then maybe President Trump should have followed President Clinton’s lead when he fired Sessions in 1993. Trump cannot differentiate between an act and an action. Maybe there really is a connection between hydrogen peroxide and brain damage.
We're witnessing Trump dismantling American democracy, brick by brick and he's being aides andd and abetted by Republicans who have chosen party over country. It won't result in "less government" just less freedom. Treason.
11
You will get government based on the value judgments of an imaginary being from these folks.
I guess it really is true that those who don't remember the past are condemned to repeat it ... it wasn't Watergate itself that became Nixon's downfall, but his attempts to cover it up and obstruct the investigation.
Questions about whether Trump was involved in any wrongdoing or not, or whether he is really criminal or simply incompetent are irrelevant, since his current actions are putting him on the same path as Nixon.
Questions about whether Trump was involved in any wrongdoing or not, or whether he is really criminal or simply incompetent are irrelevant, since his current actions are putting him on the same path as Nixon.
6
Nixon sure must have known how paranoid he would look for ordering that silly burglary when it appeared that only divine intervention could cause him to lose the 1972 election.
The Republicans had an inflection point, and they went with Party Over Country, yet again.
5
"Sense of Crisis Deepens..."
You mean the self-generated "crises" of the left-wing media.
You mean the self-generated "crises" of the left-wing media.
6
I fear for my country. . .
The United States of America is being dismembered by a narcissistic sociopath. Our Liar-In-Chief and his henchmen in the Administration coupled with the likes of McConnell in the Senate and Ryan in the House, are doing their utmost to undermine and denigrate the Constitution and all the protections that are incumbent within it. The members of the Republican Party, having placed party before patriotism, are now, in my view, traitors to American way of life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. If these seditious actions are not curtailed, hopefully through a sea change in both houses of Congress in 2018, I fear the people of our country will rise up and oust them from power by other means. Ask the ghost of George III if he was pleased with the outcome of his encounter with the Colonies.
I fear for my country. . .
The United States of America is being dismembered by a narcissistic sociopath. Our Liar-In-Chief and his henchmen in the Administration coupled with the likes of McConnell in the Senate and Ryan in the House, are doing their utmost to undermine and denigrate the Constitution and all the protections that are incumbent within it. The members of the Republican Party, having placed party before patriotism, are now, in my view, traitors to American way of life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. If these seditious actions are not curtailed, hopefully through a sea change in both houses of Congress in 2018, I fear the people of our country will rise up and oust them from power by other means. Ask the ghost of George III if he was pleased with the outcome of his encounter with the Colonies.
I fear for my country. . .
7
The land of free and the home of the brave stands transfixed by a celebrity hypnotist. Too bad Trump wasn't around to get George III to give away the colonies to avoid the Revolutionary War.
1
At this point, our national security, our democracy and our standing in the world are at stake....among other big issues like health and climate. What else will it take to impeach him?
9
It's a man-overboard situation already.
American Democracy, R I P
5
Whenever Trump touches anything , there is an sense of crisis. That is because his ability to think critically is an impaired function. His decisions are random spur of the moment knee jerk responses to his immediate surroundings and gut feelings. This process produces erratic actions that Trump then is forced to defend.
5
Never has a weirder scatterbrain presumed himself a polymath. The role of a chief executive, as I understand it, is to assure that the various pieces and responsibilities of an operation are coordinated to work towards well defined objectives. The US government isn't a family business, it is probably the most complex corporation in the world.
3
Some Fresh News:
Lindsey Graham asserts on his web page that just today Trump sent a certified letter to Congress claiming that he has no connection to the Russians This is an amazingly childish thing the president has done. No judiciary would accept such a silly letter as proof of innocence. If the Republicans accept such a letter as proof they are as daft as Trump is. Besides all of us know he lies and covers for himself all the time. His tweets speak for themselves.
Lindsey Graham asserts on his web page that just today Trump sent a certified letter to Congress claiming that he has no connection to the Russians This is an amazingly childish thing the president has done. No judiciary would accept such a silly letter as proof of innocence. If the Republicans accept such a letter as proof they are as daft as Trump is. Besides all of us know he lies and covers for himself all the time. His tweets speak for themselves.
9
I think it was a no-signature-required letter in case no one was home.
Perhaps ask the Russians?
2
I cannot decide which couple I find less scintillating on the purely emotional level, Ryan-McConnell or Pelosi-Schumer.
1
What a coup for former KGB officer Vladimir Putin, who not only decapitated the despised U.S. domestic intelligence agency but forced his presidential pawn to grovel before the Russians exclusively for Tass photographers! If you see this through the eyes of the Russian audience, Putin has just achieved total victory post-Cold War. The American audience is clearly getting signals that the Kremlin now controls the White House. The Kremlin's Republican stooges in Congress announced they would do nothing to vex Putin, and the media is powerless to change anyone's mind about anything. That leaves only the military option.
7
"Senator Richard M. Burr, Republican of North Carolina and chairman of the Intelligence Committee, stopped short of directly criticizing the president. But his committee announced that it had issued its first subpoena to demand records from Michael T. Flynn, Mr. Trump’s former national security adviser, in connection with his emails, phone calls, meetings and financial dealings with Russians. It was an aggressive new tack for what had been a slow-moving inquiry."
"Diversion? What diversion? Subpoena? What subpoena? Whattaya mean? Flynn? Flynn who? Never heard of him..."
"Diversion? What diversion? Subpoena? What subpoena? Whattaya mean? Flynn? Flynn who? Never heard of him..."
3
Trump clearly does have the right temperament to be president. But all this non sense about how the Russians committed the crime of the century and destabilized the world by talking to a few Trump protégés after the election strikes me as partisan hyperventilating. The Comey firing in the real sense is much less telling than the House passing the ACHA.
1
I'm not sure you've actually been paying attention to the news. Russia interfered in the US election (so say the 6 U.S. Intelligence chiefs) by hacking one candidate and releasing information in an attempt to sway the election and undermine the democratic process. Many Trump campaign officials and formal and informal advisers had contact with known Russian spies - before the election. Might be nothing to it, but don't you think we should at least look into it?
Whenever I consider the question as to whether this is all just motivated by partisanship ("sore losers"), I just remind myself what would have happened if the situation had been reversed (an outside power hacked Trump, released emails to embarrass him, Hillary wins, and numerous Hillary aids and advisers had contact with spies of this particular foreign power). Conservatives would have been apoplectic. I think Hillary would already have been impeached, and conservatives would have shut down the government and demanded a new election. I think all of those conservative responses are likely under those circumstances. Do you disagree?
Whenever I consider the question as to whether this is all just motivated by partisanship ("sore losers"), I just remind myself what would have happened if the situation had been reversed (an outside power hacked Trump, released emails to embarrass him, Hillary wins, and numerous Hillary aids and advisers had contact with spies of this particular foreign power). Conservatives would have been apoplectic. I think Hillary would already have been impeached, and conservatives would have shut down the government and demanded a new election. I think all of those conservative responses are likely under those circumstances. Do you disagree?
2
Ryan's baby seems to float like a lead balloon in the Senate. But you never know...
Get real. Trump hired Paul Manafort to be his campaign manager. He's a fixer for oligarchs in Washington.
And Trump's lies and his surrogates' lies are being debunked by members of the FBI, the acting director, and others privy to the facts of this situation. However, his stalwart GOP supporters in the House and Senate are determined to go down with his ship. Unfortunately, our country will go down as well. I never thought I'd see the day when Republican Party power mattered more than the welfare of America. But that day seems to be here.
Roughly 2 percent of congressional Republicans have expressed some form of rather mild concern over Trump firing Comey. Wow. Talk about profiles in courage.
10
It says a thing or two about people who believe they need to carry concealed handguns wherever they go.
4
I'm surprised any Republicans at all heard Obama's speech from the Kennedy Library the other night. They must have hit the wrong button on their remote.
Remember -- instead of providing checks and balances, the indifferent Congress is actually a collaborationist entity with Trump's skullduggery.
10
They are Christians first, Republicans next, and Americans last. That's why we're at the end of the line.
6
So Trump calls Mr. Comey a 'showboat'? Very un-Presidential. Well it certainly takes one to know one, in this case. Trumps behavior is merely reflective of his confidence in his 'base' of supporters, which he considers solid enough to enable his malfeasance. Once many of them lose their health care, we might see some changes in loyalties.
10
Trump probably didn't know what a showboater is until somebody told him that he's a prime specimen.
1
I think I'm going to relax about all this and enjoy this ride while it lasts. Trump isn't going to get anything accomplished, the 2018 elections will be breathtaking to behold and watching Trump squirm and try to wiggle this mess that he created will be historical. He's going to get that immortal infamy he craves so much but someone needs to explain to him the difference between famous and infamous.
5
Your complacency might be very explosive. If we make it to 2018 then maybe you can relax.
3
Fishing typically is a very relaxing way to spend time too, unless the boat you're fishing from has a big hole in it and you're in really deep water.
1
In the meantime our glorious media is missing an elephant sitting in the middle of the room. According to UPI, one of the few that did notice, "Trump has unscheduled meeting with Kissinger."
I don't believe it was unscheduled or that it was a coincidence that the geo-strategist and negotiator par excellence Kissinger was in the White House at the same time Russia's foreign minister was visiting.
The UPI goes on to say that according to the pool report Trump said,
"We're talking about Syria and I think that we're going to do very well with respect to Syria and things are happening that are really, really, really positive. We're going to stop the killing and the death."
http://www.upi.com/Top_News/US/2017/05/10/Trump-has-unscheduled-meeting-...
BINGO!
I've been writing for over the year that with its relations with Turkey, Syria and Iran, Russia may hold the key to a grand solution to the Middle East problem, a solution I've discussed in some detail. I've also pointed out that it is no coincidence that Trump has been meeting repeatedly with Kissinger since May of last year, and that it is also no coincidence that Trump has wanted to keep his gunpowder dry with respect to Russia.
It may be a long shot but one worth taking if it reduces or even stops the intensity of the Middle East conflict and can keep Iran from pursuing a nuclear armament capability.
What is too much to ask for, however, is that the media wake up to what's really happening.
I don't believe it was unscheduled or that it was a coincidence that the geo-strategist and negotiator par excellence Kissinger was in the White House at the same time Russia's foreign minister was visiting.
The UPI goes on to say that according to the pool report Trump said,
"We're talking about Syria and I think that we're going to do very well with respect to Syria and things are happening that are really, really, really positive. We're going to stop the killing and the death."
http://www.upi.com/Top_News/US/2017/05/10/Trump-has-unscheduled-meeting-...
BINGO!
I've been writing for over the year that with its relations with Turkey, Syria and Iran, Russia may hold the key to a grand solution to the Middle East problem, a solution I've discussed in some detail. I've also pointed out that it is no coincidence that Trump has been meeting repeatedly with Kissinger since May of last year, and that it is also no coincidence that Trump has wanted to keep his gunpowder dry with respect to Russia.
It may be a long shot but one worth taking if it reduces or even stops the intensity of the Middle East conflict and can keep Iran from pursuing a nuclear armament capability.
What is too much to ask for, however, is that the media wake up to what's really happening.
2
It is not one bit surprising that our Donald would shrug off his latest fiasco. Someone needs to read to him Federalist Paper #10 (or make a media presentation) to teach him that his version of liberty and freedom is destroying our government. This man lives in a magnificent golden bubble. More than half the people of this nation are stupefied at the level of incompetence coming out of the WH. The rest of the world is laughing.
6
Trump's strange comment, in his firing letter to Comey, that "I appreciate your telling me three separate times that I am not the subject of an investigation," is revealing in another way that has escaped notice. By saying, in so many words, "I'm firing you even though you did me a favor," Trump is disclosing his inner premise that to fire Comey NOTWITHSTANDING that history should require explanation, since it is not his usual M.O., in which everything is calculated in terms of favors and transactions, and proper payback. He is saying, in effect, "Normally I would keep a guy who did me a favor, but in your case I'm making an exception." It would not have occurred to Harry Truman to say, in firing Gen. Douglas MacArthur, "I'm firing you, even though you looked the other way when I moved a ball during our golf game last year." For Trump, everything is personal, everything relates to HIS interest. And for him to call Comey a showboat and grandstander reminds me of Jimmy Carter saying, "To be called a liar by Lester Maddox is like being called ugly by a toad."
I am beginning to think that the people Trump fired on TV should consider the experience an honor.
11
I have trouble seeing "Trump" and "honor" in the same sentence.
1
How many hearings did Congress conduct on Benghazi? Was anyone from FBI or DOJ fired? It's Trump and the Republicans who are hypocrites.
6
Mr. Comey's letter to his erstwhile colleagues is a model of the dignity so lacking in Mr. Trump's firing letter.
9
The President of the United States is presently, and by far, the most dangerous man in America. He should be the FBI's number one priority.
If you look at the FBI's ten most wanted criminals, none come close to posing the threat, certainly not to an entire nation, as the most unfit, unqualified and unstable president in US history. No matter what course, or more accurately lack of course, this republican congress takes, most of them will likely be voted out of office next year. But that does nothing about the peril we're in right now, both at home and abroad, from the continued actions of the unstable Trump and his handlers, who are actually running our government.
If you look at the FBI's ten most wanted criminals, none come close to posing the threat, certainly not to an entire nation, as the most unfit, unqualified and unstable president in US history. No matter what course, or more accurately lack of course, this republican congress takes, most of them will likely be voted out of office next year. But that does nothing about the peril we're in right now, both at home and abroad, from the continued actions of the unstable Trump and his handlers, who are actually running our government.
10
I'd put the federal judiciary on the endangered species list if I could.
1
The only crises here is the meltdown of the progressive left.
Obama used the national security apparatus to spy on political opponents, a constitutional crisis that will not go away no matter how much the mainstream media refuses to report on it.
There will be no special prosecutor, there will be no independent counsel.
Democrats in the Senate will lose badly in the midterms as the majority of midwest voters that elected Trump are more and more turned off by Schumer and Co.
Post this comment, or don't post it. It will not change the fact that what I just wrote is true and will happen.
Obama used the national security apparatus to spy on political opponents, a constitutional crisis that will not go away no matter how much the mainstream media refuses to report on it.
There will be no special prosecutor, there will be no independent counsel.
Democrats in the Senate will lose badly in the midterms as the majority of midwest voters that elected Trump are more and more turned off by Schumer and Co.
Post this comment, or don't post it. It will not change the fact that what I just wrote is true and will happen.
3
The problem with your view is that you restrict it entirely to partisan terms, when in reality, this is something that effects the entire country.
And unless you are clairvoyant, there's no way you can tell how future elections will turn out --- especially if this horrendous health bill, which will disproportionately influence the working-class and less wealthy (Trump's voter-base), is passed.
Best make your predictions then.
And unless you are clairvoyant, there's no way you can tell how future elections will turn out --- especially if this horrendous health bill, which will disproportionately influence the working-class and less wealthy (Trump's voter-base), is passed.
Best make your predictions then.
You are sadly mistaken.
6
Well, at least you had the courage to go on record under your own name.
3
There's a sense of crisis all right, Americans (the ones with brains, that is) are watching with horror as a systematic coup designed to turn our quality of life into a commodity is being forced on us by members of the Republican party. Trump serves as a distraction while the rest of them chip away at our rights.
16
the dismissive way that Trump fired his top professional at the FBI wasn't missed by its many employees. In a business that is privately owned like Trump.Inc. this may be the standard manner of terminating employment but in the civilized world people expect a little more respect. Trump allowed a civilian , non-federal employee to deliver a message to someone other than Comey who then had to learn about it from a TV show. Totally despicable behavior.
Trump is a disrespectful person who labels it being non-PC. He is a disgrace to the position he now holds.
Trump is a disrespectful person who labels it being non-PC. He is a disgrace to the position he now holds.
15
This shows how treacherous Trump is.
3
There is always a silver lining on everything this president says and does. We have finally found the source of his religiosity. Peter denied knowing Jesus three times, and he credits James Comey with denying investigating the president three times as well. As far as the silver lining is concerned, we still don’t know who or what is or was going to be bribed with silver coins. Stand by for federal tax returns.
1
Trump fears the investigations into Russians communicating with his team, or himself, will show scandalous behaviors which could erode what support he retains amongst the electorate and amongst Republicans in Congress, so he fired Comey, hoping that his replacement and Sessions could delay the investigation so long that it becomes irrelevant. That is an easy task if the head of the F.B.I. and Justice both decide to slash funding and personnel allocated to the investigation. Clever move but without any consideration that it makes Trump look like a simple minded person who has no principles whatsoever.
2
Showboat? I guess it takes one to know one........
5
Republican politicians that continue to support trumps shady practices are the ones that need to be fired
6
From another comment:
"Deputy FBI director Andrew McCabe and General McMaster must be the next to go. Keep draining that swamp, Mr. President! I want policy to be make by the man I voted for, not some intelligence spooks and cueball-headed generals!"
The problem here is that a majority of Americans did not vote for Trump and I, for one, do not want this excuse for a leader making any policy. Republican gerrymandering of local congressional districts and an outdated Electoral College assured that the peoples' choice did not win.
I am becoming more convinced this so-called leader will draw us into a war to deflect his other problems and, sadly, we may not survive the war that is coming. As a military retiree, I am ashamed of the White House and the majority of Congress. As Trump fills the hundreds of openings in the courts, we who believe in democracy for all will suffer with the administration, Congress, and the Judiciary all serving as puppets for whatever unsubstantiated claims the man with the improbable golden hair wants to make.
Let's build a case for impeachment. We may end up with Pence, who is largely an unknown, but he's got to be somewhat better and we can vote him out in 2020.
"Deputy FBI director Andrew McCabe and General McMaster must be the next to go. Keep draining that swamp, Mr. President! I want policy to be make by the man I voted for, not some intelligence spooks and cueball-headed generals!"
The problem here is that a majority of Americans did not vote for Trump and I, for one, do not want this excuse for a leader making any policy. Republican gerrymandering of local congressional districts and an outdated Electoral College assured that the peoples' choice did not win.
I am becoming more convinced this so-called leader will draw us into a war to deflect his other problems and, sadly, we may not survive the war that is coming. As a military retiree, I am ashamed of the White House and the majority of Congress. As Trump fills the hundreds of openings in the courts, we who believe in democracy for all will suffer with the administration, Congress, and the Judiciary all serving as puppets for whatever unsubstantiated claims the man with the improbable golden hair wants to make.
Let's build a case for impeachment. We may end up with Pence, who is largely an unknown, but he's got to be somewhat better and we can vote him out in 2020.
9
Republican gerrymandering of local congressional districts and an outdated Electoral College assured that the peoples' choice did not win.
=======================
"Gerrymandering" has nothing to do with the Electoral College.
=======================
"Gerrymandering" has nothing to do with the Electoral College.
1
While all of this is happening an elephant sitting in the room that the media misses and some senators know about but choose to ignore, is not Trump collusion, but how the Russians are manipulating the blinded media and naïve politicians that should know better. The collusion story is being kept alive both by politicians wishing to harm Trump, and by Russia using cyber warfare to create and amplify the feeding frenzy.
How do I know this? Watch and listen to the March 30 hearings held by the Senate Intelligence Committee with six expert witnesses. In the morning three of them outlined the broad picture of how the Russians operate, and, in the afternoon, three others provided more technical details of how they do it. The two sessions are at,
https://www.c-span.org/video/?426227-1/senate-intelligence-panel-warned-...
And in the afternoon,
https://www.c-span.org/video/?426227-101/senator-rubio-confirms-campaign...
For perhaps the best broad summary you can go directly to minute 36:15 of the morning hearings, and watch the opening remarks by Clinton Watts, Senior Fellow at the George Washington Center for Cyber & Homeland Security.
So let’s wake up to the fact that the collusion story is just a screen created and by the Russians, a screen behind which they are manipulating liberal politicians and the media, and sowing distrust among the people. Putin is probably sitting in the Kremlin laughing his head off at how well it has worked.
How do I know this? Watch and listen to the March 30 hearings held by the Senate Intelligence Committee with six expert witnesses. In the morning three of them outlined the broad picture of how the Russians operate, and, in the afternoon, three others provided more technical details of how they do it. The two sessions are at,
https://www.c-span.org/video/?426227-1/senate-intelligence-panel-warned-...
And in the afternoon,
https://www.c-span.org/video/?426227-101/senator-rubio-confirms-campaign...
For perhaps the best broad summary you can go directly to minute 36:15 of the morning hearings, and watch the opening remarks by Clinton Watts, Senior Fellow at the George Washington Center for Cyber & Homeland Security.
So let’s wake up to the fact that the collusion story is just a screen created and by the Russians, a screen behind which they are manipulating liberal politicians and the media, and sowing distrust among the people. Putin is probably sitting in the Kremlin laughing his head off at how well it has worked.
1
Smarter people have indicated that giving Russian media with their equipment in tow access at the WH during this meeting is a security misstep. The best security practice (which was in effect prior to now) is that the most senior WH and intelligence officials do not allow any foreign visitor's cameras or devices to be brounght into and used in their offices, must be left at the door.
This is right up there with what occurred a few weeks back at POTUS' private residence and membership clubhouse, when top US officials' reaction to a North Korean missile launch was captured by attendees with their smartphones and immediately broadcast to the world.
Unreal.
This is right up there with what occurred a few weeks back at POTUS' private residence and membership clubhouse, when top US officials' reaction to a North Korean missile launch was captured by attendees with their smartphones and immediately broadcast to the world.
Unreal.
16
At this point, one can only assume there is kompromat on Mitch McConnell and Paul Ryan. How else can anyone explain their ongoing support for the fake thug sexual predator President who worships dictators and Vladimir Putin? (Um, pretty bad optics to have your fake stooge President posing with the top Russian spy recruiter in the West Wing the day after firing Comey. )
They are doing NOTHING to stop Trump's wide-ranging criminal enterprise. Sickening, disgusting, and immoral.
They must be removed from power as quickly as possible.
They are doing NOTHING to stop Trump's wide-ranging criminal enterprise. Sickening, disgusting, and immoral.
They must be removed from power as quickly as possible.
18
Well this is disturbing. Now Trump is eviscerating the US legal apparatus, he's appointing voter suppression expert Kris Kobach to lead the inquiry into fake voter fraud.
Taking over the courts, the last bastion of honesty not dominating by the Republican mobster kleptocracy, bought and paid for, is going to result in further efforts to take over the state and prevent masses of people from voting.
Not a good idea. Lots of sources, but this one has the correct headline.
"Trump’s Lies Pave the Way for an Assault on Voting Rights"
https://www.nytimes.com/2017/01/26/opinion/trumps-lies-pave-the-way-for-...
And here's where the Koch apparatus comes in; they've been working on this for decades. ALEC exposed:
http://www.alecexposed.org/wiki/Democracy,_Voter_Rights,_and_Federal_Power
NBC: "Flurry of Voter ID Laws tied to conservative group ALEC"
http://investigations.nbcnews.com/_news/2012/08/21/13392560-flurry-of-vo...
Taking over the courts, the last bastion of honesty not dominating by the Republican mobster kleptocracy, bought and paid for, is going to result in further efforts to take over the state and prevent masses of people from voting.
Not a good idea. Lots of sources, but this one has the correct headline.
"Trump’s Lies Pave the Way for an Assault on Voting Rights"
https://www.nytimes.com/2017/01/26/opinion/trumps-lies-pave-the-way-for-...
And here's where the Koch apparatus comes in; they've been working on this for decades. ALEC exposed:
http://www.alecexposed.org/wiki/Democracy,_Voter_Rights,_and_Federal_Power
NBC: "Flurry of Voter ID Laws tied to conservative group ALEC"
http://investigations.nbcnews.com/_news/2012/08/21/13392560-flurry-of-vo...
5
So Kobach can investigate the mystery of the 200,000 Wisconsin votes and then control the narrative. I'm with you; it's all about voter suppression. How will we get back to the future when we're headed back to the 50's?
3
Look...I know most comments on this thread and the NYT itself are anti-Trump. So I am not even going to attempt to save him.
My only remark is confined to his timing since 1/20 and wondering if he takes instruction in this from the Keystone Kops or 3 Stooges--or both.
First he attempts swift action with the immigration ban. Uh-oh on that.
Next, he waits 3 months longer than he needed to and cans Comey while the Russia thing is front page.
I don't know what he plans for an encore. But he needs to staff up with someone who understands "windows" for action. In the above cases, he throws them open too soon---or too late.
My only remark is confined to his timing since 1/20 and wondering if he takes instruction in this from the Keystone Kops or 3 Stooges--or both.
First he attempts swift action with the immigration ban. Uh-oh on that.
Next, he waits 3 months longer than he needed to and cans Comey while the Russia thing is front page.
I don't know what he plans for an encore. But he needs to staff up with someone who understands "windows" for action. In the above cases, he throws them open too soon---or too late.
1
"Attempt to save him"???....Sorry, too late.
Equally disgusting are the actions and opinions of Senator Mitch McConnell, who is doing everything in his power to prop up the erratic and odious Trump regime.
I never again want to hear how "patriotic" the Republican party is. They have forever proven beyond doubt that they care more about the political power of the GOP, than the constitution of the country they have sworn to serve.
This, after years of baseless and useless attacks against President Obama and Secretary Clinton. With Donald Trump, we are facing the largest political and international crisis of my lifetime, and Mitch McConnell is happy to sit idly by and fiddle while Rome burns.
In the historical accounting of this period of time, McConnell will be remembered as the shameful, craven opportunist that he is.
I never again want to hear how "patriotic" the Republican party is. They have forever proven beyond doubt that they care more about the political power of the GOP, than the constitution of the country they have sworn to serve.
This, after years of baseless and useless attacks against President Obama and Secretary Clinton. With Donald Trump, we are facing the largest political and international crisis of my lifetime, and Mitch McConnell is happy to sit idly by and fiddle while Rome burns.
In the historical accounting of this period of time, McConnell will be remembered as the shameful, craven opportunist that he is.
14
Sense of Crisis, really? I guess just trying to generate a narrative? Maybe simply drama queens?
2
Did Trump just say "phony hypocrites?" Is this the same man who berated President Obama for (1) travelling too much on the taxpayers' dime and (2) playing more golf than a PGA pro? Phony hypocrites? Too funny.
5
Could there be a photo of a more odious pair than these two? Both qualify as over-the-top narcissists, Henry a war criminal, his host a pathetic, feckless, clueless fraud.
5
Another day, another crisis cries the NYT.
Oh please. Come was a hot mess. And democrats wanted him out, until Trump ousted him. Even the audience on Stephen Colbert didn't know when to clap, anymore.
No - no crisis. Just NYT yelling "fire" in a crowded theatre.
Oh please. Come was a hot mess. And democrats wanted him out, until Trump ousted him. Even the audience on Stephen Colbert didn't know when to clap, anymore.
No - no crisis. Just NYT yelling "fire" in a crowded theatre.
3
I have yet to hear any audio of a dem saying Comey should be fired. If you find one can you post a link?
2
Trump's thought processes, if there are any, are extremely short sighted and shallow. He demands "loyalty" among his minions. In his imagination as CEO of the country he can fire anyone who works for him, and if loyalty is the prime criterion, then Comey obviously had to go. The reactions have gone far beyond Trump's shallow understanding of his job.
But, he's not CEO, he's just president and this is a democratic country and not a real estate corporation. He's answerable for his actions to people other than himself!
McCabe, the acting FBI head, expressed full support for Comey, that the FBI personnel stand behind Comey, and that the investigation into the Russian Connection in important and ongoing. Do you think, just maybe, that Trump may be losing the respect of the FBI? So ... is Trump going to fire the whole FBI?
Moreover, we have 6 Republican Senators standing up and openly expressing dismay at the thinly veiled subterfuge. Six isn't many, but it is a deafening roar in the present exceptionally partisan congress and anything that comes to a vote only requires 3 Republican Senators.
Trump is also slowly but surely losing support of the voters that provided his tiny local majorities, and overall minority, that gave him the presidency. The rebellion in 2018 will be significant.
But, he's not CEO, he's just president and this is a democratic country and not a real estate corporation. He's answerable for his actions to people other than himself!
McCabe, the acting FBI head, expressed full support for Comey, that the FBI personnel stand behind Comey, and that the investigation into the Russian Connection in important and ongoing. Do you think, just maybe, that Trump may be losing the respect of the FBI? So ... is Trump going to fire the whole FBI?
Moreover, we have 6 Republican Senators standing up and openly expressing dismay at the thinly veiled subterfuge. Six isn't many, but it is a deafening roar in the present exceptionally partisan congress and anything that comes to a vote only requires 3 Republican Senators.
Trump is also slowly but surely losing support of the voters that provided his tiny local majorities, and overall minority, that gave him the presidency. The rebellion in 2018 will be significant.
6
My question is, What does a ten year term mean if the president can essentially fire the FBI director willy-nilly? Is impeachment the only check?
7
Kind of hard to impeach a president when you only have 47 senators on your side - soon to be only 40.
2
So, this is the way it went.
The Russians spied on Podesta to get his emails which trashed Sanders.
The Russians then let the Liberal Media in on the emails knowing that they would publish them to gin up their circulation not caring if it hurt Clinton since she was a shoe-in anyway.
This strategy was thought up by the KGB in the Kremlin and Putin not only was in on it but helped direct it.
The Russians just knew that their plan was going to work in PA, WI and MI.
You have to admit they were very clever.
The Russians spied on Podesta to get his emails which trashed Sanders.
The Russians then let the Liberal Media in on the emails knowing that they would publish them to gin up their circulation not caring if it hurt Clinton since she was a shoe-in anyway.
This strategy was thought up by the KGB in the Kremlin and Putin not only was in on it but helped direct it.
The Russians just knew that their plan was going to work in PA, WI and MI.
You have to admit they were very clever.
1
@True Observer
Touché!
Touché!
I like the part where Putin convinced Clinton not to visit Wisconsin
3
Trump doesn't even try to cover up his collusion with the Russians. He brazenly fires the FBI head when the FBI's investigation heats up. He yucks it up with Mr. Lavrov, while Russian cameras roll - and American media is kept out. His SOS, meanwhile, is having a tete-a-tete with Kislyak. Treason, money laundering, blackmail, collaboration? All of the above? What else could possibly explain Trump's actions? But all the Trump base cares about is that their president mouths their prejudices and doesn't speak in sentences. As long as he does that, they are good with it.
8
Have we seen enough yet to know that our President was never qualified - and lacks the skills and character to make up for this fundamental deficiency? On top of that, we have McConnell and Ryan that are perfectly willing to sit by and watch the Republican Party self-destruct because they are afraid to take a principled stand on just about anything. The only chance to avoid further disintegration and dysfunction is get rid of Trump, his children and Sessions and draft Mitt Romney - with all of his flaws - to restore America.
3
Adolf Hitler was appointed Chancellor of Germany by Paul von Hindenburg on 30 January 1933. Within a month, Hitler used the occurrence of a fire at the Reichstag building (the assembly location of the German Parliament) as an excuse to urge von Hindenburg to issue the Reichstag Fire Decree (the “Presidential Order for the Protection of People and State”) which suspended of civil rights, banned the left-wing press, and authorized the mass arrest of communists and socialists (a move that also allowed the Nazi party to assume a majority in the Reichstag by taking the seats of arrested communist delegates). Before another month had passed, the Nazi-majority Reichstag passed the Enabling Act, which gave the German Cabinet (i.e., Chancellor Hitler) the power to enact laws without the involvement of the the Reichstag. The combination of the Reichstag Fire Decree and the Enabling Act effectively transformed Hitler’s government into a legal dictatorship within two months of his appointment as chancellor. These actions were not “imperceptible reductions” in freedom and rights — they were a massive change in the established order implemented in a very short period of time.
tbc
9
THE most important historical event that we should be paying much more attention to at this current time. Thank you for posting this. I was waiting for someone else to do so. The correlations are frightening. We should ALL be aware of the Reichstag Fire Decree.
In truth, Comey was a showboat.
Here is the McCabe story the NYT has buried because it is so busy spinning the Comey firing.
"Mr. McCabe also said that the firing of Mr. Comey had not affected the Justice Department’s investigation of Russia’s meddling in the presidential election".
Will you (NYT) please stop meddling in the FBI investigation.
"Mr. McCabe also said that the firing of Mr. Comey had not affected the Justice Department’s investigation of Russia’s meddling in the presidential election".
Will you (NYT) please stop meddling in the FBI investigation.
3
All republicans not disgusted by trumps actions re comey should cower in shame. Where is your patriotisim?????. This is the USA, not republicanland McConnel is especially agriegious, he should resign from the senate now.
What an embarrassing time for this country, really, shame. Old white men trying to cling to power your days are numbered.
What an embarrassing time for this country, really, shame. Old white men trying to cling to power your days are numbered.
5
"Trump being Trump" is the sweet spot to spin the story of firing Comey.
Had Russia really meddled in the U.S. election, its involvement must be extensive. No matter whether the Kremlin had reached some kind of deal with Trump himself, the numerous people behind Trump who helped him run the campain and won the election must be liable to Russian manipulation, Michael Flynn for example. So it could be assumed that the idea of firing Comey and giving the FBI some alert is popular with thoese people who desperately need to cover up their connection with Moscow. Trump with his blunt personal style fits perfectly for the job, for the masterminds of firing Comey could comfortably hide behind the label of "Trump being Trump".
Had Russia really meddled in the U.S. election, its involvement must be extensive. No matter whether the Kremlin had reached some kind of deal with Trump himself, the numerous people behind Trump who helped him run the campain and won the election must be liable to Russian manipulation, Michael Flynn for example. So it could be assumed that the idea of firing Comey and giving the FBI some alert is popular with thoese people who desperately need to cover up their connection with Moscow. Trump with his blunt personal style fits perfectly for the job, for the masterminds of firing Comey could comfortably hide behind the label of "Trump being Trump".
It's all psych warfare.
Since we have no financials on Trump, who really knows if there is a Russian connection. However, as stated previously, the firing of Comey had all the class of a T.V. reality show. I don't want my government to be a spectacle, or a ratings bonanza, I want my government to be reliable, stable and accountable. Everything thing that President Trump and his current cabinet of character's isn't. I say let's impeach Trump. And end this sad fiasco. Drain the swamp? This man is the original Swamp-Thing!
