As the old English used to say "He has got no class".
4
Trump and associates seem to be unraveling...Treasury dept. CBE money laundering subpoenas seem to have struck a nerve...How much Russian, Russian allied money is entangled w/ the Trump organization? POTUS constant slurring of the integrity of American intelligence services, press corps, and now the director of the FBI seems more panicked than ever. TASS gets to take the only POTUS/Sergeis photo op? In our nation's White House ? We, as a nation need more, not less light on this administration.
15
I thought Alex Jones show is the best in conspiracies. I have to admiit, I'm wrong. In fairness, Alex Jones is just a mere amateur compared to professional NYT conspiracy theorists. None of the examples you cited have any concrete evidence connecting Russia and Trump. In fact, flat earth theorists, ghost hunters, and other people who believe in pseudo-science have more concrete evidences than mere speculations and assertions from unknown people you cited. Even if Trump had collusion with Russia, what is your theory behind it. Hacking of the DNC only revealed how rigging and cheating was common inside the party. If American people changed the voting decision based on that, the US democracy should thank Russia for exposing corruption inside the DNC and what kind of treacherous candidate Hillary is and what kind of cheating party, Democrat is. Nevertheless, my comment won't be published, as this is not first time you block mine, because NYT doesn't like counter-arguments from non-liberals and conservatives questioning liberal indoctrination. Keep blocking/deleting the counter-arguments like North Korea or China, but don't get surprised when election results doesn't concur with your "stupid beliefs and ignorant assumptions".
14
Thanks for this summary. Please keep at it. All Americans should be aware of, and appalled at, this unfolding story.
Whitey Bulger was able to commit crimes with impunity for years because he was a politically-connected intelligence asset (snitch) the FBI refused to give up. How much human suffering and criminal mischief could have been avoided if Bulger had not been shielded by legal authorities determined to keep secret the identity of this informant? It was a huge mistake that could have been avoided. In the case of Russian interference in the election and possible collusion by Trump operatives or Trump himself, the need to protect intelligence sources constitutes an apparently impenetrable shield of secrecy for Trump, allowing him the benefit of the doubt among his enablers. Even an independent investigation is likely to take place to some extent behind closed doors to keep secret intelligence sources. I don't believe this is acceptable since what is needed is a public airing of the known facts, whatever their provenance. If some spies have to be withdrawn for their own protection, it's a price worth paying to get to the bottom of this assault on our democracy. What value are well-placed intelligence assets compared to the damage Trump is doing to our country? Ironically, it likely will take a "smoking gun" to persuade Trump partisans that their boy has sold us all out.
6
Trump is all about plausible deniability. With every tweet and bizarre claim he makes, his plausibility diminishes. It is only a matter of time before his charade comes crashing down.
14
There is only one remaining question here: will Republican elected officials put their country ahead of their party, and the interests of the very wealthy who own them to save our democracy? We'll know soon enough, and will have to act accordingly at the polls and failing that, in the streets.
22
My sixth sense that has worked well for me so far tells me that Mr Trump has for some reason come under the thumb of the Russians. Whether it is due to some money shenanigans or personal scandulous behavior or another form of criminality, we may now know for quite some time. But Trump's attitude and behavior toward the Russians speaks volumes. A man who shows not an iota of respect for anyone in our country - including the Bushes, Clintons, Obamas, John McCean - goes so humble, so subservient to the Russians. Did you not notice the glee on his face on meeting with Russians in his office, as if he's ever so grateful to them for coming over? How could a foreign power dictate to him that only their photographers would be in the Oval Office, and on one from the US side? To me this episode alone seems pregnant with something awfully sinister. I hope I'm wrong, but what if I am not wrong?
11
I think there is still no hard and final evidence that Russian hackers interfered in the electoral process in the US. But it was clear and evident that the hacked emails of the DNC showed, as the Washington Post put it, that „many of the most damaging emails suggest the committee was actively trying to undermine Bernie Sanders's presidential campaign.“ It was this content of the emails that damaged the campaign of Hillary Clinton , and this damage was actually selfinflicted. To blame Russia looks like seeking a scapegoat. Who knows, perhaps the hackers came from the alt-right movement to to give their favorite canidate a little help?
6
Many times, when DNT has "addressed" the question of financial entanglement with Russia, he has explicitly, and with unusual clarity, said that he has no investments in Russia. I have never heard him address the question of receiving investments from Russians. Nor have any interviewers asked this.
Eric Trump's slip in 2013 may be the only pointer in this direction. But given how rambling DJT's "normal" speaking style is, e.g. unfinished sentences, dropped clauses, non-sequiter digressions, etc., the precision of his denial itself is suspicious.
Bret Stephen's op-ed on Trump's tells should also include the case where he is being very clear is a clue he is trying to divert your attention with a half truth.
Eric Trump's slip in 2013 may be the only pointer in this direction. But given how rambling DJT's "normal" speaking style is, e.g. unfinished sentences, dropped clauses, non-sequiter digressions, etc., the precision of his denial itself is suspicious.
Bret Stephen's op-ed on Trump's tells should also include the case where he is being very clear is a clue he is trying to divert your attention with a half truth.
1
You can add Trump's connections with Deutsche Bank and Bank of Cyprus to the list. Plus that house deal in Florida.
9
Your comment might also have been rephrased differently, as: "LA LA LA LA!...I'M NOT LISTENING!... LA LA LA LA!" (With eyes closed and fingers in ears, obviously.)
Seriously, that really is a frightening example of the right's obliviousness to what is happening, since, you know, this is just a team sport, apparently.
Please, with all due respect, try to imagine what your opinion would be if it were Hillary Clinton's actions under consideration. I think you might feel a bit differently, no?
Seriously, that really is a frightening example of the right's obliviousness to what is happening, since, you know, this is just a team sport, apparently.
Please, with all due respect, try to imagine what your opinion would be if it were Hillary Clinton's actions under consideration. I think you might feel a bit differently, no?
12
None of the comments here make note of the Russian involvement in the American electoral process. Gotta draw a line somewhere. Trump benefitted from the Russian internet propaganda machinery but...
4
Excerpts:"American Fascism, In 1944 and Today" ~ NYT op-ed / 5/12/17
"The danger of American Fascism. Hucksters spouting populist themes but manipulating people and institutions to achieve the opposite. They pretend to be on the side of the ordinary working people --paying lip service to democracy and the common welfare. But at the same time, they distrust democracy because it stands for equal opportunity. They invariably put money and power ahead of human beings. They demand free enterprise, but are spokesmen for monopoly and vested interest. They also claim to be super-patriots, but they would destroy every liberty guaranteed by the Constitution.
They bloviate about putting America first, but it's just a cover. They use isolationism as a slogan to conceal their own selfish imperialism. They need scapegoats and harbor an intensity of intolerance toward those of other races, parties, classes, religions, cultures, regions or nations.They poison the channels of public information. Their problem is never how best to present the truth to the public but how best to use the news to deceive the public into giving them more money or power. They use lies strategically to promote civic division, which then justify authoritarian crackdowns. Through deliberate perversion of truth and fact their propaganda carefully cultivate every fissure of disunity. And what is the ultimate goal? Their final objective toward which all their deceit is directed is to capture political power."
"
"The danger of American Fascism. Hucksters spouting populist themes but manipulating people and institutions to achieve the opposite. They pretend to be on the side of the ordinary working people --paying lip service to democracy and the common welfare. But at the same time, they distrust democracy because it stands for equal opportunity. They invariably put money and power ahead of human beings. They demand free enterprise, but are spokesmen for monopoly and vested interest. They also claim to be super-patriots, but they would destroy every liberty guaranteed by the Constitution.
They bloviate about putting America first, but it's just a cover. They use isolationism as a slogan to conceal their own selfish imperialism. They need scapegoats and harbor an intensity of intolerance toward those of other races, parties, classes, religions, cultures, regions or nations.They poison the channels of public information. Their problem is never how best to present the truth to the public but how best to use the news to deceive the public into giving them more money or power. They use lies strategically to promote civic division, which then justify authoritarian crackdowns. Through deliberate perversion of truth and fact their propaganda carefully cultivate every fissure of disunity. And what is the ultimate goal? Their final objective toward which all their deceit is directed is to capture political power."
"
4
Not to mention that Wednesday, the very day after he fired Comey, he was glad-handing two Russian ambassadors in the oval office, along with their Russian photographer and nobody from our own press in the room at that meeting. Talk about nexus.
Does Trump speak Russian? If he doesn't, he should. It would be only polite as a tovarish and associate of Putin and his kind, of which Trump is a member.
"The Russians are coming! The Russians are Coming!" Unfortunately the Trump-Russia situation is not as funny as the greats Alan Arkin and Peter Ustinov. The shear lack of traceability and transparency is disturbing to intelligent people. Trump supporters blindly believe everything Trump says.
The involvement between the Trump administration and Russia has raised so many questions that it most certainly has to be thoroughly investigated. And Trump's propensity for lying makes the task that much more urgent.
As for a replacement for Comey, some insiders confidently say that there are so many professionals in the FBI that the investigation will continue. But I can't believe that a director is unable to curtail that investigation. With John Cornyn as the FBI chief, I can't believe that he wouldn't stymie that investigation.
Under Trump and his hypnotized supporters, this nation is in danger of transitioning to fascism. Trump people would love that. The rest of us value our precious democracy.
The involvement between the Trump administration and Russia has raised so many questions that it most certainly has to be thoroughly investigated. And Trump's propensity for lying makes the task that much more urgent.
As for a replacement for Comey, some insiders confidently say that there are so many professionals in the FBI that the investigation will continue. But I can't believe that a director is unable to curtail that investigation. With John Cornyn as the FBI chief, I can't believe that he wouldn't stymie that investigation.
Under Trump and his hypnotized supporters, this nation is in danger of transitioning to fascism. Trump people would love that. The rest of us value our precious democracy.
8
May 12, 2017
All Americans expect this probe be forthright and subject to the defense and protection of our way of life and its voting process for today and all tomorrows - let's learn, and learn to live smart and transparent -and all violations must be cataloged for knowing the rot and right justice to all those that want to live in the shadows of evil.
jja Manhattan N.Y.
All Americans expect this probe be forthright and subject to the defense and protection of our way of life and its voting process for today and all tomorrows - let's learn, and learn to live smart and transparent -and all violations must be cataloged for knowing the rot and right justice to all those that want to live in the shadows of evil.
jja Manhattan N.Y.
3
As a libertarian progressive I'm pretty lenient on where the NYT goes and other news sources.
But trump is pushing me to the breaking point!
But trump is pushing me to the breaking point!
1
"Anyone who cares about the credibility of the American electoral process ..."
Said w a straight face? Hillary Clinton. Donald Trump. John McCain and Lindsey Graham. Jared Kushner and Ivanka Trump. The credibility of the American electoral process???
Of Mr. Stone ..."a Twitter account widely believed to be a front for Russian intelligence operatives..." Widely believed. Those your standards? One might well question the credibility of the Fourth Estate.
Of Carter Page ... "American officials believe that ..."
Of Paul Manafort ... "has been accused of receiving ..."
J'accuse, Times.
Said w a straight face? Hillary Clinton. Donald Trump. John McCain and Lindsey Graham. Jared Kushner and Ivanka Trump. The credibility of the American electoral process???
Of Mr. Stone ..."a Twitter account widely believed to be a front for Russian intelligence operatives..." Widely believed. Those your standards? One might well question the credibility of the Fourth Estate.
Of Carter Page ... "American officials believe that ..."
Of Paul Manafort ... "has been accused of receiving ..."
J'accuse, Times.
7
Agreed. J'accuse the Editorial Board of sedition....
1
This could have been a one word article.
None.
None.
5
Firing Comey may have had the intention of throwing a wrench in the works, but the main reason Trump wanted him gone is a PR issue:
1) Fear that Comey would hold a press conference and list Trump's transgressions to a public that would know, since Comey did the same for a leading Democrat (Hillary), that it would be an unspinnable non-partisan finding; and
2) Not only do they expect the next FBI head to be more discrete, they have attempted to ensure that by condemning Comey's public judgment of Clinton even though they celebrated it when it advantaged them.
These people are snakes.
1) Fear that Comey would hold a press conference and list Trump's transgressions to a public that would know, since Comey did the same for a leading Democrat (Hillary), that it would be an unspinnable non-partisan finding; and
2) Not only do they expect the next FBI head to be more discrete, they have attempted to ensure that by condemning Comey's public judgment of Clinton even though they celebrated it when it advantaged them.
These people are snakes.
10
I share the Editorial Board's concerns.
As I watch the findings unfold, I would suggest to President Trump that he needs to reveal as much as he knows about Russia's tampering with the 2016 election & he should assemble his friends like Roger Stone, etc., who seem to be well connected to the moneyed interests, in Russia to share their information. His Administration is risking the health, financial security, and safety of American's by allowing this sore to fester. He must come clean about his affiliations with Russia.
It is OK to develop better relations with Russia but he needs to demonstrate that he is seeking better relations for the good of everyone. Clearly, we don't need more conflict and it would be fantastic if international powers like Russia, China, India, the EU, etc. sought a better quality of life for all of the people on Earth.
The governments of the World and its political leaders are very challenged to create a prosperous economy based on alternative energy so the World can make the shift away from hydrocarbons without over-stressing the global world economy.
I suggest we mobilize the world to make this shift to non-fossil fuels. The Paris Climate Accord was a good start but we must do a lot more to mobilize. I think we need to reinvent the Breton Woods institutions to make better progress in the energy shift and achieving global economic stability including food production resources and reducing the growing gap in income inequality.
As I watch the findings unfold, I would suggest to President Trump that he needs to reveal as much as he knows about Russia's tampering with the 2016 election & he should assemble his friends like Roger Stone, etc., who seem to be well connected to the moneyed interests, in Russia to share their information. His Administration is risking the health, financial security, and safety of American's by allowing this sore to fester. He must come clean about his affiliations with Russia.
It is OK to develop better relations with Russia but he needs to demonstrate that he is seeking better relations for the good of everyone. Clearly, we don't need more conflict and it would be fantastic if international powers like Russia, China, India, the EU, etc. sought a better quality of life for all of the people on Earth.
The governments of the World and its political leaders are very challenged to create a prosperous economy based on alternative energy so the World can make the shift away from hydrocarbons without over-stressing the global world economy.
I suggest we mobilize the world to make this shift to non-fossil fuels. The Paris Climate Accord was a good start but we must do a lot more to mobilize. I think we need to reinvent the Breton Woods institutions to make better progress in the energy shift and achieving global economic stability including food production resources and reducing the growing gap in income inequality.
3
One of the essentials of the Nazi regime was that each person must take a loyalty oath to Adolf Hitler. Those who would not eventually disappeared, usually to a horrible fate.
The editorial by Mr. Wallace in today's NYT was spot on. We are in the midst of the dismembering of the democratic system of government at this time. We should know better.
Hitler was enabled at first by many who thought he could be controlled once he gained power. They valued their positions over the truth and right. They laughed at him, despised him in secret but followed his lead until it was too late to deny.
By then he had rid himself of "enemies" and half the population of Europe.When the generals finally tried to do away with him, it failed .
The esteemed republicans in the legislative branch still have an opportunity to step up and begin to live up to their solemn oaths of office. You know what you have to do. Enough of us have called you on it, over and over. Do not let your grandchildren want to change their names for the shame of owning it.!!
History will treat you as you deserve.
The editorial by Mr. Wallace in today's NYT was spot on. We are in the midst of the dismembering of the democratic system of government at this time. We should know better.
Hitler was enabled at first by many who thought he could be controlled once he gained power. They valued their positions over the truth and right. They laughed at him, despised him in secret but followed his lead until it was too late to deny.
By then he had rid himself of "enemies" and half the population of Europe.When the generals finally tried to do away with him, it failed .
The esteemed republicans in the legislative branch still have an opportunity to step up and begin to live up to their solemn oaths of office. You know what you have to do. Enough of us have called you on it, over and over. Do not let your grandchildren want to change their names for the shame of owning it.!!
History will treat you as you deserve.
10
Removing Comey is obstruction of justice. 45 is doing everything possible to remove any driver from the accelerating pedal. He needs to be impeached NOW!
12
When there is smoke, there is fire, and such is not an alternative fact. Trump's tax returns should show a lot, and so would the list of investors in all of this properties.
Rather than making a mountain out of a molehill, as Trump claims, we are only seeing the tip of an iceberg which Trump is trying to hide. Trump is totally compromised; the continued conflicts of interests embedded in his family business is sufficient to recuse him from the presidency.
In The Art of War, Sun Tzu advised to find corruptible officials of the opponent and compromise them in various ways. Trump is the most corruptible of all, and our opponents have him by the jugular. There is no question that unless Trump comes clean (and it is doubtful that he can, even if he wanted to, since he is so immersed--he has to plead the Fifth) he should be removed from office.
The president of the US of A should not be so exposed to blackmail over his personal and family interests. Donald J. Trump was not suited for the presidency and is not suited to continue as president.
Rather than making a mountain out of a molehill, as Trump claims, we are only seeing the tip of an iceberg which Trump is trying to hide. Trump is totally compromised; the continued conflicts of interests embedded in his family business is sufficient to recuse him from the presidency.
In The Art of War, Sun Tzu advised to find corruptible officials of the opponent and compromise them in various ways. Trump is the most corruptible of all, and our opponents have him by the jugular. There is no question that unless Trump comes clean (and it is doubtful that he can, even if he wanted to, since he is so immersed--he has to plead the Fifth) he should be removed from office.
The president of the US of A should not be so exposed to blackmail over his personal and family interests. Donald J. Trump was not suited for the presidency and is not suited to continue as president.
15
Unfortunately, Trump supporters couldn't care less about the American electoral system. Let's hope there are enough Americans do care to eliminate the House GOP majority in 2018. Without that, Trump will survive no matter whats he does.
10
"Anyone who cares about the American electoral process should want a thorough investigation..." Well, I submit that Republicans don't care about the electoral process in this specific case. They are where they want to be and as long as Trump has terrific support from his base (which is not shrinking) then they won't worry their heads about all these connections to Russia. The GOP folks are not patriots here, they are complicit.
10
We are in the midst of a coverup -- some hiding here, a little or a lot of distracting there. What remains to be seen is what crime(s) or misdeed(s) are being covered up.
2
Trump is a person trying to cover up a lie with a letter from a lawfirm. Trump is asking the American people to trust his lawyers who are paid by him to protect his interests, not yours. He thinks because a letter is "certified" it means it has more truth in it. All that means is that letter was either sent by certified mail or his lawyers had a paralegal type "certified" at the top of the letterhead. That letter with all of its vague half truths is a smoke screen and nothing more. Trump is hiding something bigly and his demeanor during the interview with Lester Holt confirmed it. Had I been on a jury watching his testimony I would have voted, "Guilty." Trump is a liar and he has colluded with the Russians to benefit himself and his family.
11
We get it. You guys are all wonderful. Each and everyone of you is a apagon of integrity and political virtue, and everyone else? Not so much...LOL...
2
Two things: First, while Acting Director McCabe contradicted the administration on Comey's standing with the FBI rank and file, he contradicted Comey in his statement that he has sufficient resources to complete the FBI investigation,which leads me to doubt McCabe"s independence going forward. Second, keeping in mind the comments of spokespersons Sara Huckabee Sanders and Kellyanne Conway that we have transitioned from candidate Trump to POTUS Trump, just a glance st that picture from the Oval Office, which Americans and the world were never supposed to see, of POTUS Trump, looking happier and more at ease than ever -- ever -- literally embracing Ambassador Kislyak, labeled an active recruiter of spies by U.S. intelligence, we have documentary proof of POTUS Trump engaging in an act that can only be properly defined as TREASONOUS, on which basis he should be immediately relieved of his duties, pursuant to the 25th Amendment, impeached and removed from office. The GOP has a political and social agenda with which I profoundly disagree. They have to prove now that that agenda does not include reducing the USA to an authoritarian oligarchy, modeled on Putin's Russia.
5
We now have a letter from Trump's lawyers that his tax returns for the last ten years show no income from or indebtedness to Russia ("with few exceptions").
1. Just because the returns don't show it is unconvincing to me. I'm sure the lawyers were being truthful, but was Trump? Would someone who lies daily to the world suddenly tell the truth to the IRS? I'm more interested in what the returns DON'T show.
2. The letter was requested by Senator Graham for that body's investigation. Why does the subject of the letter feel compelled to announce it on nationwide TV? If I'm not guilty of a crime and I produce this "proof" to those investigating me, why not let them do the disclosing? BTW, wouldn't the letter be classified info until the investigation is completed?
3. Trump, Page, Manafort, Stone and, to a lesser degree, Flynn seem to be running their mouths non-stop about all this being fake news even when they're not being asked. Do people who are convinced of their own innocence need to do that? Wouldn't it be wiser and more believable if they just maintained a dignified silence, which at the very least wouldn't get them into trouble by saying things that could be misinterpreted?
Methinks thou doth protest too much.
1. Just because the returns don't show it is unconvincing to me. I'm sure the lawyers were being truthful, but was Trump? Would someone who lies daily to the world suddenly tell the truth to the IRS? I'm more interested in what the returns DON'T show.
2. The letter was requested by Senator Graham for that body's investigation. Why does the subject of the letter feel compelled to announce it on nationwide TV? If I'm not guilty of a crime and I produce this "proof" to those investigating me, why not let them do the disclosing? BTW, wouldn't the letter be classified info until the investigation is completed?
3. Trump, Page, Manafort, Stone and, to a lesser degree, Flynn seem to be running their mouths non-stop about all this being fake news even when they're not being asked. Do people who are convinced of their own innocence need to do that? Wouldn't it be wiser and more believable if they just maintained a dignified silence, which at the very least wouldn't get them into trouble by saying things that could be misinterpreted?
Methinks thou doth protest too much.
5
Foreign interference in our election is far more egregious than the Watergate break in,yet the Rebublican Congress is doing little to investigate this grave matter. Apparently, power is preferable to patriotism. We need an independent counsel.
9
This is a detailed Nexus, and very likely the tip of the iceberg.
Despite these almost commonly known facts, Trump chooses to kick the FBI hornet's nest by ousting Comey.
It's dizzying.
Despite these almost commonly known facts, Trump chooses to kick the FBI hornet's nest by ousting Comey.
It's dizzying.
6
When Bush 43 was trampling on civil rights in order to "catch terrorists" conservatives said loudly and often, "What's the problem? If you've done nothing wrong, then you'll be fine. What are you trying to hide?" Interesting how DJT is the exact opposite, isn't it. If he has nothing to hide, why doesn't he release his tax returns and facilitate the investigation of his campaign's ties to Russia? Wouldn't the complete vindication he swears is justified be worth the turmoil? Think of the gloating he could do! The rise in the polls! So what is Trump afraid of?
4
So far, nothing, no evidence of any kind, not even any decent circumstantial evidence. All we have is baseless speculation and pointless calls for action.
5
Foreign influence in presidential election. That directly impacts policy. Calls for an independent special prosecutor. That are rejected by the President and his attorney general. Where have we seen this before? Oh yeah, after Bill Clinton took illegal campaign financing from the Chinese and Indonesians for his 1996 reelection; and he and AG Janet Reno then rejected the independent special prosecutor recommendation of FBI Director Louis Freeh, thereby ending the investigation! And as a quid pro quo for the illegal campaign cash, Clinton betrayed his promises to the Barbara Jordan Democrats and actually changed legislation, ending the last best chance we had for chain migration reform. Wonder who Trump learned his tricks from. . .
Just before I read this article, I read Henry Stone Wallace's editorial about a NY Times article his grandfather, the VP under FDR, had written 73 years ago. It is as if the man is alive in America today writing about Trump. It is a chillingly accurate description of the man in office, a non-violent American version of a fascist who rose to power. Everyone in America needs to read this.
Your article about the Russian connections nexus to Trump and supporters is a perfect follow-up read.
There is no patriot in the WH, there is no defender of democracy in our WH, there is no defender of the American people housed there, only a Trump who wants to strong arm Congress and Americans into accepting him as absolute
ruler.
He is unfit to be president and what he has said and done since he took office is all the proof Congress needs to make a case and invoke our constitution to have him removed from office. They need to put America and Americans first, rise above the political infighting, face reality, and fight for us.
The wolf is not at the door, he is in our White House.
The constitutional laws are there to protect us and Congress needs to impeach and remove
Your article about the Russian connections nexus to Trump and supporters is a perfect follow-up read.
There is no patriot in the WH, there is no defender of democracy in our WH, there is no defender of the American people housed there, only a Trump who wants to strong arm Congress and Americans into accepting him as absolute
ruler.
He is unfit to be president and what he has said and done since he took office is all the proof Congress needs to make a case and invoke our constitution to have him removed from office. They need to put America and Americans first, rise above the political infighting, face reality, and fight for us.
The wolf is not at the door, he is in our White House.
The constitutional laws are there to protect us and Congress needs to impeach and remove
5
Andrea ~ Thank you for this reference!
"AMERICAN FASCISM, in 1944 and Today" by Henry Scott Wallace
May 12, 2017 ~ NYT OP-ED
Essential reading! It explains better than anything I've read of late as to what we're really up against in this Country…We've been here before... America's perilous plight.
"AMERICAN FASCISM, in 1944 and Today" by Henry Scott Wallace
May 12, 2017 ~ NYT OP-ED
Essential reading! It explains better than anything I've read of late as to what we're really up against in this Country…We've been here before... America's perilous plight.
The silence in the Republican Senate is deafening.
7
What I saw this week was an admission from the White House that Comey flipped the election. We were told it was rigged before, but didn't know how. Now we have confirmation.
3
Does anyone actually believe that the Washington Post or NYT would follow or publish stories on Watergate type activities today? I don't think so.
The NYT did as much to elect Trump as any of the outlets that ignored everything about the Clinton campaign except the e-mail nonsense. No deep investigations of his charity, thousands of law suits, the employees he failed to pay, business partners he robbed etc..
If you want to follow this story, I suggest the BBC, good luck on getting good information from any American based "press
The NYT did as much to elect Trump as any of the outlets that ignored everything about the Clinton campaign except the e-mail nonsense. No deep investigations of his charity, thousands of law suits, the employees he failed to pay, business partners he robbed etc..
If you want to follow this story, I suggest the BBC, good luck on getting good information from any American based "press
7
Why aren't the red states getting it? Henry Wallace's essay on
American Fascism could have been written this week to exactly define the trump-kushner clique and the billionaires around them. We're in big trouble.
American Fascism could have been written this week to exactly define the trump-kushner clique and the billionaires around them. We're in big trouble.
5
Follow the money....a basic rule for most crimes.
3
What about our dear Secretary of Commerce, Wilbur Ross, who has close ties to the Bank of Cyprus that has been a haven for Russian oligarchs money. He was said to clean it up. Why? To clear the decks for Donald Trump?
4
Can you imagine how the GOP would have reacted to a potential Hillary collusion with Russia to win the election?
4
There's plenty of fire that will not be extinguished until American's wake up from their ideological fog and realize the current President has invited Russia into the White House to run our country. There are tapes and videos showing this collusion. I hope our allies or the IC would release them so we can get action to remove this treasonous President and his cronies from the White House. Republican's are playing footsie with Treason. Is this due to a lust for unbridled power and riches to be gain from the US Treasury? Or, are they being blackmailed from information gleaned from the RNC servers by Russian Hackers? Trump admits he fired Director Comey because he wanted the Russian Investigation to be over with. If this red flag doesn't stir us to action and wake us up to reality, then there are no more Patriots and the Democratic Republic and its institutions stood up over 200 years ago will cease to be admired as a refuge from evil Authoritarian Governments and Dictatorships.
2
When a president demands personal loyalty from the head of the FBI, it is time for impeachment.
It doesn't even matter if that president is under investigation.
He's a tyrant in the making. Get rid of him.
It doesn't even matter if that president is under investigation.
He's a tyrant in the making. Get rid of him.
3
Beginning January 20, 2017, we the American people have been witness to the the most incompetent, unethical, corrupt, self dealing, deceitful presidential administration that I have ever seen and that includes the Nixon Administation.The members of this admistration spend more time on damage control and spinning lies of the Orange Baboon or Buffoon (take your choice) that sits in the Oval Office. All the while he spends his time settling scores on twitter, weaving conspiracy theories and looting the US Treasury for his golf trips to his properties.
Meanwhile he and his family enrich themselves with holding court and Trump properties and foreign business deals possibly negotiated on the taxpayer dime.
Letting this behavior and continue is the real danger to the United States. How do we return to ethical government if we do not stop this man immediately. The longer we permit this to continue the more difficult if not impossible returning to good governance will become.
I understand some of the Trump voter's disenchantment with government but destroying it is not the answer. Remember the present shapes the future. Do we want this corruption to become institutionalized in government? If so we are lost. Republicans used to demand ethics, if you don't end this idiocy, what do you stand for?
Meanwhile he and his family enrich themselves with holding court and Trump properties and foreign business deals possibly negotiated on the taxpayer dime.
Letting this behavior and continue is the real danger to the United States. How do we return to ethical government if we do not stop this man immediately. The longer we permit this to continue the more difficult if not impossible returning to good governance will become.
I understand some of the Trump voter's disenchantment with government but destroying it is not the answer. Remember the present shapes the future. Do we want this corruption to become institutionalized in government? If so we are lost. Republicans used to demand ethics, if you don't end this idiocy, what do you stand for?
4
I think for the first time, a person like Donald Trump became the president of America. Being a Pakistani I would like to compare him with Pakistani prime minister Nawaz Sharif. Both of these have same qualities, like both are businessman and political Personalities, both have two sons and a daughter who are Interested in politics and there are much more thing common between these two. So my point is you can expect anything form from this person named Donnald Trump.
http://pakistanitalkshow.com/
http://pakistanitalkshow.com/
3
This editorial should be read with the letter just released from Trump’s tax lawyers in mind, but NOT for the reasons Trump had it written. The Morgan Lewis letter saying Trump had minimal income from Russian sources and no loans or equity investments from Russian sources should be viewed with suspicion, not because it is inaccurate – I assume every word is true – but because Trump had them write it for him.
From exposure to basics of multinational investing in a past corporate life, I know many, perhaps most, ownership structures of multinational investments are made via intervening tax haven jurisdictions. To be an effective tax haven the jurisdiction must have the legal effect of transforming sources of income and/or sources of investment from the countries origin to the tax haven country. If the tax haven structure fails to become the legal source of the funds flowing out of it, it can’t be a tax haven by definition. The details of these structures can be rocket science beyond the experience of most of us, but the logic of not finding a Russian “source” in Trump’s tax return for all the Russian investments Trump’s son talked about earlier is perfectly simple. It would be surprising if a direct Russian investment were made not through an intervening country, e.g. Cayman, the Netherlands Antilles, Cyprus or one of scores of other possibilities. The fact Trump put the letter out is just more smoke telling us again – there really is a there.
From exposure to basics of multinational investing in a past corporate life, I know many, perhaps most, ownership structures of multinational investments are made via intervening tax haven jurisdictions. To be an effective tax haven the jurisdiction must have the legal effect of transforming sources of income and/or sources of investment from the countries origin to the tax haven country. If the tax haven structure fails to become the legal source of the funds flowing out of it, it can’t be a tax haven by definition. The details of these structures can be rocket science beyond the experience of most of us, but the logic of not finding a Russian “source” in Trump’s tax return for all the Russian investments Trump’s son talked about earlier is perfectly simple. It would be surprising if a direct Russian investment were made not through an intervening country, e.g. Cayman, the Netherlands Antilles, Cyprus or one of scores of other possibilities. The fact Trump put the letter out is just more smoke telling us again – there really is a there.