6
You don't vote for nihilists when you want steady as she goes skippering.
Why should we believe that Trump had been told by Comey on three occasions that he was not under investigation by the FBI? Wouldn't once have been sufficient?
Incredible.
Incredible.
7
So many lies to pick from about the firing of Director Comey, how do we possibly choose! Is it the reason Spicer gave or Huckabee Sanders gave us later when the bombshell dropped, ( in direct conflict with Trump in his interview with Lester Holt)? Is it that it was prompted by Deputy AG Rosenstein's memo and then the president fired Comey (now being refuted by Rosenstein)? Was it the now contradicted response VP gave yesterday? When a president lies about everything, big and small, he should not be surprised that few believe him, even if he might be telling the truth.
4
It depends on whom you think is closer to God.
1
The only Showboat in this entire episode is Trump. And he is clearly taking on water.
I actually feel for his public relations team as they look like they are cleaning up after the elephants in the political charade.
I actually feel for his public relations team as they look like they are cleaning up after the elephants in the political charade.
3
One hopes these elephants will soon follow the Ringling Brothers' herd into retirement.
3
Why even publish what Trump says. Everything he says is a lie. He has no credibility. He is not as he thinks he is a master of deception. Trump is more likely a master of self destruction. He can't handle the truth. Trump is in the early stages of a major meltdown. If he's smart, he should fire himself and resign.
8
If only the media did not pay attention to him from the very beginning, we'd all be better off. I was enraged by all of the free press he was receiving early on and knew it would lead to him winning. Thanks. Tired of the parodies too, SNL, etc.
These are very serious times.
These are very serious times.
The crisis started when Trump began making false claims about voting results, the number of people attending his inauguration, about Obama authorizing or doing by himself some wiretapping on his communications, and when he began treating his opposite numbers in countries we're friendly with like enemies.
Mr. Trump has compiled an impressive record of misstatements, outright lies, bad conduct, and ignorance that hasn't been matched since the presidency started in America. If he's succeeded at anything in the first 100 days and the ones following it's been his profound incompetence that deserves an A. He seems to think that he can skate by on being president or throw up all sorts of obstacles to distract us all the time.
Message to "President" Trump: you are in the public eye now, not on television where it doesn't count. Do not make the mistake of thinking that everyone is not paying attention to what is going on behind the scenes just because you don't want us to know. As president you are watched and when you err it will be news. If you betray us, it will be news. If we learn that you or any member of your intimate circle made a deal with the Russians, or anyone else, to win the presidency, you will be impeached or driven from office.
Mr. Trump has compiled an impressive record of misstatements, outright lies, bad conduct, and ignorance that hasn't been matched since the presidency started in America. If he's succeeded at anything in the first 100 days and the ones following it's been his profound incompetence that deserves an A. He seems to think that he can skate by on being president or throw up all sorts of obstacles to distract us all the time.
Message to "President" Trump: you are in the public eye now, not on television where it doesn't count. Do not make the mistake of thinking that everyone is not paying attention to what is going on behind the scenes just because you don't want us to know. As president you are watched and when you err it will be news. If you betray us, it will be news. If we learn that you or any member of your intimate circle made a deal with the Russians, or anyone else, to win the presidency, you will be impeached or driven from office.
6
God did send millions of angels to attend Trump's inauguration, but only he could see them.
3
And, his decision may be tied to obstruction of justice... Nixon resigned prior to most probably impeached; the first article of impeachment to be voted on was obstruction of justice... imagine, if no direct ties of Trump (himself) to Russia election collusion (aside from others) are able to be proven, then, he may have just provided a real singular reason for impeachment. His bumbling reckless ego, to a fault.
3
Yesterday, Vice President Mike Pence said the firing was "the right decision at the right time" and stated that the firing was in response to the Rosenstein memo.
Donald Trump has just cut Mike Pence off at the knees.
Trump said to Lester Holt of NBC in an interview now airing on MSNBC that he (Trump) had decided to fire Comey prior to the meeting with AG Sessions and Deputy AG Rosenstein, and before Rosenstein even wrote his memo.
So if you believe Trump himself the whole discussion of the Rosenstein memo is worthless hot air. Trump was going to fire Comey no matter what the memo said.
All of Trump's flacks are just a bunch of puppets, who as often as not make statements that "the boss" later turns into lies.
Why would anyone listen to people like Sean Spicer, Mike Pence, Sarah Huckabee Sanders, Kellyanne Conway, Stephen Miller when they comment on what they think happened? They often are given totally misleading information, and they ever so seriously dutifully pass that information out as factually correct.
Donald Trump has just cut Mike Pence off at the knees.
Trump said to Lester Holt of NBC in an interview now airing on MSNBC that he (Trump) had decided to fire Comey prior to the meeting with AG Sessions and Deputy AG Rosenstein, and before Rosenstein even wrote his memo.
So if you believe Trump himself the whole discussion of the Rosenstein memo is worthless hot air. Trump was going to fire Comey no matter what the memo said.
All of Trump's flacks are just a bunch of puppets, who as often as not make statements that "the boss" later turns into lies.
Why would anyone listen to people like Sean Spicer, Mike Pence, Sarah Huckabee Sanders, Kellyanne Conway, Stephen Miller when they comment on what they think happened? They often are given totally misleading information, and they ever so seriously dutifully pass that information out as factually correct.
7
Even IF (big IF) Trump were not in collusion with the Russians, Trump wants to eliminate any investigation into it because it can also expose the fact that he didn't win certain states by what he thought - possibly uncovering Russian assistance in spoiling ballots in key states like Wisconsin (200,000 documented so far), as well as close cooperation between the Trump campaign and Russian intelligence agencies. Trump cares more about his ego and wanting to believe that people LIKE him and trust HIM than he does reality or well being of anyone besides himself. Every tweet or response is always ego-driven and he only cares about how BIG his crowds are at rallies.
I would love to question any voter who is a mom: would you let your 17 yr. old beautiful daughter alone in a room with the man? If the answer if no, why the hec would you vote for someone like that?
Republicans are so happy to have one of their own in power they are looking the other way and they will use him up and toss him aside when it benefits them. Taking away healthcare for over 20M Americans is just the beginning of the morally corrupt republican agenda. Say goodbye to clean water, air, etc. Folks who vote for them and for this inept POTUS vote against their own well being.
I would love to question any voter who is a mom: would you let your 17 yr. old beautiful daughter alone in a room with the man? If the answer if no, why the hec would you vote for someone like that?
Republicans are so happy to have one of their own in power they are looking the other way and they will use him up and toss him aside when it benefits them. Taking away healthcare for over 20M Americans is just the beginning of the morally corrupt republican agenda. Say goodbye to clean water, air, etc. Folks who vote for them and for this inept POTUS vote against their own well being.
5
"Mr. Trump is weighing going to the F.B.I. headquarters in Washington on Friday as a show of his commitment to the bureau". Perhaps he can take the Russian envoy with him for that visit, and maybe the Russian press too (but not the American press!).
4
Trump did not wow the crowd at the CIA.
Trump needed to assure Putin envoys that he has the American situation under control. The envoys relayed the "or else the dossier will go public" threat from the "big boss" Putin. No wonder the American press was kept out.
I thought these things happened only in the Hollywood movies ...
I thought these things happened only in the Hollywood movies ...
5
Once again this country has to demonstrate that no man is above the law, including the president.
Deputy AG Rosenstein can more than make amends by appointing a Special Prosecutor to conduct the Russian interference/Trump campaign collusion investigation. Trump can't veto this and neither can Sessions, who is recused from issues relating to the investigation. The American people deserve and require a truly impartial and thorough investigation of the issue of Russian interference in our elections and the growing possibility of internal collusion in order to preserve and protect our democratic institutions and to continue to earn the respect of supporters of democracy throughout the world (our only true allies).
American history would reward Rosenstein with lasting respect, gratitude and honor if he were honest and brave enough to recognize the vital democratic principles at stake by his appointment of a Special Prosecutor at the earliest opportunity. Somebody in power with respect for democratic principles and truth-finding has to seize the reins and protect the country from the emerging tyranny of a president who thinks he is above the law and a majority party in Congress who seem to be satisfied in riding the tyrant’s coattails without regard for the real consequences to our democratic institutions.
Deputy AG Rosenstein can more than make amends by appointing a Special Prosecutor to conduct the Russian interference/Trump campaign collusion investigation. Trump can't veto this and neither can Sessions, who is recused from issues relating to the investigation. The American people deserve and require a truly impartial and thorough investigation of the issue of Russian interference in our elections and the growing possibility of internal collusion in order to preserve and protect our democratic institutions and to continue to earn the respect of supporters of democracy throughout the world (our only true allies).
American history would reward Rosenstein with lasting respect, gratitude and honor if he were honest and brave enough to recognize the vital democratic principles at stake by his appointment of a Special Prosecutor at the earliest opportunity. Somebody in power with respect for democratic principles and truth-finding has to seize the reins and protect the country from the emerging tyranny of a president who thinks he is above the law and a majority party in Congress who seem to be satisfied in riding the tyrant’s coattails without regard for the real consequences to our democratic institutions.
3
I doubt anyone short of God will be considered a credible candidate to supervise this investigation.
And even then, DJT will think God is one of his minions. Can't wait for that Lester Holt interview.
Some have accused Democrats of hypocrisy on Comey, first wanting him fired and now criticizing his firing. It is not hypocrisy: Democrats wanted a President Clinton to fire Comey for poor judgement and for his apparent meddling. They did not want a President Trump to fire him for getting too close to the truth. We have gone from the frying pan of incompetence into the fire of corruption.
1
They think they know better what we think than we do.
There is a major failure in the smell test that has not been discussed, which are the bombs we launched into Syria like a month ago. It look bad enough when Trump sits with Russians, is filmed by a state-run Russian news agency, having barred our press, All just after firing our FBI chief, most likely because of a Russian investigation. But when you consider that we sent missiles into Syria a month ago, all because of an episode that had Russian fingerprints all over it, you really start wondering.
So much is going on that there has to be one underlying explanation, because otherwise the timing of this stuff is too clumsy to make any sense. This is a month and it seems like a decade. Is Trump so stupid that he doesn't understand how bad this looks, or has he already been compromised?
So much is going on that there has to be one underlying explanation, because otherwise the timing of this stuff is too clumsy to make any sense. This is a month and it seems like a decade. Is Trump so stupid that he doesn't understand how bad this looks, or has he already been compromised?
1
Kissinger and Trump in the same room? I'm amazed it didn't ignite from the heat of so much narcissism.
3
Trump will still be president four years from now, and he'll win re-election. Sure, he's a traitor, but who is going to do anything about it? Nobody. Just talk and talk and hope in a few weeks there will be something else to distract the people. Maybe another war.
The White House states it was not Trump's decision to fire him. That runs contrary to what the president himself has said. These guys (there are no women in the inner circle) are inept. The gang that never could and never will shoot straight.
2
A new poll just came out, conducted by Quinnipiac University May 4-9. "Just 36% of voters approve of the job President Trump is doing as commander-in-chief. In particular, Trump lost support among many demographics that had comprised his base during the 2016 election: White voters with no college degree, white men and independent voters." Yes, there should be a sense of crisis swirling around the White House.
10
Coverup co-conspiritors: Trump, Sessions, Ryan and McConnell.
Will they murder Flynn before his grand jury testimony?
Will they murder Flynn before his grand jury testimony?
10
This is such deja vu for anyone who lived through Watergate. But, this crisis is so much more evil and dangerous to our country and to the world. The contrast is clear: We now have a president who is unprepared, untruthful, uninformed, untrustworthy, unaware, and untutored in the responsibilities of governing a country. Perhaps we should refer to this sorry president as our supreme leader: Don Trump-un. The world is watching as we disintegrate as the "free world."
9
I suppose ol' Hank Kissinger was experiencing some perverted sense of nostalgia!
9
Seriously, GOP, where are you? Why are you allowing this to happen? History will not judge you well.
11
Trump is already deeply unpopular with his latest approval level at 36% in Quinnipiac. This won't help.
The FBI is supposed to be non-partisan, and the 10 year appointment of its director was supposed to insulate the agency from politics. That is gone now.
Trump lies far more often than he tells the truth, proven again and again.
The Russian investigation is in great peril, and Republican senators disgracefully attacked Sally Yates the other day showing venom and an appalling lack of knowledge of law and ethics. At least one seemed to think that her role was to do anything the president wanted. At the Nuremberg Trials, following unlawful orders was not a defense. Another asked her sarcastically if she was on the Supreme Court. That is not a body that can neutrally investigate the Russian ties to Trump.
Firing Comey was shocking. The way it was done was cruel. But then so was firing Yates and Bharara and others who were investigating Trump and his associates. This goes far beyond Watergate since it involves collusion with a hostile foreign power. The fact that the GOP and Trump are obstructing the investigation in every way they can means no justice and no truth will emerge. Most of the GOP is now complicit.
So the criminal justice system has been corrupted; the independent judiciary is under attack; the freedom of the press is assailed daily by Trump and his cohorts; and Trump, his family and his cronies are all above the law.
Forget democracy.
The FBI is supposed to be non-partisan, and the 10 year appointment of its director was supposed to insulate the agency from politics. That is gone now.
Trump lies far more often than he tells the truth, proven again and again.
The Russian investigation is in great peril, and Republican senators disgracefully attacked Sally Yates the other day showing venom and an appalling lack of knowledge of law and ethics. At least one seemed to think that her role was to do anything the president wanted. At the Nuremberg Trials, following unlawful orders was not a defense. Another asked her sarcastically if she was on the Supreme Court. That is not a body that can neutrally investigate the Russian ties to Trump.
Firing Comey was shocking. The way it was done was cruel. But then so was firing Yates and Bharara and others who were investigating Trump and his associates. This goes far beyond Watergate since it involves collusion with a hostile foreign power. The fact that the GOP and Trump are obstructing the investigation in every way they can means no justice and no truth will emerge. Most of the GOP is now complicit.
So the criminal justice system has been corrupted; the independent judiciary is under attack; the freedom of the press is assailed daily by Trump and his cohorts; and Trump, his family and his cronies are all above the law.
Forget democracy.
57
Eloquently stated and heartbreakingly accurate. Trump's actions in firing Comey days after Comey had requested more resources to further his investigation into Russian ties to the Trump administration are a clear attack on what I had always assumed was a foundation of American public life that transcended politics--that intervention into a criminal investigation by the target of that investigation was a level of corruption that would not be tolerated here. Trump plainly has no sense of what actually made America great--which, contrary to what many currently in public life plainly think--is not the ability of talentless bullies to become billionaires and achieve public office even though clearly lacking the temperament or skills for that office. Instead, what made America great is that it had the goal of providing justice impartially to all (admittedly, a goal that is often not achieved) and the goal of trying to ensure that no one should be able to subvert the course of justice to protect their own misconduct of the misconduct of those around them.
2
Bottom-line (to the extent we're near a bottom): nobody with a even a dash of critical thought skills and memory can trust Donald Trump. How can we proceed with another 3.75 years of this guy in the White House (although that's highly doubtful)? How will a President Pence be?
Aside: Don, history shows it's a real bad idea to demoralize and chaff the FBI, even if you're the big kahuna. They know lots more than you think they know.
Aside: Don, history shows it's a real bad idea to demoralize and chaff the FBI, even if you're the big kahuna. They know lots more than you think they know.
3
Dusting off mothballs off Henry Kissinger, used as a prop for a photo op, doesn't soothe the alarm of concerned citizens.
It is no coincidence that the firing of Mr. Comey and the visit of the ambassador to the WH happened immediately after Mr. Comey signaled the intention to dive deeper into the investigation and after the subpoena request by the Senate investigative Committee.
It is no coincidence that the firing of Mr. Comey and the visit of the ambassador to the WH happened immediately after Mr. Comey signaled the intention to dive deeper into the investigation and after the subpoena request by the Senate investigative Committee.
1
No doubt Trump will say a few words in support of the Agency, then wander into LaLa land telling them how great and decisive he is.
Will it be like the speech at the CIA with his back to the Stars of Honored Fallen that he ignored? Never mentioned it. Look at Me, Me and Me. No, just more Blah Blah Blah.
Time to set off the fire alarm when he starts.
Will it be like the speech at the CIA with his back to the Stars of Honored Fallen that he ignored? Never mentioned it. Look at Me, Me and Me. No, just more Blah Blah Blah.
Time to set off the fire alarm when he starts.
1
Yesterday, the Russian foreign minister upon going in to a meeting with Rex Tillerson (by his side), put their contempt for the press on full display. Andrea Mitchell tried to ask a question regarding Comey's firing. Lavrov, mocked her with feigned surprise, laughed at and demeaned her. It was sickening. Tillerson seemed to think it amusing.
The Exxon CEO. ... oops, I mean the Sec. of State, is conducting business as usual and as expected, with his very good friends from Russia, behind closed doors, and it's none of our business what that business is. Trump has the gall to deny any kind of collusion/collaboration with Russia, while at the same brazenly flaunting his fondness for Russia.
He's enjoying this. He's rubbing our noses in his deceit and daring us to do anything about it.
The Exxon CEO. ... oops, I mean the Sec. of State, is conducting business as usual and as expected, with his very good friends from Russia, behind closed doors, and it's none of our business what that business is. Trump has the gall to deny any kind of collusion/collaboration with Russia, while at the same brazenly flaunting his fondness for Russia.
He's enjoying this. He's rubbing our noses in his deceit and daring us to do anything about it.
8
Surprizingly I am not seeing comments about a pattern in Trump's firings. This is third instance of Trump removing people who were actively investigating him, his business or his campaign...Preet Bharara, Sally Yates & now James Comey. Isn't this a pattern that says 'obstruction of justice'?
11
Don't worry. Just because you don't see comments doesn't mean that we're not aware of them, or keeping count.
Besides, there are sure to be plenty more on the way....
Besides, there are sure to be plenty more on the way....
4
I cannot wait to start getting phone alerts stating that leaks implicate almost the entire administration!
4
war is imminent
its his only way out
you cant criticize a war time pres, now can you
7
Yes we can...and did - LBJ and Nixon. Never thought in my mid 60s I would find it necessary to once again go out into the streets and stop evil. And Trump is that - evil. If Congress won't get rid of him, then we must. For the sake of our children....and our country!
2
A person such as Trump mistrusts everyone has no close friends and loyal only to Ivanka. He will dump anyone who doesn't agree with him. Perhaps the sycophants in his cabinet are now realizing this.
3
Trump,An inexperienced,unethical,and unwise and mentally unstable president , elected in a "populist"campaign partly based on pathological lying and deception and proven foreign interference on his behalf,sits in the White House with an ex-secretary of state,Kissinger,who is personally responsible for the deaths of thousands of young American men in the fraudulent and useless Vietnam war.
This is the A team, colluding on how to prevent the FBI,the rest of the intelligence agencies,Congress and the American people from INEVITABLY uncovering the financial ties between Trumps businesses,associates,and election team and plundered Russian government,Russian mafia and other"dirty money"international launderers.
Trump is even openly consulting with his Russian financial and electoral benefactors in the WHITE HOUSE ............with Lavrov openly mocking the US!
If Trump cant be found guilty of obstruction of justice and perhaps treason.........based on the weight of evidence ,which even today,is circumstantial but overwhelming....................America is a democracy in name only!!!!!
This is the A team, colluding on how to prevent the FBI,the rest of the intelligence agencies,Congress and the American people from INEVITABLY uncovering the financial ties between Trumps businesses,associates,and election team and plundered Russian government,Russian mafia and other"dirty money"international launderers.
Trump is even openly consulting with his Russian financial and electoral benefactors in the WHITE HOUSE ............with Lavrov openly mocking the US!
If Trump cant be found guilty of obstruction of justice and perhaps treason.........based on the weight of evidence ,which even today,is circumstantial but overwhelming....................America is a democracy in name only!!!!!
1
"No connection"? The connection is there for us all to see in that Russian photo from the oval office of the three of them grinning at each other like the cats that just ate the canaries. (On the day after the Comey firing!) If their grins weren't enough, the fact that only the Russian media was allowed in, cements it. The Trump-Russian connection is alive and well!
2
How fitting that, of all people, Henry Kissinger is shown here sitting in the same room in which he kneeled in prayer with Richard Nixon during the final days of the Watergate scandal. If anyone knows about lying in the Oval Office, and its consequences, it is certainly this man.
4
what crisis? Donald Trump is CEO of the executive branch of government. The FBI is part of that branch. He is legally empowered to hire and fire heads of departments within that branch.
Nothing unconstitutional has occurred.
Nothing unconstitutional has occurred.
3
No offense. But is there a news blackout where you are???
4
The Repulsive, Unctuous, Malodorous President
6
"We were tricked" .....Yeah right. The White House (Bannon), continues to thumb his nose at White House protocol. They knew (Bannon direction again) controversy would erupt with the Comey firing. Voter fraud (Trump deflection) is now being tossed on the table. What happened to the North Korean crises? Is this the United States I know? All we have is people running this country who have no clue. I get it that Trump is paranoid, but he put in a bunch of people who will not tell him or Bannon "NO". Loyalty is one thing, but a bunch of newbies who worship at the shrine of Trump is degrading our country. America great....it was already great, but I don't know if it can survive Trump and his followers.
1
Every day, Donald Trump demonstrates he is unfit to be President. He is diminishing the United States' standing in the world, destroying environmental regulations that protect those who cannot protect themselves, retracting health care from millions of citizens, initiating unconstitutional actions that are based on racism and xenophobia, and enriching himself and his family at the expense of the American taxpayer. Every time he opens his mouth, he does so to tell a lie. He is a stranger to the truth and his mendaciousness is contagious. He has people working in his administration who continually lie to the American public in order to keep their positions in the Administration. He has not released his tax returns because there is so much damaging information about him and his companies documented there. He continues to reach out to people who have been shown to have been compromised by the Russians. He has utter contempt for Americans who do not agree with him or do not pledge loyalty to him. He has given aid and succor to our adversaries and diminished our future prospects. His Presidency is damaging the United States.
Using the mechanisms of the 25th Amendment, Congress should remove this President from office. If the current Congress refuses to act on the removal of the President, then any member of Congress, who does not support removing the President, should be replaced through the ballot.
Using the mechanisms of the 25th Amendment, Congress should remove this President from office. If the current Congress refuses to act on the removal of the President, then any member of Congress, who does not support removing the President, should be replaced through the ballot.
1
Everyone keeps talking about Trump Admin collusion with Russia with regards to the election. Well, what about possible collusion NOW as we speak? I mean, the guy had a CLOSED DOOR meeting with RUSSIAN foreign diplomat with all of this Russia-Trump hooplah going on. Really? So what were they talking about? Russian food delicacies?
5
To call Democrats' calling for Comey's resignation back in October or November "flip-floppin", without benefit of knowledge of the then ongoing FBI investigation of Russia/Trump, is a bit unfair to say the least. (Ironically, Comey's reticence about the Russia/Trump investigation is at the root of this dichotomy)
To lament Comey's firing due to the very real chance that it scuttles or renders meaningless the Russia/Trump investigation is not hypocritical at all. It is the integrity of the investigation, not Comey's employment status that is paramount here!
To lament Comey's firing due to the very real chance that it scuttles or renders meaningless the Russia/Trump investigation is not hypocritical at all. It is the integrity of the investigation, not Comey's employment status that is paramount here!
2
Trump should be forced to wear a body camera, on and recording, 24 hours a day. Otherwise we can just assume that anything that comes out of his mouth, his sycophants' mouths, or from his pen, is an outright lie.
3
"... but at least a half-dozen Republicans broke with their leadership to express concern or dismay." Really? Wow!
It sends a message almost as powerful as an "ethics reprimand" in the Senate. Which is to say, it means absolutely NOTHING.
I've had it up to here with the endless "may have violated" this, and the "may have been illegal" that. Enough with the "may's" already.
When are the trials going to start and when are people going to jail? That's what I want to know.
"The investigation is continuing..." until when? December 2020?
Get it done BEFORE Trump starts WWIII - or it won't really matter anymore will it?
It sends a message almost as powerful as an "ethics reprimand" in the Senate. Which is to say, it means absolutely NOTHING.
I've had it up to here with the endless "may have violated" this, and the "may have been illegal" that. Enough with the "may's" already.
When are the trials going to start and when are people going to jail? That's what I want to know.
"The investigation is continuing..." until when? December 2020?
Get it done BEFORE Trump starts WWIII - or it won't really matter anymore will it?
3
Deputy FBI director Andrew McCabe and General McMaster must be the next to go. Keep draining that swamp, Mr. President! I want policy to be make by the man I voted for, not some intelligence spooks and cueball-headed generals! The President has the real constitutional authority to fire anybody in the executive branch of government, and he needs to make full use of it.
I think what makes Trump so dangerous is that he has no respect for process. Agree or disagree with his decision, we must take issue with the manner in which he removed Mr. Comey. It was rash, it was communicated via television to Comey and FBI staff, and the justifications changed after the fact. Now the Acting Director has directly contradicted Trump's assertion that Comey had lost respect within the FBI. I'm guessing the Acting Director will last about 12 hours. I am mystified that all Americans cannot see - whatever your politics - that a president who conducts himself in such a manner is a detriment to America.
77
Charlotte, what you are describing is typical of narcissism. For a normal President, an advisor would have insisted that Comey be contacted before the news broke. But working for Trump means catering to someone who believes one thing unshakably: He is entitled to whatever he wants. No one can tell him otherwise.
So this goes beyond disrespect for "process." He has a fundamental inability to respect anything that gets in the way of whatever he wants at that moment.
So this goes beyond disrespect for "process." He has a fundamental inability to respect anything that gets in the way of whatever he wants at that moment.
2
Reality check there is no perfect world .In time we all must be either fired or quit or retire. Being fired for making mistake or for the mistake of others is common when person is responsible for acts of others. If we have zero accountabilty we have no leadership.I can think of alot women who could do just or better job being top cop so let it be an move on .
1
First. There is zero accountability here. Not a good thing when it concerns the president of the United States.
And we also have no leadership, in case you haven't noticed.
I'm not sure what the women you can think of, has to do with this situation -- but it's time for Donald Trump to move on.
And we also have no leadership, in case you haven't noticed.
I'm not sure what the women you can think of, has to do with this situation -- but it's time for Donald Trump to move on.
1
"Sense of Crisis Deepens"??? ....We've been drowning in one crisis after another since the campaign and election.
Donald Trump has proven time and time again, that he hasn't a clue about this office, or the U.S. Constitution.
He will continue to pick and fire people as his mercurial will demands, without any regard for legitimacy or jurisprudence.
The recent firing of James Comey is just the latest in his desperation to appear above the fray.
But the cloak of secrecy and impenetrability surrounding his actions won't hold forever.
In fact, the next cracks are already showing.
Donald Trump has proven time and time again, that he hasn't a clue about this office, or the U.S. Constitution.
He will continue to pick and fire people as his mercurial will demands, without any regard for legitimacy or jurisprudence.
The recent firing of James Comey is just the latest in his desperation to appear above the fray.
But the cloak of secrecy and impenetrability surrounding his actions won't hold forever.
In fact, the next cracks are already showing.
8
I was giving Trump the benefit of a doubt but now more than ever, based on his actions and words I'm convinced that Trump is absolutely complicit with the Russians.
Guilty of treason.
Guilty of treason.
14
Weasel words....thy name is Trump.
6
I love the photo of Dr. K and the other liar. Birds of a feather.
7
For this twit Henry Kissinger came out of retirement?
10
Wait...4th paragraph... does this article actually say that the White House barred American reporters but allowed Russian state news?
Surreal, indeed.
Surreal, indeed.
11
Not only that. They allowed a photographer from the Russian embassy (ie. the mother ship of Russian spying in the US) to take pictures of Trump and his Russian buddies in the Oval Office. Incredible!
3
We the American people need to bring Mr Trump into our office, the oval office, sit him down and tell him these magical words : You're fired ! Every week this man finds a way to shoot himself in the foot. This is either desired or incompetence, but it's not healthy for us Americans. He destroyed the little credibility he had. His mental competence is even more in question. And somebody should tell him that this is serious and not a joke like his apprentice tv show. And so he fires Comey, a man investigating his campaign, claiming he did because of Hillary gate... What a bald face lie! Honesty a quality clearly lacking in this administration. Republicans stand up and do what is right for the country! Stop putting party ahead of country! And do your job and listen to us the American people, after all you do work for us! Over 60% of us no longer have any faith in this administration and believe they are unfit for office. Unless you cut your ties to Trump and co, you will go down with them! Stop being the stupid, racist, religious party and just be conservatives... Because as of now you are simply hypocrites, liars, obstructionists, incompetent, grafting, spoiled brats that are unfit to serve!
4
Trump is exactly what incompetence in business and government looks like, Trump is the type of business man that caused American Manufacturers to fall behind foreign countries and he can't hide it anymore.
3
Trump is acting and sounding more like Richard Nixon as each day passes.
It appears that Trump has plenty to hide in his and his peoples involvement with the Russians before and after the election, right up until now.
Maybe the FBI is on to some information that Trump does not want and can not let become known to all Americans.
It appears that Trump has plenty to hide in his and his peoples involvement with the Russians before and after the election, right up until now.
Maybe the FBI is on to some information that Trump does not want and can not let become known to all Americans.
2
Trump is worse than Nixon.
4
How nice that Trump let the Russian press into the Oval Office with all their equipment (an unprecedented move, by the way). This visit was specifically requested by Putin. You might want to check under the desk and the Lincoln bust for bugs.
6
Don't you know? -- According to Trump, Obama put those bugs there.
1
I, and most people I know, do and will continue to believe that POTUS and his campaign colluded with the Russians to rig the election in his favor, that he is now engaged in a cover up, noting all those who have been fired and/or are under investigation, esp FBI Director Comey (how stupid & desperate was that!), and that all these frenzied actions he's taking now are futile attempts to distract from his lawbreaking, treasonous behavior, until a thorough and independent investigation, similar to 9/11 Commission, concludes otherwise.
2
Nothing is going to happen to Trump as long as Republicans in Congress see him as a "useful idiot" with five working digits to sign any regressive, mean-spirited legislation they put in front of him. Trump is a traitor and by protecting him, the Republicans in Congress are aiding and abetting his treason, which makes them traitors too.
4
war is imminent
mark my words
The only thing that is going to stop Trump is a fatal coronary or a military coup.
7
It's not just "sense of crisis", we are now inside an actual crisis. The Trump presidency has just become "The Trump Crisis".
2
Donald Trump is not only a Russian Stooge, he is just a Stooge.
Trump lies so much, that he can't keep them straight and it's is becoming obvious that he is trying to hide something he's afraid of coming out.
Trump lies so much, that he can't keep them straight and it's is becoming obvious that he is trying to hide something he's afraid of coming out.
Hooboy, well if toppling the Trump administration wasn't explicitly on Comey's agenda, you can bet it is on his successor's.
I suspect Trump made a lot of enemies in the FBI with that ignominious dismissal.
I suspect Trump made a lot of enemies in the FBI with that ignominious dismissal.
3
Everyone's looking at Trump. Look at who's going at him: Schumer, Pelosi, Blumenthal (Pinocchio), etc.: The same old mules that drug us to the crossroads. The Democratic Party can do nothing because it stands for nothing. Anything that is valuable contains limits: It cannot be valuable and be everything: A diamond is NOT a rock except in the mind of the Buddhist priest high on crack at the top of the mountain. Some "Democrats" voted for Trump: That's a meaningless party.
1
Yeah we should just forget about Russian involvement in US affairs.
1
Guess what? Some Republicans (not too many, though) are "going at" Trump as well.
That said, it's time to look at the BIGGER picture.
This isn't a Democrat, or a Republican problem.
It's an AMERICAN problem.
That said, it's time to look at the BIGGER picture.
This isn't a Democrat, or a Republican problem.
It's an AMERICAN problem.
2
He's lying. It's all The Incompetent 45 knows how to do.
What Comey was digging up was Treason. High Crimes. Trump is, quite obviously, scared to death and decided that facing the fallout from firing Comey was preferable to facing the fallout from Comey's completed investigation.
The incredibly sad thing is that Trump calculated on the capitulation of the Washington GOP. As opposed to Watergate, when Nixon knew that the Legislature, regardless of party affiliation, would put the country first and prosecute an impeachment, Trump knows that today's GOP is so morally supine, so partisan and selfish, that they will cover up even his blatant abuse of power, compromising of the enforcement and investigation arm of government and his lying about it.
McConnell, Ryan and almost all of the rest of the Republican Congress is even willing to accept the strong likelihood that Donald Trump colluded with the Russian Government to undermine our political system and delegitimize our own government for the sake of personal gain. That's alright with them, as long as they get to keep their own power and money.
What Comey was digging up was Treason. High Crimes. Trump is, quite obviously, scared to death and decided that facing the fallout from firing Comey was preferable to facing the fallout from Comey's completed investigation.
The incredibly sad thing is that Trump calculated on the capitulation of the Washington GOP. As opposed to Watergate, when Nixon knew that the Legislature, regardless of party affiliation, would put the country first and prosecute an impeachment, Trump knows that today's GOP is so morally supine, so partisan and selfish, that they will cover up even his blatant abuse of power, compromising of the enforcement and investigation arm of government and his lying about it.
McConnell, Ryan and almost all of the rest of the Republican Congress is even willing to accept the strong likelihood that Donald Trump colluded with the Russian Government to undermine our political system and delegitimize our own government for the sake of personal gain. That's alright with them, as long as they get to keep their own power and money.
11
This is really a great historical opportunity for courageous Republicans to step up and help save our democratic institutions from ruin.
5
Are you kidding??? -- They are the ones who have ruined them.
4
Yes, we are still waiting for courage that should have been exercised by Republican Electors.
Here is the SNL movie trailer from March about the Republican (TBD) with the courage to put Country over party and stand up to Trump
https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=aXzjxVYPjys
Here is the SNL movie trailer from March about the Republican (TBD) with the courage to put Country over party and stand up to Trump
https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=aXzjxVYPjys
Don't hold your breathe.
2
The Republicans in Congress are an embarrassment to watch. While they mumble about being deeply disturbed, they refuse to actually assert their independence from this White House, ask tough questions, demand answers, and push for a special prosecutor. What more evidence do they need that Trump has handicapped the investigation at every turn? I can only conclude that they are too impotently exhausted from all of their Benghazi and Clinton email investigations.
5
In order for Trump to be considered as a legitimate president by all citizens, 2 things must happen: (1) release of tax returns (2) an independent Special Prosecutor investigate possible Russian connection/interference/ influence in the presidential election. If both of those obvious requirements are not thoroughly met, neither I nor millions of Americans will ever consider him a legitimate president. This is simple common sense. And if House or Senate Republicans don't force this issue they also will lose all credibility except with their basest base.
7
From the moment Donald Trump became President, many of us wondered if he would be able to become "presidential" and talk about the importance of "unifying" the country after a highly contested and divisive election. President Trump could have moved more to the Center, seeking some Democratic support in both the House and the Senate, and move away from the "emotional" Tweets we all became accustomed to receive during the Election. Then again, we would be speaking of a skilled statesman and NOT Donald Trump!
As we all know, "those who live by the sword, die by the sword" and this certainly applies to President Donald Trump. Regardless of what happens in what will become the protracted Congressional Hearings regarding Russian interference in the 2016 Elections, as the days go by Trump will become less effective as President and the GOP leadership will be convening behind the scenes to decide his fate. For the rest of us, this will become a "Presidential reality show" where the President's power diminishes by the day.
As we all know, "those who live by the sword, die by the sword" and this certainly applies to President Donald Trump. Regardless of what happens in what will become the protracted Congressional Hearings regarding Russian interference in the 2016 Elections, as the days go by Trump will become less effective as President and the GOP leadership will be convening behind the scenes to decide his fate. For the rest of us, this will become a "Presidential reality show" where the President's power diminishes by the day.
2
This whole Trump situation has become a Constitutional crisis and the GOP STILL stands behind him. Disgusting to the core at how willing the GOP are to throw democracy out the window for personal gain, be it power, money, status, whatever. God willing, we will still have a democracy by the time the 2018 mid-terms come around.
4
The FIB has been and remains a Right Wing organization. When Guiliani made his announcement about a bombshell Clinton surprise it was a just a case of the NYC office wagging the dog. Comey just backed his staff, of course they will now back him.
Recently, Trump has practically closeted himself. With all the bad news about him and his administration; favorable public comments about Comey and the FBI's determination to continue its investigations into the Russian government's interference in our election and possible collusion on the part of Trump and or his campaign, there may be a total Trump breakdown. While many of us believe that he's mentally ill, being Donald J. Trump and the president of the USA may be as impossible for him as it is for us. How will Mitch McConnell, his coterie and his family handle his meltdown? More excitement ahead!
So let's recap - Yates-fired, Flynn - letter of resignation accepted, Preet Bharara, fired, Comey - ignominiously fired. One more and we have Bingo. Sadly, this is no game and let's hope the GOP comes to their collective senses and put country first and then party, before this really does dissolve into a true constitutional crisis. Subpoena 45's tax returns so we can get the whole crooked lot out of the White House. I want my country back.
4
It is clear that Trump will never be considered a legitimate president until 2 things happen: (1) release of tax returns and (2) an independent Special Prosecutor to investigate the Russian connection. He can bluster, fulminate, have tantrums, tweet, blame others, etc. but he must meet that basic standard or be considered to e President of our country. It's that simple, folks.
2
I had initially been distressed at the level of incompetence of the people Trump had appointed to be around him. Well, now I am grateful. Maybe the only person that can bring Trump down is Trump himself. Ironic, isn't it?!?!
2
I don't know which is more fun to watch - the feigned hysteria of the Democratic leadership and the media, or Trump running circles around them.
1
Just for the record.
There is nothing "feigned".
It is not "hysteria".
It's not only the Democrtic leadership and the media.
It's very REAL.
And the only circles Trump is running around, is the truth.
There is nothing "feigned".
It is not "hysteria".
It's not only the Democrtic leadership and the media.
It's very REAL.
And the only circles Trump is running around, is the truth.
1
I'd try to explain to you that an oval office and a circular office have any corners for trump to hide in, but why bother. AT least one of you is going to figure that one out eventually.
I thought it was the general public and media consensus late last year that Comey would have to go sooner or later, anyway. Anyway, Trump is the one who needs to be fired. Comey and HRC both need to be smacked.
"Expressing concern or dismay" is just more of the usual empty talk from Republicans. Unless they call for a special prosecutor, they remain his enablers.
1
And then there's Rudy...the cliff at the end of the road.
That ominous, pounding sound which will soon be heard on the Capitol's roof will not be mere raindrops, but a steady, growing hailstorm of incriminating information descending from the Trump-Russian investigations. It will be a beautiful sound, and this "storm" cannot start soon enough. Best of all, the Republican ostriches inside will not be be able to shield their complicit ears from it. Let the revelations begin! Let the republic be saved!
1
I think it's time to start thinking about resignation, or, impeachment. It's obvious this person is in over his head and won't admit it and each firing just makes the suspicions grow on him and his administration. I think the american people deserve better than this.
The corruption of this administration - including Trump, his family and his cronies in the cabinet - is both breathtaking and obvious now. The problem is that they control all the levers of power, all the liars are at his beck and call, and the food chain of succession gets worse after Trump leaves office, not better. The only hope is for the Dems to get control of the House and Senate in 2018 by the time efforts to impeach Trump and Pence gain traction, and then have the succession fall to Dems hands. To move toward achieving that goal, we need to oppose Trumparatchiks on Trump's terrain where tweets and hashtags reign supreme. I propose these few for consideration now: #Trumparatchiks, #DrainTrumpSwamp and #TrumpSwampCreatures.
1
At what time frame was the FBI Director, who was "not doing a good", doing a good job when he informed President Trump "on three separate occasions, that I am not under investigation..."?
A. Before
B. During
C. After
D. Never
A. Before
B. During
C. After
D. Never
The new administration thus far has veered between, on the good side, chaos and incompetence to potential criminality and treason on the bad side, with a well-trod detour through deception and self aggrandizement along the way. And we are only 4 months in! What will the next 44 months bring? Nuclear war? It is not so far-fetched. Heaven help us all.
Trump’s abrupt firing of Comey was reprehensible for many reasons but when you consider the FBI's mission, the reason becomes clear. The FBI mission includes:
Combat public corruption at all levels
Combat transnational and national criminal organizations and enterprises
Combat major white-collar crime
Would you consider PUBLIC CORRUPTION to be a president who uses the office to advance his real estate holdings?
Did Trump fire Comey because Comey was getting too close to discovering “transnational criminal organizations”?
Is it “white collar crime” to offer H1B visas if investors buy Trump family member real estate?
Was it necessary to publicly humiliate the Director of the FBI by not even having the decency to call Comey & give him notice? Was it necessary to toss the agency into disarray?
This administration stinks at all levels but Trump knows he can’t be prosecuted and Pence waits in the wings to “pardon” any crimes that result in impeachment.
It is apparent the founding fathers never considered that a ruthless, sociopathic, con man could become POTUS.
Combat public corruption at all levels
Combat transnational and national criminal organizations and enterprises
Combat major white-collar crime
Would you consider PUBLIC CORRUPTION to be a president who uses the office to advance his real estate holdings?
Did Trump fire Comey because Comey was getting too close to discovering “transnational criminal organizations”?
Is it “white collar crime” to offer H1B visas if investors buy Trump family member real estate?
Was it necessary to publicly humiliate the Director of the FBI by not even having the decency to call Comey & give him notice? Was it necessary to toss the agency into disarray?
This administration stinks at all levels but Trump knows he can’t be prosecuted and Pence waits in the wings to “pardon” any crimes that result in impeachment.
It is apparent the founding fathers never considered that a ruthless, sociopathic, con man could become POTUS.
Why does Senator Collins of Maine always get a free ride from the press?! I have students in my high school U.S History class who do a better job at articulating themselves! Speech impediments or not, she's essentially gutless! I have increasing respect for Senator Graham! His magnanimity and ability not to be stonewalled by the current almost treasonous Republican establishment is admirable, and harks back to the day when Republicans like Vandenberg, Dirksen, and Baker, were reflections, of doing what's best for all Americans, regardless of Party!
1
Clearly a cover up of immense proportions is being perpetrated by trump himself and his henchmen. It's obvious that Putin won trump the election and expects pay back. It's also obvious that trump isn't forthcoming on what he knows and when he knew it. Most troubling is Priebus et al running interference with the FBI to thwart its investigation. And the recent ‘private’ telephone calls between trump and Putin are ominous as well. Treasonous malfeasance now looms as a real possibility.
1
The fact that only 6 Republicans expressed concern or dismay confirms the lack of integrity of the GOP. They continue to show concern only for power, not the health of the Country. The same critics of Hillary Clinton's e-mails stick their heads in the sand over a way more serious security and ethics concern, the Trump groups' possible collusion with the Russians to influence our election. I can only hope that the truth will ultimately come forth and those who violated our laws and our Constitution will be prosecuted. Perhaps they could serve time in that Arizona jail we're so fond of.
Is there any chance that Trump is actually the bumbling buffoon that he appears, and the Pence is some kind of Frank Underwood manipulating Trump into getting impeached or resigning?
If this is a cover up, it is the worst-executed cover-up in history. If this all coincidence, somebody is giving Trump AWFUL advice as to timing.
Most credible explanation is that someone is playing Trump like a fiddle. So the question becomes: cui bono?
If this is a cover up, it is the worst-executed cover-up in history. If this all coincidence, somebody is giving Trump AWFUL advice as to timing.
Most credible explanation is that someone is playing Trump like a fiddle. So the question becomes: cui bono?
Trump announced on Tuesday he was meeting with the Russians on Wednesday.
When the crisis spirals out of control, Trump doubles the centrifugal force hoping the shrapnel flying off at all tangents will provide cover fire for his misdeeds.
He presents himself as the one and only buck-stop responsible leader which is how he got elected, but when anything arises about which he does not want to lead, he then destroys it.
What happens if he decides he doesn't want to lead the nation anymore?
When the crisis spirals out of control, Trump doubles the centrifugal force hoping the shrapnel flying off at all tangents will provide cover fire for his misdeeds.
He presents himself as the one and only buck-stop responsible leader which is how he got elected, but when anything arises about which he does not want to lead, he then destroys it.
What happens if he decides he doesn't want to lead the nation anymore?
1
Trumpy beams while meeting with his Russian handlers. No surprise there. As a Russophile he's in his element. And thanks for allowing the Russian media in the meeting while disrespecting the American media. Maybe the next season of "You're fired!" will be on RT.
Re: his visit to the FBI, that will only make matters worse, just as it seemed to when he visited the CIA and talked about himself and the greatness that is being Trump. Maybe no one will show up. I mean, the FBI has a job to do, right? They have to be out there catching the bad guys; especially the ones who get a little too friendly with the Russians.
Re: his visit to the FBI, that will only make matters worse, just as it seemed to when he visited the CIA and talked about himself and the greatness that is being Trump. Maybe no one will show up. I mean, the FBI has a job to do, right? They have to be out there catching the bad guys; especially the ones who get a little too friendly with the Russians.
4
He also told the CIA personnel that he had their backs, meaning ready to knife them in the back.
The FBI is a powerful federal police force. In the age of Donald Trump, the only effective oversight of this organization is wielded by Congress. Does anyone seriously think that a Congress led by Mitch McConnell and Paul Ryan will ensure that the investigation into Russian interference in an American election will proceed unimpeded? The only way to rein Donald Trump in is to elect a Democratic Congress in 2018. I hope Independents who often vote Republican will consider this for the simple reason that we need to restore some semblance of checks and balances in our Republic.
20
I think the problem is there is no proof to support the Democrat narrative of Collusion that I expect is false. Investigations that have occurred for the better part of a year including covert surveillance and unmasking, They have not provided any public proof of any Collusion. With Washington as leaking as it is what are the chances that any such proof would not have leaked?
In short, what justification is there for further investigation. Is there probable cause of the type the Forth Amendment requires? On what basis should any investigation continue to examine private documents or captured electronic communications.
I can see why people who dislike Trump would want an investigation. It will impeded his progress and delegitimize him for some. They may think all the looking into private conversations and documents could turn up someone else on the administration.
However, aren't searches and investigations supposed to be based on probably cause. If there ever was probably cause, after much investigation and no proof of any Collusion found, can it still exist.
Trump was Constitutionally elected to do a job. The right thing to do is to put this investigation behind us as quickly as possible. We don't need endless unmasking an invasions or privacy which many may believe are politically motivated.
In short, what justification is there for further investigation. Is there probable cause of the type the Forth Amendment requires? On what basis should any investigation continue to examine private documents or captured electronic communications.
I can see why people who dislike Trump would want an investigation. It will impeded his progress and delegitimize him for some. They may think all the looking into private conversations and documents could turn up someone else on the administration.
However, aren't searches and investigations supposed to be based on probably cause. If there ever was probably cause, after much investigation and no proof of any Collusion found, can it still exist.
Trump was Constitutionally elected to do a job. The right thing to do is to put this investigation behind us as quickly as possible. We don't need endless unmasking an invasions or privacy which many may believe are politically motivated.
1
you've lost youre republic, old stick
its now a monarchy
king donald, presiding
obey or die
1
I agree with you 100% however this classification of independent voter I think is unrealistic. I've never in my 60 years of life meet a so called independent voter who was not actually more republican than anything else. So where is the real independence? These types of voters seem to be in conflict with their real right wing tendencies but those tendencies usually win out in the end, and they vote their usually hateful, resentful, racist, misogynistic consciences anyway. So I think the electorate in general wastes to much time and energy on what these so called independents think. If you really can't see what's clearly wright or wrong in a pluralistic democracy, then your useless to the effort of that democracies growth.
Frankly, part of me wonders if Trump is simply tired of the office and is deliberately expediting his own resignation. He has historically walked away from more than one disaster in his life. Why should this be any different? One needn't dig too deep for the truth, when its regularly broadcast with such a lack of subtlety.
I'd dearly love that to be so, as it would leave the Republican bottom-feeders in the House and Senate betrayed and rudderless; a condition many of them deserve.
I'd dearly love that to be so, as it would leave the Republican bottom-feeders in the House and Senate betrayed and rudderless; a condition many of them deserve.
12
Trump doesn't get his people together in order to come up with a cohesive, sensible explanation when he says (or makes) his crazy moves. Why? Because he doesn't care. He feels that he can get away with anything. Sadly, he has been right about that. Like he once said: " I could go out in the street and shoot someone and it wouldn't matter." He will continue to make his blatant moves to stop or hinder the investigation and McConnel and Ryan will stand behind him. Unless there is a very clear smoking gun, the Republican leaders will continue to choose Party over Country.
10
We probably have to get used to this behavior because it seems like there is absolutely nothing we can do to stop any of it. Icahn, Price, Pai, the Kushner/Trump syndicate, can all do whatever they want to increase their or their master's fortunes. The republicans in the house and senate will let justice and the judiciary fall. There is nothing anyone can do. Sure patriots could step up but somehow patriotism has been raped by partisanship and bank accounts. I'm not holding my breath and I would imagine there are those that believe we are finally headed in the right direction....
8
OK. People died in WWII to defend the world from the kind of reign we don't want here. On our own soil, we are going to be complacent? Don't hold your breath. Get out and be active. There are a lot of us not ready to let our country (with all its faults) go down without a fight, and certainly not to this crew.
1
Wonder what Season Two of the Apprentice, I mean the Trump administration will bring? Can this nightmare reality show be cancelled?
9
If it is he'll just move it to RT. I understand he knows the producers.
3
All attorneys in the Department of Justice -- not least the Attorney General and his Deputy -- are governed by the canons of professional ethics of the American Bar Association. Canon 9 states: “A lawyer should avoid even the appearance of professional impropriety.” The section opens by defining why that matters: "Continuation of the American concept that we are governed by rules of law requires that the people have faith that justice can be obtained through our legal system."
To clarify, the ABA cites the following: “Integrity is the very breath of justice. Confidence in our law, our courts, and in the administration of justice is our supreme interest. No practice must be permitted to prevail which invites towards the administration of justice a doubt or distrust of its integrity.” Erwin M. Jennings Co. v. DiGenova, 107 Conn. 491, 499, 141 A. 866, 868 (1928).
The appearance of improper political interference now hangs over the Department and will continue so as long as the investigation is overseen by DOJ prosecutors, who are subject to the same political pressure. Avoiding such appearances of impropriety is why officials recuse themselves from cases in which they could be seen to have an interest, and it is why we appoint independent counsels. Doing so now is not only the simplest remedy to this mess; it may also be the only way to ensure broad public confidence that impartial professionals will get to the facts.
Every American deserves that regardless of party.
To clarify, the ABA cites the following: “Integrity is the very breath of justice. Confidence in our law, our courts, and in the administration of justice is our supreme interest. No practice must be permitted to prevail which invites towards the administration of justice a doubt or distrust of its integrity.” Erwin M. Jennings Co. v. DiGenova, 107 Conn. 491, 499, 141 A. 866, 868 (1928).
The appearance of improper political interference now hangs over the Department and will continue so as long as the investigation is overseen by DOJ prosecutors, who are subject to the same political pressure. Avoiding such appearances of impropriety is why officials recuse themselves from cases in which they could be seen to have an interest, and it is why we appoint independent counsels. Doing so now is not only the simplest remedy to this mess; it may also be the only way to ensure broad public confidence that impartial professionals will get to the facts.
Every American deserves that regardless of party.
11
Everything Comey is, Trump isn't.
11
As promised, the swamp has been drained. What we were not told is that it would be replaced with a cesspool.
9
The acrid stench of desparation is in the air. Who would have thought this presidency would be such a disaster?
6
i did
3
I did
3
Answer to your question: the several million who voted for Hillary
3
As Comey's investigation circled in closer to TrumpAntics and the "secret" meeting that was held in the Seychelles with Eric Prince of Blackwater fame, an Arab prince, and a rep of the Russian government, the decision was made to fire Comey before he blew the whistle that could easily bring the Trump regime down. It also appears that Comey discovered an obscure server located somewhere in a hidden location in Pennsylvania that contained only emails from Russian banks and another financial institution.
The meeting at the Seychelles was designed to benefit the Russians by lifting the sanctions on them, especially the oil sanctions. In return, all of Trump's outstanding loans were to be forgiven and Eric Prince, whose sister is Betty DeVos would get lucrative military contracts for his private armies, plus his sister got the position of Secretary of Education. Her task is to demolish public education and replace them with more controllable charter schools.
All of the rewards that Trump and his family are reaping by having the greatest charlatan as president are specifically forbidden by the Constitution's emoluments clause. This is not only the selling of democracy, it is outright treason. Of course, this clause within the Constitution is meaningless to Trump who is now treating the country as one of his corporate subsidiaries.
If the pressure can be maintained, Trump will be run out of office as was Nixon, whose crimes are already paled by Trump's first 100 days in office.
The meeting at the Seychelles was designed to benefit the Russians by lifting the sanctions on them, especially the oil sanctions. In return, all of Trump's outstanding loans were to be forgiven and Eric Prince, whose sister is Betty DeVos would get lucrative military contracts for his private armies, plus his sister got the position of Secretary of Education. Her task is to demolish public education and replace them with more controllable charter schools.
All of the rewards that Trump and his family are reaping by having the greatest charlatan as president are specifically forbidden by the Constitution's emoluments clause. This is not only the selling of democracy, it is outright treason. Of course, this clause within the Constitution is meaningless to Trump who is now treating the country as one of his corporate subsidiaries.
If the pressure can be maintained, Trump will be run out of office as was Nixon, whose crimes are already paled by Trump's first 100 days in office.
15
Eric Prince of Blackwater INfamy
I stand corrected -- a much better word.
Pres T, that's the problem with an independent FBI, they don't exist to do your bidding, nor should they. They are not your police force. Upset about the dismissal of your wiretapping claim? The one your only evidence of was a talking head of Fox? No evidence of wiretapping, no warrants, nothing.
So he didn't look into WH leaks? Anything leaked that threatened national security? Nope, only things embarrassing to your administration. Government doesn't work the same as business. Those people signed up to serve the country, not you. If you're not doing your job, they should speak out. Learn how to lead and govern, stop tweeting.
Upset about the Russia probe? Now you should be more upset as it came the day after Comey requested more resources for that investigation. The russian probe is critical to national security. It only looks like you were trying to shut down the investigation.
T, grow up and stop bawling and whining like a baby, unless you have something to hide. It sure looks like you do. Now a special prosecutor is gaining traction even among the GOP because of your firing of Comey. And you still are trying to blame his assistant for recommending it. He may quit and talk too. You're not giving him any reason not to by trying to blame him.
So he didn't look into WH leaks? Anything leaked that threatened national security? Nope, only things embarrassing to your administration. Government doesn't work the same as business. Those people signed up to serve the country, not you. If you're not doing your job, they should speak out. Learn how to lead and govern, stop tweeting.
Upset about the Russia probe? Now you should be more upset as it came the day after Comey requested more resources for that investigation. The russian probe is critical to national security. It only looks like you were trying to shut down the investigation.
T, grow up and stop bawling and whining like a baby, unless you have something to hide. It sure looks like you do. Now a special prosecutor is gaining traction even among the GOP because of your firing of Comey. And you still are trying to blame his assistant for recommending it. He may quit and talk too. You're not giving him any reason not to by trying to blame him.
5
The party of Lincoln has become the party of Putin.
11
Or the party of Ruin.
2
As far as the Russia investigation, we have no idea, none, if this is mostly smoke or of there is fire. Yeah, yeah, the FBI can't comment or add color commentary (unless you're HRC, who I despise, but was clearly treated unfairly by the FBI).
What I'm saying is set a date to get this thing done. Either Trump and/or his minions are complicit in a criminal activity, or like HRC, just exercised bad judgement.
Let's move on, lest our lawmakers spend the rest of the year chasing ghosts. There is healthcare, tax reform, regulatory overhaul, and infrastructure projects all good for the country - and all idling.
What I'm saying is set a date to get this thing done. Either Trump and/or his minions are complicit in a criminal activity, or like HRC, just exercised bad judgement.
Let's move on, lest our lawmakers spend the rest of the year chasing ghosts. There is healthcare, tax reform, regulatory overhaul, and infrastructure projects all good for the country - and all idling.
1
The New York Times published a stinging indictment of James Comey just last month. Hillary blamed him for her loss. Maxine Waters said Comey had no credibility. Now that Trump exercised his constitutional powers as president to fire anyone he seems fit, the Left's crying foul. And If Comey, Yates or Brennan had one ounce of evidence of Russian collusion they would've presented it by now. There's nothing. This is about Hillary's historical embarrassment last November. Mrs. Clinton has a lot to learn from Marine Le Pen, who knows how to concede with grace.
3
It's about an election corrupted by the Republican's collusion with Russia.
2
Open your ears. This isn't Left or right. Our country is at stake.
1
Ongoing investigations are just that, ongoing. You can have a piece of a puzzle, but not enough to present until you have the other pieces. As for complaining about wasting time where were you during the eight, count them eight, attempts to hang Clinton over Benghazi, when everyone with half a brain knew that the Republican Congress had cut spending for security at State.. then went looking for a victim to blame when their lack of support ended up getting people killed. Millions of dollars wasted by small men trying to point the finger away from themselves, trying to get out of owning their responsibility in the matter. Trump and these 'legislators' are sleeping together because they like it, not because anyone forced them to. And frankly using the word 'grace' in the same sentence with the name Marine Le Pen seems extremely non-sequitur, since WHAT she represents is anything but full of GRACE.
I am afraid that this is a shiny object that the president has thrown in front of the Dems and the press to distract them and ultimately lead them to ridicule when it becomes apparent that there is no there there. Think of the Dan Rather's investigation into GWB's Air Force Reserves performance. On steroids.
Current perception: The President fired the lead investigating his campaign and its potential collusion with Russia. It took place days after after the lead requested more resources to pursue the case. The President had publicly questioned the need for of the investigation, insisting it's fake news or sour grapes from Democrats over their Electoral loss. It was the 3rd firing of a Justice Department official tied to the investigation in less than 4 months.
Additionally, a White House official was fired only after the complete story of his interaction with the Russian Ambassador was revealed by the Washington Post. The Attorney General who "recommended" the firing participated in the decision despite needing to recuse himself from all things related because of his interactions with the same Russian Ambassador.
The next day, the American media was locked out of a meeting with a Russian official that also included very cordial pictures of the President with the Ambassador at the very heart of the collusion suspicions. Only the Russian news agency Tass had access to the meeting and provided it's only publicly available visual images.
Mike Pence, Mitch McConnell and Paul Ryan: Trump has publicly emasculated you with this set of events. Do you want the next paragraph in the history books to read "and despite all of this intrigue those who could at least demand a thorough investigation actually supported the President's actions. Eventually, they were tried as co-conspirators."
Additionally, a White House official was fired only after the complete story of his interaction with the Russian Ambassador was revealed by the Washington Post. The Attorney General who "recommended" the firing participated in the decision despite needing to recuse himself from all things related because of his interactions with the same Russian Ambassador.
The next day, the American media was locked out of a meeting with a Russian official that also included very cordial pictures of the President with the Ambassador at the very heart of the collusion suspicions. Only the Russian news agency Tass had access to the meeting and provided it's only publicly available visual images.
Mike Pence, Mitch McConnell and Paul Ryan: Trump has publicly emasculated you with this set of events. Do you want the next paragraph in the history books to read "and despite all of this intrigue those who could at least demand a thorough investigation actually supported the President's actions. Eventually, they were tried as co-conspirators."
3
Trump = Nixon
Only Nixon was smart
Only Nixon was smart
2
"Sense of Crisis"?? "Deepens"?? Who came up with that? New York Times? Whose words are these? Whose opinions?? Some guy sitting in a newsroom? Trump fired the FBI director the night before he was to meet the Russians! He does not give rat's behind. There is no sense of crisis or any made up nonsense. These are words coined by the news businesses. CNN has "Breaking News" for example. Everything is "Breaking News" at CNN, even the spring bloom. Why? Because the words "Breaking News" gets eyes to the screen and helps keep them there. That means money!
1
You are correct. Trump does not give a rats behind because he doesn't have to, nor does anyone who supports him. That doesn't change things, and to many of us this is a BIG thing so get over yourself, go volunteer for the Trump re-election campaign which is already in full swing.
You completely missed my point. This is a BIG thing for everyone including you and me. My point is that this is BIG fun for the news businesses. And BIG money. And by the way, they don't give a rat's behind as well.
Those of us who live in nuyawk warned the rest of the country not to believe anything this blowhard and consummate spoiled brat said.
Now let us get this impeachment started.
So we can focus on fighting more wars we like to start by attacking ourselves.
Now let us get this impeachment started.
So we can focus on fighting more wars we like to start by attacking ourselves.
Trump isn't stupid enough to think this slows down the investigation, in fact it'll probably ramp it up. I am concerned a good part of his motivation was retribution against an individual he felt slighted him, once again.
This President is by far the most vindictive public figure I've witnessed in my lifetime.
This President is by far the most vindictive public figure I've witnessed in my lifetime.
11
Comrade Trump just needs some lag time to launder his and his Russian oligarch "friends" monies.
When will Mitch McConnell come back from the rings of Saturn. His space adventures have left him with a bug-eyed vacuous stare and a transference to President Trump's mindlessness.
When will Mitch McConnell come back from the rings of Saturn. His space adventures have left him with a bug-eyed vacuous stare and a transference to President Trump's mindlessness.
7
The future of our nation is now dependent upon a group of GOP leaders who have shown that party loyalty is far more important to them than the well-being of our nation or health of our citizens.
7
“You cannot stop the men and women of the F.B.I. from doing the right thing.”
I hope this quote from Acting FBI Commissioner Andrew McCabe to the Senate Intelligence Committee is accurate and true. From where I sit Trump seems to be firmly in the pocket of Putin and the Russian oligarchy. I would love it if this turns out to be completely false. But so far it doesn't look good at all. Trump is a congenital liar and conman and seems unable to accept personal responsibility for his words and deeds.
I hope this quote from Acting FBI Commissioner Andrew McCabe to the Senate Intelligence Committee is accurate and true. From where I sit Trump seems to be firmly in the pocket of Putin and the Russian oligarchy. I would love it if this turns out to be completely false. But so far it doesn't look good at all. Trump is a congenital liar and conman and seems unable to accept personal responsibility for his words and deeds.
9
Himm, Obama's AG refused to investigate the IRS persecution of conservatives. So there is probably some precedence here for selection investigations.
2
The timing on the firings are bad enough, then Putin sends in his two top diplomats to collude and do damage control for Trump, while denying they are colluding. That's exactly the kind of behavior I would expect from someone who's guilty. They even went so far as to announce jointly that relations were at an all time low, which is totally "fake news" designed to distract and impede any suspicion. The Russians were bragging only a couple of months ago about Putin's propaganda campaign and about how the world is going to be so surprised, but only yesterday Putin scrambled to deny it, still in his hockey suit. That wasn't casual, it was rushed. While his legion of doom dismantles our gov't from the inside, Putin and Trump are now colluding openly. If I feel powerless, I can imagine how people in gov't feel, as they are Putin and Trump's primary targets. I'm so sad for for our country.
3
"Although, as my accountant, you agree that I've stolen nothing from the firm, I am hereby firing you from the accountants' office, for dereliction of duty, which did not include checking or not checking to see whether or not I stole anything from the firm." -Donald J. Owner
2
It's time the Republicans in Congress stood up as individual Americans and put a stop to the USA as "Trumpland" to be handled as the Donald would handle his own enterprises (which is not particularly well). You represent the people of your districts and states, NOT Donald Trump. It's well past time you started to act like it.
4
Am I the only registered Democrat in America who thought that Director Comey's rebuke of Secretary Clinton's use of a separate e-mail server was the best thing that could have happened to her at the time? I wouldn't call it a favor, by any means, but given her actions, what were my fellow Democrats hoping Comey would say? "S'all good yo. Peace out." ? I hope not.
I suggest that my fellow Clinton supporters put on our courage caps and just for a minute try to look at Mr. Comey's testimony from the perspective of a Clinton opponent and/or a fence-sitter. Mr. Comey forcefully articulated the reasons why Americans could (or really should, IMO) be disappointed with Clinton's actions related to her e-mails and the notorious server. He also adamantly repeated several times that in his judgement (as a former prosecuter and deputy Attorney General of the U.S. under G.W. Bush) Secretary Clinton should not face criminal indictment.
My reaction at the time was that Mr. Comey had performed a sort of healthy bloodletting proceedure to reduce the dangerous pressure of the situation. The patient in this analogy is the American people. He provided a clear and distinct alternative to the rage-based distortions of anti-Clintonites *and* the lame attempts at obfuscation and rationalization that had become chic among Clinton supporters. I voted for Clinton in both primary and general elections, but I cheered Mr. Comey when he delivered his remonstration of her before Congress.
I suggest that my fellow Clinton supporters put on our courage caps and just for a minute try to look at Mr. Comey's testimony from the perspective of a Clinton opponent and/or a fence-sitter. Mr. Comey forcefully articulated the reasons why Americans could (or really should, IMO) be disappointed with Clinton's actions related to her e-mails and the notorious server. He also adamantly repeated several times that in his judgement (as a former prosecuter and deputy Attorney General of the U.S. under G.W. Bush) Secretary Clinton should not face criminal indictment.
My reaction at the time was that Mr. Comey had performed a sort of healthy bloodletting proceedure to reduce the dangerous pressure of the situation. The patient in this analogy is the American people. He provided a clear and distinct alternative to the rage-based distortions of anti-Clintonites *and* the lame attempts at obfuscation and rationalization that had become chic among Clinton supporters. I voted for Clinton in both primary and general elections, but I cheered Mr. Comey when he delivered his remonstration of her before Congress.
1
It isn't a crisis until the Republicans think it's a crisis, specifically Mitch McConnell. He didn't think it was an issue the election was hacked and obstructed that information in August before the election. He'll obstruct now - until something changes with McConnell he will protect Trump at every turn no matter what Trump does. For the record firing Comey is not nearly as serious as sexual assault, but look at how impactful that was on this incredibly mentally ill, incompetent and terrifying president.
1
Indeed ironic to see Trump, in the image accompanying this article, sitting next to former Secretary of State Henry Kissinger in the White House. The same Henry Kissinger who Nixon asked to kneel down beside him and pray during the Watergate scandal. Perhaps Donald would ask to do the same thing while they meditate on a pet verse from 'Two Corinthians'.
1
Rosensteins letter was crystal clear and his logic irrefutable . Along with other Attorneys General there is widespread concensus Comey had to go.
1
He did not recommend that Coney be fired. And it's US Attorneys, not Attorneys General. Get your jurisdictions straight.
Sure, a few Republicans expressed "dismay" over the firing of Comey. Are they actually going to do anything about this person in the White House? Hardly.
2
Of course the American press was banned from Trump's meeting with the Russians. They were probably discussing who should replace Comey.
3
Only half dozen Republicans broke with leadership on the Comey firing? Sad.
3
Little Donnie--I'm sure you don't mind being addressed this way, since in what used to be an office of some dignity, you choose to address our senators in that fashion. I'm just a regular old citizen, but you're supposed to demonstrate some decorum, not consistently act like a junior high school locker room loudmouth.
PS It's also not a good thing that your family is selling US visas in exchange for loan money; that you don't let your own press into meeting with your Russian friends and their Russian press; that you fire the head of the F.B.I. when things get too hot for you. Oops, these comments have limits, and one could go on in this vein pretty much forever.
PS It's also not a good thing that your family is selling US visas in exchange for loan money; that you don't let your own press into meeting with your Russian friends and their Russian press; that you fire the head of the F.B.I. when things get too hot for you. Oops, these comments have limits, and one could go on in this vein pretty much forever.
2
The GOP will not act against Trump. They want to get their health care finished up and their tax plan in place (a plan which I heard an economist say this morning in an interview would absolutely raise the deficit for years). If Trump goes, their chances will lessen. I live in Indiana and can tell you that Pence will have trouble holding the coalition together. He had trouble in the the very conservative Hoosier State.
The GOP in power now is completely willing to ruin the country to get what they want. That is the real crisis.
The GOP in power now is completely willing to ruin the country to get what they want. That is the real crisis.