27
As the Clinton Global Initiative Foundations show us, one country's charitable donation can be a dead-broke trustee of the Foundations' slush fund, her expense account. Former President George W. H. Bush charitable foundation was richly endowed by contributions from grateful oil-producing country leaders in the Middle East. And while the Bush foundation donors may be less remembered by most readers, the wealth donated from abroad to the Clinton Foundations has been well-publicized in the last few years. Trump's "minimal income" from Russia, like his taxable income, may be a matter of scale after his deductions of operational expenses. On Russian terms, his own expenses, the costs of his Russian handlers, local licenses, Russian fees and taxes, and his entourage, such as the Miss Universe Pageant there, must have been "Huge."
1
And what about the Obama-British nexus? The Bush-Saudi Nexus? The Clinton-Canadian nexus? Why wouldn't the Russians try to influence our government the same way we often try to influence theirs through bribes, alt-news, foreign surrogate agents, blackmail, sweetheart trade deals, and political corruption? Oh, forgive my memory lapse, I forgot, the Russians do. They also deny it.
4
Oh, forgive my memory lapse, I forgot somewhere along the way Russia became an ally!??
Yes and there is also OneVoice(google it) that directed $350,000 in State Department (really U.S. taxpayers money) funding to Netanyahu's opponent in the Israeli election. That is our money being used to influence the outcome of a foreign election. Done under the watch of holier-than-thou Obama.
3
If Trump were to release his tax returns all his debt is to Russia which is illegal for a President of the US. Comey was getting too close.
7
Here's a thought.
After all the bankruptcies that left creditors out in the cold while he walked away with millions in "management fees," Trump could no longer find reputable lending sources. Through Manafort and others, he ended up in bed with the Russian oligarchs, Putin's coterie, to whom Trump is billions in debt.
Trump can't ever repay that money. But he can find debt forgiveness if he lifts the U.S. sanctions against Russia that have hit the oligarchs hardest.
When the sanctions are lifted, and it's just a matter of time, we'll know if they hypothesis above is correct. At which time, Donald J. Trump will not only have to be immediately impeached, but tried for treason.
After all the bankruptcies that left creditors out in the cold while he walked away with millions in "management fees," Trump could no longer find reputable lending sources. Through Manafort and others, he ended up in bed with the Russian oligarchs, Putin's coterie, to whom Trump is billions in debt.
Trump can't ever repay that money. But he can find debt forgiveness if he lifts the U.S. sanctions against Russia that have hit the oligarchs hardest.
When the sanctions are lifted, and it's just a matter of time, we'll know if they hypothesis above is correct. At which time, Donald J. Trump will not only have to be immediately impeached, but tried for treason.
"There may be no Trump Tower in Moscow or St. Petersburg, but it is not for lack of trying. Mr. Trump and his family have sought to do business in Russia since at least the 1980s."
This is item #1?? Of the Trump-Russia nexus?? Trump and his family have sought to do business in Russia since at least the 1980s???
I think Trump is an abomination. But if the rest of this editorial is as threadbare, so is it.
This is item #1?? Of the Trump-Russia nexus?? Trump and his family have sought to do business in Russia since at least the 1980s???
I think Trump is an abomination. But if the rest of this editorial is as threadbare, so is it.
3
This article is exemplary in detailing facts relevant to this ongoing saga. Having perused editorials of major powerhouse outlets this morning, I'm impressed with how your team summarized it so efficiently.
Secondly, reports are growing that the CIA itself is upset with demeaning statements toward Mr. Comey, how his dismissal was handled, + their individual respect for him so utterly distorted by Trump + spokespersons.
Even the acting CIA chief contradicted savage words of this president.
Thirdly, there's the arrogance that Mr. Trump believes he can shut down an investigation of this magnitude, while trying to convince us he invented an almost 100 year old phrase such as "prime the pump."
Your editorial will be quoted by many, and it clearly is priming that pump!
Secondly, reports are growing that the CIA itself is upset with demeaning statements toward Mr. Comey, how his dismissal was handled, + their individual respect for him so utterly distorted by Trump + spokespersons.
Even the acting CIA chief contradicted savage words of this president.
Thirdly, there's the arrogance that Mr. Trump believes he can shut down an investigation of this magnitude, while trying to convince us he invented an almost 100 year old phrase such as "prime the pump."
Your editorial will be quoted by many, and it clearly is priming that pump!
6
The tax returns are the elephant in the room
6
JEFF SESSIONS Mr. Sessions, the attorney general, said during his Senate confirmation hearing that he did not have any contacts with Russian officials while he was actively campaigning for Mr. Trump. In fact, he met with Mr. Kislyak twice, once in his Senate office and once at the Republican National Convention.
Since he was under oath at the time, how is this not perjury? How can Sessions continue as AG when he was approved based partly on perjury? Lock him up!
Since he was under oath at the time, how is this not perjury? How can Sessions continue as AG when he was approved based partly on perjury? Lock him up!
12
You forgot about Trump selling a Florida mansion to a Russian oligarch, in 2008, at a 150% profit.
And you forgot Wilbur Ross, the Commerce Secretary and former vice chairman of the Bank of Cyprus--a bank known for dealings with Russian oligarchs.
I'm not saying there was anything illegal about those transactions--there may have been, I don't know. But they do constitute 'contacts' with the Russian ruling class.
And you forgot Wilbur Ross, the Commerce Secretary and former vice chairman of the Bank of Cyprus--a bank known for dealings with Russian oligarchs.
I'm not saying there was anything illegal about those transactions--there may have been, I don't know. But they do constitute 'contacts' with the Russian ruling class.
I keep hearing the lyrics from the Talking Heads' "Making Flippy Floppy":
I can't believe it
And people are strange
Our president's crazy
Did you hear what he said
Business and pleasure
Lie right to your face
Divide it in sections
And then give it away
There are no big secrets
Don't believe what you read
We have great big bodies
We got great big heads
Run-a-run-a-run it all together
Check it out - still don't make no sense
Makin' flippy floppy
Tryin to do my best
Lock the door
I can't believe it
And people are strange
Our president's crazy
Did you hear what he said
Business and pleasure
Lie right to your face
Divide it in sections
And then give it away
There are no big secrets
Don't believe what you read
We have great big bodies
We got great big heads
Run-a-run-a-run it all together
Check it out - still don't make no sense
Makin' flippy floppy
Tryin to do my best
Lock the door
Amazing--you people call this "information." This is even flimsier than the "network" of that "vast right-wing conspiracy" hoax that Hillary spit in Matt Lauer's face ("you journalists are incompetent fools missing this big story."). Gee, some Republican guy gave a "pro-Russia" speech. You mean he said they aren't bad enough to nuke? Isn't that the new-left neo-con notion? Maybe he pointed out that the pro-Russia legitimately-elected President of Ukraine was ousted by a west-led coup. There used to be two-sides to a story. Now there is only one side, and the entire "story" is rumor and innuendo. Has the Times even TRIED to get any of its nameless sources to go on the record? Heck, the way you tell it, they should all be hailed as new Daniel Ellsbergs, so what's the hesitation?
6
There are no "sources." This is all contrived, a very poor example of "creative writing" at best...
1
Pretty flimsy folks. If there is some sort of financial chicanery going on that is a far cry from Trump being a Manchurian Candidate for the grand puppet master Vladimir Putin. Thin gruel which is the be basis of this crime of century rhetoric that the NYTs keeps throwing out to the public. The main thing that comes out of the story is that Hillary Clinton and the NYTs are sore losers.
6
Interesting that the letter from the law firm does not state which returns were reviewed for dealings with Russia. It is likely that the latest return reviewed was 2015, since the 2016 return has probably not been filed. So any transactions in 2016 or 2017?
1
I'd have to see that letter with my own eyes before I ever believed it was even sent, let alone, existed.
3
You're leaving out the taxes. What leaves Eric Trump free to deny Russia's extensive financial involvement in the Trump Organization's assets and investments? The fact that absolutely nobody directly, financially involved as an owner in the Trump Organization has had their tax filings publicly reviewed. Perhaps that's what Donald Rumsfeld would have called a "known unknown". But that doesn't make it irrelevant or unreliable. We can rely on their being a very good reason that the Trump Organization wants to keep its financial details secret.
And it isn't modesty.
And it isn't modesty.
4
The Republican party has decided that when choosing between the rule of law and the rule of Party, one must always take the rule of Party.
Like any dictatorship, laws exist solely to further the aspirations of the ruling clique, with selective enforcement geared to gaining and maintaining power and wealth.
Like any dictatorship, absolute loyalty to the leadership is the only requirement asked of any government employee.
Like any dictatorship, laws exist solely to further the aspirations of the ruling clique, with selective enforcement geared to gaining and maintaining power and wealth.
Like any dictatorship, absolute loyalty to the leadership is the only requirement asked of any government employee.
6
And absolutely loyalty is what Trump is asking of all of his inner circle players. when Comey told trump he could provide honesty versus loyalty, trump probably begin his plans to short term Comey's career.
Statistics can give us a leg-up here. What are the odds that, given all of these contacts, none of the following came up?--sanctions, fake news, the stolen DNC files. What are the odds that more will come out, given the lies that have already been uncovered? We know already, for instance, about one such lie: Flynn met with the Russians, and in those meetings sanctions were discussed. Given the obvious mutual advantages that any agreement would have provided, what are the odds that nothing was ever proposed? For example, the Trump team indicates it would remove the sanctions, if the Russians were to steal the DNC information or release it at a helpful time.
6
Thank you for your opinion on what may or may not have happened last year between the Trump campaign and the Russian government. As most people appreciate, the Russians (and prior Soviets) have attempted to impact American government since the 1950s (if not before).
Today's electronic information tools provide an adversary the means to impact an unprotected person or organization that were unknown until recent times.
What is much more important to most Americans is for the government to get on with issues significant to our economy and social well being. The media emphasis on political shenanigans is detrimental to our country and its citizens - clearly they do not care.
Today's electronic information tools provide an adversary the means to impact an unprotected person or organization that were unknown until recent times.
What is much more important to most Americans is for the government to get on with issues significant to our economy and social well being. The media emphasis on political shenanigans is detrimental to our country and its citizens - clearly they do not care.
1
When were you appointed to speak for all Americans? By the number of Americans active in every type of protest and resistance and the comments in the Times and the Washington Post, many Americans are concerned about the possible destruction of our democracy under this regime. To many, of us a dictatorship destroying our democracy is at least as important as bread-and-butter issues if not more so. In future, speak for yourself. Also ask yourself why as an American, I assume you are an American, this does not also concern you. Perhaps if the worst does come to pass you will be one of the ones going why did I not do something sooner? Why didn't I pay attention? A democracy is only as good as the involvement of its citizens in nurturing it and keeping it alive.
The "political shenanigans" have direct impact on our economy and social well being. Whose administration is in charge right now? Who may well have helped put them there? If there was collusion is it a legitimate administration? If we want to move forward honestly as a nation it is important to make sure no one is above the law. And no one should be in office to fill the pockets of themselves and their family members.
Kleptocratic authoritarianism is on the rise. What are we to think of Putin's stranglehold on Russia? Of Erdogan's concentration of dictatorial power in Turkey? Of the rise of Orban in Hungary? Of Putin's fan,Trump, congratulating Erdogan on the Turkish autocrat's recent power grab?
Are we, as American citizens, just going to stand by and watch as our nation drifts from the troubled waters of plutocracy into the far more treacherous seas of kleptocracy?
Perhaps the following is worthy of reflection: The kleptocrat's immediate goal may be self-enrichment, but kleptocracy's longer term consequences are the desensitization and demoralization of the broader public. Kleptocrats succeed only when there is a widespread cynical conviction that institutionalized avarice is to be expected and tolerated--and has no limits.
Indeed, is it theft or a straightforward giveaway when kleptocracy is no longer countered by public outrage? When it not only tolerated, but even aided and abetted by Republican officials?
Are we, as American citizens, just going to stand by and watch as our nation drifts from the troubled waters of plutocracy into the far more treacherous seas of kleptocracy?
Perhaps the following is worthy of reflection: The kleptocrat's immediate goal may be self-enrichment, but kleptocracy's longer term consequences are the desensitization and demoralization of the broader public. Kleptocrats succeed only when there is a widespread cynical conviction that institutionalized avarice is to be expected and tolerated--and has no limits.
Indeed, is it theft or a straightforward giveaway when kleptocracy is no longer countered by public outrage? When it not only tolerated, but even aided and abetted by Republican officials?
6
I believe now, with the deterioration of the Republican Party into a ruthless, authoritarian mess, that in fifty years either the United States will be a dictatorship or the Republican Party will cease to exist, replaced by a center-right party. It is not hard to determine which is the preferable outcome.
1
Dems neither vote nor fight. Don't look for the defeat of the GOP by their hand
1
A lot sooner than 50 years if the people don't stand up. A LOT sooner.
Trump has told more than 200 lies since his inauguration, according to fact checkers. We have no reason to believe that his latest rants aren't more of the same. His firing of Comey, breaking the norms of the presidency and the retention of FBI directors is unprecedented and the timing is suspicious. Trump's threats toward Comey are unseemly, though consistent with Trump's prior rants when he gets bad press.
There's a lot of smoke here among his associates and in his business. We need to be certain that there is no fire.
There's a lot of smoke here among his associates and in his business. We need to be certain that there is no fire.
3
5/11/17 450+ Trump 'Lies' reported since Inauguration day.
Any doubts about Trump, et al, being manipulated by Putin's agents during the campaign are obliterated by the incredible spectacle of Putin's latest coup - his two top thugs in the Oval Office grinning and congratulating each other over the firing of Comey and the total submission and humiliation of of their witless (at best) asset, Trump.
6
Smoke but no fire? No facts pointing to specific wrongs? Not enough respect paid to the American voters? Get some meat on the bone before making accusations? Having business associates that happen to be Russian is no basis for suspecting the trump administration of collusion and possible treason?
Come on folks, that's why it's necessary to have an independent investigation. Why is it taking so long to make that happen? let's make it happen and then you can stop carping about a witch hunt.
Come on folks, that's why it's necessary to have an independent investigation. Why is it taking so long to make that happen? let's make it happen and then you can stop carping about a witch hunt.
3
GOP has total control of the country thanks to the passivity of the democratic party. Nothing will happen
Donald Trump may well become the cancer to this country that I think he is but the simple truth is that there has yet to be any concrete evidence. It may be bad optics but it isn't legal to do business in Russia. If Trump's critics don't get their acts together and find actual proof the only thing that's going to come out of "Russia-gate" is more entrenched bickering and cry's press prosecution. Right now all this looks like is a duel where no one has any bullets.
2
Obviously the people who care "about the credibility of the American electoral process" are not the ones who elected Donald Trump president. There are things they care about much more: guns, fetuses and dominance of the white race are the most likely prevalent emotional motivators. Logic is futile against emotional drivers until the latter lead to a material crisis. For perspective, look at what eventually lead to the long, slow and painful 'decline' in Italian fascism.
2
Here's the crucial question for people like me: what is usually the "norm", in this kind of situations, in DC?
In other words, how many Obama or Clinton campaign staff have in the past had business ties to business groups related to governments that are - at least in part - considered to be enemies of the US?
If there are none, then the list provided by this editorial, is strange indeed, as other posters already pointed out.