180
I found that when this picture, and video was released it came from TASS, not what you call an America media pool. This was something, during the Cold War, was the work of science fiction. The Soviet News Agency releasing news in the US, under Soviet rule. But, there it was, TASS getting exclusive TV rights to a US President. Anyone growing up during the Cold War could see both the irony and chilliness of this.
As each hour passes, what started out as a hack of emails from Clinton and the DNC, has mushroomed into a major scandal that is chewing at the very foundations of our Democracy. This is worse than Watergate, as it is more and more apparent that the Russian government not only colluded with the GOP, and the Trump campaign, they are still colluding. And one now has to wonder if Trump, or his officials, knew of the hack to change the outcome of the French elections; that failed.
Also, never the mind that the DNC and Clinton colluded on trying to get her elected at all costs. But, that is another scandal fro another day.
Meanwhile, Congress sits on their hands or continue to support Trump, and his actions.
Think what you may of John McCain, but he broke ranks yesterday and is calling for an investigation, special prosecutor, etc.
Mr. Trump and some key Republicans are on the fast track to being investigated, prosecuted and thrown out of office, and possibly into jail. Also, they may be joined by the DNC and some Clinton campaign officials, as well.
As each hour passes, what started out as a hack of emails from Clinton and the DNC, has mushroomed into a major scandal that is chewing at the very foundations of our Democracy. This is worse than Watergate, as it is more and more apparent that the Russian government not only colluded with the GOP, and the Trump campaign, they are still colluding. And one now has to wonder if Trump, or his officials, knew of the hack to change the outcome of the French elections; that failed.
Also, never the mind that the DNC and Clinton colluded on trying to get her elected at all costs. But, that is another scandal fro another day.
Meanwhile, Congress sits on their hands or continue to support Trump, and his actions.
Think what you may of John McCain, but he broke ranks yesterday and is calling for an investigation, special prosecutor, etc.
Mr. Trump and some key Republicans are on the fast track to being investigated, prosecuted and thrown out of office, and possibly into jail. Also, they may be joined by the DNC and some Clinton campaign officials, as well.
3
The Times could have stopped Trump in his tracks before he became president. It didn't. Why? Because having him as president made a lot of business sense. Now it gets to sell lots of news. And newspapers. Lots of money. Ka-ching! HeHe.
3
Not only is Trump corrupt but he is incompetent as well.
12
I TRULY hope voters in 2018 will remember the broad transgressions of this presidency and the Republican party; I for one will certainly remind them continually between now and midterms.
9
Wth is a 'sense of crisis'???
2
Trumpgate
6
If Trump and his circle have nothing to hide, that is they did nothing wrong, then they have nothing to fear from an investigation regardless of who happens to be conducting it. So if he is innocent, the firing of Comey served no purpose whatsoever.
On the other hand, if Trump and his circle have something to hide, which is to say that one or more of them did inappropriate things, then his firing of James Comey and appointment of someone else ultimately weakens his hand because he will certainly be unable to fire another FBI director, and the FBI will likely, either directly or indirectly, be able to communicate whatever they find.
I suspect he may be hoping that the perception of his “power” to fire at will will cow subsequent appointees, just as it has cowed Republican members of the house of representatives. When his appointees and our elected officials understand that his power is largely one of perception as opposed to actual power, I believe that the system: our elected representatives, our appointed officials and those that serve in the trenches, will set things to right.
The man is a bully and his power resides as much in the acquiescence of those he bullies as it does with him. Ultimately, those who have the greatest impact understand that they are serving something greater than self-interest, or even party interest, and act from that understanding. In that regard, I gratefully have small hopes of Mr. Trump’s long-term impact.
On the other hand, if Trump and his circle have something to hide, which is to say that one or more of them did inappropriate things, then his firing of James Comey and appointment of someone else ultimately weakens his hand because he will certainly be unable to fire another FBI director, and the FBI will likely, either directly or indirectly, be able to communicate whatever they find.
I suspect he may be hoping that the perception of his “power” to fire at will will cow subsequent appointees, just as it has cowed Republican members of the house of representatives. When his appointees and our elected officials understand that his power is largely one of perception as opposed to actual power, I believe that the system: our elected representatives, our appointed officials and those that serve in the trenches, will set things to right.
The man is a bully and his power resides as much in the acquiescence of those he bullies as it does with him. Ultimately, those who have the greatest impact understand that they are serving something greater than self-interest, or even party interest, and act from that understanding. In that regard, I gratefully have small hopes of Mr. Trump’s long-term impact.
6
Trump reminds me of ... Snow White's stepmother. Instead of a mirror-mirror-on-the-wall, I imagine him staring at multiple TVs-on-the-wall, looking for confirmation that he is the most popular of all.
When anyone, anything, threatens that image, he is consumed.
I don't see how he'll be able to work with anyone who is independent, and doesn't seem to understand how the 3 branches of gov't are supposed to work.
This doesn't bode well.
When anyone, anything, threatens that image, he is consumed.
I don't see how he'll be able to work with anyone who is independent, and doesn't seem to understand how the 3 branches of gov't are supposed to work.
This doesn't bode well.
9
Why can I surf the net and still see so much support for Trump after this?Does half of our country really have tolerance for the level of chaos Trump forces upon our government? Do they find deflection and narcissism acceptable in our government because their own lives are defined by those behaviors? What gives? How can anyone support a president who is so destabilizing to the essential institutions of our government? How can they support a congress who supports a president who creates this much chaos? How can anyone think this is a nonissue? Would a University President last if he behaved like this? Is this stuff real? Is this the same universe I was in last year?
Susan Collins and all the others who claim the FBI will go on as if all is normal are absolutely wrong. All is not normal. Trump's threatening, chaotic environment keeps it from being so. My best hope is that members of the FBI will adopt Director Comey's rogue streak and do what they have to do to get to the truth and then share it with us, because we are not going to get it from Congress.
Susan Collins and all the others who claim the FBI will go on as if all is normal are absolutely wrong. All is not normal. Trump's threatening, chaotic environment keeps it from being so. My best hope is that members of the FBI will adopt Director Comey's rogue streak and do what they have to do to get to the truth and then share it with us, because we are not going to get it from Congress.
21
He is supported because we don't believe in the kangaroo court behavior of the media and/or democrats.
1
Well then, let me be the first to call Mr. Trump a Kangaroo because he sure disregarded all recognized standards of government procedure when he fired Director Comey after only three of his ten year appointment.
While I share the deep concern over the possibility that team Trump colluded with the Russians, I fear that we have lost sight of what we do, in fact, know: the Russians interfered in our elections.
While the investigation into the Trump campaign should continue, with a special prosecutor to head it up, someone needs to be focusing on how to prevent continued foreign involvement in our electoral process.
Trump will eventually go away -- in 4 years if not sooner (one hopes) -- but the Russians will not. We have a national election in less than two years -- we should be working to make sure that is is safe from interference.
While the investigation into the Trump campaign should continue, with a special prosecutor to head it up, someone needs to be focusing on how to prevent continued foreign involvement in our electoral process.
Trump will eventually go away -- in 4 years if not sooner (one hopes) -- but the Russians will not. We have a national election in less than two years -- we should be working to make sure that is is safe from interference.
9
Have you ever watched an avalanche before? I feel like I'm watching one right now. The momentum is slow. Almost imperceptible at first. All of a sudden though you have this raging force of physical mass tearing down the mountain. The force is so strong the snow can liquefy and refreeze from friction alone. You can literally feel the vibration in the ground as the snow moves through. That's how this feels.
I'm mostly wondering who exactly is still caught in the gully right now. I have a feeling a lot of people are about to get buried by this mess. I can only hope Trump is among the numbered missing. I sure won't go looking for the man when this thing is over. Not even a chance. The only question is how much of our Republic will he take down before finally going under himself.
I'm mostly wondering who exactly is still caught in the gully right now. I have a feeling a lot of people are about to get buried by this mess. I can only hope Trump is among the numbered missing. I sure won't go looking for the man when this thing is over. Not even a chance. The only question is how much of our Republic will he take down before finally going under himself.
9
If only it really were "a sense of crisis". Sadly, maddeningly, it is not, because the sense of outrage, and acknowledgement of the obstruction of justice by Trump and his minions isn't shared by the Republicans, who continue to deny and stonewall. America is in the grip of anti-democratic forces, committed only to serving themselves and their uber-wealthy masters. November 8, 2016 will be come as infamous as July 4, 1776.
2
July 4, 1776 was an infamous date? Maybe to the British Crown.
1
"Whether ours shall be a government of laws and not of men is now for Congress and ultimately the American people."
Archibald Cox (Special Prosecutor investigating Watergate) upon his firing by Nixon.
Archibald Cox (Special Prosecutor investigating Watergate) upon his firing by Nixon.
9
Well, now we know what it really means to have a business mogul in the white house. He will expect 100% of government to work for HIM and him only, not the people, because that is what a businessperson will expect. The founders of our democracy fought over the power of the president to avoid this situation exactly! We do not have a king, who expects the entire government to do his bidding. We have a president who works for the PEOPLE, represented by the people we elect in congress. They are all held accountable to the rule of law and the constitution. No one, not one house member, not one senator, not even the president, is above the law.
7
Comey may have been the last bureaucrat in Washington with the nerve, authority and non-partisan integrity to stand up to Trump. He was also coming to the expressed belief that not only is Trump a corrupt liar, he's likely "crazy," something that us non-political types have long been aware of.
1
Congress isnt going to do anything. Its time for the american people to take action, like we did during the Vietnam war. Time to take to the streets, and save the country from this disaster.
3
To those who at every turn keep saying there isn't a crisis...nothing to worry about...the President is just daft....what's the big deal... remember this metaphor: If you put a frog in boiling water, it will jump out and avoid being cooked. However, if you put a frog in tepid water and slowly raise the temperature to boiling, it will not perceive the danger and boil to death. There are too many countries on earth that have devolved into chaos, dictatorships, totalitarian regimes, etc. and the people did not realize it until it was too late. Our democracy is not as strong as so many people claim. Nor is the constitution.
5
What can you say about an incompetent con man who thinks nothing of defiling our Constitution and democracy for the sole purpose of personal enrichment? This despicable con man cares nothing about our people, policies, standing in the world or the outrageous and egregious tweets he so loves to bandy about as though they actually mean something. His one true goal is to subvert the course of justice in an effort to prevent the truth of his traitorous ties to Russia and depravity from ever being proven and made public. He is totally undeserving of our respect and the position and power which he illegally acquired and which he flaunts on a daily basis.
4
Sure Trump should got to the FBI building. Perhaps he could stand in front of a memorial to fallen FBI agents and talk about his huge election victory. I mean that went over so well with the CIA.
5
Imagine what would have happened had Obama behaved like Trump.
4
This isn't a government anymore; it is a kindergarten. The biggest bully is the POTUS. This is not only terrifying, it is a disgrace.
6
Jim Comey may still feel the "sting" of being fired, but he must be recognizing that this was a "good thing" for him (as Martha Stewart used to say). Just two days ago, after all, Comey was "bad." Now he's "good," at least to Democrats, who used to say he was "bad."
1
The argument isn't about Comey being once 'bad' now 'good'. No one likes him, and that's his problem. The concern is that this is a blantant attempt by the current administration and the old school enabling cronies in Congress to prolong a cover up and delay the American peoples concerns from being brought to light. Your attempt at a straw man argument is tepid at best.
25
S A Johnson, I can't figure out why you say no one likes Comey. He's always spoken highly of you. The acting FBI Director (until Trump appoints one of sycophants, probably Rudy Guliani) said Comey had wide support within the bureau.
In that job, it may be a good thing that many people don't like some of his actions. There is no way to please all political sides and properly run a law enforcement department.
When asked if Mr. Comey's firing affected his meeting with the Russian's, Trump replied, "Not at all." Do you take us for fools, Mr. Trump? At that meeting our reporters were barred, and the only snippets that we gleaned were from a Russian "photographer" who was allowed to witness this sham. Of course, this meeting was destined to be a successful one for you and your puppet master, Putin!
I am a Democrat and, yes, was deeply angered with Comey and his role in Secretary Clinton's run for president. But to the POTUS and his lemmings in Congress, we are not hypocrites. On the contrary, we think, and we know the difference between an honorable man who made a mistake in judgment and what is growing to look more and more like a coverup. And it is worse than Watergate because it involves an unfriendly nation trying to unravel our democracy. One can only hope - and pray - that our only source at this point, the FBI, of getting to the bottom of this unprecedented crisis, will continue an untainted, fair, and thorough investigation. The sad truth of the matter is that the FBI is all that this country has right now to protect our rights as a free society. God speed.
I am a Democrat and, yes, was deeply angered with Comey and his role in Secretary Clinton's run for president. But to the POTUS and his lemmings in Congress, we are not hypocrites. On the contrary, we think, and we know the difference between an honorable man who made a mistake in judgment and what is growing to look more and more like a coverup. And it is worse than Watergate because it involves an unfriendly nation trying to unravel our democracy. One can only hope - and pray - that our only source at this point, the FBI, of getting to the bottom of this unprecedented crisis, will continue an untainted, fair, and thorough investigation. The sad truth of the matter is that the FBI is all that this country has right now to protect our rights as a free society. God speed.
18
Dems are pure hypocrites in this matter.
Just when intestinal discomfort over Trump disfunction was easing, purely due to the fatigue over the first hundred or so days of incompetence, lil' Donny pulls the pin on a live grenade and forgets to count off before it explodes in his face.
Again time will seemingly stand still as this unfortunate Presidential drama unfolds. Watching the glacial response from Republican partisans is already unbearable.
Again time will seemingly stand still as this unfortunate Presidential drama unfolds. Watching the glacial response from Republican partisans is already unbearable.
18
Let me get this straight, The new FBI Director stated that they will inform congress "if" there is any sign of interference with the Russian investigation after the President fires the Director of the FBI.
How does he define "interference"?
Oh, and this came after Trump met with the Russians.
How does he define "interference"?
Oh, and this came after Trump met with the Russians.
8
Trump can say whatever he likes, and that does not change the facts:
Comey debunked Trump's totally unsupported claim that President Obama surveilled Trump Tower.
Comey asked for additional resources, including personnel and funds, to work more quickly and vigorously on the Russia Connection investigation.
Comey disclosed in open Congressional testimony that there is an investigation into the connections between the Trump campaign and Russia, and stated that criminal acts, if uncovered, would be investigated.
The facts suggest that Comey has acted in ways that cause Trump to be upset.
Trump often acts before he thinks, if he thinks.
Trump appears to have fired Comey to get rid of a person that he could not control, and to put as big a roadblock as possible in the way of the Russia Connection investigation.
Actions speak louder than words.
Comey debunked Trump's totally unsupported claim that President Obama surveilled Trump Tower.
Comey asked for additional resources, including personnel and funds, to work more quickly and vigorously on the Russia Connection investigation.
Comey disclosed in open Congressional testimony that there is an investigation into the connections between the Trump campaign and Russia, and stated that criminal acts, if uncovered, would be investigated.
The facts suggest that Comey has acted in ways that cause Trump to be upset.
Trump often acts before he thinks, if he thinks.
Trump appears to have fired Comey to get rid of a person that he could not control, and to put as big a roadblock as possible in the way of the Russia Connection investigation.
Actions speak louder than words.
176
It is somewhat ironic that Donald Trump, a member of the newly anti-filibuster Republican party, can get away with his seemingly non-stop outrageous actions, such as terminating the head of the team investigating his campaign's connections with Russia, because a solid 40% minority of American voters will support him no matter what he says or does. That is filibustering at its finest.
9
Elect a clown. Expect a circus...
7
How appropriate that we are getting photos of our president from Russian sources, since that is how we got our President in the first place.
23
From Russia with love!
3
If I had a million dollars,
I can give you 1,000 dollars today.
Tomorrow, I can give you 1,000 dollars.
Everyday I see you, I can give you 1,000 dollars.
I can give you 1,000 dollars everyday for the next 3 years.
If I had a Billion dollars,
I can give you 1,000 dollars today.
Tommorrow, I can give you 1,000 dollars.
Everyday I see you, I can give you 1,000 dollars.
My descendants can give your descendants 1,000 dollars every day.
For the next 3,000 years!
Donald J Trump claims to be worth 5 Billion dollars.
He can give you and your descendants 1,000 dollars EVERY DAY for the next 15,000 years!
Why in the world would he want to deny poor Americans affordable health coverage?
Answer: Human greed knows no bounds.
I can give you 1,000 dollars today.
Tomorrow, I can give you 1,000 dollars.
Everyday I see you, I can give you 1,000 dollars.
I can give you 1,000 dollars everyday for the next 3 years.
If I had a Billion dollars,
I can give you 1,000 dollars today.
Tommorrow, I can give you 1,000 dollars.
Everyday I see you, I can give you 1,000 dollars.
My descendants can give your descendants 1,000 dollars every day.
For the next 3,000 years!
Donald J Trump claims to be worth 5 Billion dollars.
He can give you and your descendants 1,000 dollars EVERY DAY for the next 15,000 years!
Why in the world would he want to deny poor Americans affordable health coverage?
Answer: Human greed knows no bounds.
16
Saw on the Russian news of Trump in the White House doing what he does best, showing his just sold properties to the new owners. Expect a boast on how they paid too much soon. sigh...
Given Trump's low, and still declining, approval ratings an independent investigation may not be enough to even satisfy some Republicans, unless they hurry. Given Trump will pick a new FBI director based upon loyalty above all else, the multiple firings of those investigating him shows how necessary an independent investigation is needed for the country (and not the Republican, or any other, Party).
Given Trump's low, and still declining, approval ratings an independent investigation may not be enough to even satisfy some Republicans, unless they hurry. Given Trump will pick a new FBI director based upon loyalty above all else, the multiple firings of those investigating him shows how necessary an independent investigation is needed for the country (and not the Republican, or any other, Party).
Actually, if you hop over to Fox News you'll find that there is no sense of crisis whatsoever. It is totally normal and right for the President to fire the FBI director who is investigating him, and apparently people like us who think this is a problem are just hypocrites because we didn't like Comey when he was investigating Clinton. Also, it's not like Watergate AT ALL, just ask Ben Stein. It's a whole different world over there on Fox News.
14
The only person that helped Trump get elected is Hillary and her handling of classified emails. If she had nothing to hide exposing her emails would have been meaningless.
Whoever hacked her emails and the investigation into if it was the Russians is another issue. Comey brought into question his leadership when he decided not to investigate Hillary despite some compelling evidence that he presented.
Whoever hacked her emails and the investigation into if it was the Russians is another issue. Comey brought into question his leadership when he decided not to investigate Hillary despite some compelling evidence that he presented.
1
The election of trump was the start of an extended crisis. He is unstable.
11
trump is NOT president of the united states.
He is the president of himself.
He is the president of himself.
7
Interesting isn't it, that US reporters were not allowed at the Soviet-US meeting, but the Russian State News media was allowed in with "open arms." This President really has a knack for presenting a situation with the best "optics."
10
Anybody think the Russian State News media may have dropped a few bugs or left an "Elf on the Shelf"??
2
"You can fool all the people some of the time,and all the people some of the time, but you can't fool all the people all the time."
When those heartland people who are truly hopeful that they can get their jobs back and pay less taxes because they've been promised that their great leader who relished saying "you're fired", realize that he is no more than the Wizard of Oz, in actuality a silly old man behind a curtain with a huge voice, then they will no longer be fooled. I would imagine that they will be even more angry than they are now.
When those heartland people who are truly hopeful that they can get their jobs back and pay less taxes because they've been promised that their great leader who relished saying "you're fired", realize that he is no more than the Wizard of Oz, in actuality a silly old man behind a curtain with a huge voice, then they will no longer be fooled. I would imagine that they will be even more angry than they are now.
2
Senate Republicans are making a big mistake by covering for Trump. He is totally guilty of colluding with Russia and eventually this will come out. There are no secrets anymore. Just because his 10 year old knows how to use an iPad and DJT doesn't, that doesn't mean that nobody else does. The truth will see the light of day and these senators will be punished at the voting booth for aligning with the Manchurian candidate. It will happen. They could save themselves now, but its always party first with them.
4
When Trump was just a real-estate guy and reality star he either bullied or paid his way out of accusations and lawsuits of criminality and corruption, he ran rough-shod over New York City, New Jersey, Scotland etc. and many made millions from allowing it. Same m.o. here.
How far he can get with it now depends on the House and Senate, Justice Department, journalists and the people.
Checks and balances still exist - the question is does anyone have the courage, the integrity, the will to use them and are there enough of them to overcome those who don't ?
How far he can get with it now depends on the House and Senate, Justice Department, journalists and the people.
Checks and balances still exist - the question is does anyone have the courage, the integrity, the will to use them and are there enough of them to overcome those who don't ?
9
There you go, Mr. President. Make sure you pose with someone who'll remind the world of Richard Nixon.
11
Yeah, 45 is a real smooth operator, isn't he?
2
“Very simply — he was not doing a good job,” Comey was going his job back in the summer of 2016 and Trump praised him. Now all of a sudden he's not doing a good job. Comey put Trump in the White House and he knows it. Comey was of great use, for Trump, at election time. Then Comey started investigating Trumps association with the Russians. Comey was no longer getting praised from Trump. Something smells in D.C. and it's Trump and his gang of nincompoops.
5
For more than forty years Trump has been a publicity-exhibitionist. For clarification of that term: It was never enough for him to be the center of attention, he feels continually compelled to scandalize society. Trump knows full well his words and actions will evoke outrage, but that is his intent. He has always been like that, and who knows what bizarre demons haunt his mind to behave like that, but it was another reason we in NYC voted against him 10 to 1. The other reasons were that he is proved to be corrupt, bigoted, shallow, and mentally unstable.
17
and who better to have sitting next to him when announcing "I am not a crook" than the SoS of the original crook. Dont think for a minute this is a coincidence. The unindicted war criminal Kissinger could only have been a more in-you-face show if Haldeman, Erlichman, Dean, Howard Hunt and Nixons shadow appearing like Obi-Wan-Kanobe appeared when the pictures were developed (I know we dont develop anymore). Like after the W debacle of 9/11 who's there sitting with the author of the most recent disaster than the infamous Dr K.
This ia line-in-the-sand moment. Either the dems reclain their spines and refuse to even participate in any governmental process until a special prosecutor is named, staffed and fully funded or they can go soak their heads and be the losers the right portrays them, characterized as the weak, pathetic slightly effeminate character opposite of Hawn Shannity on Faux Noos.
step up dems or be stepped on.......
This ia line-in-the-sand moment. Either the dems reclain their spines and refuse to even participate in any governmental process until a special prosecutor is named, staffed and fully funded or they can go soak their heads and be the losers the right portrays them, characterized as the weak, pathetic slightly effeminate character opposite of Hawn Shannity on Faux Noos.
step up dems or be stepped on.......
3
Trump had his first quarterly employee review yesterday when the Russian foreign minister and ambassador visited him at the White House in the Oval Office. Only Russian media was allowed into the room. Trump managed to garner an "exceeded expectations" rating largely based on his firing of FBI director Comey the day before. And Ambassador Kislyak commended Trump for passing to him the thumb drive with the contents of Comey's computer. Kislyak told Trump he'd get his disinformation specialists working on countering the compromising information right away. /satire?
4
Democrats, bring this whole train to a halt!
Arrogance and total disrespect for the rule of law exhibited by Trump and his Administrative team demonstrate the need for a shutdown to force Republicans to understand the oath they swore to uphold is more important (and has always been) than abetting a Constitutional crisis, endorsing an obstruction of justice, and behaving like a totalitarian system of government (abuse of power). Republicans are behaving as cowards; their refusal to hold the Narcissist Trump accountable will have grave implications for the future of the United States form of government.
Arrogance and total disrespect for the rule of law exhibited by Trump and his Administrative team demonstrate the need for a shutdown to force Republicans to understand the oath they swore to uphold is more important (and has always been) than abetting a Constitutional crisis, endorsing an obstruction of justice, and behaving like a totalitarian system of government (abuse of power). Republicans are behaving as cowards; their refusal to hold the Narcissist Trump accountable will have grave implications for the future of the United States form of government.
5
Let's let's be clear, Democrats have been calling for Comey's termination for some time now. Why Trump fired him is suspect, but let's not pretend we thought he should've kept his job after the way he likely altered the election. And as for a "sense of crisis". Really? A small majority of Americans have been in a "sense of crisis" since Trump was elected, but for now Republicans are happy clams. They rule, almost absolutely. The courts are their only speed bump at this point. They feel no crisis, only jubilation and raw, practically unfettered, power.
There is no defense for firing Comey. None. I didn't like him,, his timing of 'finding' more Hillary Clinton's emails in a mailbox,, unrelated to Clinton,,, did he find even one email from or to H. Clinton ?? No.
Comey did Trump the biggest favour,,, Trump would not be president without that help. And then Trump fires him? He must have been too close to the truth.
Ah,,,, but then Trump met with the Russians yesterday,,, no news reporters allowed,,,, to collect his next payment ?
Comey did Trump the biggest favour,,, Trump would not be president without that help. And then Trump fires him? He must have been too close to the truth.
Ah,,,, but then Trump met with the Russians yesterday,,, no news reporters allowed,,,, to collect his next payment ?
8
The Republicans already have a criminal president: Nixon.
They can't afford to own up to another.
The party cannot survive another disgraceful fall.
That's the reason for the reluctance to investigate trump fully, special prosecutor and all that.
They can't afford to own up to another.
The party cannot survive another disgraceful fall.
That's the reason for the reluctance to investigate trump fully, special prosecutor and all that.
4
A commenter quoted the First Amendment after pointing out that Trump didn't let US reporters into the Oval Office yesterday for a photo op with Trump and the Russian Foreign Minister and US Ambassador.
Guess what?
The First Amendment doesn't entitle anyone to come into the Oval Office to take photos of smiling US and foreign politicians. I, for one, was glad to hear that Trump took time off from these titillating "crises" to actually meet with the Foreign Minister of Russia and the Russian Ambassador to the US. Last I heard, that's the sort of thing US Presidents are supposed to do.
Guess what?
The First Amendment doesn't entitle anyone to come into the Oval Office to take photos of smiling US and foreign politicians. I, for one, was glad to hear that Trump took time off from these titillating "crises" to actually meet with the Foreign Minister of Russia and the Russian Ambassador to the US. Last I heard, that's the sort of thing US Presidents are supposed to do.
I wonder if he brought up the Russians' supplying weapons to the Taliban, and the resultant deaths of our own soldiers. And that he is planning to send a few thousand more to expose them to the Russian-supplied armaments.
3
What "meeting?"
That was 45's first quarterly employee review, with Russia just checking in on him, making sure everything's going to plan...
That was 45's first quarterly employee review, with Russia just checking in on him, making sure everything's going to plan...
5
So now Comey was fired because FBI agents were "clamoring" for it. "Everyone is saying so."
Or maybe Mr Comey was fired for his treatment of the Clinton emails. Because it was the right thing then, but isn't the right thing now.
Or maybe Occam's Razor rules: Russia.
Which hypothesis fits the facts?
Or maybe Mr Comey was fired for his treatment of the Clinton emails. Because it was the right thing then, but isn't the right thing now.
Or maybe Occam's Razor rules: Russia.
Which hypothesis fits the facts?
3
Trump's plan is pretty transparent. He now realizes he will be a one-term president. Given the molasses slow investigate procedures of Congress, Trump will capitalize on that and throw up roadblocks and red herrings, such as the firing of Comey, to slog through his term of office. He can only hope to avoid impeachment, and given his shady character and impulsive temperament, he would be lucky to do so. What has to be hilarious on any level is the Trump assertion that he was perturbed by the way Comey dealt with the Hilary email situation. With advocates like Trump, Hilary needs no adversaries. Current Republicans who are playing ostrich should be made aware of the exemplary work of their GOP predecessors such as Howard Baker and Lowell Weicker during the Watergate affair.
1
"The maelstrom is sure to sap the Senate’s time and energy, detracting from a Republican agenda that includes a budget, health care, a tax overhaul and infrastructure."
And this, boys and girls, is what we mean when we say, "Every cloud has a silver lining."
And this, boys and girls, is what we mean when we say, "Every cloud has a silver lining."
1
Funny: nobody ever fired J. Edgar Hoover. And although the President "appoints" the Head of the "Federal" Reserve, betcha no "President" can fire one.
What will it take for this government to address what is clear, to any thinking individual- that this was an egregious act intended to escape the consequences of illegal actions. Even a minor consequence- such as the appointment of an independent counsel appears out of reach now.
Do we need violence in the streets? Open revolution? If the rule of law is indeed compromised as Chuck Schumer and Bernie Sanders among others has stated- then a government that lacks legitimacy under the rule of law- is no better than a dictatorship.
Do we need violence in the streets? Open revolution? If the rule of law is indeed compromised as Chuck Schumer and Bernie Sanders among others has stated- then a government that lacks legitimacy under the rule of law- is no better than a dictatorship.
1
Doanld is displaying the same arrogance as Nixon and the same conviction that the office he holds is not subject to constitutional checks and balances. There are, of course, substantial differences, including that Nixon had a depth of government experience and had a brilliant, albeit devious mind. Nixon was more dangerous to himself; Donald is a danger to the nation. What Donald has in common with Nixon is simply this: obstruction of justice that is a crime and an impeachable offense.
2
What is odd to me is the GOP, the supposedly party of Reagan are now turning over the country to the Russians - party/Trump over country for Ryan and McConnell et al. Barely any concern that Russia meddled in the US elections. After this Russia-Trump investigation, lets see how much the GOP folks were bought off to sell this country down the river to the Russians. Thought Trump's whole line was America first? He still has not read the US Constitution or have any sense of sacrifice.
2
An incoming president should have a probation period just like most jobs do. Trump works for me -- he has failed during the probationary term and I demand an election do-over!
3
From now on, ALL trump lies will be surreptitiously manufactured and attested to be "true"
by favourably worded FBI statements issued by the new FBI(stooge)head.
Really?
by favourably worded FBI statements issued by the new FBI(stooge)head.
Really?
1
A mentally ill patient is forced to wear a straight jacket, so he will not harm himself or others as his perception of reality is compromised. A physician might offer a helping hand but the patient will just see a giant hand that is going to squash him and cause him great harm. We are dealing with mental illness here, and someone who has lost his marbles and is becoming more irrational every day. He must be stopped and we can not rely on republicans alone who are compromised, to remove him from doing further harm to the office of the presidency as well as to our nation. The next step is for civil society to hit the streets in mass marches demanding his resignation, and organize strikes to protest legislative inaction to prevent the downfall of our democracy.
4
Speaking of hypocrites, Trump lauded Comey's investigation and public pronouncements concerning HRC's emails, but when Trump and his pals are being investigated, it's another story. GIVE ME A BREAK! Trump and his GOP clowns are the poster children for hypocrisy: McConnell, Ryan, and all the phonies in between. These people make me sick. Literally sick.
Why would Trump be glad handing the Russians in the oval office when the Russians are sending weapons to the Taliban? His silly grin means he hasn't heard, or doesn't care?
6
On Trump's reality show it was easy to declare 'Your fired". No thought required. But in dealing with actual reality thought and ethical behavior is required especially when you have sworn to uphold our laws and Constitution. It seems Trump had no idea of the meaning of the words he spoke in January, but those who voted for him should have seen this based on his outrageous thoughtless behavior in the perhaps compromised campaign.
3
Very often a sense of crisis is found only among the "chattering class," much as they try to stir up the public. I don't know a single person who is deeply concerned about this, although many are politically motivated one way or another. I'm watching Pompeo and McCabe right now on C-Span. Per McCabe, there has been no lapse of investigation b/c of the firing. There is no lack of funding. Both seem quite competent (and I have seen many highly placed witnesses and could not say that about) and I believe, whatever Comey's abilities and apparently good character - and McCabe also confirmed that the FBI had not lost confidence in him - he needed to go for precisely the reason he was let go, even if Trump and all his critics are hypocritical about their stands. Comey made significant mistakes speaking about investigations, to the public and apparently to Trump, and I think everyone I know who I consider political moderates were at least puzzled if not outraged about his decision on Clinton, and no further statements he has made has cleared it up for me personally. I had no opinion until he spoke, but what he said seemed counter-intuitive and counter-factual.
What is the fear with respect to "collusion?" What collusion? We've been told repeatedly that there doesn't seem to be evidence of it. Flynn, whatever his faults, has not been accused of it. Neither has Trump. This is beginning to remind me of Whitewater, a wasteful and expensive investigation to satisfy political agendas.
What is the fear with respect to "collusion?" What collusion? We've been told repeatedly that there doesn't seem to be evidence of it. Flynn, whatever his faults, has not been accused of it. Neither has Trump. This is beginning to remind me of Whitewater, a wasteful and expensive investigation to satisfy political agendas.
1
David,,Out here in the real world we are experiencing the busiest spring season in over 40 years of business.
The housing market is red hot, stock market at historic levels.
Nobody cares about this except for the folks that stare at cable news all day.
I stopped watching and fired up my old turn table and vinyl's.
The housing market is red hot, stock market at historic levels.
Nobody cares about this except for the folks that stare at cable news all day.
I stopped watching and fired up my old turn table and vinyl's.
1
But that is precisely the point, we don't know the truth until we get the facts. And the Trump administration is behaving suspiciously on so many fronts, including this one. Who wants to bet that Trump appoints one or his crony's to head up the FBI and then we get a whitewash
9
Is your comment meant to be satire? Trump requests a letter and brings a recused Sessions in on the decision. He proves his willingness to interfere with FBI. The house and Senate are both run by partisans. The house investigation was tainted from the start. Most important the public does not trust the house, Senate or president. (See recent polls). If the administration is absolved the reports will not be met with skepticism under these circumstances. I would think Republicans would support the appointment of a special prosecutor for the sake of their party if not the country.
In all the statements I have read coming out of the White House there seems to be an ambiguity. Is Trump implying that Comey was let go because he behaved badly towards Hilary Clinton, or is he signaling his supporters that Comey was cashiered because he failed to "lock her up"? Deeply dishonest in either regard.
4
Sure, the world's most famous liar accuses the Democrats of hypocrisy, so that his base will have some red meat to chew on. None of them seem to understand the definition of hypocrisy, though. They are too confused by the notion that there can be several layers to one issue, and that some of the layers are worth getting upset over, while others are less important when weighed against the bigger picture.