Hoping that the NYT will answer my question, in the meanwhile I guess that it is more or less normal, and that what makes it alarming in this case, is the combination of two additional facts:
1. Trump is clearly using lies as a major campaigning tool.
2. Russia hacked the DNC and delivered confusing mails to Wikileaks, at a crucial moment during the elections - which seriously helped Trump to win the electoral college (even when Hillary won the popular vote).
So to the Trump supporters on this comment section: if we suppose for a moment that the list of contacts enumerated by the NYT are actually "business as usual", what would your arguments be to convince us of the idea that even adding the two factos I just mentinoned shouldn't lead to the conclusion of the FBI, which is that yes, a thorough investigation is necessary here?
In other words, how many Obama or Clinton campaign staff have in the past had business ties to business groups related to governments that are - at least in part - considered to be enemies of the US?
If there are none, then the list provided by this editorial, is strange indeed, as other posters already pointed out.
Hoping that the NYT will answer my question, in the meanwhile I guess that it is more or less normal, and that what makes it alarming in this case, is the combination of two additional facts:
1. Trump is clearly using lies as a major campaigning tool.
2. Russia hacked the DNC and delivered confusing mails to Wikileaks, at a crucial moment during the elections - which seriously helped Trump to win the electoral college (even when Hillary won the popular vote).
So to the Trump supporters on this comment section: if we suppose for a moment that the list of contacts enumerated by the NYT are actually "business as usual", what would your arguments be to convince us of the idea that even adding the two factos I just mentinoned shouldn't lead to the conclusion of the FBI, which is that yes, a thorough investigation is necessary here?
2
OK So Trump colluded with the Russians to throw the election because he tried to do business in Russia in the 80's. Got it.
4
If he would just show us his tax returns like every other recent president we could move forward. If there is a problem with the Russians what happened in the 80's probably has nothing to do with it.
Uh ... why such a selective reading?
He was still doing business in Russia in 2013, for instance, as this article points out.
He was still doing business in Russia in 2013, for instance, as this article points out.
If this is all that we know after 10 months of FBI investigations and intense media scrutiny the FBI and the media are incompetent or perhaps their is nothing there.
6
Whether or not there was collusion with Russia Trump is still a traitor. He cares nothing about our democratic values, our institutions and the ideals that this country was founded on.
1
Also: Russia's impact on US election was amplified by Trump, thru his retweets of hacked misinfo. He publicly asked Russia to hack his opponent. Treason? And now, he welcomes Russian officials to White House a week after they hacked France's election. Russian officials wear big smiles in photos in the Oval Office.
1
I fervently hope this is the beginning of the end for this mean, petty, vindictive, immoral, fraudulent, lying, thieving, cheating con man. When you spew lies at this rate, it is hard to keep them consistent. It is essential that journalists, Democrats and any patriotic Republicans (if there are any left) keep needling him. He is clearly starting to unravel, and pretty soon, despite his sycophants' best efforts, will implode. Hopefully spectacularly, unequivocally, on live TV.
2
Usually, a conspiracy theory of this ilk would substitute “Jews” for “Russians.”
5
Two words: Roger Stone. This sleazy character has been clinging to the filthy underbelly of American politics since he and Richard Nixon cooked up the obscene stew called the 'Southern Strategy.' The GOP has been a stinking, festering swamp of racism, sexism, nativism, anti-Semitism and every vile 'ism' known to humanity ever since.
4
FBI director is supposed to be loyal to law, order, justice & constitution. Please explain to Trump. SAD!
2
Indeed!
"Why is no one looking at Steve Bannon in all this[?]"
Steve Bannon has been blamed for pretty much anything bad done by the Trump Administration, and Saturday Night Live never shows him wearing anything but a Grim Reaper cloak. Surely he must be responsible for Comey's firing!
And if not Bannon, how about Khomeini, or Qaddafi, or maybe acid rain -- you know, the usual suspects?
"Why is no one looking at Steve Bannon in all this[?]"
Steve Bannon has been blamed for pretty much anything bad done by the Trump Administration, and Saturday Night Live never shows him wearing anything but a Grim Reaper cloak. Surely he must be responsible for Comey's firing!
And if not Bannon, how about Khomeini, or Qaddafi, or maybe acid rain -- you know, the usual suspects?
1
45, his family, and many in his administration, are clearly corrupt. They are using their positions to line their pockets while doing little to make good on his outrageous campaign promises. They lie habitually and are running the most opaque administration in decades, if not ever. And they are in bed with every tinpot dictator while ignoring our allies and friends. The sooner they are out, the better.
3
So much obstruction of justice by Trump machine , right wing talk radio, the state media FOX news and the hyper partisan Republican Congress members who are in charge of House and Senate that fair investigation has become impossible. I do not cry for Comey for being fired. But I am worried that Trump's firing of Comey to obstruct investigation is a Nixonian move. But during Nixon investigation, we had some very good Republican lawmakers who could put the interest of the country before the interest of the party. Now the leaders like Rysn and McConnell are just spineless coward hyper partisan selfish greedy lawmakers that we can not expect any fairness from them.
3
The Trump Tax Returns : this is the most likely evidence that Putin has been
blackmailing Trump.....hence The Labrov and Russian Ambassador photo
optic with Trump....and Putin grinning in the ice hockey rink...
This is getting to be more and more evident that Trump is being cornered
by the US Intelligence community....and SOME responsible news organizations.
I hope that The NYTimes will be ever precise in factual reportage.
blackmailing Trump.....hence The Labrov and Russian Ambassador photo
optic with Trump....and Putin grinning in the ice hockey rink...
This is getting to be more and more evident that Trump is being cornered
by the US Intelligence community....and SOME responsible news organizations.
I hope that The NYTimes will be ever precise in factual reportage.
2
There's one piece of these reports that is underlayment: that the concern about any of these men conversing with or meeting with Russians is that they could be blackmailed. I would like someone to spend some time describing those situations and how they compromise our national integrity, security and democratic process. I would like to know how this works, even if it is speculation. I believe that, if I need examples to understand it, so do many others -- especially the Trump base. I do not believe I'm being obtuse -- I want to picture this potential harm so that I can understand the gravity of potential blackmail. And point it out to others.
Can we have some history, too -- when has this kind of compromise occurred in history, what its effects were, and what happened to the perpetrators who hid their connections to avoid "blackmail." I am assuming that the blackmail we're concerned about is not monetary, but that it involves loss of face, loss of power, embarrassment, compromise of relationships with other groups/nations., etc. And, oh yeah, loss of faith in a democracy that can be manipulated by another country, whether Russia or someone else.
Can we have some history, too -- when has this kind of compromise occurred in history, what its effects were, and what happened to the perpetrators who hid their connections to avoid "blackmail." I am assuming that the blackmail we're concerned about is not monetary, but that it involves loss of face, loss of power, embarrassment, compromise of relationships with other groups/nations., etc. And, oh yeah, loss of faith in a democracy that can be manipulated by another country, whether Russia or someone else.
2
that's why an investigation is needed - or do you want all the information before an investigation to justify an investigation. Try harder IGOR
Who is paying the Times to print this propaganda? Oh, I forgot, Dem Big Bucks.
5
TRUMP Is up to his neck in trouble with his and the Trump family's connections with Russia. I believe that a torrent of evidence will be pouring out of various invesitgations by the FBI and other agencies at warp speed due to the urgency of getting to the bottom of what has the earmarks of a humongous financial and legal quagmire. Had these facts been known prior to the election, Trump would never have been permitted to have the candidacy. The GOP is getting and will continue to get its comuppence now and for the foreseeable future.
Trump is slicker than he pretends to be. He's like Madonna was, pretending to be a ditz while building an empire.
Today Trump just did more trade give always with China. Ready to eat chicken imported from China, land of fake milk sold as baby formula and deadly dog food?
Trump may be playing all you emotional Democrats by showing you a fake Russian connection while he it's really selling us out to China.
Trump plays wild and lose with facts, and it's tempting to pay the same game, but he has no credibility to lose. We need actual proof, not innuendo based on hunches that may be based on bait laid by Trump.
Don't let Trump distract you. His actual policies are the real problem. Attack those and let him destroy himself with lying.
Today Trump just did more trade give always with China. Ready to eat chicken imported from China, land of fake milk sold as baby formula and deadly dog food?
Trump may be playing all you emotional Democrats by showing you a fake Russian connection while he it's really selling us out to China.
Trump plays wild and lose with facts, and it's tempting to pay the same game, but he has no credibility to lose. We need actual proof, not innuendo based on hunches that may be based on bait laid by Trump.
Don't let Trump distract you. His actual policies are the real problem. Attack those and let him destroy himself with lying.
17
Democrats already knew he wouldn't keep his campaign promises. This is no surprise. Trump supporters don't care that he lies all day long, they've made that clear enough. They're going to actually have to suffer because of his hypocrisy. Even then, right wing media will tell them the liberals are to blame and they'll believe it. Telling them they are being lied to does nothing.
Look at the House health care bill. Look at Trump's proposed tax reform. You can show them line item after line item where they are going to get the shaft and they won't care.
The Times is not calling for a Congressional investigation into the Russia thing, there already are two investigations ongoing. The Times is just summing up some of the issues.
Look at the House health care bill. Look at Trump's proposed tax reform. You can show them line item after line item where they are going to get the shaft and they won't care.
The Times is not calling for a Congressional investigation into the Russia thing, there already are two investigations ongoing. The Times is just summing up some of the issues.
It takes intelligence to be delusional.
But intelligence and crazy are a dangerous mix.
Remove this man and all his misbegotten employees and edicts.
But intelligence and crazy are a dangerous mix.
Remove this man and all his misbegotten employees and edicts.
I would like to hear from a tax practitioner familiar with tax returns like Mr. Trump's as to precisely what information about Mr. Trump's foreign partnerships would be revealed if Mr. Trump's tax returns were released in full.
3
Me too. And anyway, if Trumps stiffs Russian Banks, who cares?
1
He would when they knocked him off with a cup of "special tea" or maybe an ink pen filled with toxic gas. Just ask the North Koreans.
Now here's something both sides probably can agree on:
"If Mrs. Clinton had won the election, and it was discovered that her staff had had numerous meetings with Russians, and it was proved that the Russians had tried to influence the election for her benefit, do you think the GOP would be silent and non-caring about those events?"
If the tables were turned, the Republicans almost certainly would be doing exactly what the Democrats are now doing -- I'm with you that far.
Know what would be different, though? The NY Times would not be publishing countless articles and editorials insisting that the Republicans were justified in behaving that way.
See the difference?
"If Mrs. Clinton had won the election, and it was discovered that her staff had had numerous meetings with Russians, and it was proved that the Russians had tried to influence the election for her benefit, do you think the GOP would be silent and non-caring about those events?"
If the tables were turned, the Republicans almost certainly would be doing exactly what the Democrats are now doing -- I'm with you that far.
Know what would be different, though? The NY Times would not be publishing countless articles and editorials insisting that the Republicans were justified in behaving that way.
See the difference?
3
I disagree, Three.
The Republicans, in such a situation, would have long ago moved on to impeachment and casting hexes upon the entire Left.
All we're asking for is good information. Having learned that such a thing can never emerge either from the White House or Congress (Trump, McConnell, Nunes), we would like an independent investigator to look into it.
And you stand there screeching hysterically that we are being hysterical.
Just grant a well-conducted investigation is all, and then lets see how things stand.
Can you do that?
The Republicans, in such a situation, would have long ago moved on to impeachment and casting hexes upon the entire Left.
All we're asking for is good information. Having learned that such a thing can never emerge either from the White House or Congress (Trump, McConnell, Nunes), we would like an independent investigator to look into it.
And you stand there screeching hysterically that we are being hysterical.
Just grant a well-conducted investigation is all, and then lets see how things stand.
Can you do that?
5
The real difference is that you are proposing a counterfactual. It isn't evidence for anything.
2
The Trump enthusiasts and defenders should note there is a thing called 'circumstantial evidence" in the context of legal system.
If Trump campaign had couple of people with warm and questionable ties with Russia, they can be dismissed as circumstantial. However, Trump campaign had many influential surrogates with questionable dealings with Russia. It almost appears that they were part of the campaign because of their Russia contact (not in spite of).
If Trump campaign had couple of people with warm and questionable ties with Russia, they can be dismissed as circumstantial. However, Trump campaign had many influential surrogates with questionable dealings with Russia. It almost appears that they were part of the campaign because of their Russia contact (not in spite of).
1
A sincere thank you to the NYT for holding trumps feet to the fire. The contradictory web of lies coming from trump, his aides, the Vice President and his press secretary is all the evidence we need to know they are desperately trying to cover up something. We need trumps tax returns, now.
3
So that's were the smoke is coming from - Trumps feet are burning!
Mr. David Gergen said on CNN yesterday that (I am paraphrasing him) - this is not just about Trump or the Trump administration, this is about who we are as a nation.
The reason the republic and the republican party survived Nixon was because the republicans put country first during that crisis, yes it helped that they were the minority party in Congress at that time. Where are such republican leaders now, and that is the biggest catastrophe. This country of laws and decency will overcome many Trumps, but not if the republicans continue to look at every issue through the prism of party and political gain and continue to ignore their sworn duty to protect the country from enemies foreign and domestic.
The reason the republic and the republican party survived Nixon was because the republicans put country first during that crisis, yes it helped that they were the minority party in Congress at that time. Where are such republican leaders now, and that is the biggest catastrophe. This country of laws and decency will overcome many Trumps, but not if the republicans continue to look at every issue through the prism of party and political gain and continue to ignore their sworn duty to protect the country from enemies foreign and domestic.
6
In the absence of actual evidence, many commenters insist that "Where there's smoke, there must be fire."
Incorrect.
Where there's smoke, there's smoke. Period. Where there's fire, there's fire. Trump may be a coarse boor, but his critics haven't come up with any actual evidence that he's done anything wrong.
I'm willing to accept that the Russians wanted Clinton to lose, and Trump obviously wanted that too. And both the Russians and Trump presumably tried to accomplish that shared goal. But that doesn't mean they conspired. Maybe they did, and maybe they didn't. Let's investigate, investigate and investigate some more to find out whether they did! In the meantime, let's not elevate baseless speculation to anything above what it is: baseless speculation.
Incorrect.
Where there's smoke, there's smoke. Period. Where there's fire, there's fire. Trump may be a coarse boor, but his critics haven't come up with any actual evidence that he's done anything wrong.
I'm willing to accept that the Russians wanted Clinton to lose, and Trump obviously wanted that too. And both the Russians and Trump presumably tried to accomplish that shared goal. But that doesn't mean they conspired. Maybe they did, and maybe they didn't. Let's investigate, investigate and investigate some more to find out whether they did! In the meantime, let's not elevate baseless speculation to anything above what it is: baseless speculation.
5
If you think all of this is baseless speculation, you haven't been paying attention. And the saying is NOT, "where there's smoke, there's smoke", and for good reason. Plenty of fire here!
2
Dan Stewart puts it perfectly:
"By the way, I didn't vote for Trump and I don't like him, but in the interest of intellectual honesty I can't help but feel that, while Trump is a unmitigated spectacle, the Times in its relentless, Javert-like pursuit of Trump has made itself an even greater spectacle."
I think nearly all of us agree: investigate, investigate, investigate! And nearly all of us will be upset if Trump interferes with any investigation. So far, though, nobody is claiming any actual evidence or that Trump has interfered. The Times actually shot itself in the foot with this editorial, since it merely highlights how little we actually know. We started with speculation, and that's still all we have. Maybe that will change, but let's stop pretending that it has.
"By the way, I didn't vote for Trump and I don't like him, but in the interest of intellectual honesty I can't help but feel that, while Trump is a unmitigated spectacle, the Times in its relentless, Javert-like pursuit of Trump has made itself an even greater spectacle."