Comey interfered in the 2016 election, because of his partisanship. He felt compelled to tell the country that the candidate for the party he doesn't support was under investigation. Yet he felt no compulsion to tell voters that campaigners for his party's candidate were also under investigation. That's what Democrats object to.
On election day every voter in the country was aware that Clinton had been under investigation, and had been exonerated. On election day, NOT ONE VOTER KNEW that major figures in Trump's campaign were under investigation for collusion with foreigners trying to get Trump elected!!!
We were angry about Comey's bias. We weren't angry that the FBI was doing its job and conducting investigations.
Trump is the one who is angry about that. He is the one who wants to stop the FBI from doing its job. So we have to ask why he is so anxious to stop the investigation. What is he covering up? Who is he trying to protect? Since we also know that Trump cares for no one but himself, we must assume that the only person he cares about protecting is -- himself.
Comey interfered in the 2016 election, because of his partisanship. He felt compelled to tell the country that the candidate for the party he doesn't support was under investigation. Yet he felt no compulsion to tell voters that campaigners for his party's candidate were also under investigation. That's what Democrats object to.
On election day every voter in the country was aware that Clinton had been under investigation, and had been exonerated. On election day, NOT ONE VOTER KNEW that major figures in Trump's campaign were under investigation for collusion with foreigners trying to get Trump elected!!!
We were angry about Comey's bias. We weren't angry that the FBI was doing its job and conducting investigations.
Trump is the one who is angry about that. He is the one who wants to stop the FBI from doing its job. So we have to ask why he is so anxious to stop the investigation. What is he covering up? Who is he trying to protect? Since we also know that Trump cares for no one but himself, we must assume that the only person he cares about protecting is -- himself.
18
Trump criticizes Sen. Blumenthal for talking of Vietnam exploits that are not real... has Trump remembered which foot his "bone spurs" were in yet? This draft dodger has a lot of gall, and very little class, criticizing -anyone- for any conduct during the Vietnam era. Although, Trump has very little class, very very little at all, at any time. Crass, yes, but no class. It becomes more clear with each passing day, with each passing misstep, gaffe, fumble, each inept action just how truly unqualified this man is to be president. Someday even Republicans in Congress will see this. Probably the day after they see evidence of collusion and complicity with Russians in interfereing in the 2016 election
8
When the Democrats and President Obama won in '08 many liberals felt as if Republicans were left to history and would probably not reclaim power again. Surely, many were made to regret such complacency in November. But just like the liberals from few years ago it seems conservatives and the mainstream Republicans from today are getting short sighted on their end. The Trump administration is too reckless (and somewhat clueless) to be defended on a daily basis. For all the firings, repeals and executive orders one shouldn't forget that it won't be long when we see another change in power. A lot of these acts will come back to bite the GOP in the future.
As for James Comey, he should spend a lot of his time doing self reflection. I don't feel sorry for you Director: you meddled with the election when you shouldn't have and took the Presidency away from an Individual who would've fixed many of our REAL problems. The very man you aided (you may claim unintentionally) showed you the door when he saw fit. Spend good amount of time every day thinking how had you not opened up that needless investigation you would've been employed and doing your duty today.
As for James Comey, he should spend a lot of his time doing self reflection. I don't feel sorry for you Director: you meddled with the election when you shouldn't have and took the Presidency away from an Individual who would've fixed many of our REAL problems. The very man you aided (you may claim unintentionally) showed you the door when he saw fit. Spend good amount of time every day thinking how had you not opened up that needless investigation you would've been employed and doing your duty today.
2
I don't get the impression that there is a sense of crisis in DC.
Give it a week or two where Trump makes more decisions ranging from simple and boneheaded to dangerous and destructive, inflicting long-term and possibly irreversible harm to this nation and others.
With any luck the GOP will at some point realize that they will still be here trying to get elected long after Trump has left the scene of the crime.
Then, MAYBE, we get the sense of crisis this disaster deserves.
Not holding my breath.
Give it a week or two where Trump makes more decisions ranging from simple and boneheaded to dangerous and destructive, inflicting long-term and possibly irreversible harm to this nation and others.
With any luck the GOP will at some point realize that they will still be here trying to get elected long after Trump has left the scene of the crime.
Then, MAYBE, we get the sense of crisis this disaster deserves.
Not holding my breath.
1
Anybody expecting a resignation or impeachment of Trump are delusional as are people who think he will change. The leaders of any two bit banana republic or fascist dictatorship don't resign nor do their complicit, rubber stamp legislatures impeach.
2
Get real, there is no crisis. FBI Directory Comey was incompetent. He showed that during the Hilliary Clinton email fiasco when detailing her criminal acts and then deciding not to prosecute (not his job), then again just before the election when he announced the reopening of the HC investigation, and just recently when he spoke at the hearings (re: Huma A forwarding confidential emails) and claimed he would believe Huma committed a crime because she was unaware that she had committed one. Ignorance of the law is not an excuse, and I do not believe she was ignorant of the law. Timing was not perfect, but letting Comey go is a good thing for the FBI. And when would have timing be good to let him go?
7
"And when would have timing be good to let him go?"
I'd say not in the midst of an investigation of possible treason of the person who did the firing. Smoke far too often equals fire.
I'd say not in the midst of an investigation of possible treason of the person who did the firing. Smoke far too often equals fire.
7
Well, how about in January? If he was fired for being incompetent, there was plenty of evidence of it in January. Why wait until just after he's asked for increased resources in the Russian tampering investigation? And THEN, in the name of all that's wonderful, why meet with some of those same Russians while the country is melting down over the firing? How on earth is any of this a good idea?
5
Trumps timing for the firing speaks more to his intent than anything else. If he intended to slow or derail the investigation, this timing was appropriate. If he was unhappy with his performance during the Hillary investigation (a laughable statement), his timing was way off.
Will not one Republican stand up and make history. Every yes-man for Trump will just goes down in history as a Trump stooge.
Any Republican who stands up strong against him for America will go down as a hero in a patriot and be lauded in history books.
Who will it be ?
Any Republican who stands up strong against him for America will go down as a hero in a patriot and be lauded in history books.
Who will it be ?
11
The problem is not Trump, the Flip-Flopper-in-Chief. It's the voters who still support him and insist, despite all evidence to the contrary, that he will make their lives better. If those voters were to tell their elected Republican representatives that they aren't interested in dismantling the Constitution after all, and that they don't want a dictator with ties to the Russian mafia running rampant in the White House, things might evolve in a better direction.
I say "might" because, against my better judgment, I'm still an idealist. But in fact, the Republican Congress and Senate have so far shown no inclination to acknowledge that anything at all might be amiss in the Oval Office. The whole amoral, self-serving lot of them prefer to let the country slide into a post-democratic free fall, so long as they can keep their excellent health care benefits and take all-boy selfies on the White House lawn.
I say "might" because, against my better judgment, I'm still an idealist. But in fact, the Republican Congress and Senate have so far shown no inclination to acknowledge that anything at all might be amiss in the Oval Office. The whole amoral, self-serving lot of them prefer to let the country slide into a post-democratic free fall, so long as they can keep their excellent health care benefits and take all-boy selfies on the White House lawn.
26
Don't forget most of those Republican Congress people will also receive the giant tax cuts they are planning. Stealing from the poor and working poor, the sick, and the elderly to feed their own greed.
1
....regarding dark moods, what do Trump's supporters (i.e., the base) think about all of this?
For over two years, the base was cheering Trump on with his statements on throwing Hillary Clinton in jail for her email mess, with the crowds chanting 'lock her up' to Trump's grins, laughter, and thumbs ups. Now, Trump fires the FBI Director on Rosenstein's memo recommendations because Comey was being unfair to Clinton in his statements leading up to the election regarding the email mess.
Is the base scratching their heads wondering 'what the heck just went on regarding the email mess', or is the base just accepting Trump as 'their man, getting things done for the good of the American people'... no matter how Trump's positions or objectives change?
For over two years, the base was cheering Trump on with his statements on throwing Hillary Clinton in jail for her email mess, with the crowds chanting 'lock her up' to Trump's grins, laughter, and thumbs ups. Now, Trump fires the FBI Director on Rosenstein's memo recommendations because Comey was being unfair to Clinton in his statements leading up to the election regarding the email mess.
Is the base scratching their heads wondering 'what the heck just went on regarding the email mess', or is the base just accepting Trump as 'their man, getting things done for the good of the American people'... no matter how Trump's positions or objectives change?
Like alcoholics who haven't reached the bottom yet, we citizens are still too comfortable, too secure, too operational. We don't recognize how dysfunctional we really are as a nation. Maybe Trump will pull us to the abyss and we'll finally see that we need a total makeover of our political and economic systems.
9
During the presidential campaign, Donald Trump famously stated that if he shot someone on Fifth Avenue, his popularity would not suffer. The willingness of Congressional Republican leaders to embrace the pretext behind Trump's firing of FBI Director James Comey shows that they would tolerate this president's use of violence to suppress dissent. They have no more integrity than he does.
11
"[Trump] fired [Comey] yesterday so that he wouldn't testify today. That's obvious."
Obvious to you, apparently, but somehow I missed the obviousness of it. Do you think the FBI will drop its investigation now that Comey is no longer its head? As I type this, acting FBI Director McCabe is testifying at the Senate. Democratic Senator Mark Warner asked McCabe to assure the Senate that the FBI would promptly notify the Senate if the White House tried in any way to interfere with its investigation. Though McCabe's response wasn't reported (what a surprise, eh?), almost certainly it was: "Of course we will, Senator."
Frankly, Comey didn't seem to be all that well-informed about the FBI investigation. McCabe probably is. If we get any inkling that the White House is interfering with any investigation -- by the FBI, by the Senate, by the House, or by anyone else -- that indeed will be very troubling. But we have no evidence of that -- none, nada, zilch. A Democratic Senator's request for an assurance that someone will do something if someone else behaves in a certain way is NOT evidence that that someone else is in fact behaving in that certain way.
Obvious to you, apparently, but somehow I missed the obviousness of it. Do you think the FBI will drop its investigation now that Comey is no longer its head? As I type this, acting FBI Director McCabe is testifying at the Senate. Democratic Senator Mark Warner asked McCabe to assure the Senate that the FBI would promptly notify the Senate if the White House tried in any way to interfere with its investigation. Though McCabe's response wasn't reported (what a surprise, eh?), almost certainly it was: "Of course we will, Senator."
Frankly, Comey didn't seem to be all that well-informed about the FBI investigation. McCabe probably is. If we get any inkling that the White House is interfering with any investigation -- by the FBI, by the Senate, by the House, or by anyone else -- that indeed will be very troubling. But we have no evidence of that -- none, nada, zilch. A Democratic Senator's request for an assurance that someone will do something if someone else behaves in a certain way is NOT evidence that that someone else is in fact behaving in that certain way.
1
Try this if you trust McCabe; Will he ask Trump for the money and additional agents needed to proceed with the collusion investigation?
May 11, 2017 On the floor of the US Senate our elected representatives are now debating wether there is an FBI investigation into Russian hacking and possible collusion by the Trump campaign/transition/administration staff.
Trump world has now erased the past. I am to believe that the past 10 months are but a hoax or a dream. I am now just like Kevin in The Leftovers questioning what I saw in the past, what is real.
Why is this going on? Has the US Congress and everyone else in America swallowed the Trumpian koolaid? Why is this even being debated? Because Trump said so?
I know it is no longer fashionable or politically correct but I do believe that facts exist and that truth exists. It is a question that can be answered with a simple yes or no but apparently that is beyond the capabilities of the FBI or Congress and as of this morning now the media.
Hoax. Crisis. Alternate facts. Alternate reality. Lies. Trump.
Trump world has now erased the past. I am to believe that the past 10 months are but a hoax or a dream. I am now just like Kevin in The Leftovers questioning what I saw in the past, what is real.
Why is this going on? Has the US Congress and everyone else in America swallowed the Trumpian koolaid? Why is this even being debated? Because Trump said so?
I know it is no longer fashionable or politically correct but I do believe that facts exist and that truth exists. It is a question that can be answered with a simple yes or no but apparently that is beyond the capabilities of the FBI or Congress and as of this morning now the media.
Hoax. Crisis. Alternate facts. Alternate reality. Lies. Trump.
5
An open letter to the GOP:
As long as you continue to support, tacitly or otherwise, this corrupt and unhinged president, your party will lose its credibility for many years to come. If you are not worried about the 2018 (and you should be), what about your own integrity? Have you no shame in refusing to stand up to this would-be despot whose only concern is for himself and his weak (but grandiose) ego? Have you no decency sirs and madams? The whole world is looking on with horror and disbelief that this democracy is becoming less of one every single day. Does this not trouble you at all? History will judge your cowardice and lack of patriotism harshly. Many of your constituents already have. For the love of country and for your own personal redemption, condemn this president NOW.
As long as you continue to support, tacitly or otherwise, this corrupt and unhinged president, your party will lose its credibility for many years to come. If you are not worried about the 2018 (and you should be), what about your own integrity? Have you no shame in refusing to stand up to this would-be despot whose only concern is for himself and his weak (but grandiose) ego? Have you no decency sirs and madams? The whole world is looking on with horror and disbelief that this democracy is becoming less of one every single day. Does this not trouble you at all? History will judge your cowardice and lack of patriotism harshly. Many of your constituents already have. For the love of country and for your own personal redemption, condemn this president NOW.
8
Republicans are concerned? I'm concerned about my gas mileage. This calls for outright alarm if not sheer panic.
7
In the wake of a decision that many have characterized as "Nixonian" I cannot believe the President and his advisors did not consider the optics of having him photographed sitting next to Mr. Kissinger.
5
Comey struck me as one person who was above politics. While Democrats would like to pin the loss of the presidency on him, poll analyst Nate Cohn pointed out in an Upshot column that Clinton’s lead actually dropped before Comey’s announcement that he had reopened the case on her e-mail server. On 5/8/17, Cohn wrote, “… there’s a case that Mrs. Clinton had nearly or even completely bottomed out by the time the Comey letter was released. Even if she had not, the trend line heading into the Comey letter was bad enough that there’s no need to assume that the Comey letter was necessary for any additional erosion in her lead”.
Just as the Democrats were wrong to use Comey as a scapegoat for Clinton’s loss, the President was incorrect to view Comey’s probe into the interaction between his election campaign and the Russians. The President said the probe is a waste of money because there was no collusion. The problem is that the Democrats have built up the possibility of a collusion to the point where an investigation was necessary. Congressional probes are little more than media events; whereas one conducted by the F.B.I. would have merit. The President should have let the F.B.I. conduct as thorough a probe as Comey thought was necessary.
Just as the Democrats were wrong to use Comey as a scapegoat for Clinton’s loss, the President was incorrect to view Comey’s probe into the interaction between his election campaign and the Russians. The President said the probe is a waste of money because there was no collusion. The problem is that the Democrats have built up the possibility of a collusion to the point where an investigation was necessary. Congressional probes are little more than media events; whereas one conducted by the F.B.I. would have merit. The President should have let the F.B.I. conduct as thorough a probe as Comey thought was necessary.
1
This cabal of weasels and bagmen is a stunning disgrace. That Trump also had a Russian State Media only observed visit with their envoys against the context of everything that is going on is utterly stupefying.
Everyone is just standing around letting this happen.
Everyone is just standing around letting this happen.
10
The American press is denied access, but the Russian "press" is granted access?! In the White House?! What a perfect encapsulation of the entire affair. I still am not sure who our President answers to, and little messages like that one leave me deeply concerned that the answer is far too likely to be "Vladimir Putin" rather than the "the American people."
15
WASHINGTON — When President Trump met with top Russian officials in the Oval Office on Wednesday, White House officials barred reporters from witnessing the moment
Amendment I. Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the government for a redress of grievances.
6
What would Mitch do --- Nothing!
What would Paul do -- Nothing!
What would Paul do -- Nothing!
5
Time to march on DC and surround the WH and the Capital and DEMAND the removal of the usurping "administration"
5
Time for The Daily News to reach across the Atlantic for a famous front-page screamer of The Sun's from 1979:
CRISIS? WHAT CRISIS?
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/politics/921524.stm
CRISIS? WHAT CRISIS?
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/politics/921524.stm
1
Impeach this lying con man. Trump has much to hide. despite massive voter suppression in Red States, we cannot let a minority of uninformed racist voters determine the fate of our country. Everyone else must unite in 2018 and throw out the treasonous Republican Congress so Trump can be impeached on any of numerous grounds from self-dealing to collusion with a foreign power to win an election. Enough is enough!!
3
At least Don the Con had some good news to give his handlers when they came to call.
3
In June 2016, I predicted Putin would leak material and enable Trump to win. Meanwhile, the Times and HufPost was giving Trump a 2-10% chance of winning.
Trump associates probably chatted with Russia and led them on. This is how it almost certainly went down. I don't see anything wrong with it.
Russian rep: Hey can we talk?
Trump associate: Whatsup?
Russian rep: Oh we just want to start a dialogue with your campaign
Trump associate: Sure, of course. We talk with everyone. Russia's an important world player. No reason why we shouldn't get along.
Russian rep: Absolutely. Obama and Hillary have been horrible, but we hope for a fresh start with your administration
Trump associate: Agreed. Hillary would be a disaster
Russian rep: Look, we've found some interesting stuff on Hillary.
Trump associate: Really?
Russian rep: Yep, it's pretty damning and shows that she's a two-faced hypocrite but not sure what to do with it.
Trump associate: Listen, you can do whatever you want with it, but don't involve us. We can't have anything to do with it.
Russian rep: Understood. We just want a better relationship with America. Will be good for the world.
Trump associate: Absolutely. Hillary wouldn't be good for anyone. Trump's a business person. He's flexible. If he get elected, we start anew, you know what I mean?
Russian rep: We're with you. Good luck to your candidate. We wish him the best of luck.
Trump associates probably chatted with Russia and led them on. This is how it almost certainly went down. I don't see anything wrong with it.
Russian rep: Hey can we talk?
Trump associate: Whatsup?
Russian rep: Oh we just want to start a dialogue with your campaign
Trump associate: Sure, of course. We talk with everyone. Russia's an important world player. No reason why we shouldn't get along.
Russian rep: Absolutely. Obama and Hillary have been horrible, but we hope for a fresh start with your administration
Trump associate: Agreed. Hillary would be a disaster
Russian rep: Look, we've found some interesting stuff on Hillary.
Trump associate: Really?
Russian rep: Yep, it's pretty damning and shows that she's a two-faced hypocrite but not sure what to do with it.
Trump associate: Listen, you can do whatever you want with it, but don't involve us. We can't have anything to do with it.
Russian rep: Understood. We just want a better relationship with America. Will be good for the world.
Trump associate: Absolutely. Hillary wouldn't be good for anyone. Trump's a business person. He's flexible. If he get elected, we start anew, you know what I mean?
Russian rep: We're with you. Good luck to your candidate. We wish him the best of luck.
1
It's about time Republicans are coming forth but talking and doing are different. Time to act and begin impeachment of this man who would be king and has treated the American people and Congress as if we are all his slaves. His list of abuses to our democracy is too long to list. If he is at all wise he will resign.
1
It is apparent that the Emporer with no clothes also lives in a glass house! So called former business men are not use to glass houses. If the Emperor did not want such surtinity he should leave the gkass house!
1
Ever since this awful excuse for a life form emerged from his shell, I have been suffering a long string of maladies, likely all hysterical, I'm sure. Who, I wonder, will rid us of this malevolent, incompetent fool?
3
Sitting next to Kissinger ain't gonna help. C'mon Trump concede you are in way over your head. View it as ultimate sacrifice for your Country.
2
The Russian ambassador should have brought a "Mission Accomplished" banner to the Oval office.
5
Trump and his entire draft dodging family criticizing someone who actually served his country is typical of the Fred/Donny yellow streak Family. He even took someone else's Purple Heart. That should tell you all you need to know about Trump
5
Why is it that the media, when commenting of trump's being so palsy walsy with the Russians in his office, don't mention that the military has informed us that Russia is sending weapons to the Taliban, the same group that is killing our soldiers. And that Trump wants to increase the number of US soldiers to be exposed to those Russian-supplied weapons. Yet, we lovingly host the Russians in our oval office while the president grins like a halfwit. https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/checkpoint/wp/2017/04/24/russia-is-s...
3
Though I think Comey screwed up by notifying Congress on Oct. 28, and screwed up even worse (far worse) in July, let's not forget that the FBI didn't change its legal recommendation when it found hundreds of thousands of Hillary's State Department emails on Anthony Weiner's laptop for one and only one reason: The FBI determined that it already had all of those emails.
That left unanswered an important question that still troubles me:
"How in the world did hundreds of thousands of Hillary's State Department emails -- including many that were classified -- end up on the private laptop computer of Anthony Weiner (aka "Carlos Danger")?"
That left unanswered an important question that still troubles me:
"How in the world did hundreds of thousands of Hillary's State Department emails -- including many that were classified -- end up on the private laptop computer of Anthony Weiner (aka "Carlos Danger")?"
You've been punked, Mr. Kissinger.
3
Another Huckster name Huckabee...
Using words like "atrocity" to lie about things she has zero understanding of. Nice job daddy got her. So many chins, so little time.
Using words like "atrocity" to lie about things she has zero understanding of. Nice job daddy got her. So many chins, so little time.
5
Susan Collins voted with her treasonous party's plan to obstruct Prez Obama. She is the "moderate" hypocrite the media loves.
8
The narcissistic traitor, why should I care?
5
Oh, but by God: in terms of outrage and horror, where does one begin?
1.) Does one start, perhaps, with the Comey firing? Granted, Comey was not exactly beloved but the timing of this, coming as it did in the middle of the investigation into Trump's Russia ties, is enormously suspect. And the manner in which the firing was done was close to cruel. What, Trump couldn't deliver this news in person? Oh, my mistake: that would require Trump to act like a considerate, mature adult, and he isn't any of those things.
2.) Then there's the disturbing fact that American reporters were denied permission to be in the Oval Office while Trump met with the Russian foreign minister, yet an official photographer for the Russian state was allowed to be present. How does one cope with the deliberate and sly muzzling of our media?
3.) Shall we dwell on the fact that the mood at the FBI is apparently one of shock, yet Trump and his cronies claim that FBI agents had been "clamoring" for Comey's removal? How does one continue to face the blatant lies and fabrications that come out of Trump's corrupt mouth on a daily basis?
4.) What does one say when Trump calls for an investigation of a senator after said senator criticized him? Are we simply expected to be blasé in the face of the fact that the man in charge of the nuclear codes can't handle criticism?
How much more of this are we expected to put up with as a country and a people? Why are the Republicans fiddling away while Rome burns?
1.) Does one start, perhaps, with the Comey firing? Granted, Comey was not exactly beloved but the timing of this, coming as it did in the middle of the investigation into Trump's Russia ties, is enormously suspect. And the manner in which the firing was done was close to cruel. What, Trump couldn't deliver this news in person? Oh, my mistake: that would require Trump to act like a considerate, mature adult, and he isn't any of those things.
2.) Then there's the disturbing fact that American reporters were denied permission to be in the Oval Office while Trump met with the Russian foreign minister, yet an official photographer for the Russian state was allowed to be present. How does one cope with the deliberate and sly muzzling of our media?
3.) Shall we dwell on the fact that the mood at the FBI is apparently one of shock, yet Trump and his cronies claim that FBI agents had been "clamoring" for Comey's removal? How does one continue to face the blatant lies and fabrications that come out of Trump's corrupt mouth on a daily basis?
4.) What does one say when Trump calls for an investigation of a senator after said senator criticized him? Are we simply expected to be blasé in the face of the fact that the man in charge of the nuclear codes can't handle criticism?
How much more of this are we expected to put up with as a country and a people? Why are the Republicans fiddling away while Rome burns?
16
Well said!
1
I honestly feel that he fired him over his huge EGO. Trump's Ego is greater than his intelligence and poise. No matter what the reason, he still needs to be looked into.
3
Comey's firing was obviously connected to his investigation. It was fear based, and poorly executed, classic Trump. The bottom line is that Trump lacks the intellectual and emotional maturity for any role in government, something that was made perfectly clear during his campaign. His judgement is not only questionable, it has been proven very poor. He is bereft of the stability necessary to lead a nation.
Trump presents a danger to the nation and ensures an erosion of decent, reasonable and competent leadership. And so it is that America is in trouble.
Trump presents a danger to the nation and ensures an erosion of decent, reasonable and competent leadership. And so it is that America is in trouble.
28
Trump continues to bank on the premise that he is insulated, as always, from the corruption he pays heavily for others to undertake. After allegations, he claims innocence and uses his lawyers and spin machines (WH spokespeople, Fox, Putin's RT) to smooth things over and create an alternate reality for his supporters to latch on to.
He may not avoid impeachment for a variety of issues (treason, collusion, conflicts of interest, perjury, abuse of power) or the invocation of Amendment 25 for his mental state, but Trump feels confident that by firing Comey while condemning Comey's public opinion of a "careless" but unprosecutable Hillary, he has now pre-empted getting called "negligent" and "careless" and worse (if not "guilty") on the national stage by a trusted figure who is independent of the media and partisan politics.
For Trump, a master of damage control that comes with wealth and power, a renegade FBI Director is seen as a danger. If he can't put his own man in Comey's place, he's counting on the next guy being more discrete and able to be painted as partisan (unlike Comey, a Republican who has proven impartiality).
He may not avoid impeachment for a variety of issues (treason, collusion, conflicts of interest, perjury, abuse of power) or the invocation of Amendment 25 for his mental state, but Trump feels confident that by firing Comey while condemning Comey's public opinion of a "careless" but unprosecutable Hillary, he has now pre-empted getting called "negligent" and "careless" and worse (if not "guilty") on the national stage by a trusted figure who is independent of the media and partisan politics.
For Trump, a master of damage control that comes with wealth and power, a renegade FBI Director is seen as a danger. If he can't put his own man in Comey's place, he's counting on the next guy being more discrete and able to be painted as partisan (unlike Comey, a Republican who has proven impartiality).
7
As the ruse of the originally stated reason for Comey's dismissal crumbles, so does Mr. Trump's future. Deputy Atty. General Rosenstein's critique of Comey was requested by Mr. Trump, not handed to him out of the blue, and it is a weak smokescreen, intended solely to -they thought- placate Democrats as Comey was sent packing. Trump's real reason for firing Comey? "Very simply - he wasn't doing a good job," is Trump's answer. With the Clinton thing an obvious ruse, for what other reason might Trump have been unsatisfied with Comey's work? The reporting of Trump's fury over the weekend makes it clear: Trump was angry that Comey was proceeding with vigor on the Russia investigation.
That's the crux of it, and put simply: firing Comey to discourage or impede that investigation is obstruction of justice. It wouldn't even matter if Trump was the subject of the investigation he hoped to thwart. Firing Comey with the intent of diverting any investigation is obstruction of justice, and obstruction of justice is, without a shadow of a doubt, an impeachable offense. The fact that this was done to obstruct an investigation of Trump and/or his associates just makes it worse. As the stink of this thickens, Trump's congressional defenders will fade back and soon distance themselves, and it will all start spinning apart.
That's the crux of it, and put simply: firing Comey to discourage or impede that investigation is obstruction of justice. It wouldn't even matter if Trump was the subject of the investigation he hoped to thwart. Firing Comey with the intent of diverting any investigation is obstruction of justice, and obstruction of justice is, without a shadow of a doubt, an impeachable offense. The fact that this was done to obstruct an investigation of Trump and/or his associates just makes it worse. As the stink of this thickens, Trump's congressional defenders will fade back and soon distance themselves, and it will all start spinning apart.
3
Republicans not denouncing this move and calling for a special counsel with explicit guarantees of independence are collaborating in the rise of tyranny in the United States: A President acting brazenly to obstruct justice and place himself, his campaign and White House staff, and associates above the law.
Whether or not the President himself is currently under investigation, those associated with his campaign and administration are. Nixon's initial obstruction of justice was to protect his loyalists. It was only later that he obstructed justice to avoid his own accountability for that initial obstruction of justice. Trump is guilty of obstruction of justice regardless whether the investigations reach a conclusion or not; and regardless any particular conclusion. Obstruction of justice is obstruction of the process of justice; not its conclusions. Any other interpretation makes obstruction of justice not a crime if it is successful.
In firing the FBI Director with the daily more clear motive of impeding the Russian investigations and directing the FBI to focus on tracking down leakers of Trump associates' links to Russia, President Trump has crossed the line into unambiguously impeachable behavior. There can be honest debate about the applicability of the Emoluments Clause to Trump's unique personal circumstances, but not about obstruction of justice. Republicans must choose: American patriots or lackeys of exactly the kind of demagogic tyrant the Founders warned against.
Whether or not the President himself is currently under investigation, those associated with his campaign and administration are. Nixon's initial obstruction of justice was to protect his loyalists. It was only later that he obstructed justice to avoid his own accountability for that initial obstruction of justice. Trump is guilty of obstruction of justice regardless whether the investigations reach a conclusion or not; and regardless any particular conclusion. Obstruction of justice is obstruction of the process of justice; not its conclusions. Any other interpretation makes obstruction of justice not a crime if it is successful.
In firing the FBI Director with the daily more clear motive of impeding the Russian investigations and directing the FBI to focus on tracking down leakers of Trump associates' links to Russia, President Trump has crossed the line into unambiguously impeachable behavior. There can be honest debate about the applicability of the Emoluments Clause to Trump's unique personal circumstances, but not about obstruction of justice. Republicans must choose: American patriots or lackeys of exactly the kind of demagogic tyrant the Founders warned against.
7
Read Comey's letter to the FBI. You think Trump could ever write something like that? If he did, just like the letter he fired Comey with, he'd have to praise himself somehow some way. I didn't agree with Comey when he brought back Clinton's email controversy late in the campaign, but I believe Comey made a decision he thought was right. I don't think he was trying to hurt Clinton or help Trump. He just did what he thought was right. Comey's letter to his associates had a tone of grace and class. Two words Trump knows absolutely nothing about
10
Every senator and representative who is defending the firing of Comey must surely have protested in July and October 2016. The 2 things relied on for the dismissal were the "closing argument" by Comey in July and his circumventing the attorney general. Each of those Republican Senators and Representatives either didn't understand how the justice department worked or they merely disregarded these matters since it might help the Democratic Party candidate. My opinion is that they knew it was wrong but merely decided that they did not want to jeopardize their attempt to gain power (election) as opposed to seeing that justice was done. Journalist should screen every statement made last summer by a politician now defending the dismissal and see if they were concerned then about the administration of justice and voiced objections to Comey's actions.
3
McConnell continues to excuse his desire for power with platitudes and empty defense of Republican obstruction. Mr. Trump shrugs his shoulders and talks about others' hypocrisy, while denying Americans the transparency they deserve. Spencer hides in the bushes and hyperventilates over explaining away the latest gaffes and outright lies. Just another day in Trumplandia.
Should Comey have been fired? Probably. Was it poorly time and badly executed? Most definitely. Will we ever get to the bottom of it all and punish those who put wealth and party before country? I sincerely doubt it.
Should Comey have been fired? Probably. Was it poorly time and badly executed? Most definitely. Will we ever get to the bottom of it all and punish those who put wealth and party before country? I sincerely doubt it.
3
The quote in this article refers to a "sense of crisis" indicates to me that there really isn't an actual crisis, no matter how much the 'Times' would like to create one. If anything there is a sense of amusement that once again President Trump has done something which forces the politicians in Washington to reverse their previous positions, and look like clowns trying to squeeze back into their tiny car, with him in the lead. It's great entertainment, and if the President's ultimate goal is to turn the town upside down and prove that there is no there, there, he's making great progress!
Sure. At our expense. Think about that when we are at war with North Korea. Funny
1
Not to take away from this story in any way - but I also don't want to lose sight of the Kushner family selling visas in China to shore up their dismal New Jersey real estate venture. That story needs to stay front and center as well. And thank you to our press for standing up - we need you now more than ever!
9
Also, when they met, Lavrov told Trump that he forgot his mobile device charger. So Lavrov politely asked Trump if he could plug the device into his computer. Trump agreed and...
8
Trump weighing in on Richard Blumenthal's service as phony is rich indeed considering Mr. T's "fake bone spurs" that kept him out of Viet Nam altogether, together with a note from his doctor about his disability to serve. He did manage to recover his health fast enough to soon be in Federal court for discriminating against renters for their race at his apartment buildings in NYC.
3
Trump is calling someone a hypocrite? That's rich.
4
I am a liberal democrat and do believe that Comey had to be fired because he became bigger than the department. So those republicans who think alike and feel that we democrats should suck it up and move on, here is my response as to why I am still aghast. Here are three reasons why.
1. Comey showed his omnipotence BEFORE the election - the Trump administration could have easily replaced him when the administration changed.
2. It is hard not to conclude that he was fired on account of his continued investigation of the Russian connection based on the firing document where Trump refers to the three times that Comey allegedly told Trump that he was not a target of the investigation. Not to mention it speaks of very poor governance skills to not only have such a conversation but also to publicly flaunt it.
3. The manner of the firing was as unprofessional as it could have been.
This administration is destroying this country. Sad.
1. Comey showed his omnipotence BEFORE the election - the Trump administration could have easily replaced him when the administration changed.
2. It is hard not to conclude that he was fired on account of his continued investigation of the Russian connection based on the firing document where Trump refers to the three times that Comey allegedly told Trump that he was not a target of the investigation. Not to mention it speaks of very poor governance skills to not only have such a conversation but also to publicly flaunt it.
3. The manner of the firing was as unprofessional as it could have been.
This administration is destroying this country. Sad.
7
Republicans have done such a bang-up job fostering deep mistrust in government that even this - a POTUS obstructing justice - is seen as heroic and patriotic.
This is what I fear for the country. Not Trump and his massive ego and dearth of curiosity about anything remotely intellectual and informed, but the blind support for him and the propaganda that continuously cultivates it.
Meanwhile, the chaos he purposely sews makes us ripe for a large-scale terrorist attack. Why does he chest-beat about defeating ISIS when he is practically inviting another 9/11?