I think nearly all of us agree: investigate, investigate, investigate! And nearly all of us will be upset if Trump interferes with any investigation. So far, though, nobody is claiming any actual evidence or that Trump has interfered. The Times actually shot itself in the foot with this editorial, since it merely highlights how little we actually know. We started with speculation, and that's still all we have. Maybe that will change, but let's stop pretending that it has.
3
To this list we must add the extraordinary meeting this week between Trump and the Russian ambassador and foreign minister. The American press was barred from the meeting. Only the Russian government news source Tass was permitted to attend. After the meeting, Trump and Tillerson said almost nothing. The Russians mocked the American press and the Trump opposition. They praised Trump and disparaged Obama. On the same day in Russia Putin also went out of his way to praise Trump.
3
And then there's this in case you haven't heard. Remember, 2008 was around the height of the mortgage crisis and property values in Florida took an exceptionally big hit. And, the Russian never lived at the property, and I believe he tore it down.
http://www.palmbeachpost.com/news/why-did-russian-pay-much-for-donald-tr...
http://www.palmbeachpost.com/news/why-did-russian-pay-much-for-donald-tr...
Sad to see the NYT go down this route. You're making serious charges without serious evidence. Leave such things to Trump and Fox News. They're masters at sleight-of-hand and guilt-by-association, and don't blush when they're proven wrong. Aren't you better than that?
3
Tax returns, tax returns, tax returns...we must continue to insist:
https://youtu.be/_wd0-CM2UL0
https://youtu.be/_wd0-CM2UL0
1
We'll know when we see The Donald's tax forms. It's only a matter of time.
3
Trump has no debt to any Russians, you just need to read the NYT for that information.
Apparently, Trump's lawyer is soon to release a letter about the tax forms claiming no complicity with Russian interests.....but not the forms themselves.
Guess we're supposed to believe that.
Guess we're supposed to believe that.
Trump and his supporters state, “There is no evidence!”
When saying that, they are showing a total disregard of circumstantial evidence. It would be egregious to think there is no evidence, when no other Presidential campaign in modern history saw the need to communicate with the Russians, yet the 2016 Republican campaign for President lead by their favorite son, Donald Trump, saw the need to communicate not once but many, many times with the Russians.
That, in itself, is a ton of circumstantial evidence. But wait there’s more, there are the coverups about these communications, which amounts to more evidence. And then there’s the firing of James Comey, even more evidence. It must be remembered that there is rarely a smoking gun. Generally prosecutors put together their cases with circumstantial evidence until they have enough to convince a jury beyond a reasonable doubt. As of now, there is a growing preponderance of circumstantial evidence that Trump, who was driving that champaign bus, had indeed colluded with the Russians.
When saying that, they are showing a total disregard of circumstantial evidence. It would be egregious to think there is no evidence, when no other Presidential campaign in modern history saw the need to communicate with the Russians, yet the 2016 Republican campaign for President lead by their favorite son, Donald Trump, saw the need to communicate not once but many, many times with the Russians.
That, in itself, is a ton of circumstantial evidence. But wait there’s more, there are the coverups about these communications, which amounts to more evidence. And then there’s the firing of James Comey, even more evidence. It must be remembered that there is rarely a smoking gun. Generally prosecutors put together their cases with circumstantial evidence until they have enough to convince a jury beyond a reasonable doubt. As of now, there is a growing preponderance of circumstantial evidence that Trump, who was driving that champaign bus, had indeed colluded with the Russians.
5
These "factoids" presented by the New York Times don't rise to the level of circumstantial evidence.
Beautiful sophistry. A Trump associate dismisses an irrelevant, unimportant minor conversation with a Russian representative and it must be a "cover up." It apparently is pretty easy to convince the sheeples that a Russian conspiracy is really in play.
1
Sun Tzu said make a noise in the west than attack from the east. Trump probably doesn't know Sun Tzu, but the Russia story may be noise in the West to distract from his selling us out to China.
1
In another New York Times story today, “Sally Yates’s Lesson for Her Successor,” regarding acting Attorney General Sally Yates, also fired recently by President Trump, Jesse Wegman writes:
“Ms. Yates recounted [to a Senate subcommittee on Monday, May 8] how, only days after President Trump took office, she rushed to the White House to inform Mr. Trump’s counsel, Donald McGahn II, that the national security adviser, Michael Flynn, had lied to Vice President Mike Pence and others about his conversation with the Russian ambassador. Ms. Yates testified that Mr. Flynn’s behavior exposed him to blackmail.
“Her warning that surveillance had found that Mr. Flynn talked about sanctions with the ambassador, despite denying that to Mr. Pence, was met with a shrug by the White House. ‘Why does it matter to D.O.J. if one White House official lies to another White House official?’ Mr. McGahn asked her.”
This is the reason why Donald Trump DEMANDS absolute loyalty from those that would quite willingly serve his purposes without question. It is in order that these absolutely loyal servants will ask “seemingly naive” questions such as this to persons who would dare limit the possible options of conduct and actions to be taken by Donald Trump in response to new facts brought to his attention, not “alternative facts.”
“Ms. Yates recounted [to a Senate subcommittee on Monday, May 8] how, only days after President Trump took office, she rushed to the White House to inform Mr. Trump’s counsel, Donald McGahn II, that the national security adviser, Michael Flynn, had lied to Vice President Mike Pence and others about his conversation with the Russian ambassador. Ms. Yates testified that Mr. Flynn’s behavior exposed him to blackmail.
“Her warning that surveillance had found that Mr. Flynn talked about sanctions with the ambassador, despite denying that to Mr. Pence, was met with a shrug by the White House. ‘Why does it matter to D.O.J. if one White House official lies to another White House official?’ Mr. McGahn asked her.”
This is the reason why Donald Trump DEMANDS absolute loyalty from those that would quite willingly serve his purposes without question. It is in order that these absolutely loyal servants will ask “seemingly naive” questions such as this to persons who would dare limit the possible options of conduct and actions to be taken by Donald Trump in response to new facts brought to his attention, not “alternative facts.”
3
During the campaign Trump publicly invited the Russians to release Hilary's emails. One could pretend he was joking, but hey, isn't this the guy who "tells it like it is?" Why can't the video of him calling on the Russians to hack emails be used as clear evidence of collusion? The judge in Hawaii who blocked one of his travel bans used Trump's ugly campaign rhetoric as evidence of his intention to ban muslims. Why can't this be used as evidence of him intending to collude with a foreign power to help himself get elected?
1
Just an observation, but the Trump program and its so far consequences match my imaginings of exactly what Mr. Putin would want for America. Disarray and a total lack of confidence in our government.
6
I have read and heard that it's ridiculous to suggest that the firing of Comey would greatly affect an investigation already underway within the FBI. If this is true, then who at this paper will take responsibility for the misplaced fear that they have generated with their current, baseless narrative. I suppose it's naïve expect that this for-profit business would act according to ethical and professional standards over commercial interests.
3
Keep at it, NYT! This is why I subscribed.
5
Republicans in Congress and Senate, please note that your complicity, corruption, selfishness and greed, putting your career and party above country has reached a level unacceptable to most Americans.
The voters are watching your every action and they are going to end your political careers.
Time to develop a spine and demand a special prosecutor and a select committee outside of congress to get to the bottom of Russian interference in the election and the Trump, Russia connection.
The voters are watching your every action and they are going to end your political careers.
Time to develop a spine and demand a special prosecutor and a select committee outside of congress to get to the bottom of Russian interference in the election and the Trump, Russia connection.
6
Traitors occupy the White House and the leadership of the Republican party. They have no respect for the Constitution, the institutions of American democracy, or the people. The outcome is a permanently weakened America. Well played Putin.
5
Your logic: if anyone had any previous dealings with anyone in Russia for any reason and then years later work on the Trump campaign then they guilty of collusion and by implication so is Trump! This is not fake news, it's more like those articles about UFOs that appear on the internet. They take very circumstantial evidence and spin elaborate rationalization to prove UFOs exists. The NYT is doing the same thing. No wonder Trump hate the liberal press.
6
One might pause for a moment and acknowledge the sheer beauty of Russia's strategy and tactics.
Slipping in the Russian camera crew to the Oval Office was brilliantly executed, even if they failed to leave listening devices behind.
Slipping in the Russian camera crew to the Oval Office was brilliantly executed, even if they failed to leave listening devices behind.
2
If this investigation leads to impeachment proceedings against Trump, they should throw VP Pence into the mix as well. He is now helping to manage the administration's lies and cover up. It has been discovered that he lied about not knowing Flynn met with the Russians and about Comey's firing. Voters must demand that he pay whatever price his boss pays for deceiving the American people about election tampering.
6
I'm sorry that the Dems are trying to revive Russophobia in order to discredit Trump. One would think, from reading NYT and other media, that the US has never, ever tried to influence an election in a foreign country anywhere on the planet - that we have never "colluded". As for "the Russians" - did Russians fly planes into the twin towers on 9/11? Was Ben Laden Russian? I don't think so; in fact weren't Russians the ones originally fighting muslim extremists in Afghanistan? Are MS-13 and other gang members currently destroying neighborhoods across the country all Russians? Did Russians turn Detroit, Baltimore, Chicago, and New Orleans into war zones? What would be wrong with dealing with problems Americans are actually facing, rather than outdated fantasies?
5
"What would be wrong with dealing with problems Americans are actually facing, rather than outdated fantasies?"
Are you kidding? The number of subscription cancellations would be staggering...
Are you kidding? The number of subscription cancellations would be staggering...
1
me
Basically, its because M-13 aren't currently sitting in the Oval Office.
Basically, its because M-13 aren't currently sitting in the Oval Office.
Mr Trump has every right in the world to do business with Russian oligarchs and politicians. He has no right to lie about it. And mostly he has no business being our President.
He should resign in shame, say he realized this job was not for him, and let other following the next election round drain the swamp he created.
He should resign in shame, say he realized this job was not for him, and let other following the next election round drain the swamp he created.
3
Breaking news: Trump warned Comey not to leak. Because that's what any innocent man would be worried about, right?
At this point, Trump has thrown out about every "tell" there is that he, or maybe it's the son-in-law, are guilty of colluding with Russia. How many lies have been told by Trump, his spokespeople, Sessions, Flynn?? If Trump isn't afraid of what this investigation will uncover then he is the most incompetent innocent man in history.
At this point, Trump has thrown out about every "tell" there is that he, or maybe it's the son-in-law, are guilty of colluding with Russia. How many lies have been told by Trump, his spokespeople, Sessions, Flynn?? If Trump isn't afraid of what this investigation will uncover then he is the most incompetent innocent man in history.
3
Ann writes "At this point, Trump has thrown out about every "tell" there is ..."
Yes, the tells are also part of the Trump-Russia nexus. Trump is acting as we would expect a guilty person to act--in his case, somebody who is guilty of colluding with Russia.
Yes, the tells are also part of the Trump-Russia nexus. Trump is acting as we would expect a guilty person to act--in his case, somebody who is guilty of colluding with Russia.
I think you better be careful, NYT: all this "evidence" seems pretty thin. Odds are high that Trump could fire Comey with impunity, because he knows there's no real substance to "collusion-with-Russians". What is all this fake scandal hiding? Hint: EPA dismantle, tax law swindle, health care... is anybody watching what Congress is doing?
3
I've seen good coverage by the Times on all that. Just recently, the attempted roll back on limiting methane emissions was actually defeated. I'm stunned that the Republicans showed a little gumption there. There's hope yet. But we all know know about the severe cuts to the EPA budget and Pruitt's lack of enthusiasm about climate change. So it's all going downhill, but we know all that.
We know where things stand on the health care bill--the Senate is mulling the House disaster over. There will be plenty of coverage of that when the Senate actually does something. The laughable proposed tax law has been discussed at length, but nothing's been put out there to discuss further.
I have no trouble finding coverage on other topics besides Russia.
By the way, the Times is not presenting "evidence." We have two Congressional Investigations ongoing, not to mention the FBI investigation. They are looking at evidence. The Times is just summarizing what is known by people outside the government. Is this the tip of the iceberg or a big fizzle? That's the question--I wish Trump and his cohorts would just be honest about all this, but they just don't want to. It's sad, really. We used to have a great country here, and I don't mean way back when. I mean about six months ago.
We know where things stand on the health care bill--the Senate is mulling the House disaster over. There will be plenty of coverage of that when the Senate actually does something. The laughable proposed tax law has been discussed at length, but nothing's been put out there to discuss further.
I have no trouble finding coverage on other topics besides Russia.
By the way, the Times is not presenting "evidence." We have two Congressional Investigations ongoing, not to mention the FBI investigation. They are looking at evidence. The Times is just summarizing what is known by people outside the government. Is this the tip of the iceberg or a big fizzle? That's the question--I wish Trump and his cohorts would just be honest about all this, but they just don't want to. It's sad, really. We used to have a great country here, and I don't mean way back when. I mean about six months ago.
1
There is a disconnect with King Trump and Court (GOP), they do live in an alternate reality, one which they created. There is a Russian connection. Treason comes to mind, he actually meant a Russian diplomat one day after firing Comey. King Trump could not make a more clear statement, I'm King so shut up and let me continue to fleece America. The media is run by corporate moguls who don't care to investigate, why should they kill the golden goose. A government worker has to come out and do his/her duty. It is hard to do the right thing when King Trump could slash you to pieces because he has the power to do so. As Americans, we need to support whoever it is and step up as well. The world has been silent, they are waiting for us to remove a King who sneaks to his partner behind close doors while they enjoy a vodka on us.
The Republican hypocrisy in the air is palpable.
And it does not taste good.
And it does not taste good.
1
First, the idea of all these Russophiles randomly associating themselves with Trump is ludicrous. It seems likely that at least some of these people were recommended to Trump or his people by the Russians, who then recommended others. The KGB or its successor had likely infiltrated the Trump campaign. Why wouldn't we be concerned that they are also inside the government? Trump himself may be too stupid to figure this out and thus he rants.
Secondly, why continue to repeat the story that Flynn lied to Pence. We don't know what Flynn told Pence. Was that recorded? What is the source of that? Pence and Trump? They are not credible. It is entirely possible that Pence knew all about the Flynn meeting, particularly after Sally Yates warned the administration. Pence prevaricates with the best if them. Why give him credit for not knowing? More likely that he knew and lied.
Secondly, why continue to repeat the story that Flynn lied to Pence. We don't know what Flynn told Pence. Was that recorded? What is the source of that? Pence and Trump? They are not credible. It is entirely possible that Pence knew all about the Flynn meeting, particularly after Sally Yates warned the administration. Pence prevaricates with the best if them. Why give him credit for not knowing? More likely that he knew and lied.
Of these, I hope we learn more about Russian banks and Trump assets. I suspect these Russian assets include money laundered by Putin's clique of thieves.
3
If, indeed, the whole Russian thing has no basis in reality, at least now the Republicans and Trump can see what it is like to be on the receiving end of an unrelenting campaign to uncover a nonexistent scandal like the ones they waged against Hillary Clinton about Bengasi, her email server, and other matters. I say "let 'em have it"!
2
Oh, I know... but Hilary's emails...
3
Trump's nefarious dealings with both foreign and domestic powers have come under serious scrutiny for decades. We who reside in NYC, have been aware of this flimflam purveyor of schlock, have had his number for a long time. It is why we warned America and the world about this "crazy" loon passionately before the election, to no avail. The vote should not have been close. As reflected by the 65 to 35 vote for sanity in France, so should have been the results in the United States. It was not. Not stubborn Trumpets are honking their noisy horns about the entire news structure being fake. Sheer madness.
You vote for a madman, America, you get madness.
Good Luck.
DD
Manhattan
You vote for a madman, America, you get madness.
Good Luck.
DD
Manhattan
The EB is practicing irresponsible yellow journalism. Innuendo, inference, confabulation, connecting dots that are nothing more than dots that have no connection to anything other than .... nothing.