This is what I fear for the country. Not Trump and his massive ego and dearth of curiosity about anything remotely intellectual and informed, but the blind support for him and the propaganda that continuously cultivates it.
Meanwhile, the chaos he purposely sews makes us ripe for a large-scale terrorist attack. Why does he chest-beat about defeating ISIS when he is practically inviting another 9/11?
3
The Constitutional crisis has arrived. We have a delusional mad man sitting in the Oval Office. He is divorced from reality and he is getting worse by the day. No man is above the law. The survival of the nation demands that this aberration be removed.
2
Acting FBI Director Andrew G. McCabe testified before the Senate Intelligence Committee a few minutes ago that there has been no attempts to impeded the FBI investigation into possible connections between the Trump election and Russian efforts to interfere with the U.S. election.
LOL!
1
I feel like "What is the point of reading the news anymore?" I don't know what the truth is about anything anymore. If Trump is just doing business as usual and presenting scapegoats at each turn to keep the focus off himself and his dealings, that is disturbing. If Comey was really trying to do an honest investigation in to Trump-Russia ties and got fired for it, that is also disturbing. And I feel like the News people are just trying to keep up with a maelstrom of daily happenings that are whirling faster than a tornado. We never get to the bottom of it. And Trump seems so transparent that I don't think people who voted for him believe him anymore. Only a small group of like-minded sociopaths could ever follow this guy. Why would anyone else? The only good thing he has done is bomb Syria and there was probably a hidden agenda in that! God help us all.
1
Trump's actions are blatantly clear. He has tried too build himself in Putin's image, but fortunately, he's no Putin. The firing of James Comey will not stop the Russian investigation, it will intensify the investigation. All America knows there's something so rotten here, we can hardly breathe for the stench.
2
The straight jacket is tightening.
2
Let's hope so!
What troubles me most, is that #45 fired the FBI direction investigating him! IF this is not obstruction of justice, what is? Anyone with half a brain can see the mountain of evidence that confirms what we have all suspected, Russia interfered with the 2016 elections, Russia wanted #45 elected, #45's people colluded and are still in collusion with Russia!
Our democracy, our republic IS and has been in crisis since this man entered the Oval Office! When will the Republicans put country before party?! On the Rachel Maddow Show she aired a clip from a town hall, showing a regular American guy shouting at his Republican congressman, "We need a special prosecutor! When will you be an American?!" Republicans can no longer claim to be the "patriots" they are not!
We need an independent investigation and a special prosecutor, now!
Our democracy, our republic IS and has been in crisis since this man entered the Oval Office! When will the Republicans put country before party?! On the Rachel Maddow Show she aired a clip from a town hall, showing a regular American guy shouting at his Republican congressman, "We need a special prosecutor! When will you be an American?!" Republicans can no longer claim to be the "patriots" they are not!
We need an independent investigation and a special prosecutor, now!
1
A lot of people have said that there is no evidence of a conspiracy between trump's organization and the Russians. What most people don't realize is it is far to early to make that assumption. The Whitewater probe took years to complete. Nixon was reelected while the investigation of Watergate was going on. Investigations are not like crime shows on TV, they are not solved in an hour.
The actions taken by the trump Administration do not pass the smell test, and I am not talking about silly tweets and Executive Actions. Why fire the FBI Chief right after he wants to expand the Russian Probe? Why do it after Yates's Testimony before Congress? Why fire the FBI Chief so suddenly that your own staff have no plan?
Everyone, including the President, should be asking for an Independent Special Prosecutor. If trump is so innocent, then having someone not beholden to him declare that there is no case would be the best scenario. Not allowing an Independent Special Prosecutor will leave a stench of corruption hanging over trump for the rest of his term.
The actions taken by the trump Administration do not pass the smell test, and I am not talking about silly tweets and Executive Actions. Why fire the FBI Chief right after he wants to expand the Russian Probe? Why do it after Yates's Testimony before Congress? Why fire the FBI Chief so suddenly that your own staff have no plan?
Everyone, including the President, should be asking for an Independent Special Prosecutor. If trump is so innocent, then having someone not beholden to him declare that there is no case would be the best scenario. Not allowing an Independent Special Prosecutor will leave a stench of corruption hanging over trump for the rest of his term.
251
St. Louis, I would add that there is mounting circumstantial evidence. Flynn was fired for lying about his sanctions discussions -- why did he lie? What does he want immunity for?
Why did Sessions lie to Al Franken?
How did Roger Stone know about the Russian's hacking of Podesta's emails before they happened?
The Trump sons have booth made statements about all of the Russian investments in Trump's business interests. How much of the Christopher Steele dossier is true?
Why does Trump insult everyone from the Pope to Meryl Streep but only praise Putin? Why did Trump deny the hackers were Russian for so long?
How much cash did Paul Manafort get while he was in Ukraine?
Is Carter Page a Russian asset?
Why did Sessions lie to Al Franken?
How did Roger Stone know about the Russian's hacking of Podesta's emails before they happened?
The Trump sons have booth made statements about all of the Russian investments in Trump's business interests. How much of the Christopher Steele dossier is true?
Why does Trump insult everyone from the Pope to Meryl Streep but only praise Putin? Why did Trump deny the hackers were Russian for so long?
How much cash did Paul Manafort get while he was in Ukraine?
Is Carter Page a Russian asset?
To support your point, people have been comparing Comey's firing to Nixon's firing of Archibald Cox. Few have noted that it was 10 months from Cox's firing to Nixon's resignation.
R0204, you make an excellent point in reminding everyone that investigations of official corruption take years to complete. Nixon and the Watergate investigation are excellent examples but so is the far more recent "Bridge-gate" investigation concerning the abusive imposition of traffic restrictions on rush-hour access to what is probably the busiest bridge in NY, a "dirty trick" undertaken by aides to Chris Christie to punish the Democratic mayor of Fort Lee NJ for not endorsing Christie in his re-election campaign. The investigation began shortly after the problems arose in Sept. 2013, but the 2 Christie aides charged in the scandal who went to trial (a 3rd aide was charged but pled guilty) weren't convicted until November 2016, 3 years later.
American reporters not permitted to take photos, but Russians WERE allowed? Seriously? This may seem small but it isn't. It's an insult to U.S. reporters and part of the WH's campaign to de-legitimize them and it's an indication of Putin's ability to control Trump. Unbelievable. And Republicans are STILL unwilling to do something. They really disgust me, and it's impossible for me to find a more polite and cerebral way of saying it. I have a visceral response to what is going on.
111
I think both governments had photographers, ours just decided it would be best not to release them, considering Mr. Trump just fired the man in charge of investigating the collusion between the Russians and the Trump campaign. People might think he was telling them to let Putin know the plan is moving forward.
There is certainly plenty of awfulness to spare in this administration. Mr. Trump's regular descent to name calling on twitter just seems particularly appalling to me. He may have the vocabulary of a 6th grader, but he has all the restraint of a kindergartner. I keep half expecting him to double dare Kim Jong-un to use his nuclear weapons.
With any luck, frustration will overwhelm him, and he will take his toys and go home. Look forward to seeing him at Donny's Quality Used Cars in Perth Amboy.
With any luck, frustration will overwhelm him, and he will take his toys and go home. Look forward to seeing him at Donny's Quality Used Cars in Perth Amboy.
36
If he were any smarter he'd be a half-wit.
perth amboy wouldn't have him
1
The developing crisis is not just political. The public is slowly becoming aware of the charade of the Trump economic agenda that will widen the income inequality gap in America. Today is the first deep crack in the economic façade as we see the retail economy is in tatters and non-rich Americans are now unwilling or unable to to generate demand. They can see in the health and tax agenda that the Republican steamroller is headed their way and a Trump induced- recession is not far off.
14
Donald Trump and his Cabinet and inner circle have made a mockery of the US political system and have shamed the nation in the eyes of the world. Is the proud Republic going to fall before him without a whimper?
30
Not sure that Trump fully understands that just because we have had a peaceful transition of power for the last 228 years that we have had a president it does not guarantee that this will always be the case. At some point, regardless of Mitch McConnell's weasel words, regardless of Paul Ryan's spineless stance, regardless of the endless flow of sewage from Trump's twitter account, enough will be enough.
55
The only "sense of crisis" appears to be among journalists in the left-wing media.
If you follow other media outlets, the Trump White House is confidently and continually fulfilling ite promises to the American people.
If you follow other media outlets, the Trump White House is confidently and continually fulfilling ite promises to the American people.
7
I expect to see those Trump voters and readers of propagandists who praise the Trump organization to be enlisting in the armed forces in record numbers to defend and die for this ridiculous man.
2
... the promise of a lot of lying and a cover-up? Fulfilled. What a clown.
1
Sorry but the crisis is real. The promise Trump made to the American people was the make America Great Again by destroying it. Praise the Press for keeping this sham of a presidency in the sunlight.
And Sven from Iceland......come to America and give up your health care. It is easy to admire Trump from the far reaches. Living with his madness is a whole other ball of fish.
And Sven from Iceland......come to America and give up your health care. It is easy to admire Trump from the far reaches. Living with his madness is a whole other ball of fish.
1
To see the Russians strolling around the White House yesterday and in the oval office warmly hosted by the President of the USA, whose election the Russians ensured, and to see them through the eyes of the triumphant Russian press because the American free press was banned from the event, gives new meaning to surreal.
We don't need any more examples of spineless Republicans helping President Trump embarrass our country on the world stage; but I promise you this, we have many, many more coming.Seriously, is this country going to make it to 2018 as a functioning democracy?
I am glad now that Trump spends as little time as possible in the White House, even if we have to foot the bill for his expensive weekly golfing trips. The idea of this self-serving crook walking in the same rooms as Lincoln, the Roosevelt's and JFK makes me ill. And the idea of this man being able to press any button, save for room service, is enough to drive an agnostic back to church for a second look...
We don't need any more examples of spineless Republicans helping President Trump embarrass our country on the world stage; but I promise you this, we have many, many more coming.Seriously, is this country going to make it to 2018 as a functioning democracy?
I am glad now that Trump spends as little time as possible in the White House, even if we have to foot the bill for his expensive weekly golfing trips. The idea of this self-serving crook walking in the same rooms as Lincoln, the Roosevelt's and JFK makes me ill. And the idea of this man being able to press any button, save for room service, is enough to drive an agnostic back to church for a second look...
All of Congress has dirty hands, McConnell is just another coward under Trump's thumb. Now we see we cannot demand King Trump's tax records, issue stop payments on his vacation resort trips, stop paying for his children's trips to do business transactions in foreign lands and finally impeach him. The GOP has completely eliminated our government. If our government is not of, by or for the people we have the right to abolish it. Our patience is growing thin. Where are our leaders that we pay to do their duties? Obviously, they do not exist. King Trump is chalking up the wins over us by doing things right in front of us knowing we are powerless. What he does not know is who we are.
34
Trump has powerful allies. The Alt-right, Putin's Russia and the Republican party are all working as hard as they can to pooh-pooh the idea that Trump is a traitor. Trump went as far as a victory lap inviting two high level Russian stooges into the oval office. It was only a couple of weeks ago that he refused to shake hands with Angela Merkel, ostensibly because she is a woman and worse, not a Trump idolizer. So far it looks like Trump is going to win. Make no mistake, that means that America loses.
12
“Very simply — he was not doing a good job,”
-President Trump
Well if that's the case, there should be no reason why we (The People) can't fire a President for doing a lousy job!
-President Trump
Well if that's the case, there should be no reason why we (The People) can't fire a President for doing a lousy job!
37
You can, it's called voting. However, there are more people that think he is doing a good job than those who don't.
Constitution, Cherry. I know it isn't well respected these days, but it is still there.
And here I thought it was ....
"Azerbaijan... That's where he's getting his financing..."
Azerbaijan? Who'd have guessed? Let's keep a careful eye on those Azerbaijanis. If Trump so much as mentions a desire to go to Azerbaijan, or to let any Azerbaijani come here, or talks to one of them on the phone, we'll know the awful truth -- thanks to the commenter who spilled these previously-unspilled beans.
Thanks!
"Azerbaijan... That's where he's getting his financing..."
Azerbaijan? Who'd have guessed? Let's keep a careful eye on those Azerbaijanis. If Trump so much as mentions a desire to go to Azerbaijan, or to let any Azerbaijani come here, or talks to one of them on the phone, we'll know the awful truth -- thanks to the commenter who spilled these previously-unspilled beans.
Thanks!
2
This is really a false narrative. Assistant Attorney General Rosenstein, an Obama appointment, long recommended firing Comey for good cause, has his letter to the Attorney general elucidated. This letter was approved by Sescions and forwarded to the President who agreed with it. That is 100% correct protocol. Interesting how only a few months ago Democrats like Harry Reidsville and Schumer were calling for Comey's resignation.
3
Sessions was supposed to have recused himself from this entire affair. His recommendations are clearly partisan protecting himself. Approval by Sessions - sthat's no validation!
1
Sorry, more falsities. Rosenstein was nominated to his current position by Trump on 1-3-17, and by Bush-43 to serve as United States Attorney for the United States District Court for the District of Maryland on May 23, 2005. Bush nominated him in 2007 to a seat on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit, but this was blocked by Sen. Cardin (D-Maryland). Rosenstein's current "finding" letter made no recommendation regarding Comey's firing. The first mention of firing was in Session's letter to Trump. Schumer never called for Comey's firing. Rather, in response to Comey's apparent re-opening of the Hillary email issue in Oct. 2016, he said “To restore my faith, I am going to have to sit down and talk to [Comey] and get an explanation for why he did this,”
2
Point of order: a careful reading of Rosenstein's letter will reveal that he did not, repeat, did NOT, call for Comey's ouster. Sometimes it pays to go to originsl sources.
2
Trump allows Russian reporters and not American ones. Are you kidding me.
GOP: do you "get it" now"
GOP: do you "get it" now"
21
Trump handled Comey’s termination with all the class of saying, “You’re fired” in front of the cameras. Comey was speaking in NV when he saw the headline on a TV screen and thought it was a hoax. No credible employer would treat any firing so flippantly, and this is how the White House treated the FBI Director.
And after such an undignified treatment of Comey, and after giving such transparently false pretenses for the termination, Trump is surprised by the fallout? Please.
At a minimum, you can be sure that whatever Comey was investigating would have been so damning for Trump that he preferred this grotesque spectacle .
And after such an undignified treatment of Comey, and after giving such transparently false pretenses for the termination, Trump is surprised by the fallout? Please.
At a minimum, you can be sure that whatever Comey was investigating would have been so damning for Trump that he preferred this grotesque spectacle .
268
Note that the firing of Comey while he was out of the office had the advantage to the firer-in-chief that Comey would not be able to access his office's contents subsequent to being fired, as FBI protocol is to bar access to Bureau materials once one is no longer in Bureau employ. If he had been in his office, he might have been able to make arrangements concerning certain materials prior to being escorted out.
3
Your final comment. On the money.
2
Even on The Apprentice, those fired were afforded the dignity of a face-to-face decision in the (fake) boardroom. Also:, good lighting, music and real professionals behind the camera advising the star.
With only his crew of sycophants to advice him, he reportedly went with his gut. And his gut told him to wait until Mr. Comey was on the other side of the country and dispatch his personal goon to deliver the news to a vacant office. In addition to his many, manifest flaws as a businessman, politician, and human being, we can add cowardice. As anyone who wrestled with a bully will tell you, they're almost always cowards.
With only his crew of sycophants to advice him, he reportedly went with his gut. And his gut told him to wait until Mr. Comey was on the other side of the country and dispatch his personal goon to deliver the news to a vacant office. In addition to his many, manifest flaws as a businessman, politician, and human being, we can add cowardice. As anyone who wrestled with a bully will tell you, they're almost always cowards.
Ironic to have a photo of Henry Kissinger with Trump. The last president to be that close to Kissinger was Richard Nixon. How did that turn out?
47
Nonsense. Kissinger was also Gerald R. Ford's Secretary of State.
2
Didn't Kissinger counsel Nixon to resign?
Until the Republicans actually take the Trump-Russia investigation and the serious issues of conflicts of interest with the Trump and Kushner families, nothing will come of this. So far the Republican Party appears to put party above country.
39
Not as serious as putting religion above country.
1
It was so critical to fire him yesterday that it had to be done publicly--by TV--in front of recruits? He fired him yesterday so that he wouldn't testify today.
That's obvious.
That's obvious.
40
He got the idea from his buddy Giuliani, who fired Donna Hanover in just that way.
2
It's very disheartening to find out that the person now in charge of the FBI is just a trump stooge.
11
The handwriting is clearly right before our very eyes here, what else will this man be allowed to continue to do to this country for his own personal gain before he is stopped?
21
Trump's invocation of the Democrats' complaints about Comey last year is a typical example of his red herrings. Last year, the Democrats' objections concerned only the FBI's handling of Hillary Clinton's emails. This year, their objections have to do with Trump's obvious attempt to muzzle the FBI's probe of possible links between his campaign and presidency with the Russians. The difference in the subject matter is so stark that Trump cannot use his standard subterfuges. No wonder he is frustrated and angry.
9
Trump should worry that the FBI will be following the money. How much is his properties connected with funds that need to be cleaned?
8
How many more weeks do we have to suffer through these outrages until T resigns in disgrace?
15
That's not in his character. I don't think he can feel shame. He's not going to resign.
2
He will never resign, that shows that he is weak something he can't handle. He is textbook sociopath and that is not good for our country. The repubs are useless and will let this man ruin what is left of our once proud country. They are complicit and come 2018 we hopefully will see the end of the gop as we k now it.
1
Answer: 180.
Russia's Lavrov visits right after Trump fires the US Director of the FBI the day before.
Trump shares chocolate cake with the Chinese leader when he sends a missile to Syria to save "God's children" from being gassed.
Trump meets Australia's leader the same day the cruel Republicans vote to pass their newfound healthcare bill.
Anyone notice a pattern here? The Donald muscles his "power" to show world leaders who's boss here, right? Right in their face. "See me? See how powerful I am? See how threatening I can be? I am loved!"
He's so arrogant though, he wouldn't catch on they are probably raising their eyebrows plenty high. Trump needs to notice someday bullying isn't exactly up for praise. Not around the world.
Trump shares chocolate cake with the Chinese leader when he sends a missile to Syria to save "God's children" from being gassed.
Trump meets Australia's leader the same day the cruel Republicans vote to pass their newfound healthcare bill.
Anyone notice a pattern here? The Donald muscles his "power" to show world leaders who's boss here, right? Right in their face. "See me? See how powerful I am? See how threatening I can be? I am loved!"
He's so arrogant though, he wouldn't catch on they are probably raising their eyebrows plenty high. Trump needs to notice someday bullying isn't exactly up for praise. Not around the world.
7
You are on to something.
1
I think he is looked at as a fool from those leaders you mentioned.
The man is self deluded and a sociopath. He is not loved nor is he adored except by himself. Moreover he is dangerous you can't deal rationally with these types of people. He should be removed by way of impeachment sooner rather than later, better for our country.
The man is self deluded and a sociopath. He is not loved nor is he adored except by himself. Moreover he is dangerous you can't deal rationally with these types of people. He should be removed by way of impeachment sooner rather than later, better for our country.
2
Personally I'm more worried about Trump meeting with Kissinger.
5
Mr. Green, YES! That has gotten lost in all of this, hasn't it? Won't Trump eventually turn to starting a war as a distraction and to increase his approval ratings? W isn't nearly as odious as Trump, and he succumbed to bad influence ....
Mr. Trump didn't like that he or his team was being investigated. It became clear that Mr. Comey wanted more resources to conduct the investigation. Mr. Trump panicked and fired Mr. Comey just before he was to testify. A reasonable person would worry that this is obfuscation is a step toward a cover up and that the best response would be for Congress to create an independent team to look into this. It is imperative that the head council for this team be non partisan and trustworthy. I would ask that the past Presidents Bush, Clinton, Bush and Obama support the call for an independent investigation.
14
What a great idea to call for Bush, Clinton, Bush and Obama to speak with one voice and for the sake of our democracy call for an independent prosecutor! Tweet this! I will.
1
The 'crisis' is real but for purposes of our current American "reality" lets be clear.
Trump has lied and possibly perverted and obstructed the course of justice.
He directed Sessions and Rosenstein at the Justice Department to write a letter to justify his firing of FBI Director Comey because he wanted to stop the FBI investigation into Russian hacking and possible collusion by Trump and staff.
Trump reality states that I am President, I will not be questioned I have the authority to do whatever I want for whatever reason I want, the GOP will remain compliant to me no matter what, I win.
Trump reality beats all in America in 2017.
There is no crisis just people getting excited once again. When will the American people just shut up and get with the Trump monarchy/dictatorship/kleptocracy/facsit state.
Really must Trump endure fake news all day long? It makes him so upset.
Apparently, as of today we meaning Anyone can not agree if Trump is under investigation or not? Grassley says no, Trump says no, Clapper said yes, Comey said yes then no.
What is going on?
Trump has lied and possibly perverted and obstructed the course of justice.
He directed Sessions and Rosenstein at the Justice Department to write a letter to justify his firing of FBI Director Comey because he wanted to stop the FBI investigation into Russian hacking and possible collusion by Trump and staff.
Trump reality states that I am President, I will not be questioned I have the authority to do whatever I want for whatever reason I want, the GOP will remain compliant to me no matter what, I win.
Trump reality beats all in America in 2017.
There is no crisis just people getting excited once again. When will the American people just shut up and get with the Trump monarchy/dictatorship/kleptocracy/facsit state.
Really must Trump endure fake news all day long? It makes him so upset.
Apparently, as of today we meaning Anyone can not agree if Trump is under investigation or not? Grassley says no, Trump says no, Clapper said yes, Comey said yes then no.
What is going on?
8
Scary that Comey apparently said Trump was "crazy"
7
The key to this sequence of events is in the sentence Trump wrote that went (more or less) "even though you have told me three times I am not under investigation ... you're fired."The defensiveness shown here -- typically Trump -- positively screams "Smoke! Smoke! Fire just out of sight!"
The second telling part of this episode is the utter discourtesy with which it was handled. Comey may have been out of line, may have erred in speaking out in July and October about Hilary -- but as head of the FBI simple courtesy should have meant learning about his dismissal via phone call or personal meeting, not by seeing a news event on a TV monitor in the back of the room. This, too, is typical Trump. A vengeful, defensive, angry narcissist is now running the country ... and screwing it up at every turn. God save us all!
The second telling part of this episode is the utter discourtesy with which it was handled. Comey may have been out of line, may have erred in speaking out in July and October about Hilary -- but as head of the FBI simple courtesy should have meant learning about his dismissal via phone call or personal meeting, not by seeing a news event on a TV monitor in the back of the room. This, too, is typical Trump. A vengeful, defensive, angry narcissist is now running the country ... and screwing it up at every turn. God save us all!
12
This feels like Watergate. I wonder if the rest of the Trump's term will be about covering up lies with more lies, with nothing getting done.
It seems likely.
One small sliver of hope I have is that dismay at the lies, the misuse of power, and the corruption on the part of Trump will start to eat at his support, and moderate Republicans will start to jump ship.
I hope he is impeached before too much permanent damage is done to the integrity, reputation, and stability of the office of the president.
It seems likely.
One small sliver of hope I have is that dismay at the lies, the misuse of power, and the corruption on the part of Trump will start to eat at his support, and moderate Republicans will start to jump ship.
I hope he is impeached before too much permanent damage is done to the integrity, reputation, and stability of the office of the president.
17
The integrity of the office of president is assured by the Patriot Act.
Something smells realy bad in Trumpland. He fires Sally Yates but didn't fire Flynn although he was warned numerous times. He fired Comey, he fires Preet Bahara, all who were investigating Trump.He is more cozy with the Russian diplomats than he is with his own legislators.
Trump is acting like a kid who got caught with his finger in the pie saying "no, it's not me".
I realize that all the GOP legislators depend on money to finance their campaigns from the GOP, so they all are scared to go against the party and take action against Trump because they need the money for their campaigns.
I just wish there was one patriot among them who would stand up against the party and stop this wrongdoing. The Democrats have been way to polite although they are in overload dealing with the mess that is the Trump administration.
Something is definitely rotten in Denmark and in this case it is Trump and his administration. 65mm Americans are not fools and see what is going on, it is amazing however that 65mm Americans do not have the power to stop him at this point. Who does?
Trump is acting like a kid who got caught with his finger in the pie saying "no, it's not me".
I realize that all the GOP legislators depend on money to finance their campaigns from the GOP, so they all are scared to go against the party and take action against Trump because they need the money for their campaigns.
I just wish there was one patriot among them who would stand up against the party and stop this wrongdoing. The Democrats have been way to polite although they are in overload dealing with the mess that is the Trump administration.
Something is definitely rotten in Denmark and in this case it is Trump and his administration. 65mm Americans are not fools and see what is going on, it is amazing however that 65mm Americans do not have the power to stop him at this point. Who does?
11
Bad news for me today. I couldn't sleep last night because I was excited about the idea of recalls for members of Congress. I should have checked earlier; there's no such thing and only the bodies themselves can expel a member. Lots of luck with that. Guess we wait until their next election. So, never mind.........
2
Firing Comey was not a radical idea after the Clinton email debacle except that it was in Trump's favor.
Trump is so reckless that he signals that Comey's investigation into his Russian ties surrounding his election is potentially a serious issue for him. Putin was known to fear and despise Hillary Clinton. It follows that Putin would like Clinton out of the Oval office. Trump wants to win the election but knows he is a long shot. Putin aids Trump. Trump gets elected. Now Putin is lying low to reduce the heat.
The facts remain. We suspect Russian interference and there are good indications of it. It did happen. The GOP does not want the notoriety of their candidate being swept into office with Russian help. Is it a wonder that they are dragging their feet? Is it the right thing for them to do? No it is not.
Trump is so reckless that he signals that Comey's investigation into his Russian ties surrounding his election is potentially a serious issue for him. Putin was known to fear and despise Hillary Clinton. It follows that Putin would like Clinton out of the Oval office. Trump wants to win the election but knows he is a long shot. Putin aids Trump. Trump gets elected. Now Putin is lying low to reduce the heat.
The facts remain. We suspect Russian interference and there are good indications of it. It did happen. The GOP does not want the notoriety of their candidate being swept into office with Russian help. Is it a wonder that they are dragging their feet? Is it the right thing for them to do? No it is not.
The people in the US government who back the Kremlin's choice for US President brazenly solicit Russian propaganda statecraft to steal elections and democracy from free nations in the west.
Putin's kleptocracy is the model for using an unchecked position of power to steal billions from the people and the nation's treasury in self-serving policies.
Just 1/10 of 1% of Americans (those earning over $10 MM annually) own 90% of the nation's wealth.
Yet in Trump's first 100 days he has advanced tax and regulatory positions that would personally save he and his family billions of dollars, while leaving tens of millions without life saving health care.
Now he is obstructing justice by using his power as President to prejudice and terminate an investigation into Trump surrogates who worked with the Kremlin to gain control of the US government.
This is a historical test of the strength of our Founder's checks and balances.
Nepotism, cronyism, corruption, foreign slush funds and furtive communications with Russian spies, hackers and oligarchs describe Trump's acquisition and use of power.
This is nothing less than a coup enabled with the support of the Kremlin, that attacked both Republicans and Democrats to install Trump in office according to testimony provided to the Senate Intelligence Committee.
Barring American reporters in favor of Russian reporters yesterday says everything about Trump's view of Amerika.
Putin's kleptocracy is the model for using an unchecked position of power to steal billions from the people and the nation's treasury in self-serving policies.
Just 1/10 of 1% of Americans (those earning over $10 MM annually) own 90% of the nation's wealth.
Yet in Trump's first 100 days he has advanced tax and regulatory positions that would personally save he and his family billions of dollars, while leaving tens of millions without life saving health care.
Now he is obstructing justice by using his power as President to prejudice and terminate an investigation into Trump surrogates who worked with the Kremlin to gain control of the US government.
This is a historical test of the strength of our Founder's checks and balances.
Nepotism, cronyism, corruption, foreign slush funds and furtive communications with Russian spies, hackers and oligarchs describe Trump's acquisition and use of power.
This is nothing less than a coup enabled with the support of the Kremlin, that attacked both Republicans and Democrats to install Trump in office according to testimony provided to the Senate Intelligence Committee.
Barring American reporters in favor of Russian reporters yesterday says everything about Trump's view of Amerika.
9
"Sense of crisis?" "Dismay?"
Sorry, I don't feel any sense of crisis, or dismay. Maybe I should but I don't. Like most Americans, I think it's entirely appropriate to investigate the allegations that Trump conspired with the Russians to steal the election from Hillary Clinton and that Trump is now Putin's lap dog. I disagree with Trump that that is a waste of taxpayers' money -- even if that investigation turns up no evidence.
But let's not pretend that actual evidence has been turned up. Nothing so far. If any Senator or House member ever claims that the White House is interfering with the investigation, we'll be all ears. But so far, nada on that too.
At some point -- maybe years down the road, but some day -- certain newspapers may find it appropriate to say: "Well, these allegations have been thoroughly investigated, and maybe it's time to report what's actually been found rather than to speculate on what the investigators are certain to find."
Maybe that will happen some day. And then again ...
Sorry, I don't feel any sense of crisis, or dismay. Maybe I should but I don't. Like most Americans, I think it's entirely appropriate to investigate the allegations that Trump conspired with the Russians to steal the election from Hillary Clinton and that Trump is now Putin's lap dog. I disagree with Trump that that is a waste of taxpayers' money -- even if that investigation turns up no evidence.
But let's not pretend that actual evidence has been turned up. Nothing so far. If any Senator or House member ever claims that the White House is interfering with the investigation, we'll be all ears. But so far, nada on that too.
At some point -- maybe years down the road, but some day -- certain newspapers may find it appropriate to say: "Well, these allegations have been thoroughly investigated, and maybe it's time to report what's actually been found rather than to speculate on what the investigators are certain to find."
Maybe that will happen some day. And then again ...
19
"Nothing so far"
True, but that is the point.
Let the investigation continue
True, but that is the point.
Let the investigation continue
5
I somehow doubt that your skepticism would have extended to Hillary Clinton had she won and her presidency was the mess that Trump's is.
6
The Russians or whoever exposed Hillary's emails didn't steal the election from Hillary. Her actions and mishandling of classified information did. The hacking simply exposed her actions so that all Americans were aware of who they were voting for.
If you want to be a Republican these days, you need to check your brain and your moral compass at the door.
51
Gee.
How brave.
A small handful of so-called "moderate" republicans feigned a little concern and dismay over Trump continued attack on our democracy.
Big whoop.
These are the same republicans who get labeled as "moderates" just because they take longer than all of their right-wing cohorts to come to the same exact conclusion, inevitably voting the same exact way, right down party lines... does Susan Collins or John McCain ring any bells?
To me, a republican who takes a long time to come to their preordained conclusion isn't the sign of a moderate; it's the sign of a dyed in the wool right-winger, who's just really good at pretending to be moderate, simply by taking longer than everyone else to throw in their two cents.
I can't wait to see all the unwarranted credit and praise heaped on those phony mavericks, Collins and McCain.
Then wait and see how they vote lockstep with their party when it comes to the things that matter...
How brave.
A small handful of so-called "moderate" republicans feigned a little concern and dismay over Trump continued attack on our democracy.
Big whoop.
These are the same republicans who get labeled as "moderates" just because they take longer than all of their right-wing cohorts to come to the same exact conclusion, inevitably voting the same exact way, right down party lines... does Susan Collins or John McCain ring any bells?
To me, a republican who takes a long time to come to their preordained conclusion isn't the sign of a moderate; it's the sign of a dyed in the wool right-winger, who's just really good at pretending to be moderate, simply by taking longer than everyone else to throw in their two cents.
I can't wait to see all the unwarranted credit and praise heaped on those phony mavericks, Collins and McCain.
Then wait and see how they vote lockstep with their party when it comes to the things that matter...
17
I'm bewildered, where the heck are the democrats? They disappeared abruptly after the election. The tones should be extremely harsh and effective, and the voice should not be lowered!
3
They are vastly outnumbered and therefore powerless in the congress and senate
4
Not to mention the Dems have no agenda to speak of.
They are there, they are speaking up. They are outnumbered, but they are speaking loudly and calling for an independent investigation!
1
Donald Trump's decision to fire Mr. Comey is irrational. While I am not happy with Mr. Comey's decision to additionally investigate Hillary Clinton's emails just before the 2016 election, his decision to do so directly benefited Donald Trump and the final election results. Both Donald Trump and Hillary Clinton concede that is exactly what happened.
There is no rational reason, if, in fact, Donald Trump can be believed, that Mr. Comey's dismissal was a result of how he handled the matter of Hillary Clinton's emails. That makes absolutely no sense.
The closer the interrelationship between Donald Trump and Russia gets, the more irrational he becomes.
Keep digging, investigative reporters and follow the money. What other rational reason could there be for Donald Trump not disclosing his tax returns? Please, subpoena Donald Trump's tax returns!
There is no rational reason, if, in fact, Donald Trump can be believed, that Mr. Comey's dismissal was a result of how he handled the matter of Hillary Clinton's emails. That makes absolutely no sense.
The closer the interrelationship between Donald Trump and Russia gets, the more irrational he becomes.
Keep digging, investigative reporters and follow the money. What other rational reason could there be for Donald Trump not disclosing his tax returns? Please, subpoena Donald Trump's tax returns!
13
The Russians have to be loving what is going on in the USA. Non-stop trumoil since this clown took office. Russian trolls have taken over the Alt-Right media with fake news and even flakier comments. Anything to make our democracy look like a soap opera. Clapper said that we need to educate the public on Russia's tactics....the media has ignored that story.
14
Russians got what they paid for and wanted, disarray in our government! The gutting of the State Department! We, the People must called, email and protest until the Republicans who are in charge of Congress hear our outrage!
We may need to face the fact that we've allowed this boor to highjack our country. His shortcomings are the focal point of our news in lieu of the pressing issues of our time. All Donald All Day !
My god how far we've fallen.
My god how far we've fallen.
28
In the end Nixon was brought down by paranoia. If he'd only fessed up early on and apologized, the break-in would've blown over and eventually been forgotten. But he couldn't and didn't and the rest is history. In the end Trump will be brought down by hubris and narcissism. Though powerful Rubs like Ryan and McConnell continue to dance to Trump's fiddle, it cannot last. He's gonna fall, gonna be brought down, might take till 2020, but it's coming.