The EB offers no proof for any collusion between Trump's campaign and Russia.
You have nothing. If and when (doubtful) you have something please let us know.
Right now you are doing Putin's work for him comrades.
The EB offers no proof for any collusion between Trump's campaign and Russia.
You have nothing. If and when (doubtful) you have something please let us know.
Right now you are doing Putin's work for him comrades.
3
Spot on...
1
They are not connecting the dots, they are stating the dots. It's up to our congressional committees and the FBI that are reviewing actual evidence to connect the dots.
The investigations may all amount to nothing, just like the eternal inquisition into the ill-advised Clinton private email server amounted to nothing. We'll all just have to wait and see.
The investigations may all amount to nothing, just like the eternal inquisition into the ill-advised Clinton private email server amounted to nothing. We'll all just have to wait and see.
Why is no one looking at Steve Bannon in all this. Didn't he say he wanted to dismantle the federal system of government. What better way to do that than by having the president destroy the credibility of first the White House which in many ways is supposed to head the U.S. government and then tear down all the various departments in the Executive Branch by putting idiots or creatures from the swamp in charge of them. Next work hard at trying to discredit the News Mediaby alling them fake news. Also fire one of the few men of integrity who would not bow and scrape to him. After that completely ignore the Congress most of the time or make fools of them in the Rose Garden. Then for good measure tear down the Judicial Branch and play footsie with Russia who appears to have helped finance his Trump Empire according to his two sons. There has to be a master mind behind all this and it sure isn't Donald Trump. He has totally lost his mind. That leaves Steve Bannon, no one else in the White House has the brains or evil nature to plan all this. God help us if the Republicans don't wake up soon and do something about the destruction of our democracy.
4
Benedict Donald needed money and sold out the country for Russian cash. Impeach him then prosecute him. The charges are treason and obstruction of justice.
PROSECUTE RUSSIAGATE!
PROSECUTE RUSSIAGATE!
3
Note to GOP: stop defending DT. You all know he's crazy, stupid and probably treasonous in the pocket of Putin.
Move forward with a special prosecutor now. DT is going to be impeached at some point in time. Get ahead of it and try to fool your base you're actually a patriotic group. Ok- we know you're not- but just try to play the game.
Otherwise, you're all going down on the sinking DT ship of fools- it's only a matter of time.
Look at who he had in the Oval Office the other day... and barring any American press but allowing the Russian press in to take pictures. Reports say that the WH is furious that pictures of Trump and the Russian Foreign Minister and the very Ambassador in the center of the turmoil of all the DT campaign staff meetings ...DT invites these guys into the Oval Office because Putin requested this?
Now, DT is threatening Comey through tweets- just this morning? DT is insane and totally out of control.
Even the House of Cards writing staff couldn't make this stuff up.
You have enough to remove this crazy man from office.
You know if President Obama just did one thing that DT does on a daily basis, he would have been impeached within 24 hours.
Move forward with a special prosecutor now. DT is going to be impeached at some point in time. Get ahead of it and try to fool your base you're actually a patriotic group. Ok- we know you're not- but just try to play the game.
Otherwise, you're all going down on the sinking DT ship of fools- it's only a matter of time.
Look at who he had in the Oval Office the other day... and barring any American press but allowing the Russian press in to take pictures. Reports say that the WH is furious that pictures of Trump and the Russian Foreign Minister and the very Ambassador in the center of the turmoil of all the DT campaign staff meetings ...DT invites these guys into the Oval Office because Putin requested this?
Now, DT is threatening Comey through tweets- just this morning? DT is insane and totally out of control.
Even the House of Cards writing staff couldn't make this stuff up.
You have enough to remove this crazy man from office.
You know if President Obama just did one thing that DT does on a daily basis, he would have been impeached within 24 hours.
3
I've seen a bunch of stuff in my time but this takes the cake. The crooks, liars and traitors have taken over. We are all the worse and it is only just beginning. Join together and do not let it go on!
4
Little needs to be said about the craziness of the Trump presidency, at least so far. But combine this with the Russophobic hysteria in the U.S., which existed well before Trump took office, and the situation borders on insanity. Are there are any cool heads? Certainly not the mainstream media which, including this newspaper, just seem to feed the nuttiness. Certainly it is understandable that people are concerned about Trump as the leader of the free world, although he was elected, but does anyone question the wisdom of using a "soft on Russia" label to try to destroy his presidency? Does anyone question who is benefiting from the use of such labels? It is time to get rid of my matryoshka dolls!
3
I'm going to keep repeating this; As Rep. Cummings said this morning; "We can not let one man destroy our democracy."
1
Here are some more reasons why we need a special prosecutor:
President Trump used to dine at the Russian Tea Room in New York.
He likes Beluga caviar.
He married two women form Eastern Europe.
He likes to listen to Tsiolkovsky's 1812 Overture.
Do I need to add any more reasons?
President Trump used to dine at the Russian Tea Room in New York.
He likes Beluga caviar.
He married two women form Eastern Europe.
He likes to listen to Tsiolkovsky's 1812 Overture.
Do I need to add any more reasons?
4
Eric:
You missed some.
1. Confidential restaurant sources claim that Trump has occasionally used Russian dressing.
2. According to reliable White House insiders, Trump is known to sometimes “rush in” to meetings.
3. Trump often wears red ties or blue ties with a white dress shirt. All three colors are on the Russian flag, so Trump is clearly signaling his allegiance to Russia.
These alone justify investigations.
You missed some.
1. Confidential restaurant sources claim that Trump has occasionally used Russian dressing.
2. According to reliable White House insiders, Trump is known to sometimes “rush in” to meetings.
3. Trump often wears red ties or blue ties with a white dress shirt. All three colors are on the Russian flag, so Trump is clearly signaling his allegiance to Russia.
These alone justify investigations.
2
When Mr. Trump asked Director Comey for his "loyalty" I thought immediately of MaConnell and Ryan. Their blind loyalty to Trump put America in the most dire of danger of our destruction.
3
What about Trump getting the GOP to soften its language on Ukraine in its party platform on Russia's behalf?
How limp are GOP values. What pathetic hypocrites they are about behavior that would have led them to hold nonstop hearings and vote for impeachment had Hillary Clinton done any of this. But when it might get in the way of their big agenda to give tax breaks to the rich they just shrug their shoulders and say, what's the big fuss?
http://talkingpointsmemo.com/dc/jd-gordon-change-story-gop-platform-ukra...
How limp are GOP values. What pathetic hypocrites they are about behavior that would have led them to hold nonstop hearings and vote for impeachment had Hillary Clinton done any of this. But when it might get in the way of their big agenda to give tax breaks to the rich they just shrug their shoulders and say, what's the big fuss?
http://talkingpointsmemo.com/dc/jd-gordon-change-story-gop-platform-ukra...
2
Sherry Jones writes, "What about Trump getting the GOP to soften its language on Ukraine in its party platform on Russia's behalf?"
Yes, changing the GOP platform to favor Russia is certainly part of the circumstantial evidence, and should be included in the Trump-Russia nexus.
Yes, changing the GOP platform to favor Russia is certainly part of the circumstantial evidence, and should be included in the Trump-Russia nexus.
Impeach!
2
I find it infuriating that as a citizen, there is nothing I can do but watch my country sink deeper into the mud under Donald Trump's feet.
I've written countless letters to my representatives, all Republicans, and the reply is always a "Thank you for your interest...." or "We're delighted with our progress...." piece of canned garbage, assuming I get a reply at all. I envision each these Trump-toadies having their own fawning staff of sub-toadies that read their mail and carefully weed out anything that isn't positive and flattering. The only interests they are representing are their own.
Putin and his team of Russian hackers gave us Donald and his tight little circle of family and friends. Thanks for nothing. Now the question is, who is going to help with the exorcism?
I've written countless letters to my representatives, all Republicans, and the reply is always a "Thank you for your interest...." or "We're delighted with our progress...." piece of canned garbage, assuming I get a reply at all. I envision each these Trump-toadies having their own fawning staff of sub-toadies that read their mail and carefully weed out anything that isn't positive and flattering. The only interests they are representing are their own.
Putin and his team of Russian hackers gave us Donald and his tight little circle of family and friends. Thanks for nothing. Now the question is, who is going to help with the exorcism?
2
This just shows how out of control our country has become, to be honest I don't see any difference between the people going crazy over "pizzagate" and this and that's crazy didn't think anyone could get as bad as those conspiracy theorists. Can't believe I am even saying this, the paper of record is basing this "nexus" on a Miss Universe pageant, and Roger Stone's twitter messages??
3
Old saying:
"He that sups with the devil needs a long spoon." Yes. Very long.
Their spoon wasn't long enough. Sorry, guys.
"He that sups with the devil needs a long spoon." Yes. Very long.
Their spoon wasn't long enough. Sorry, guys.
1
If this was a democrat, the GOP leaders would have already impeached him or her. Probably would have cried traitor in December, and had the election tossed out in January. If it had been Obama, he'd be in prison. Hillary they would have stoned. If they were honest, they would admit that there are two standards: one for GOP/FOX & Friends, and one for the others
2
A report by our national intelligence services tells us that Putin wants to cast doubt on the legitimacy of democracy. Every day during the campaign Trump yelled about a rigged electoral system. Is this simply a coincidence?
Trump is either in cahoots with Putin or he is simply a useful idiot. Either way, we need a meaningful check on his power.
VOTE AGAINST ALL REPUBLICANS!!!
If we lose our country in little incremental steps, We the People will be to blame, not Trump the flim-flam man, not craven contemptible political hack Mitch McConnell, and not 2009 inauguration night conspirator Paul Ryan.
This is OUR country.
Trump is either in cahoots with Putin or he is simply a useful idiot. Either way, we need a meaningful check on his power.
VOTE AGAINST ALL REPUBLICANS!!!
If we lose our country in little incremental steps, We the People will be to blame, not Trump the flim-flam man, not craven contemptible political hack Mitch McConnell, and not 2009 inauguration night conspirator Paul Ryan.
This is OUR country.
2
At the heart of the controversy is Russia's need to have the sanctions lifted. If a side effect of their efforts causes a constitutional crisis in the US, that's a plus for them. If we elect a mentally ill president who surrounds himself with criminals and idiots, that's the icing on their cake. FOLLOW THE MONEY!
2
The Trump Team are, in the words of Stalin, the "Useful Idiots".
Millions were spent by Russia to flood internet message boards with propaganda which swayed votes.
Yet Trump and company, take offense at any slighting of their "massive" victory. The thin skin of the administration is the major obstacle to addressing this foreign assault. All democracies are vulnerable. It is the Administrations delusion, not collusion that is the problem.
Millions were spent by Russia to flood internet message boards with propaganda which swayed votes.
Yet Trump and company, take offense at any slighting of their "massive" victory. The thin skin of the administration is the major obstacle to addressing this foreign assault. All democracies are vulnerable. It is the Administrations delusion, not collusion that is the problem.
2
As the Yiddish proverb says, "If one many says you are a horse, ignore him. If two say you are a horse, think about it. If three say you are a horse, get a saddle." We're way past saddle time with the Trump-Russia connections.
The board should have used one of those pictures of the president* yucking it up with two of his handlers taken in the WH on Wednesday by Russian cameramen.
2
I can't help but come back to the oh so obvious fact that it's Russia, always Russia. The unreported meetings are always with Russians. Never with say, the Chines or Iran? The telephone calls picked up by the IC are always with Russians. The IC monitors calls with all of our enemies - not one with any other potential opponent?
The business deals and businesses and loans and speeches and dinners and payments are all (except one Turkey in there) with Russia.
The spies they meet with tweet with - knowingly or not - are Russian spies. Doesn't any other rogue country have spies here trying to meet with our guys?
Whose Ambassadors do Trumps people "forget" they met with? The huge and formidable and bigger than life one from - wait for it - Russia?
It's six degrees or less every single time.
As the old saying goes, I was born at night but not last night. No thinking person - heck, no breathing person - can look at the totality and not conclude that there most definitely IS a there there.
The business deals and businesses and loans and speeches and dinners and payments are all (except one Turkey in there) with Russia.
The spies they meet with tweet with - knowingly or not - are Russian spies. Doesn't any other rogue country have spies here trying to meet with our guys?
Whose Ambassadors do Trumps people "forget" they met with? The huge and formidable and bigger than life one from - wait for it - Russia?
It's six degrees or less every single time.
As the old saying goes, I was born at night but not last night. No thinking person - heck, no breathing person - can look at the totality and not conclude that there most definitely IS a there there.
OK, now, to prove that you're not just a bunch of hacks for the DNC, go through the Clinton's (and their known associates and co-conspirators) relationships over the years with anything connected to Russia, and produce a similarly thorough analysis.
You can start with the uranium deal.
3
For starters Michael Flynn was caught on tape talking to the Russian Ambassador about lifting sanctions this is while Obama was the sitting president that makes it a crime. James Comey is a lifelong Republican. This is not a Democrat Witch Hunt. Wake up!
Mr Trump confirmed that what Comey tweeted is true when he warned Comey not to leak any tapes if they exist.
Now we know if tapes exist they confirm Comey's version rather than Trump's. Otherwise Trump would have said I hope there are tales to prove Comey is lying. No need for the tapes any more, now that Trump showed he is fearful of what may be in them. This latest Trump tweet is as damning as the 18 1/2 minutes missing Nixon's tape.
Now we know if tapes exist they confirm Comey's version rather than Trump's. Otherwise Trump would have said I hope there are tales to prove Comey is lying. No need for the tapes any more, now that Trump showed he is fearful of what may be in them. This latest Trump tweet is as damning as the 18 1/2 minutes missing Nixon's tape.
why arewe waiting to start impeachement proceedings? has the water not crossed the red line already?? I think the media and the public needs to exert more pressure on the real problem in this situation, namely the Republicans. Their refusal to see what is in plain sight is shameful at the least and treasonous at the worst.
I just don't see how any American could believe that Trump's run for president was anything other than the next big real estate gambit on behalf of his "empire."
Maybe it's that I'm a New Yorker, and New Yorkers have for decades been on to Trump's greasy, grasping fingers. And such gilded dreck he builds!
He promsed Americans the moon, and they gave him golf courses and spas in perpetuity. Because I'm afraid that, now that we've effectually nullified our system of checks and balances, he'll be our president until apoplexy strikes him. And then there'll be Jared.
Maybe it's that I'm a New Yorker, and New Yorkers have for decades been on to Trump's greasy, grasping fingers. And such gilded dreck he builds!
He promsed Americans the moon, and they gave him golf courses and spas in perpetuity. Because I'm afraid that, now that we've effectually nullified our system of checks and balances, he'll be our president until apoplexy strikes him. And then there'll be Jared.
If Mrs. Clinton had won the election, and it was discovered that her staff had had numerous meetings with Russians, and it was proved that the Russians had tried to influence the election for her benefit, do you think the GOP would be silent and non-caring about those events?
Actually, I think that nothing would have happened as all their heads would have exploded from their hysteria and concern.
Actually, I think that nothing would have happened as all their heads would have exploded from their hysteria and concern.
6
That's just it; far too few seem to care about the credibility of the electoral process when their side wins.
Republicans are in control and the vast majority don't care if members of the Trump canpaign colluded with the Russians or not, so long as they can maintain their power and push through their agenda.
Presumably the voters don't care either; support for Trump and the Republicans' seems as steady as ever.
So far as I'm concerned, they should all put their flags away and forgo observing the Fourth of July; they have forfeited all pretense at patriotism.
Republicans are in control and the vast majority don't care if members of the Trump canpaign colluded with the Russians or not, so long as they can maintain their power and push through their agenda.
Presumably the voters don't care either; support for Trump and the Republicans' seems as steady as ever.
So far as I'm concerned, they should all put their flags away and forgo observing the Fourth of July; they have forfeited all pretense at patriotism.