9
I am praying this is the true beginning of the ultimate unraveling and end of this incredibly dysfunctional and dangerous administration. What amazes me is that so many people are still trying to explain or understand Trump's behavior as if it were somehow in the realm of normal and sane. Regardless of one's political bent we have to recognize that there is a very ill man in the oval office. To continue to measure Trump's behavior with any "normal" or "rational" metric is to travel down the road to madness oneself. We need to call out Trump for what he is: a mentally and emotionally ill man in a position of great power that needs to be held in check and ultimately removed for the health and well being of our nation and the world at large. The time has come people.
25
Well said!
What is most extraordinary is the utter absence of honesty and integrity among men like Vice President Pence denying that firing Comey had anything to do with the FBI's investigation. Meanwhile, Republicans line up lock-step behind their lying President and Vice President and drag their feet on their Congressional investigations having no interest in finding any dirt on Trump that might undermine their political and legislative agenda. That there is no permanent process for holding Presidents accountable and that a thorough and credible investigation depends on a thin thread of integrity within the AG's office to appoint a special prosecutor, is a constitutional crisis.
Listing to the Senate hearing now via NYT. Questions being asked regarding FISA sound like they are setting up a basis for Trump campaign conversations with Russians (where one party was in US and the other off shore) can be thrown out due to lack of reasonable suspicion to justify the recordings. Also, listened to the Comey hearing today via CSPAN video. In hindsight, questions and opening statement of Senator Grassley on Monday strongly echo the grounds cited for the firing on Tuesday afternoon.
1
Comey presented some pretty compelling evidence against Hillary before he announced that he had decided not to pursue the case against her. Obama should have taken action when he did this.
2
What compelling evidence?Be specific, that's the problem, are you referring to real news or fake news?
1
You're a Times reader. They covered the email scandal Go back and read for yourself. However, note it's the Times, so it's biased reporting.
Sir, not using a private server, is not a crime. Colluding with a foreign government in order to interfere and win an election....IS....treason!
Trump won’t stop until people stop him. And let’s be clear – he brought this disaster entirely on himself.
Nixon did some good for the country, despite all his flaws. It is not clear that anyone will ever be able to say the same about Trump – except in that he may force us to change our laws in order to guard against someone else like him in the future.
Trump appears destined to be a hazard signpost firmly planted in the corridors of time. His main purpose in life will have been to serve as a warning to others.
Nixon did some good for the country, despite all his flaws. It is not clear that anyone will ever be able to say the same about Trump – except in that he may force us to change our laws in order to guard against someone else like him in the future.
Trump appears destined to be a hazard signpost firmly planted in the corridors of time. His main purpose in life will have been to serve as a warning to others.
24
Stephen Colbert has it exactly correct. This administration has absolutely no concern about appearances and the Department of Justice has become the Department of Justification.
13
Trump is slowly taking most of the Congress with him to the gutter. The often mentioned DC SWAMP is getting full of Trumpists, Wall-Streeters, Conservatives and Russian spies.
8
How do you spell C-O-V-E-R-U-P.
11
It's spelled: Trump.
1
Good news for Trump is that at his employer's request (V. Putin) he met with his the Russian Foreign minister Sergy Lavrov to help him plot his next move. Disgraceful that the so-called president of the US is taking order from Putin and not letting the free press. Republicans, Ryan, McConnell, Nunes et al. have no shame
7
Democrats criticized Comeys handling of Hillary's emails just before the election. So in Trump's "mind" this means they should approve of Comey being fired in order to squash or slow the Trump-Russia investigation? What does one have to do with the other? In less he believes everyone thinks like him ( reactionary and impulsive ) and therefore Democrats just want to see Comey punished
4
That there are so few Republicans who have expressed concern, where outrage should be expected, is astonishing and, in itself, outrageous. Every elected official in both houses of Congress should demonstrate the same courage of those few Republicans who are calling for an independent inquiry into the Russian election interference issue. That they do not demonstrates their cynicism and disregard for the very foundations of the United States national enterprise.
9
These are the same guys that rip them selves in the flag.
It's very simple: When Comey seemed to be supporting Trump, he was praised to the high heavens by Trump who even publicly embraced Comey. But as the Russian collusion investigation picked up speed and with Comey's public testimony about it, Trump became infuriated and conveniently fired him. As for the Democrats, we can still criticize Comey's treatment of Clinton while at the same time opposing this shameless attempt to end the investigation.
8
Nixon's and Agnew's joint criminality left a stain on the executive Office that remains, it began the well justified reason for skepticism. Unfortunately, the Watergate hearings left many GOP members angry for more than 20 years resulting in their impeachment of Clinton for lying about consensual sex with an intern. But, this impeachment left the stain upon Clinton. . .the public mostly saw through the GOP charade.
The question the GOP, and American public, must ask: Is the American system of government able to endure another serious breach in trust at the executive level? Obviously, from Mr Comey's request for additional resources to further the investigation and his resulting discharge by Trump, a rational person will conclude there is reason to investigate further.
Appointing an independent investigator by a bi-partisan Senate panel is the way to go in our current gridlocked system. However, IF the GOP were truly interested in demonstrating faith in our political system, their leadership would take the minority role in selecting the investigator. Such an approach by GOP would provide reason to believe they are not all complicit in a 'cover-up' and provide the Democratic Party with enough 'rope' to hand themselves if they behave in an over zealous manner.
The question the GOP, and American public, must ask: Is the American system of government able to endure another serious breach in trust at the executive level? Obviously, from Mr Comey's request for additional resources to further the investigation and his resulting discharge by Trump, a rational person will conclude there is reason to investigate further.
Appointing an independent investigator by a bi-partisan Senate panel is the way to go in our current gridlocked system. However, IF the GOP were truly interested in demonstrating faith in our political system, their leadership would take the minority role in selecting the investigator. Such an approach by GOP would provide reason to believe they are not all complicit in a 'cover-up' and provide the Democratic Party with enough 'rope' to hand themselves if they behave in an over zealous manner.
3
what did trump and his russian overlords talk about ?
oh, thats right, youll never know bc your FREE press was banned from the meeting
have a nice transparent democracy
11
Republicans are now Russians? They always act like they hate it Russia. Suddenly they want them as friends. The confederate flag has taken over America.
1
But Russia probably knows. Due to probable bugs in its "photographic equipment"
If so, the CIA likely has it too. More grist for the Impeachment mill.
If so, the CIA likely has it too. More grist for the Impeachment mill.
I see today that the buffoons running the White House think they were bamboozled by the Russians during their visit to the White House with only Tass and the Russian photographer allowed to cover the event and then the subsequent release of the photographs of Smiling Donnie making nice with the Russians. Our White House officials say they were "lied" to. How naive, and that's putting it politely.
What the .... did this White House expect?
But, on a positive note for Dems, these photos are a ready-made campaign ad for the Dems in 2018 and 2020. Nothing like having a few drinks in the Oval Office with those that plotted to interfere with and likely did interfere with our 2016 Election.
What the .... did this White House expect?
But, on a positive note for Dems, these photos are a ready-made campaign ad for the Dems in 2018 and 2020. Nothing like having a few drinks in the Oval Office with those that plotted to interfere with and likely did interfere with our 2016 Election.
7
"Dismay" from some Republicans in Congress isn't enough. All of them should be outraged at his action and should be demanding a special prosecutor put in place to complete the Russian investigation. Literally anyone who worked with Russia to influence the election is a traitor. This is the most serious matter facing the US in its history -- a man in the WH who is bankrolled by foreign finances and whose "advisors" both during the campaign and now are on the payroll of a foreign entity. I cannot understand how there are people -- especially in Congress -- who are so blind to what has happened and who are so willing to ignore it and pretend that it's not a big deal. Yes, it is a big deal when a foreign entity interferes in your election and is influencing the president and the people who surround him.
20
Trump is NOT an agent for change (drain the swamp…whatever that means). This is more about a hostile takeover of democracy.
Every week now Trump creates another full assault on another check and balance of power, with the sole purpose of gaining more power. There is no “master plan”, Trump is not that smart, he is completely and utterly drive by his own pathological belief that he should be ruler of America, and the World if given a chance. Has he "partnered" with Putin...thinking ya, completely.
If it isn’t clear by now, it should be, Trump can’t control himself…all he wants is more power and money.
I am begging…please Republican Party, please show American and the World you not only see this, but love American, the Constitution, and Democracy enough to put Country before Party. Please give us a sign…anything…please.
Every week now Trump creates another full assault on another check and balance of power, with the sole purpose of gaining more power. There is no “master plan”, Trump is not that smart, he is completely and utterly drive by his own pathological belief that he should be ruler of America, and the World if given a chance. Has he "partnered" with Putin...thinking ya, completely.
If it isn’t clear by now, it should be, Trump can’t control himself…all he wants is more power and money.
I am begging…please Republican Party, please show American and the World you not only see this, but love American, the Constitution, and Democracy enough to put Country before Party. Please give us a sign…anything…please.
26
I can't take it anymore. It's Day 112 and this pre-existing condition of Trumpitis I'm developing is not going to be covered under the AHCA.
For the good of the nation Trump has to fire himself!
For the good of the nation Trump has to fire himself!
20
The NYT pretends to be reporting that a "sense of crisis deepens," when of course it is doing all that it can in order to turn yet another perfectly legal presidential order into a crime or "not normal" action deserving of Trump's impeachment. The media is driving this country into the abyss, all because Trump has vocalized what most of the country has known for decades: the media is a corrupt culture of mediocrities who think all alike otherwise they wouldn't what to think.
1
There has been absolutely nothing normal about Trump since he announced his candidacy in 2015 by calling all illegal Mexican immigrants rapists. It's been all downhill since then. Sorry but there's absolutely nothing normal about a President firing the head of the FBI when the FBI is actively investigating the President. It's. Never. Happened. Before. So you keep telling yourself that the problem's the media when the rest of the country and the world knows otherwise.
1
One check gone, the unbalanced one rages on.
Woe is US democracy.
Woe is US democracy.
8
Why does Trump look ten times more animated than ever before in today's front page photo of him with the Russian foreign minister and ambassador? And why did Trump allow in the Oval Office the Russian photographers but not U.S. photographers? The world is turned upside down.
17
Yes, why does Trump look so glowing with those Russians when he usually looks miserable? Is it because the Russian's are and have been his Bankers? We know he loves his money more than anything.
And Paul Ryan is defending and praising Trump's decision! He's kissing up to Trump so hard his lips may fall off.
And Paul Ryan is defending and praising Trump's decision! He's kissing up to Trump so hard his lips may fall off.
That's OK Trump will feel very much at home when he's exiled to Russia .
2
The Russian photo equipment may have disguised bugs!
Trump to the sane: "Phony hypocrites!"
He can't even get straight the meaning of putting those two terms together. By definition, phony means fake. But fake hypocrisy? That would mean honesty -disguised. Which makes no sense, but still is not really an epithet.
I am so disgusted with this trump administration! With this petty, small, insecure, sadistic, self-involved sociopathic man with all too much power. Corrupting everything he touches, like an Evil King Midas.
"Sense of Crisis Deepens." Also widens and lengthens. Swallowing everything in its path.
Unless and until, and even when we finally get a person or a body solely tasked to investigate this wretched so-called president, we need to do everything we can to paralyze the GOP agenda. "First do no harm" and "Evil flourishes when good men do nothing" must be our constant mantras at this perilous time.
Dems, bring to a halt everything insofar as you can safely do so. Hold the line!
I am so grateful for our Free Press, for the energy the Times is putting into these daily efforts to alert the populace, for your moderated comment threads, for the stunning number of wonderful citizens commently brilliantly here, for those across America and the world standing up for human rights and justice against tyrants and Kleptocrats, greedy billionaires and power-hungry, ethically challenged toadies, sycophants and enablers of evil.
I am worn out. I am old. What a horrible situation for young people!
He can't even get straight the meaning of putting those two terms together. By definition, phony means fake. But fake hypocrisy? That would mean honesty -disguised. Which makes no sense, but still is not really an epithet.
I am so disgusted with this trump administration! With this petty, small, insecure, sadistic, self-involved sociopathic man with all too much power. Corrupting everything he touches, like an Evil King Midas.
"Sense of Crisis Deepens." Also widens and lengthens. Swallowing everything in its path.
Unless and until, and even when we finally get a person or a body solely tasked to investigate this wretched so-called president, we need to do everything we can to paralyze the GOP agenda. "First do no harm" and "Evil flourishes when good men do nothing" must be our constant mantras at this perilous time.
Dems, bring to a halt everything insofar as you can safely do so. Hold the line!
I am so grateful for our Free Press, for the energy the Times is putting into these daily efforts to alert the populace, for your moderated comment threads, for the stunning number of wonderful citizens commently brilliantly here, for those across America and the world standing up for human rights and justice against tyrants and Kleptocrats, greedy billionaires and power-hungry, ethically challenged toadies, sycophants and enablers of evil.
I am worn out. I am old. What a horrible situation for young people!
15
The absolute LAST activity career FBI personnel would want from @POTUS is a personal visit in their workplace, where they tirelessly toil each day to fulfill THEIR sworn obligations to protect the Constitution from enemies, foreign AND domestic. What an insult to these career civil servants to have the leader of the free world speak to them in his traditional condescending tone. Not sure just how this disgusting excuse for leadership, he stood before the wall of stars @ CIA HQ, after weeks of insulting the intelligence committee, not to commend the work of the CIA, but to talk incessantly and nauseatingly about the size of his inauguration crowd. This clown is delusional and is not worthy of showing his face @ The Hoover Building. McCabe, don't further diminish your record, by allowing the liar in chief to enter the building to insult YOUR team.
12
If everyone is mad at Comey he must be doing his job right. And people - when are you all going to understand - The Donald does not care one wit what we think of his actions!
14
After seeing the expression on Trump's face during this meeting, and the fact that he banned the American press from attending, I'm convinced the "kompromat" mentioned in the dossier from the former British agent is true.
http://www.cnn.com/2017/05/11/politics/oval-office-photos-donald-trump-r...
http://www.cnn.com/2017/05/11/politics/oval-office-photos-donald-trump-r...
30
He's planning on making as many fists full of dollars as he can, before they come to get him, and toss him out, hoisted from his own huge petard. Donald, Jared, Ivanka, making huge profits on OUR Whitehouse, currying favor with any crook who can give him access to more and more, power and money. It's all they understand. They are deficient people, bereft of humanity and the understanding it takes to hold that office. You can't embarrass them, or shame them. They don't have it in them. Soul-less, empty, power-hungry monsters.
44
well said, hear hear
3
Yes, but I hope they are all brought to trial for treason, abuse of power for personal gain, and/or money laundering -- and are forced to hand over their ill-earned profits and spend some time in jail.
4
Every action this President takes is petty, thoughtless and vindictive. I try to use humor and levity to add perspective to what is going on, but the constant lies and disregard and disrespect for this country and our citizens is making me nauseous. Firing someone seven months after the last bad action (October in this case) is a very poor management skill and would not be tolerated in the real world - which this obviously isn't. It just adds one more layer of crazy to an already dizzyingly wild ride. I don't know if the guy is guilty of treason or just plain stupidity but there has to be someone in Washington with some common sense and not invested in playing this insane game.
10
The obvious question to all of this is "What is trump hiding?".
Let's see his tax returns.
Let's see his tax returns.
23
News flash .... in most organizations, other than those protected with tenure or the like, a manager can fire a subordinate that he/she feels is not performing the way the manager expects.
Comey, while clearly an experienced professional, was no politician and performed poorly in the Director's public relations/communications role. Hopefully a qualified, non-partisan person can be found to fill the role - either as an interim Director or permanent (10-year) replacement.
In the meantime, I expect, as all should expect, that all investigations under way are carried through to their factual completion - without the assumption of guilt portrayed by many politicians and so-called journalist/commentators.
I hope that our elected federal officials will get on to important affairs that affect every citizen rather than joining in this media circus.
Comey, while clearly an experienced professional, was no politician and performed poorly in the Director's public relations/communications role. Hopefully a qualified, non-partisan person can be found to fill the role - either as an interim Director or permanent (10-year) replacement.
In the meantime, I expect, as all should expect, that all investigations under way are carried through to their factual completion - without the assumption of guilt portrayed by many politicians and so-called journalist/commentators.
I hope that our elected federal officials will get on to important affairs that affect every citizen rather than joining in this media circus.
You obviously are entitled to your view. I think the American people should take a deep breath and ask, "How does this look to the rest of the world?" Meaning: the divided nation, a president who is constantly accused of ethic issues, who appears to disregard 60 percent of the people and their views, the perception of using his office for profit, as well as his family, blatant nepotism violation when we degrade developing nations for the same thing. a Congress that has stopped functioning in non-partisan way and lives by the rule of winner take all like some developing nation you make fun of, a president whose every statement is subject to and fails fact check, a president who degrades a Senator by calling him Richie.
I have no judgement on this. It is America. What does it do to the USA standing in the world? Bluntly, I could not care less about what you do in the USA but I do care when people hold the USA up as a perfect model to be followed. Yes, other countries have problems BUT they do not go around the world holding themselves up as a standard. Hold you views: love or live. Go live in xxx! It is time for Americans to reflect.
I have no judgement on this. It is America. What does it do to the USA standing in the world? Bluntly, I could not care less about what you do in the USA but I do care when people hold the USA up as a perfect model to be followed. Yes, other countries have problems BUT they do not go around the world holding themselves up as a standard. Hold you views: love or live. Go live in xxx! It is time for Americans to reflect.
1
"Mr. Trump is weighing going to the F.B.I. headquarters in Washington on Friday as a show of his commitment to the bureau,"
I'm sure to tell them that he had the biggest crowd size in history at his inauguration.
I'm sure to tell them that he had the biggest crowd size in history at his inauguration.
12
Russian Minister of America Donald J. Trump fired the wayward FBI Director on Tuesday night, then met with his superiors, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov and Russian Ambassador Sergey Kislyak. While American reporters were barred from the event, reporters from the Motherland were on hand as Mr. Trump received further instructions.
Fake News? I think not.
Fake News? I think not.
24
Democrats didn't like Comey investigating Hillary, but they're fine with him investigating Trump. I do believe one could call that hypocrisy.
2
Democrats didn't complain about Comey investigating Hillary. The problem was the timing of his letter late in the election, a letter that he should never have sent and which influenced the election. This was especially poor judgment because Comey chose NOT to reveal that Trump was ALSO the target of a criminal investigation. Moreover, Trump's ties to Russia are significantly more serious than an email server from which nothing classified was hacked. There's no hypocrisy here unless you're an extreme partisan.
1
Except that the reasons for investigating Hillary were basically ginned up opposition tactics that came after months and months of other fruitless Congressional investigations, whereas the reasons for investigating the Trump administration are supported by scads of obvious suspicious actions and loads of gathered evidence from the intelligence community
Perhaps the Republicans should consider the greater good of the American people for a change. Their callous greed and power-hunger veins are showing even as this administration is crashing and burning.
You work for the American people not your party bosses!
You work for the American people not your party bosses!
3
People who supported Trump and continue to do so are themselves in denial. They wanted a strong personality to lead them. What they got was a mentally unstable, dramatically insecure man-child, narcissistic and an egomaniac. And the Republican congressmen who supported this action, turning a blind eye to Russia-gate, are gutless, amoral cowards who tremble in fear of the Caligula in the White House.
9
What is the big deal here??? Trump has a right to fire him and did!
1
The FBI should not attend Trump's meeting if Trump intends to carry through. That would make big headlines and significantly ratchet up the pressure on Trump.
5
Comey was beginning to speed up the investigation and he was not "loyal" to Trump, so he is fired.
This investigation is going too slowly---there are already so many connected dots--- these subpoenas should have been issued months ago.
Is McConnell, content with slow pace of investigation, colluding in the obstruction of justice? Justice should be swift.
This investigation is going too slowly---there are already so many connected dots--- these subpoenas should have been issued months ago.
Is McConnell, content with slow pace of investigation, colluding in the obstruction of justice? Justice should be swift.
6
Trump's interference in the wheels of justice is a way of throwing off the balance of powers. Justice works at its own speed, politics at another. The Republicans claiming that there is no evidence is either incredible ignorance or a smoke screen. They understand very well how long it takes to gather evidence and bring a case to trial before congress and the American people. Trump's interference is that of a spoiled, ignorant dictator (with no clothes). It is like a politician meeting the members of a a jury pool and threatening them, telling them how to decide about a case that involves that politician. Trump is interfering, stomping his fists like a 3 year old who simply has no respect for what makes America great.
Is there any doubt that Comey was a lousy director? He made several mistakes in judgement over the past year and kept inserting himself in the discussion to keep himself relevant. The Director needs to work behind the scenes and not out front. Everyone is acting like he was actually doing the leg work on the investigation. This will go forward regardless of his employment at the FBI.
1
if the new head orders the investigation stopped, it will be stopped
now tell us again how it will go ahead
The picture of Trump with Kissinger says it all: "The past is prologue." Let's hope it's a portent that, as with Watergate, Russiagate will end well and our democracy will survive this latest "cancer on the Presidency."
So the Channel-Changer-In-Chief was too quick with the remote this time, perhaps?
That the Republicans only ever cared about having control of government--LITERALLY by hook or by CROOK--is without question now.
Here's a challenge for anyone: since Trump was elected, can you think of anything he's done that hasn't been to protect/promote himself/his-business/his-family, and/or trash/tarnish the legacies of either Obama or Clinton?
Or here's another challenge: name an issue on which he's clearly spent more than 10 minutes of coherent thought on. I say 10 minutes, since I had read that he received a 10-minute lecture from Mr. Xi (down in Mar A Lago) on the history/challenges of North Korea. But I have to imagine that at least 2 of those minutes were spent bragging about the size of his inauguration crowds.
He's got the attention span of a gnat, the temper-tantrums of a Brat, and the mental makeup of a Megalomaniac. America bought his shtick, hook-line-and-sinker. We now own this mess. God help us all.
That the Republicans only ever cared about having control of government--LITERALLY by hook or by CROOK--is without question now.
Here's a challenge for anyone: since Trump was elected, can you think of anything he's done that hasn't been to protect/promote himself/his-business/his-family, and/or trash/tarnish the legacies of either Obama or Clinton?
Or here's another challenge: name an issue on which he's clearly spent more than 10 minutes of coherent thought on. I say 10 minutes, since I had read that he received a 10-minute lecture from Mr. Xi (down in Mar A Lago) on the history/challenges of North Korea. But I have to imagine that at least 2 of those minutes were spent bragging about the size of his inauguration crowds.
He's got the attention span of a gnat, the temper-tantrums of a Brat, and the mental makeup of a Megalomaniac. America bought his shtick, hook-line-and-sinker. We now own this mess. God help us all.
3
Firing Comey shows, once again, just how little Trump understands about the workings of the government.
11
We have a president that has demonstrated that he is a bully. We have seen this since he entered politics. Now he fires the head of the FBI who is investigating his campaign team and most of the Republicans sit back and watch passively. Why is Trump and the Republican party fearful of a special prosecutor?
7
As with the "Muslim Ban," intentions are everything. Trump could have limited immigration from certain countries if Guliani and Mller hadn't blabbed about Trump's motivations. Trump's timing of the firing, plus his recent tweets, make it clear that Comey's dismissal is no regular personnel move.
trump makes bush look like abe lincoln
actually, trump makes a howler monkey look like abe lincoln
10
Trump is now at war with the legal mafia that controls the Second Circuit.
The only "sense of crisis" here for most Republicans is protecting their own positions, not any sense of morality. Senator Schumer's strategy of blocking Congressional action now is a good one, and should continue. Nothing is more important than stopping Donald Trump. It doesn't matter what Republicans think any more, since most of them refuse to speak up against this action. Even if it means that Republicans will just go ahead without Democratic support on bills, it will further fire up the base, including some Trump supporters, for the 2018 election.
3
Trump thrives on conflict and theatre. He has no ability or interest in governing. He has to go.
4
Nixon 2.0
7
Congratulations, Mr. Trump.
In just 112 days you've presented a healthcare bill that will strip healthcare from 24 million in order to put more money into the pockets of the wealthiest in this country, but of course we don't know because you didn't have the bill rated by the CBO.
You lied about the previous president, again, Birther that you are, saying he committed a felony by wiretapping you.
You lied about voter fraud -- how is that "investigation" going? By the way, learn to use quotation marks properly. I'm beginning to think you yourself are one of the poorly educated you love.
You have taken more vacation days than any other president in the first 112 days, making seven trips to Mar-a-Lago in 11 weeks, playing golf 14 times over a period of about 17 days, at a taxpayer cost of $26 million.
You and you extended family continues to enrich itself as public servants (see Kushner's sister offering US visas to rich Chinese).
You fired Sally Yates, under questionable circumstances it turns out, based on the testimony she gave this past Monday.
You didn't fire Flynn when Sally Yates warned your counsel (by the way, that's the correct word, not council as you incorrectly tweeted the other day), but allowed a man paid by Russia to stay on in a top security post for another 18 days.
And now you have fired the man investigating you and your administration for your ties to Russia, and possible collusion with Russia.
Congratulations, Mr. Trump.
In just 112 days you've presented a healthcare bill that will strip healthcare from 24 million in order to put more money into the pockets of the wealthiest in this country, but of course we don't know because you didn't have the bill rated by the CBO.
You lied about the previous president, again, Birther that you are, saying he committed a felony by wiretapping you.
You lied about voter fraud -- how is that "investigation" going? By the way, learn to use quotation marks properly. I'm beginning to think you yourself are one of the poorly educated you love.
You have taken more vacation days than any other president in the first 112 days, making seven trips to Mar-a-Lago in 11 weeks, playing golf 14 times over a period of about 17 days, at a taxpayer cost of $26 million.
You and you extended family continues to enrich itself as public servants (see Kushner's sister offering US visas to rich Chinese).
You fired Sally Yates, under questionable circumstances it turns out, based on the testimony she gave this past Monday.
You didn't fire Flynn when Sally Yates warned your counsel (by the way, that's the correct word, not council as you incorrectly tweeted the other day), but allowed a man paid by Russia to stay on in a top security post for another 18 days.
And now you have fired the man investigating you and your administration for your ties to Russia, and possible collusion with Russia.
Congratulations, Mr. Trump.
860
If Trump was half the man that Obama was he would be 10 times the man that he is.
3
You can bet that "congratulations, Mr. Trump" are the only words Trumpo will comprehend in your comments. Then he'll announce that the NYT "congratulated" him on the firing. No one does Fake News like the Donald.
I believe it is " Comrade " not Mr. Trump
1
The thing to watch is how this affect Trump's short-term polls, and whether or not it moves the generic Congressional ballot. Not too many Republicans have come out and attacked Trump for this, but not too many have come to his defense, either. I imagine a lot are waiting to see how this gets picked up in public opinion, not just in the opinions of insiders or news junkies.
Short term, I think this will hurt Trump, if for no other reason than that it keeps the Russia story in the news and it places every future decision he makes about the FBI under scrutiny.
In the long run, it also hurts him, because even if this story fizzles, it makes it even harder for the GOP to pull off some kind of healthcare victory in the Senate before the end of the year. And they're not going to touch it next year. Then, the party will face midterms having basically accomplished nothing and an unpopular sitting president.
All of this makes me pretty happy. I think the best hope for America is that we have a politically isolated, ineffective Trump who drags down the Republican party. Maybe his ineffective failure of a presidency will manage to demoralize white nationalists as well, which would be a bonus.
Short term, I think this will hurt Trump, if for no other reason than that it keeps the Russia story in the news and it places every future decision he makes about the FBI under scrutiny.
In the long run, it also hurts him, because even if this story fizzles, it makes it even harder for the GOP to pull off some kind of healthcare victory in the Senate before the end of the year. And they're not going to touch it next year. Then, the party will face midterms having basically accomplished nothing and an unpopular sitting president.
All of this makes me pretty happy. I think the best hope for America is that we have a politically isolated, ineffective Trump who drags down the Republican party. Maybe his ineffective failure of a presidency will manage to demoralize white nationalists as well, which would be a bonus.
13
Money laundering....this is what was happening at Trump tower in Azerbaijan, and that is what has been happening with the Trump businesses since his 2007-era flameout in multiple bankruptcies. That's where he's getting his financing, and it is coming from Russia and from other bad actors in other places. Why is he making nice with horrible dictators in countries where he has real estate and other dealings? The Philippines, Egypt and Turkey come to mind. His whole family is complicit and they all need to be in prison.
141
At least Trump has come around on immigration. A Chinese investor can get a visa just by dropping half a million into a Kushner project. Isn't that fair?
what is the Big Deal??? Donald Trump said: "You're Fired!"
5
In this Trumpian Era, dismay or concern from the GOP seemingly translates into a faux, slim olive branch to moderates but their actions inevitably rally behind Trump. Witness how many were dismayed by candidate Trump, yet voted for him. How many were dismayed by Trumpcare, yet voted for it. The list goes on....
9
It is mind-numbing...uncharted territory, bizzare tweets, clear signs of rage and even mental instability, and yet the GOP in their greed for poet and control refuse to hit the breaks. What would it take? Official Russion photographer/spy in the Oval Office? A Nixonian firing? The legal, ethical, moral violations go well beyond a Russian interference...they are sapping America of its legitimate greatness as the sole world power...and that's exactly what we should fear as the payback to Trump's handlers and sycophants. Paul Ryan is just a trump-toady. Mitch, I stole the court is scary at best. Please, the few moral Reps left, your leader and leadership has abandoned you...the time is right to leave the GOP...move to form a new moderate wing, join the Dems or become an independent, but please put on the brakes!
17
What is left to understand about this administration? No American press allowed to a meeting in the White House with none other than the RUSSIAN foreign minister.
Has Comrade Trump surrendered America to Russia?
The GOP have certainly surrendered their common sense and possibly their future.
Nothing Trump has said or done regarding Russia makes sense unless he is a Russia mole.
Resist.
Has Comrade Trump surrendered America to Russia?
The GOP have certainly surrendered their common sense and possibly their future.
Nothing Trump has said or done regarding Russia makes sense unless he is a Russia mole.
Resist.
30
It's practically an open invitation to the Russians for interference in our next elections. And don't forget the National Security advisor Flynn had a very friendly relationship with this foreign adversary.
3
I still cannot believe that Trump fired Comey because he was planning on investigating his ties to Russia.
Trump is dangerous for our country as he is so unbalanced.
I am so outraged by this very petty man who happens to have been elected President. I am really confused also how he became a controversial leader of our great country.
Trump is dangerous for our country as he is so unbalanced.
I am so outraged by this very petty man who happens to have been elected President. I am really confused also how he became a controversial leader of our great country.
7
The republicans' eloquent leader called Dems "phony hypocrites"--meaning they're not real hypocrites, right? Impressive command of the language.
12
Once again, more comments expressing outrage, fear, anger, and frustration re: the actions of our so-called president. I'm not holding my breath in expectation of any actions to effectively expose the Russian connections of this fake president and remove him from office. Once again, the old adage variously attributed to Aesop and or Lou Holtz comes to mind: "When all is said and done, more is said than done." Our government is paralyzed and ineffective. The Democrats are powerless and the republic party congress is morally, ethically, and intellectually bankrupt. I fear for the future.
337
I fear it's too late for anything to be done.
Comey's recent flamboyant, misleading remarks and mocking attitude disregarding the effect of reopening the investigation into the Clinton emails days before a presidential election on what turned out to be specious grounds (too bad, so sad, so to speak) showed him to be unfit to lead the FBI. However, a president firing the head of the organization investigating allegations of voter influence by that president raises more troubling issues than even Comey's questionable actions and comments. Trump should have known this. But as we are reminded over and over, Trump has a CEO mentality, surprise, surprise, not a presidential one, no matter what title he carries.
7
Sorry, you give Trump and his 'CEO mentality' too much credit.
If all American CEO's acted in such petty, mean, frantic, and erratic ways as Trump has publicly exhibited to all the world, they'd be out of a job by the next board meeting, if not before.
If all American CEO's acted in such petty, mean, frantic, and erratic ways as Trump has publicly exhibited to all the world, they'd be out of a job by the next board meeting, if not before.
2
We have a president that is showing every sign that he has something to hide and that means we have a president that is vulnerable to manipulation or blackmail from a foreign power.
Let that sink in for a moment.
Let that sink in for a moment.
47
As Rod J. Rosenstein is learning, there is way way to play ball with Trump and keep your reputation and integrity in tact. There is a reason that no one wants to work with him (Trump) except for his family members and opportunists. There is nothing in Trump's personal history except for inherited wealth, soured relationships, business deals that have gone belly-up, and a television show. And since we (as a nation) have elected to play ball with Trump, the only question that remains is how much damage can be done before Trump's time at 1600 PA Avenue is up.
11
I, frankly, expected no less from Trump and Sessions that they would interfere and undermine any investigation into the Russian meddling in our national election that likely got Trump elected. While Session said he would recuse himself from all things Russia, he turns around and recommends firing the director of the FBI who was investigating the Russian connection. Then Trump meets with the Russian, while barring American press, the next day. Trump cares nothing of our democracy and is only interested in enriching himself and his family and the cost of our great country.
On the other hand, I expected more of those in the Congress, I know they want their tax cuts for the super rich and the oil companies and they want to destroy the planet so a few select Kocks and Exxon (Tillerson), et al can enjoy profits until our planet is uninhabitable, but do they not understand that this crisis has already moved past the Watergate stage and they might want to save themselves. But nary a peep from Ryan or McConnell and only a few peeps from McCain and Collins, etc. These House and Senate Republicans by saying little to nothing and doing nothing are aligning themselves with traitorous and illegal moves and they will not be spared.
On the other hand, I expected more of those in the Congress, I know they want their tax cuts for the super rich and the oil companies and they want to destroy the planet so a few select Kocks and Exxon (Tillerson), et al can enjoy profits until our planet is uninhabitable, but do they not understand that this crisis has already moved past the Watergate stage and they might want to save themselves. But nary a peep from Ryan or McConnell and only a few peeps from McCain and Collins, etc. These House and Senate Republicans by saying little to nothing and doing nothing are aligning themselves with traitorous and illegal moves and they will not be spared.