1
Until and unless even a small bit of truth, honesty, and commitment to the United States of America shows up in the Republican Party--something that's not likely since they have been lying at least since 1964-65--we are in very, very deep trouble.
4
There are many other things we know about Trump/Russia connections. We know Trump and his companies have been linked to at least 10 wealthy former Soviet businessmen with alleged ties to criminal organizations or money laundering. We also know that the US Treasury agency, known as FinCEN, imposed a $10 million civil penalty on Trump Taj Mahal in 2015 for multiple violations of money-laundering laws. Your editorial is weak tea compared to what is publicly known about Trump-Russia connections that put into question Trump's ability to be objective when making decisions about US policy toward Russia, including sanctions policy intended to check Russia's takeover of Crimea, invasion of Ukraine, and interference in US and other democratic countries' elections.
5
Exactly. The question of "collusion" is a side issue compared to the titanic weight of conflicts of interest, all of which are a matter of public record. Even if you considered them "smart" practice in a private businessman they are unprecedentedly compromising and disqualifying in a president--the attempts by the Right to cobble anything like this out of the Clinton Foundation or speech honoraria are laughably out of scale. And most of it was known before the election, and yet the Republicans nominate him anyway and now do his bidding. As if "great" were a synonym for "banana republic."
"Anyone who cares about the credibility of the American electoral process..." So many Republicans in powerful places don't seem to care. They continue to support the inconsistencies and falsehoods coming from the Trump Whitehouse. I have no hope that they will put country over party and their own selfish agendas in order to conduct a thorough investigation. It is hard to know who is worse. Trump or the people who continue to protect and enable him.
2
The NYTimes Editorial Board writes: "The world would know much more about Mr. Trump’s foreign partnerships if he had released his tax returns . . . ."
"The Donald" promised that he would release his tax returns. He also said that he always keeps his promises.
It is time for him to fulfill this promise. And, the American public should demand that he do so, now.
"The Donald" promised that he would release his tax returns. He also said that he always keeps his promises.
It is time for him to fulfill this promise. And, the American public should demand that he do so, now.
4
Mr. Trump has earned our mistrust by refusing to release his tax returns and to divest himself from his global business empire. If he has nothing to hide, he could easily make questions about his Russian financial connections to go away by releasing his tax returns. The only way for him to prove he is not subject to conflicting interests is for him to divest. Until both of these things happen, he cannot be trusted.
4
Here is what we know about the alleged Trump - Russian connection: There is no direct evidence of collusion on the part of Trump personally, or any of his aides or campaign staffers. There is a lot of innuendo & suspicion based upon odd & quirky coincidences as depicted by the NYT. There is enough suspicion for relevant authorities to begin conducting thorough, non-political investigations (i.e. Senate Ethics Committee & FBI). These investigations are on-going but no where close to completion.
Trump fires the head of the FBI, which is currently conducting a criminal investigation into these alleged ties, and does so without any notice entirely on his own volition. Trump's behavior in defending his innocence of any collusion with Russia seems oddly and bizarrely defensive and personal. An innocent person would probably not be so defensive when faced with these allegations. Trump's personal behavior of late and his numerous tweets have become ever more quirky & indefensible, contradicting close aides and even his own Vice President. Trump's behavior is now so unpresidential as to distract from the real issues and achievements that he is trying to accomplish. What are we, the public to think about all this? If there is nothing to the allegations, why all the bizarre and defensive behavior?
Trump fires the head of the FBI, which is currently conducting a criminal investigation into these alleged ties, and does so without any notice entirely on his own volition. Trump's behavior in defending his innocence of any collusion with Russia seems oddly and bizarrely defensive and personal. An innocent person would probably not be so defensive when faced with these allegations. Trump's personal behavior of late and his numerous tweets have become ever more quirky & indefensible, contradicting close aides and even his own Vice President. Trump's behavior is now so unpresidential as to distract from the real issues and achievements that he is trying to accomplish. What are we, the public to think about all this? If there is nothing to the allegations, why all the bizarre and defensive behavior?
1
I continue to be both mystified and appalled that the GOP officials in Congress are refusing to support an independent investigation of the Trump-Russia connection. Why? What are they afraid of? If there is nothing there there, that would be revealed, and it would be clearly a non-partisan conclusion. Case closed and we all move on. If there is something there, and Trump has to leave the WH, then GOP officials will get Pence as president, and he will try to implement all the same far right policies that Trump is pushing. The GOP would not suffer at all in this case. So there is no risk to having an independent investigation and much to gain.
Is it maybe that they're afraid of Trump's so-called base? Well, Trump's popularity now is lower than Nixon's was at a comparable stage of the Watergate investigation, and the GOP then was willing to risk alienating Nixon's supporters to do the right thing for the country. And keep in mind that the hard-core Trump supporters make up maybe a quarter of the US adult population.
So what is going on? Is there some other reason behind Ryan/McConnell/Pence stonewalling a non-partisan quest for truth, when they have everything to gain and nothing to lose? Are they perhaps on some level involved? The longer they obstruct an independent quest for the truth, the more questions it raises.
I am hopeful the truth will eventually come out. And those who blocked and covered for the miscreants will be held accountable also.
Is it maybe that they're afraid of Trump's so-called base? Well, Trump's popularity now is lower than Nixon's was at a comparable stage of the Watergate investigation, and the GOP then was willing to risk alienating Nixon's supporters to do the right thing for the country. And keep in mind that the hard-core Trump supporters make up maybe a quarter of the US adult population.
So what is going on? Is there some other reason behind Ryan/McConnell/Pence stonewalling a non-partisan quest for truth, when they have everything to gain and nothing to lose? Are they perhaps on some level involved? The longer they obstruct an independent quest for the truth, the more questions it raises.
I am hopeful the truth will eventually come out. And those who blocked and covered for the miscreants will be held accountable also.
6
It would be helpful and interesting if the NYT could run some sort of background or primer piece on what types of communication would constitute collusion. This is a relatively arcane area of law, dealing with elections and foreign powers, so I'd bet few people would know what that smoking gun could or would look like, or what that article of evidence might be.
3
"The world would know much more about Mr. Trump’s foreign partnerships if he had released his tax returns.."
More rank silliness about releasing tax returns.
Trump's tax returns should be reviewed by professionals at the FBI, DOJ, Treasury Dept., and Congress as part of their investigation. There is no reason to believe this isn't happening.
If the investigators determine malfeasance, then they can provide the evidence from the tax returns. If they do not determine malfeasance, of course, there is no need for them to disclose the returns.
In either case, there is absolutely no need/right to release the tax returns to the general public.
More rank silliness about releasing tax returns.
Trump's tax returns should be reviewed by professionals at the FBI, DOJ, Treasury Dept., and Congress as part of their investigation. There is no reason to believe this isn't happening.
If the investigators determine malfeasance, then they can provide the evidence from the tax returns. If they do not determine malfeasance, of course, there is no need for them to disclose the returns.
In either case, there is absolutely no need/right to release the tax returns to the general public.
2
Many Democrats, including Senator Schiff and Senator Feinstein, have said there is no evidence. So where's the beef?
Dems better watch out. Their bluff will be called and he will win another 4 years.
Dems better watch out. Their bluff will be called and he will win another 4 years.
3
If Mr. Trump were innocent, he would welcome a thorough and rapid inquiry into his relationship with Russia, since it would clear his name once and for all. The same is true of the release of his tax returns. In both cases, he behaves exactly the way a guilty person would behave, and as a result, it is obvious to everyone that he is hiding something. In light of that fact, the behavior of the Republicans in Congress is appalling. By refusing to demand the release of his tax returns, refusing to appoint an independent commission to investigate the Russia affair, refusing to challenge Trump’s interference in the present investigation, they are tacitly complicit in his misdeeds, whatever they are.
3
Hispanics can be of any race or any mixture of races. Actress Cameron Diaz is Hispanic. As of 2010, 50.5 million or 16.3% of Americans identified as Hispanic or Latino. Of those, 26.7 million, or 53%, also identified as white. Hispanics account for most of the nation’s population growth. This is why the white population is growing, not shrinking. However, it seems unlikely that we will still distinguish Hispanics from non-Hispanics by mid-century. Native-born Hispanics now outnumber foreign born Hispanics. By mid-century, they will outnumber foreign-born Hispanics by an overwhelming margins. Intermarriage between white Hispanics and non-Hispanics whites is becoming as much the rule as the exception in our most populous states—California and Texas. Actress Cameron Diaz is Hispanic.
Many unknowns may remain, but there's little doubt that something is wrong here, otherwise Trump wouldn't be going through so many contortions to keep the investigation of his involvement with Russia from going on.
So far, numerous members of both his administration and nepotist inner circle have been found to have lied about their discussions with various Russian authorities during the course of Trump's presidential campaign -- And now the head of the FBI, James Comey, is suddenly dismissed for doing his job by asking for more information to continue the investigation.
Aside from the Russian money-trail, and cyber-attacks, which have already been proven -- "something rotten is in the state" of the United States.
And it's time that it's brought into the light.
So far, numerous members of both his administration and nepotist inner circle have been found to have lied about their discussions with various Russian authorities during the course of Trump's presidential campaign -- And now the head of the FBI, James Comey, is suddenly dismissed for doing his job by asking for more information to continue the investigation.
Aside from the Russian money-trail, and cyber-attacks, which have already been proven -- "something rotten is in the state" of the United States.
And it's time that it's brought into the light.
3
The story here is just how low Donald Trump is willing to go to come out on top. His actions support the thesis that he would be willing to accept help from the Russians.
2
I fear in the president's rantings a sense of desperation -- a cat cornered, arching its back and ready to lash out as The Truth homes in.
Why so worried? Why the lashing? Why the feeling of being cornered?
This is classic animal biology. We will find out Trump himself agreed to if not masterminded the Russian incursion into the 2016 election -- long before Bannon or Kellyanne joined his team. We will find out that Trump, in effect, made a deal with Russian mobsters. We will find out that Flynn or Stone or Manafort in some way played his point men with Moscow.
This depth of corruption at the highest level of our government is only surpassed by the surfeit of Republican Congressional representatives' passive complicity in it.
Truth will win. It may be some honorable members of the FBI. It may be some courageous members of the press. It may be McCain or Warner. Maybe all of them. This time Truth will win.
Why so worried? Why the lashing? Why the feeling of being cornered?
This is classic animal biology. We will find out Trump himself agreed to if not masterminded the Russian incursion into the 2016 election -- long before Bannon or Kellyanne joined his team. We will find out that Trump, in effect, made a deal with Russian mobsters. We will find out that Flynn or Stone or Manafort in some way played his point men with Moscow.
This depth of corruption at the highest level of our government is only surpassed by the surfeit of Republican Congressional representatives' passive complicity in it.
Truth will win. It may be some honorable members of the FBI. It may be some courageous members of the press. It may be McCain or Warner. Maybe all of them. This time Truth will win.
4
So this morning Trump threatened the FBI Director that he just fired. The investigation is closing in on him just like it did on Nixon.. A cornered animal can be very dangerous. Trump presents a very real danger to our safety. Congress must step up the pace of their inquiries and bring the investigations to a swift conclusion, letting the facts determine if the stench of treason emanating from the White House is real or if it is something we are going to have to live with for four years. The current situation where Trump twists in the wind makes our country very unstable and weak in he eyes of our adversaries.
4
Jay writes: "So until the FBI finishes its investigation, everyone should just calm down. If something turns up, that's a different story."
Jay, the uproar is not about an assumed conclusion from the investigation, it is about the relentless efforts by Trump and sycophants to prevent or disparage the investigation.
Their excuses change daily and are transparently false.
As the quote goes: "The lady doth protest too much."
If there is nothing to hide, why the great effort at concealment?
Jay, the uproar is not about an assumed conclusion from the investigation, it is about the relentless efforts by Trump and sycophants to prevent or disparage the investigation.
Their excuses change daily and are transparently false.
As the quote goes: "The lady doth protest too much."
If there is nothing to hide, why the great effort at concealment?
6
We need to take special note of all the Republican Congressmen and women that are supporting and defending Trump's every move......they are equally complicit in any wrongdoing he will later be found to have done. Just as his interests are clearly not America's interests, anyone who is not actively defying his anti American agenda should be considered in favor of actions against the American people. The goal of the resistance at this point should be to keep the pressure on, not relent to his whining about the media, and make sure that by 2018, not only should Trump be impeached and removed from office, but all of his milquetoast accomplishes in government are voted out of office.
It is hard to watch this circus through the eyes of the Times and the rest of the "Main Stream Media" described by the President as authors of "Fake News." It simply defies logic that this unpresidential, unprepared and unqualified individual was elected by this country and continues to behave in office as he does, with utter disregard of his office and the law.
And yet, a passing look at Fox News, the real origin of Faux News, distortion and untruths reveals how Americans (nearly 50 percent of those who cast votes regardless of how you characterize it) continue to be conned by the Don. Right wing reality, fed and spun by Fox, is simply different. All of the news about Comey, the Russians etc. is presented in a very different way through right wing media. A Fox diet feeds and leads to a different world view, particularly for those primed to believe the unbelievable.
So NY Times, your job is to reach Fox' viewership and get through with the facts. It is not enough to educate the readers/viewers of Main Stream Media. You have to find a way to out fox Fox.
Please. Our country needs you.
And yet, a passing look at Fox News, the real origin of Faux News, distortion and untruths reveals how Americans (nearly 50 percent of those who cast votes regardless of how you characterize it) continue to be conned by the Don. Right wing reality, fed and spun by Fox, is simply different. All of the news about Comey, the Russians etc. is presented in a very different way through right wing media. A Fox diet feeds and leads to a different world view, particularly for those primed to believe the unbelievable.
So NY Times, your job is to reach Fox' viewership and get through with the facts. It is not enough to educate the readers/viewers of Main Stream Media. You have to find a way to out fox Fox.
Please. Our country needs you.
1
"So NY Times, your job is to reach Fox' viewership and get through with the facts."
John, there are no 'facts' here, just innuendo and supposition. The NYT and its readers hate, fear and distrust Trump - that is driving this whole thing.
Facts? Right, we have different groups investigating this 'collusion'... let's wait and see what the facts are. The difficulty here is that if these investigations conclude that there is no malfeasance, NYT and its readers will decry the results.
You don't really care about facts. Neither did some Republicans about Obama, who regarded him alternately as a monster, a fool or traitor. Sound familiar? Look in the mirror, John.
John, there are no 'facts' here, just innuendo and supposition. The NYT and its readers hate, fear and distrust Trump - that is driving this whole thing.
Facts? Right, we have different groups investigating this 'collusion'... let's wait and see what the facts are. The difficulty here is that if these investigations conclude that there is no malfeasance, NYT and its readers will decry the results.
You don't really care about facts. Neither did some Republicans about Obama, who regarded him alternately as a monster, a fool or traitor. Sound familiar? Look in the mirror, John.
2
The Times have given us an updated look at how members of Trump's campaign, including his son-in-law, found common cause with America's geopolitical arch-enemy, Russia. Sadly, due to the president's insistence on firing those empowered to direct the Russia-gate investigation, and the reluctance of many Republicans in Congress, we are months away from learning what (if any) the nature of the Trump-Russia connection is.
Is the investigation a distraction? Absolutely. But, while the president insists that "...this Russia thing with Trump and Russia is a made up story...", and given his proven penchant for lying, how can we accept at face value that his interpretation is correct? If the intelligence agencies were wrong (remember that, from the onset of his administration, the president worked mightily to discredit them), why not let their investigative work play out to complete the embarrassment?
The slowness of the unfolding investigations, producing evermore smoke on a daily basis, does not mean that there is no fire; it merely means that, at this point in time, the smoke is too dense to see its true source.