13
"Ms. Sanders said that Rod J. Rosenstein ... had acted on his own when he recommended to Mr. Trump during a meeting on Monday that Mr. Comey be dismissed."
Does anyone believe that? The NYTs reported that Trump was having a snit fit (my words) over the weekend because he didn't like the talk shows' discussions of Comey's "nauseous" testimony.
Does this White House have any credibility? No, because no one can put Trump on a twelve step program for his lying tweet addiction. Isn't 45's temperament the heart of the crisis?
Does anyone believe that? The NYTs reported that Trump was having a snit fit (my words) over the weekend because he didn't like the talk shows' discussions of Comey's "nauseous" testimony.
Does this White House have any credibility? No, because no one can put Trump on a twelve step program for his lying tweet addiction. Isn't 45's temperament the heart of the crisis?
13
Trump's is trolling Democrats and Liberals by citing Comey's treatment of Clinton as the reason for letting him go. The man's arrogance know no bounds.
4
McConnell is willing accept any wickedness or villainy as long as his party's plank continues to have a chance of becoming law. I'm amazed at how high he jumps when Trump pulls his string.
The day McConnell gets cornered and has to stand up to his president is the day the Republican party comes crashing down.
The day McConnell gets cornered and has to stand up to his president is the day the Republican party comes crashing down.
Just checked the Watergate timeline: took 2+ years from break in to impeachment/resignation. Guess I'll have to settle in and become more patient. Gonna be hard though.
Wait. I'm confused. Didn't Democrats want Comey fired a few months ago? This is why no one takes people whose views are guided by politics seriously.
It is those who can't understand the outrage at Comey's firing who are guided by politics. It is a far cry from having a problem with his judgment to being okay with the President firing the leader of the investigation into his campaign and members of his administration. How the GOP can't see that is why they cannot be taken seriously.
4
Timing is everything. If he'd have fired him immediately after taking office it would have been perceived very differently than firing him now.
3
You're deflecting here. The election is over. Trump applauded Comey during the campaign but now does a 180 and fires him for trhe same reason -- Clinton's emails. What could that different reason be? Hmmmmmmm.....
3
The only way for there to be sustained movement out from under
the so-called POTUS' thumbscrews is for sustained pressure to
be placed by constituents of trumpican senators and representatives up for reelection. Confront these candidates with such pressures and you
can exert leverage on the Senate's behavior to squirm out from under
McConnell and Co.'s dead weight. This needs principled bipartisan
effort.
One can see this at work in Flake's reaction...he's up for
election in 2018 and evidently doesn't want to oppose
McCain's rhetoric.
the so-called POTUS' thumbscrews is for sustained pressure to
be placed by constituents of trumpican senators and representatives up for reelection. Confront these candidates with such pressures and you
can exert leverage on the Senate's behavior to squirm out from under
McConnell and Co.'s dead weight. This needs principled bipartisan
effort.
One can see this at work in Flake's reaction...he's up for
election in 2018 and evidently doesn't want to oppose
McCain's rhetoric.
It is obvious that the Republican leadership has made a Faustian bargain so that they may retain power for power's sake. No real Americans there. No profiles in courage will be written. They will allow Emperor Trump to rule while they let our republic wither. All for personal gain, apparently. The emperor has no clothes . His proclamations via twitter are the stuff of a high school bully.
2018 can't come soon enough when the House is flipped.
2018 can't come soon enough when the House is flipped.
18
Chaffetz is the fox calling on the wolf to investigate what happened to the chickens.
4
Chaffetz will be gonesoon. Jason does what is best for Jason and he knows this is a big problem. Instead of confronting it head on he is going to leave congress and try and distance himself from this as much as possible so when he eventually runs for President in 2028, he can claim he was not there.
Trump's claims that he fired Comey over his handling of Hillary's emails, if this doesn't read liar, liar pants on fire, I don't know what constitutes a lie anymore. As for his claims of "thinking" about firing Comey since the election, that is the most unreasonable excuse ever. DJT's whole existence is based on firing people, he doesn't take the time to mull over these decisions. He has proven over and over again that he acts way before any rational thought takes over.
how much longer americans
how much longer will you let the mad boy king mock everything your country stands for
how much longer before a nation of moral cowards finally acts ?
11
So much of the commentary on Comey's firing is trapped in a syllogism that does not really apply - if you criticized Comey in the past, it is hypocritical to attack his firing now. This falsely assumes that attacking the firing is a defense of Comey's past behavior as head of the FBI. The firing is being attacked because it is an attempt to quash an investigation of the Trump Administration. If Trump had fired Comey, but had also taken steps to insure that an independent and thorough investigation of his administration's ties to Russia would take place, almost nobody would be complaining now.
79
Past criticism doesn't mean that one agrees with how he was fired or why. Past calls for his firing doesn't mean what is happening is right. And it's not assuming that attacking the firing is a defense of his past behavior as head of the FBI. He earned that past criticism. He didn't earn being fired months later and the questions being raised by how it was handled and the reasons are legitimate. The two are separate issues.
4
David, Comey was not fired for his past behavior or for mishandling of Hillary's email. The he would be fired in January. Trump fired Comey because he was investigating Trump and his campaign officials about alleged Russian Collusion. This is nothing but obstruction of investigation which is an impeachable offense.
3
Trump is selling oval office to highest bidder. And he plans to take all the money because he thinks, this is his own property. That's what his family is doing overseas with our expenses.
He fires the guy who is investigating him after requested for more help to investigate him and then he met with Russians and then also Nixonian Kissinger.
What's to think here, my fellow Americans?
He fires the guy who is investigating him after requested for more help to investigate him and then he met with Russians and then also Nixonian Kissinger.
What's to think here, my fellow Americans?
39
and that highest bidder is an enemy of america
thats treason, plain and pure
3
But wait, didn't the Dems also want Comey out when he was investigating Clinton? I'm completely confused by the reaction from the other side of the aisle. The current resident in the WH should be impeached sooner rather than later for blatantly ignoring rules and more importantly gross incompetence.
This disgraceful White House will go down in history as the most corrupt in history. It makes the Nixon era look idyllic. After 4 months of this abomination, it is impossible to imagine another 44!!! God help us all...
52
But on Capitol Hill, at least a half-dozen Republicans broke with their leadership to express concern or dismay.
concern or dismay.
if a grand piano were about to fall on your head, you feel more than concern and dismay
this is that grand piano, and here it comes
70
I'm one of those people who was just about to vote for Hillary but then James Comey convinced me to vote for Trump at the last minute. Just kidding, no such people exists.
4
How does that old adage go?
"You can fool all the people some of the time and some of the people all the time, but you cannot fool all the people all the time"
Try as they might to fool people no one takes them seriously. You were either for Clinton or against her and nothing that Comey did was going to change that.
"You can fool all the people some of the time and some of the people all the time, but you cannot fool all the people all the time"
Try as they might to fool people no one takes them seriously. You were either for Clinton or against her and nothing that Comey did was going to change that.
Rod J. Rosenstein = sacrificial lamb. A man asked to build a nail so Trump could use his hammer.
"Ms. Sanders said that Rod J. Rosenstein, the deputy attorney general, had acted on his own when he recommended to Mr. Trump during a meeting on Monday that Mr. Comey be dismissed. At that meeting, the president directed Mr. Rosenstein to put the recommendation into writing, Ms. Sanders said."
"Ms. Sanders said that Rod J. Rosenstein, the deputy attorney general, had acted on his own when he recommended to Mr. Trump during a meeting on Monday that Mr. Comey be dismissed. At that meeting, the president directed Mr. Rosenstein to put the recommendation into writing, Ms. Sanders said."
5
I have sometimes defended Pres. Trump in these pages, given the vitriol and hatred often expressed here. I do not think Obama was a good President nor do I think Hillary would have been, given her history of deceit and duplicity. I have tried to separate the man from the policy positions and defend the positions, when they have merit. I still seek balance in the pages of the NYTs and want good and accurate reporting. Like in the reporting over the last two days. I have now concluded that the lies told by the White House, President and Vice President about the chain of events surrounding the firing of Director Comey are not forgivable. I have also concluded that the complicity of the AG and the DAG in furthering this also is not forgivable. This conspiracy is of such a grievous nature that it is time to begin seeking a housecleaning in the DoJ as well as the WH. Republican's had better start standing up for the truth and separating themselves from this mess or they will find an outcome they have not experienced since the 70s. The only hedge the Republican's have now toward significant decline is the undesirable extreme of the Democrat Party. That's a shaky foundation on which to build a responsive and long lasting governing party. Where are the Barry Goldwaters, the Howard Bakers, the Gerald Fords and the Bob Doles in the party today? Tie your future to an anchor if you wish, but don't expect people to follow you down the path of doom.
32
Bob Hogner
"The unfolding saga over Mr. Trump’s abrupt firing of Mr. Comey is certain to hang over a hearing underway on Capitol Hill that brought together the nation’s top national security officials, infusing political theater into their annual testimony about the biggest threats facing the United States."
The biggest threat to the USA? It has rapidly and forcefully become President Trump himself.
"The unfolding saga over Mr. Trump’s abrupt firing of Mr. Comey is certain to hang over a hearing underway on Capitol Hill that brought together the nation’s top national security officials, infusing political theater into their annual testimony about the biggest threats facing the United States."
The biggest threat to the USA? It has rapidly and forcefully become President Trump himself.
27
Trump fires Comey as Comey begins to dig into the Russia connection -- then Trump meets with RUSSIANS in the Oval office, banning US press but allowing a Russian photographer? This behavior is so outrageous and we all know it. Do we also recognize that this is Trump's SOP? To see how far he can push the envelope and get away with it? We cannot allow this to stand. If we just dismiss it as another of Trump's wacky pranks, we will wake up very soon to a fascist dictator regime. Stop him now!
33
Here Mr. McConnell. Let's fully flesh-out your comment: “only serve to impede the current work being done" to impede the investigation.
4
It says a lot that the toddler and chief views a sincere apology as a sign of weakness. Let it really sink in.
2
Never has a president received so much deserved disrespect.
23
It is time for the GOP to ask themselves if, in fact, their goals in governing us are any different than than the Russians. So far they seem pretty much congruent with each other. Rape the land, plunder the economy for personal benefit and remove all individual rights while enriching the plutocrats.
27
The bottom of the rabbit hole is coming into focus, it wont be long now. DJT as POTUS days are numbered.
BTW, lets see, Don, did you serve in Vietnam? .......more hypocracy
BTW, lets see, Don, did you serve in Vietnam? .......more hypocracy
9
This is the beginning of the end....call it Trexit
14
I don't think so not with the gop in charge. Much as I want him impeached I don't think it's going to happen any time soon.
1
I don't see the "sense of crisis" when only a half-dozen Republican legislators have expressed concern and are nowhere near demanding an independent prosecutor. I'm afraid the "sense of crisis" has a grip on the media and on the people who realize what a danger Trump is to our democracy, but nowhere else.
I doubt we're going to get our prosecutor. What we can demand is that our senators hold Trump's appointed replacement for Comey to a very high standard of independence, moral character and expertise. When I see Trey Gowdy, Rudy Giuliani and Chris Christie on the list of possible nominees, I want to weep.
I doubt we're going to get our prosecutor. What we can demand is that our senators hold Trump's appointed replacement for Comey to a very high standard of independence, moral character and expertise. When I see Trey Gowdy, Rudy Giuliani and Chris Christie on the list of possible nominees, I want to weep.
430
I'd be happier if the list contained recent prostitution collars. At least with prostitutes the customer comes first...and the customers here are the voters, the nation, and the Constitution.
Respectfully...I travel a great deal. The entire Free World is freaking out. Everyone but the Republican Party and their core voters can see what is coming. The end of American Democracy.
3
Our so-called democracy began to die when the CIA was allowed to kill JFK. Have you been asleep for 50 years?
The kick in the head about Watergate was it centered on a half cocked break in of the Democratic National Committee by rank amateurs. Nixon, rather than coming out and saying his minions went off the reservation and turning them over to the DC police, bungled it into a constitutional crisis. HERE, we have credible allegations that the highest elected official in the United States colluded/conspired with an unfriendly power to win the office. Today's issue, in the grand scheme of things is MUCH, MUCH worse.
58
How ironic. The "Republican Party" presided over the end of the American republic.
35
"White House officials denied American reporters permission to witness the Oval Office meeting or take photographs, but Russian state news outlets published images taken by their official photographer of a beaming Mr. Trump shaking hands with the envoys."
GOP is still not concerned that this administration means to end democracy as we know it?
GOP is still not concerned that this administration means to end democracy as we know it?
119
Not weird at all, right?!
1
The fact that Comey has alternatively had both Republicans and Democrats calling for his head leads this American to believe that he was probably doing a pretty good job.
24
I suggest a general re-reading, perhaps a TV special, simply repeating Barbara Jordan’s wonderful speech on Nixon. And perhaps the Congress needs a little assistance, which it nicely produced for its own use in the early 70’s: Impeachment: Selected Materials. Committee on the Judiciary, House of Representatives, 93rd Congress, First Session, U.S. Government Printing Office. October 1973. p. iii. I also note that one of the lawyers who worked on the impeachment proceedings was a young lady named Hillary Rodham. She could use a job right now.
I hope something actually happens this time.
13
Trump shouldn't be allowed to use the word hypocrite in reference to anyone but himself. President Clinton firing Sessions because of his major ethical lapses does not resemble Trump firing Comey while he is investigating Trump, and anyone who says otherwise is a political extremist who puts their party before their country. Any objective, honest person can see that an independent investigation is critical at this point, anything less is an insult to the American people and an unambiguous sign that the right wing of this country is not committed to democracy, period.
57
Our president looks (and sits) like a little school boy in the grown-up Chair beside Henry Kissinger; In fact- that's what he is.
9
Why was it so important that the firing take place the day before the Russians showed up to mock the Whitehouse and our Democracy? Was trump trying to prove his loyalty to Russia? Our Democracy is in a lot of trouble.
22
Corrupt is the word.
And Trump met with his own bosses yesterday - the Russians.
They own him lock, stock, and barrel.
And Trump met with his own bosses yesterday - the Russians.
They own him lock, stock, and barrel.
115
Is Pence behind all this? I don't know but the moves by Trump are so obvious to get him into trouble that I will not rule out that Pence is "counseling" the president, getting his head on the noose. The press will kick the bucket.
I am just saying, the press may want to keep an eye at Pence and the Republican Party's establishment.
Nobody (but the hard-core 30% of the electorate base) will cry for Trump.
I am just saying, the press may want to keep an eye at Pence and the Republican Party's establishment.
Nobody (but the hard-core 30% of the electorate base) will cry for Trump.
10
How appropriate that the Trump White House only allowed the Russian press in to witness (and photograph) Trump's meeting with the Russian ambassador and foreign minister the day. Trump knew the Russia media is a kept media, which is how he likes it.
621
Trump is a patsy. He gave in to Putin's desire for Lavrof to meet in the Oval Office. He gave in to having the visitors admitted with their own photographer.
Now the intelligence services are worried the photographer may have also carried in sensitive "listening devices" - who could imagine that?
Now the intelligence services are worried the photographer may have also carried in sensitive "listening devices" - who could imagine that?
6
I find this behavior, barring the US press, absolutely unacceptable. But Trump knows he can get away with such odious behavior because too many members of Congress are letting him get away with it.
6
Has anyone given serious consideration to the security risks Trump took in allowing Russian media into the White House? Surveillance bugs, scans, and surreptitious photos are among the few concerns one might have. Amazing this would happen when our own media was barred from the room.
5
"After meeting with the Russian officials, Mr. Trump said he had fired Mr. Comey because “he wasn’t doing a good job.”
“Very simply — he was not doing a good job,” he said.
Mr. Trump, you are not doing a good job. You do not deserve 4 years to figure out how to do a good job. We don't have four years to wait. There are children being born, people in need of medical care, children in need of an education, citizens who are homeless and employed, homeless and unemployed, employed and on the verge of losing their homes. You are becoming a major distraction to the well being of 99% of Americans. You, not the Democrats, have been a hindrance to the smooth running of this administration. You and the GOP are attempting to return us to the 1950s with all the problems we had then and they were many: racism, sexism, homophobia, virulent anti-Semitism, illegal and deadly abortions, prejudice against all but White Anglo Saxon Protestants. Then again, given what you and the GOP are, you probably would do better in the 1950s. However, it's not the mid 20th century now. It's 2017 and women work, there is an active LGBTQ community, African Americans are a political force as are Hispanics and Asians. Grow up GOP and become part of the solutions not the problems. And if you can't, get out of the way.
“Very simply — he was not doing a good job,” he said.
Mr. Trump, you are not doing a good job. You do not deserve 4 years to figure out how to do a good job. We don't have four years to wait. There are children being born, people in need of medical care, children in need of an education, citizens who are homeless and employed, homeless and unemployed, employed and on the verge of losing their homes. You are becoming a major distraction to the well being of 99% of Americans. You, not the Democrats, have been a hindrance to the smooth running of this administration. You and the GOP are attempting to return us to the 1950s with all the problems we had then and they were many: racism, sexism, homophobia, virulent anti-Semitism, illegal and deadly abortions, prejudice against all but White Anglo Saxon Protestants. Then again, given what you and the GOP are, you probably would do better in the 1950s. However, it's not the mid 20th century now. It's 2017 and women work, there is an active LGBTQ community, African Americans are a political force as are Hispanics and Asians. Grow up GOP and become part of the solutions not the problems. And if you can't, get out of the way.
50
Preach!
1
After 8-years of you defending every stupid move Obama made, America, who voted for Trump, would appreciate you stop trashing him at every turn. Comey screwed up and should have been gone long ago. Democrats and Republicans agreed on that. So stop the spin.
The vast majority of Americans did NOT vote for Trump and he is worth much more than this verbal trashing on an anonymous message board, trust me.
9
The majority of Americans did NOT vote for trump, a fact the right wing idiots who did seem to want to ignore. Hillary won the popular vote. Period.
9
Please, don't compare Prez Obama with Trump, its like comparing one one of the best Presidents last 50 years with a complete and utter idiot.
9
This article misses the point entirely, and is an example of a major news organization trying to have it both ways.
Trump obviously fired Comey because he asked for more resources to investigate the Russian connections to his campaign. That effort would have fully uncovered Russian assistance in spoiling ballots in key states like Wisconsin (200,000 documented so far), as well as close cooperation between the Trump campaign and Russian intelligence agencies. These events have already been reported in other media outlets, including in a cursory manner by the Times.
Our President is scurrying for cover, inventing lies daily, such as that he had thought about firing Comey for months, blaming the firing on Comey's Clinton email activities (a ludicrous claim), and similar Trumpian streams of consciousness.
Meanwhile, Republicans are so happy to have one of their own in power that they won't abandon him. Good! Let that rotten and discredited ideology sink once and for all. They'll keep coming back- like alcoholic relatives- but this might finally humiliate them for good.
Trump obviously fired Comey because he asked for more resources to investigate the Russian connections to his campaign. That effort would have fully uncovered Russian assistance in spoiling ballots in key states like Wisconsin (200,000 documented so far), as well as close cooperation between the Trump campaign and Russian intelligence agencies. These events have already been reported in other media outlets, including in a cursory manner by the Times.
Our President is scurrying for cover, inventing lies daily, such as that he had thought about firing Comey for months, blaming the firing on Comey's Clinton email activities (a ludicrous claim), and similar Trumpian streams of consciousness.
Meanwhile, Republicans are so happy to have one of their own in power that they won't abandon him. Good! Let that rotten and discredited ideology sink once and for all. They'll keep coming back- like alcoholic relatives- but this might finally humiliate them for good.
163
Who says rats abandon a sinking ship? If you're a Republican like McConnell, Ryan, Sessions, or anyone else you stay onboard even as the ship sinks. Only when it becomes apparent do you snatch a life vest from someone who left sooner than you and let them drown. Then you blame them.
GOP = Greedy Obstructionist Popinjays also known as the Free Dumb Patriots. Watch for further episodes on the revival of "The Twilight Zone" every day a new firing or presidential Twitter occurs.
GOP = Greedy Obstructionist Popinjays also known as the Free Dumb Patriots. Watch for further episodes on the revival of "The Twilight Zone" every day a new firing or presidential Twitter occurs.
9
Obviously? Hardly. The only obvious part of the deal is that the Times reported a routine request in an attempt to establish causation, when well educated liberals know that correlation and causation are two different birds.
Two days ago, y'all hated Comey for stealing the election from the most qualified candidate to ever run for the office. Now he's an ult-left martyr. Tick tock flip flop.
Two days ago, y'all hated Comey for stealing the election from the most qualified candidate to ever run for the office. Now he's an ult-left martyr. Tick tock flip flop.
1
GOPers want tax cuts for the rich so badly that they will suck up anything, including treason....
7
Why weren't American reporters or photographers allowed into this meeting?
Why are we getting photos of our president from Russian sources?
Why did Trump have to meet privately with Russian ambassadors in the Oval Office?
The timing of this meeting is also suspect.
What do you think of this Mitch?
Why are we getting photos of our president from Russian sources?
Why did Trump have to meet privately with Russian ambassadors in the Oval Office?
The timing of this meeting is also suspect.
What do you think of this Mitch?
296
I was with you until that last question. Mitch is bought and paid for. Trump could shoot someone in Times Square and Mitch would reload for him.
7
Mitch thinks its time to "move on" to eviscerating health care and changing the tax code to give his rich donors an even bigger break. A hostile foreign power intervenes in our elections, and this is of no interest to our Republicans. Their corruption is complete.
76
The Con Don and other republican operatives for the International Mafia who are trying to take over and destroy OUR governments at every level will move at a glacial pace - if at all - so they can do as much damage as possible before WE can get rid of them. We cannot even dream that they will actively investigate anything.
However, Comey, Bahara, Yates, Clapper and all the other justice department workers who were fired are now private citizens. There is no reason WE cannot crowd fund them - and President Obama - as private investigators for
WE THE PEOPLE.
They can tell the press what is going on and WE can engineer a new takeover of OUR governments at every level.
The Con Don and International Mafia have pulled a financial coup to to try to take over OUR government. WE MUST STOP THEM.
NOW!!!
However, Comey, Bahara, Yates, Clapper and all the other justice department workers who were fired are now private citizens. There is no reason WE cannot crowd fund them - and President Obama - as private investigators for
WE THE PEOPLE.
They can tell the press what is going on and WE can engineer a new takeover of OUR governments at every level.
The Con Don and International Mafia have pulled a financial coup to to try to take over OUR government. WE MUST STOP THEM.
NOW!!!
34
Trump appears to have a fundamental misunderstanding of his job. Comey and all others are not employees of Trump enterprises, subject to the whim and dictate of Donald J. Trump. He can fire the F.B.I. Director, but that decision is subject to public scrutiny, something he clearly is not accustomed to. Yes, Mr. President, your decisions are subject to questioning, repeatedly and for reasons that may not be to your liking. An explanation will always be necessary.
824
True, and the firing -- pretending for the moment it was for legitimate purposes -- couldn't have been handled in a less classy, less Presidential manner. Only a low-class chief executive would let the head of his department, not to mention all those he supervised, find out about his firing through the news.
9
Tell that to Ryan and McConnell, they think they work for Trump Inc. and are working hard to please the boss.
4
"King Baby" strikes again.
1
Past time to charge Don the Con with treason!
76
Treason is a tough charge to make stick. There are plenty of things to charge him with that will stick including obstruction of justice, conflicts of interest, abuse of office, etc. What is necessary is the political will of the official whose duty it is to protect us. They care more about themselves and their ideology than they do about the welfare of the citizens. The only thing left is how the citizenry responds and how many take it upon themselves to force Congress to do their duty and rid us of our greatest threat to our security....the criminals and traitors that the Russians put in the White House.
5
Deputy AG Rosenstein dove deep into the Trump Administration Venus Flytrap when he wrote a memo stating reasons why Director Comey had forfeited the ability to run the FBI. But close reading of the memorandum shows that he never RECOMMENDED that Comey be fired. His reported angry reaction to being drawn into the politics of the timing and manner of Comey's dismissal also indicate that he was more circumspect that the White House reports, both in his oral response to the President, and his memorandum.
Boy was he naive! That his memo should take such parsing is a reason why Mr. Rosenstein is being tarred with the same political brush as Sessions and Trump. Any subtlety of argument is fair game for the White House PR machine.
I feel sorry for Mr. Rosenstein. He appears to be a (prosecutorial) fish out of (vicious politics) water. He should resign, to salvage what is left of his reputation, and stop being a convenient excuse for Sessions and Trump.
Boy was he naive! That his memo should take such parsing is a reason why Mr. Rosenstein is being tarred with the same political brush as Sessions and Trump. Any subtlety of argument is fair game for the White House PR machine.
I feel sorry for Mr. Rosenstein. He appears to be a (prosecutorial) fish out of (vicious politics) water. He should resign, to salvage what is left of his reputation, and stop being a convenient excuse for Sessions and Trump.
50
The Democrats in Washington--total hypocrites, Maxine Waters stated yesterday that had Hillary won Hillary should fire Comey. Now that Trump does it, gasp!
Nothing awkward about the Lavrov/Kislyak visit at all. Schedules are known way in advance. It was meant to coincide.
Now, to grasp at any straw, the MSM screams "Bbbbbbb-but the timing!" Oh please.
The FBI has so much criminal information on Hillary they had to "find" questions on Trump. Hilary's baggage is overwhelming. Talk about cover ups.
One day we'll get a laundry list of Clinton dealings and cozy dirty plays, some in cahoots with some R's. Then the entire DNC will be nothing but a dust heap.
Nothing awkward about the Lavrov/Kislyak visit at all. Schedules are known way in advance. It was meant to coincide.
Now, to grasp at any straw, the MSM screams "Bbbbbbb-but the timing!" Oh please.
The FBI has so much criminal information on Hillary they had to "find" questions on Trump. Hilary's baggage is overwhelming. Talk about cover ups.
One day we'll get a laundry list of Clinton dealings and cozy dirty plays, some in cahoots with some R's. Then the entire DNC will be nothing but a dust heap.
5
Hillary is not president nor is she a public servant at the moment so it's completely irrelevant. What cover up? Everything we knew came up in the Wikileaks and via Comey and Americans decided she shouldn't be president. Now Trump is the one covering up because he knows damn well that if the people knew the truth, we wouldn't want HIM as president.
7
Uh...this is kinda the point:
Nothing awkward about the Lavrov/Kislyak visit at all. Schedules are known way in advance. It was meant to coincide.
Nothing awkward about the Lavrov/Kislyak visit at all. Schedules are known way in advance. It was meant to coincide.
5
I rather doubt Rep. Waters would recommend to anyone that Comey be fired WHILE he was investigating them! As for that 'overwhelming' baggage of Clinton's vs the hunt for Trump's wrongdoings? Nice try.
2
Yesterday Trump meets with the Russian Foreign Minster who attempts a joke at the former FBI Director's expense and today he meets with Nixon's old pal Henry Kissinger. It almost seems as if he is daring us to come to the obvious conclusion or . . .
67
"Nixon's old pal" Kissinger was Hillary's advisor on foreign policy, if you remember, Ms Herrick. He was one of those who never saw a war he didn't like. So now that she's a lost cause and can't get into her war with Russia, he's no doubt trying to get back into the Republican fold for a nice little appetizer of N Korea as a prelude to China.
Yeah, why does Kissinger keep showing up? Is he unable to resist the fresh baked scent of unconstitutional power grabs? Do totalitarian psychos give off certain pheromones that only Henry can smell?
7
Time for Trump the traitor to be fired! Congress, do your job and impeach him.
105
I share your sentiments, but as the ever acute Jeffrey Toobin has already clearly expressed on one media outlet, what Trump almost certainly already has done is closed the crucial FBI route to the revelations that might have compelled an impeachment.
Of course, where there's life there's hope. Rag, rage against the dying of the light. Shine perishing Republic. Optimism of the will: protest!
Of course, where there's life there's hope. Rag, rage against the dying of the light. Shine perishing Republic. Optimism of the will: protest!
Trump administration is horribly corrupt - they are compromising our democracy to an extent that may be difficult to recover from.
Just as bad is the numerous Republicans who are willing to look the other way so they can stay in power - Their actions are disgusting, and truly un-American
Just as bad is the numerous Republicans who are willing to look the other way so they can stay in power - Their actions are disgusting, and truly un-American
307
Excuse me Barry, but the Dems did not want Comey fired to *prevent* anything from coming out. It was because he did not act impartially and fairly. Trump wants him fired to prevent the truth about his surely illegal (or at least, highly unethical) Russian involvement. Hello yourself.
15
Timing Barry, timing.
2
No complaints required - just vote!
Fascism is alive and well at the White House.
201
The only sense of crisis is just how hypocritical the Democratic Party can become. Why won't this paper publish an article on how many Dems called for Comey to resign in the last year?
6
Had he done so due to his behavior regarding the emails, that would have been fine. Trump fired him this week because he was leading the investigation against him and if you believe this had anything do with Hillary, I have a bridge to sell you. Democrats were not happy (nor should they have been) about Comey's earlier decisions, BUT Democrats put country ahead of power, something the GOP folks don't care about. These are two separate issues.
12
Um, I believe this article did just that.
3
Where's the list of Dems calling for Director Comey to be fired? Many were critical of his re-opening the investigation of the e-mail issues but saw it as being within his duties as he saw them. Did he intend to interfere with the election to get a certain result? I don't think so although I do think it made a difference. The Republicans were far more upset with Comey than the Dems were. They wanted her charged so she would be dismissed as a viable Dem candidate sure to win over anyone of their dwarfs. Director Comey was just as steadfast that she had done nothing to merit a criminal indictment although he detailed the things he thought should have been done differently as far as security. As I remember, Hillary said she would have done things differently in retrospect. Hindsight is a wonderful gift.
1
Sure the Democrats were unhappy and outraged about Mr. Comey's handling of Secretary Clinton's emails. But, as displeased as President Obama often was, he never fired him and never proposed firing him.
145
When are House Republicans going to stop ignoring the massive elephant in the room? Surely it wouldn't be political suicide to address the obvious situation of our government being handed over to Russian control. Let the initial wave of empty criticism pass, and you would be marked down as a hero! The first group of Republicans to not only criticize this decision, but do something TANGIBLE to address it will have soaring political careers in the coming years, and could potentially ascend to leading the entire party.
The American people are tired of seeing our representatives plug their noses, and we are certainly tired of reporters tossing softball questions at press briefings. Any member of Congress who does anything short of clamoring for an independent investigation will lose their seat if there is any soul left in this alleged democracy.
The American people are tired of seeing our representatives plug their noses, and we are certainly tired of reporters tossing softball questions at press briefings. Any member of Congress who does anything short of clamoring for an independent investigation will lose their seat if there is any soul left in this alleged democracy.
121
After what Comey and the FBI rank and file did to me as a U.S. citizen by throwing the election to Trump, I will never have confidence or trust in the FBI again as long as I live.
I also think Trump's intent in canning Comey when he did was so that he could deliver his head to the Russian foreign minister and ambassador. What better gift could Trump make to his handlers.
I also think Trump's intent in canning Comey when he did was so that he could deliver his head to the Russian foreign minister and ambassador. What better gift could Trump make to his handlers.
133
Wait a minute. If Comey and the FBI stole the rightful election from Hill, what part did the Rooskies play? Do you think that maybe Director Comey was a double agent for the Putin KBG? Do you think it's suspicious that Obama appointed a staunch Republican to be the FBI Director, then wouldn't fire him? Is Obama knee deep in the muddy mess, too? How does Maxine Waters fit into all of this?
2
I've heard Russian agents will be dispatched to mock and belittle and confuse this extremely serious issue. I guess GLC heard that, too.
2
What Comey did during the election was terrible, he involved himself in a way he should not have. However, firing someone who is investigating YOUR administration and YOU is telling. I feel like there is no justice anymore since Trump and the republicans have been in power. It started before Trump, and Trump is sealing it up with concrete. The congress we have now has had the lowest approval ratings in our history. Can't wait for folks to wake up and vote in 2018 for a brand new Congress and new senate members. McConnell and his thugs need to go. TAKE BACK our democracy!
230
I'd like to see a recall movement begin now in states with the most intransigent GOP enablers of Trump. For senators, those terms are staggered and the wait could be much longer. There is tremendous energy out there that can be harnessed for recalls. I don't know if the mechanisms vary by state but I'm taking a look. I remember the Scott Walker recall efforts and it was impressive even though he survived.
That only a half dozen Republican congress people are concerned speaks volumes.
555
New to NC, Welcome to town! Glad NC is gaining a few more democrats. NC has suffered under GOP/TEA-party rules and is a template for the gutting of democracy. However, no one could have anticipated the abdication of power to Russia that Trump has shown and the GOP/TEA-party has orchestrated. It's appalling and leaves this American grief-stricken.
9
Yes it says that unlike the Democrats the majority of Republicans are interested in doing what is right instead of furthering their political agenda.
It means that they are all more loyal to trump that America and Trump is more loyal to Russia then America. Even Richard Nixon was a true red white and blue American.
13
Pretty amazing how this administration is unraveling.
It took Nixon a few years to get to this level of panic.
It took Nixon a few years to get to this level of panic.
351
Nixon's mental health deteriorated while in office as a result of corruption. Trump's been crazy from the outset and others are using him to meet their goals.
12
But before he brought us to that level of panic, some good things were accomplished in his term. I am thinking of the environmental protections and the opening of relations with China. So far, this administration has brought nothing good and ever increasing risks of permanent damage. Certainly, the level of anxiety about our future has never been so high.
8
As bad as Nixon was he was 10 times better and 10 times more intelligent than Donald Trump. With tromp it's like we're dealing with a foreign agent as president. He's willing to throw us all under the bus.
12
Our long national nightmare has resumed.
344
"Our long national nightmare has resumed."
Is Obama back?
Is Obama back?
A recurring nightmare is more like it. This man and his administration/supporters are even scarier than Nixon and that's saying a LOT. The last time I can recall being fearful that a nuclear war/WWIII would happen was when I was in the 2nd grade, back in 1960. I thought those fears were long-since allayed through deterrence and more rational policies amongst our world's leaders.
10
*international, sorry.
3
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