The president's best course of action, one that actively mitigates his appearance of guilt, is to let the investigations run their course -- without interference. Absent that, each firing, each attempt to manipulate or intimidate law enforcement authorities, adds fuel to the fire that now appears certain to be revealed when the smoke clears.
Is the investigation a distraction? Absolutely. But, while the president insists that "...this Russia thing with Trump and Russia is a made up story...", and given his proven penchant for lying, how can we accept at face value that his interpretation is correct? If the intelligence agencies were wrong (remember that, from the onset of his administration, the president worked mightily to discredit them), why not let their investigative work play out to complete the embarrassment?
The slowness of the unfolding investigations, producing evermore smoke on a daily basis, does not mean that there is no fire; it merely means that, at this point in time, the smoke is too dense to see its true source.
The president's best course of action, one that actively mitigates his appearance of guilt, is to let the investigations run their course -- without interference. Absent that, each firing, each attempt to manipulate or intimidate law enforcement authorities, adds fuel to the fire that now appears certain to be revealed when the smoke clears.
3
The fact that Comey wanted resources to greatly expand the investigation into collusion between the Trump campaign and Russia says it all. Trump has tried to obstruct this investigation at every turn. From the firing of Comey and Yates, to the Devin Nunes escapades to the ludicrous Obama wire-tapping claims. This has been a massive cover up and obstruction attempt since day 1 of this unfortunate and tragic presidency. It's Trump versus the constitution. I hope and pray the constitution prevails.
1
"...the fact that Comey wanted resources..."
But what if that's not a "fact"?
Andrew McCabe, the acting Director, testified that not only was he “not aware” of such a request but that the FBI makes resource requests to Congress, not the Office of the Attorney General, as claimed by the Times and WaPo. Furthermore, Additionally, McCabe testified that he believes the U.S.-Russia investigation is already “adequately resourced.”
We know that doesn't fit the Times' narrative, but then the truth seldom does. Incidentally, McCabe is a Democrat. And his wife is a Democratic politico in Virginia whose fundraising tactics during here unsuccessful run for a state senate seat have been questioned... But maybe you already knew that...
But what if that's not a "fact"?
Andrew McCabe, the acting Director, testified that not only was he “not aware” of such a request but that the FBI makes resource requests to Congress, not the Office of the Attorney General, as claimed by the Times and WaPo. Furthermore, Additionally, McCabe testified that he believes the U.S.-Russia investigation is already “adequately resourced.”
We know that doesn't fit the Times' narrative, but then the truth seldom does. Incidentally, McCabe is a Democrat. And his wife is a Democratic politico in Virginia whose fundraising tactics during here unsuccessful run for a state senate seat have been questioned... But maybe you already knew that...
Many commenters seem to have reached the same conclusion I did: The Times' effort to show "what we know" shows just the opposite: We don't know much of anything -- it's all just speculation. Maybe something will turn up, but that hasn't happened yet.
By all means -- investigate, investigate, investigate.
Most Americans agree on that, and will be quite upset at even a hint of White House interference with any FBI, Senate, House or other investigation. But no one has reported any hint of interference so far. Nor has anyone reported any evidence. All we have so far is what we've always had: Entirely unsupported allegations that Trump conspired with Putin to steal the election from Clinton. The Times' diligent but unsuccessful effort to list supporting evidence merely highlights that.
By all means -- investigate, investigate, investigate.
Most Americans agree on that, and will be quite upset at even a hint of White House interference with any FBI, Senate, House or other investigation. But no one has reported any hint of interference so far. Nor has anyone reported any evidence. All we have so far is what we've always had: Entirely unsupported allegations that Trump conspired with Putin to steal the election from Clinton. The Times' diligent but unsuccessful effort to list supporting evidence merely highlights that.
3
That's why both houses of Congress and the FBI are doing investigations. They are the ones looking at actual evidence. The times is just listing issues. That's all. Actually, I'm glad they wrote this editorial. There's so many different areas of investigation it's hard to keep track of it all, and I think they have missed a few. Back when Adam Schiff opened the House investigation he mentioned some eyebrow raising alterations to the Republican platform concerning providing arms to Ukraine.
I always invite people to read the opening remarks by Adam Schiff at the commencement of the House investigation. He did a great job laying it all out.
http://time.com/4706721/comey-hearing-adam-schiff-transcript/
I always invite people to read the opening remarks by Adam Schiff at the commencement of the House investigation. He did a great job laying it all out.
http://time.com/4706721/comey-hearing-adam-schiff-transcript/
HE is Nixon, without the intelligence, charm or morals. Seriously.
2
Now The Con Don is threatening to stop "press briefings" and is busy admitting his hate-radio-social media operatives into OUR White House. Many people have commented that his "supporters" won't pay any attention.
They paid attention when O'Reilly was fired from fox so-called news. They need a BIG, LOUD wake-up call in the tone they are used to hearing. How about this attached to every news article like this and e-mailed/tweeted to everyone you know? Eventually it will get down to the bottom of the barrel where his advocates dwell in their caves.
#heytrumpdummies you have been conned. Stop being so stupid. Read this.
The New York Times and Reuters News Agency have been around since the 1800s. Compare that with fox so-called news - the hate-anger-fear-war LIES, LIES, LIES vehicle of choice - launched on October 7, 1996.
Hate radio (now called i heart radio) is owned by Mitt Romney's Bain Associates and was previously Clear Channel. Anyone can to to Wikipedia and look it up.
Bottom line - a very few very wealthy insatiably greedy people are trying to destroy democracy in America - and the world - and start WW3. They want OUR kids and grandkids as their war fodder. Will WE allow it?
Not me. Not now. Not ever.
WE have the votes and numbers to stop them if we work together. It is the only way. No one else is going to save us. Every single one of us must pick the one thing we value most about democracy and fight like hell to stop them and save it.
NOW!
They paid attention when O'Reilly was fired from fox so-called news. They need a BIG, LOUD wake-up call in the tone they are used to hearing. How about this attached to every news article like this and e-mailed/tweeted to everyone you know? Eventually it will get down to the bottom of the barrel where his advocates dwell in their caves.
#heytrumpdummies you have been conned. Stop being so stupid. Read this.
The New York Times and Reuters News Agency have been around since the 1800s. Compare that with fox so-called news - the hate-anger-fear-war LIES, LIES, LIES vehicle of choice - launched on October 7, 1996.
Hate radio (now called i heart radio) is owned by Mitt Romney's Bain Associates and was previously Clear Channel. Anyone can to to Wikipedia and look it up.
Bottom line - a very few very wealthy insatiably greedy people are trying to destroy democracy in America - and the world - and start WW3. They want OUR kids and grandkids as their war fodder. Will WE allow it?
Not me. Not now. Not ever.
WE have the votes and numbers to stop them if we work together. It is the only way. No one else is going to save us. Every single one of us must pick the one thing we value most about democracy and fight like hell to stop them and save it.
NOW!
6
Funny I seem to remember that Podesta gave his password away to allow this? Maybe he is the one they should look at as colluding with the Russians. Or maybe Bill Clinton did it for another big payout to him and the foundation from the Russians. All just a scam because the Dems lost so they need to blame somebody. Never seen anyone in that party take responsibility for there actions. They all need to get over the Trump derangement syndrome and get on with their life!
The Times may not enjoy the largest circulation in New York City. It still is a meaningful operation. The Trumpster's base of operations has been in the city for 40 years. The fact the Times published nothing about a Russian connection before the 2016 election speaks to incredibly poor reporting. Either that, or it is making things up today.
Add to your list:
Systematic Russian attempts to subvert democracies worldwide. When you combine that pattern of interference with your list of individuals, the need for a smoking gun evaporates...
The desire for further evidence is based on a crutch of denial, not for a lack of hard evidence.
Systematic Russian attempts to subvert democracies worldwide. When you combine that pattern of interference with your list of individuals, the need for a smoking gun evaporates...
The desire for further evidence is based on a crutch of denial, not for a lack of hard evidence.
2
Russian interference, yes. But at Trump's behest? No. And you suggest no need for "hard evidence "? Goo idea. Let's just go after people we suspect of wrongdoing.
The swamp Trump promised to drain becomes murkier as we slog along with this failing administration.
2
"Here is a partial accounting of the connections we do know something about."
What nonsense! Innuendo wrapped in the folds of partisan political narrative and peddled to the gullible as fact... Joe McCarthy's shade must be smiling... It's not hard to do.
For example, here are some connections with Russia that we all can be absolutely certain about. The Times has a Moscow Bureau... Good lord! Furthermore, it's staffed by a real live Russian, Ivan Nechepurenko. My god, what can this mean? Are we to infer that New York Times and all of its left wing editorial staff, op-ed pundits, reporters, and worst of all the publisher himself are beholden to Russia? That is frightening! And get this: Nechepurenko reportedly "collaborates" with a Russian think tank... And to make things even more threatening to our Republic, the Washington Post also has a Moscow Bureau...Oh woe unto us! The nexus is clear... Who can we trust?
What nonsense! Innuendo wrapped in the folds of partisan political narrative and peddled to the gullible as fact... Joe McCarthy's shade must be smiling... It's not hard to do.
For example, here are some connections with Russia that we all can be absolutely certain about. The Times has a Moscow Bureau... Good lord! Furthermore, it's staffed by a real live Russian, Ivan Nechepurenko. My god, what can this mean? Are we to infer that New York Times and all of its left wing editorial staff, op-ed pundits, reporters, and worst of all the publisher himself are beholden to Russia? That is frightening! And get this: Nechepurenko reportedly "collaborates" with a Russian think tank... And to make things even more threatening to our Republic, the Washington Post also has a Moscow Bureau...Oh woe unto us! The nexus is clear... Who can we trust?
8
Mr. Aurelius, the thing is that Trump is acting like a very guilty man. I have been trying to keep an open mind, saying that he could be lying about Russia because the hacking story threatens his bigly win, and this is evidenced by the lies he told about crowd size and the popular vote -- same motivation. But now he's threatening that Comey shouldn't leak? He tells Lester Holt he was thinking about Russia when firing Comey, and now he obviously spent the night worrying about leaking? If he's not guilty he's the stupidest innocent man in history.
Good morning, comrade. Your comment fuels many more to join in the fight against trolling idiocy which undermined our last election.
Congress is doing investigations. The FBI is doing investigations. The NYT is summarizing the things they're looking into.
That's it. If there's reason to believe the Time's Moscow Bureau starts colluding with the Russians, guess what, there will be investigations.
Not a very good try on your part. You are usually better.
That's it. If there's reason to believe the Time's Moscow Bureau starts colluding with the Russians, guess what, there will be investigations.
Not a very good try on your part. You are usually better.
Last 48 hours on trump tv: Prez Chaos suggests he is taping people without their consent to extort their "loyalty". And instructed his hapless surrogates to lie about Comey firing. And sits watching tv all day and nite followed by rage trolling on twitter about a late night comedian and Rosie O'Donnell. Did I miss anything?
4
Every day a new nightmare, as with Watergate and Iran-Contra, always courtesy of the GOP.
Except this is worse.
How far will Trump go to save his skin?
We are in danger, and every GOP enabler must be held accountable next year, if we get that far.
Except this is worse.
How far will Trump go to save his skin?
We are in danger, and every GOP enabler must be held accountable next year, if we get that far.
3
Hmmm... all these pro-Trump comments are starting to sound rather similar, aren't they? Wonder what IP addresses they are coming from? If they are for real, then I find it truly amusing that after 8 years of frothing at the mouth over Obama's "crimes" the Republicans are lecturing concerned Americans about taking the Russia story too seriously. Can you spell hypocrisy? Can you spell it in Russian?
5
You got us! We are Russians posing as Americans. You are soooo smart to catch that! A modern day Sherlock?
1
Comrade, the idiomatic here is "Sherlock Holmes". Seems "you [dont] know [our] methods, Watson."
1
Actually, the Washington Post, no liberal rag, published a far more thorough report and graphic of Russia connections a month and a half ago. The evidence is mounting and more than just hearsay. https://www.washingtonpost.com/graphics/national/trump-russia/?utm_term=...
1
Really? This is all you have? Pretty weak.
4
.
Is it illegal to talk with Russians now?
It seems the Times is so obsessively intent on proving Trump and his campaign conspired with "Russia" to subvert the election that it has lost any pretence of objectivity or fairness, and is shamelessly willing to offer up any little nub of vague innuendo as evidence of criminal wrongdoing.
By the way, I didn't vote for Trump and I don't like him, but in the interest of intellectual honesty I can't help but feel that, while Trump is a unmitigated spectacle, the Times in its relentless, Javert-like pursuit of Trump has made itself an even greater spectacle.
Is it illegal to talk with Russians now?
It seems the Times is so obsessively intent on proving Trump and his campaign conspired with "Russia" to subvert the election that it has lost any pretence of objectivity or fairness, and is shamelessly willing to offer up any little nub of vague innuendo as evidence of criminal wrongdoing.
By the way, I didn't vote for Trump and I don't like him, but in the interest of intellectual honesty I can't help but feel that, while Trump is a unmitigated spectacle, the Times in its relentless, Javert-like pursuit of Trump has made itself an even greater spectacle.
5
for starters Michael Flynn the president's National Security advisor was talking to the Russian Ambassador about having sanctions lifted before Trump was the sitting president .. that was recorded on tape because because the Ambassador was being surveiled..that qualifies as a crime. James Comey is a lifelong Republican. this is not a democratic Witch Hunt.. this is enforcing our constitution for crying out loud.
2
What's all the hand-wringing about having a president who is a braggart, a liar, and a cheat? It reflects the national character.
2
Pure Baloney and fake news.
1) Trump did business with Russia prior to his running for president. In some instances you cite, decades ago. American companies do business all over the world. Trump has interests in other countries. This proves nothing.
2) Flynn -- this is old news. Flynn may not be an ideal person in some ways, but there is no evidence he violated any laws in his conversations with Kislyak or breeched security. He was talking in his capacity as incoming NSA.
3) Sessions -- silly. He met with the Russian ambassador in his capacity as senator -- and the meeting at the Russian was brief and in a room full of ambassadors from other countries.
4) Manafort -- again, an American business person doing business -- long before Trump ran.
5) Carter Page & Rogers Stone -- nothing there.
You people are so hopeful of some link -- but you can't make a case for why Trump's team would have colluded or why the Russians would have wanted Trump specifically. The DNC was hacked well before Trump was a front runner so it makes no sense to say that action was designed to help Trump.
Nor did the Russian hacking of the DNC and Podesta reveal anything much more than the venal lives of democratic apparatchiks.
And where was your ire about foreign entanglements when the Clinton foundation was raking in cash from all sorts of questionable foreign entities. Or when HRC as SofS signed off on selling a big chunk of our uranium to foreign interests?
1) Trump did business with Russia prior to his running for president. In some instances you cite, decades ago. American companies do business all over the world. Trump has interests in other countries. This proves nothing.
2) Flynn -- this is old news. Flynn may not be an ideal person in some ways, but there is no evidence he violated any laws in his conversations with Kislyak or breeched security. He was talking in his capacity as incoming NSA.
3) Sessions -- silly. He met with the Russian ambassador in his capacity as senator -- and the meeting at the Russian was brief and in a room full of ambassadors from other countries.
4) Manafort -- again, an American business person doing business -- long before Trump ran.
5) Carter Page & Rogers Stone -- nothing there.
You people are so hopeful of some link -- but you can't make a case for why Trump's team would have colluded or why the Russians would have wanted Trump specifically. The DNC was hacked well before Trump was a front runner so it makes no sense to say that action was designed to help Trump.
Nor did the Russian hacking of the DNC and Podesta reveal anything much more than the venal lives of democratic apparatchiks.
And where was your ire about foreign entanglements when the Clinton foundation was raking in cash from all sorts of questionable foreign entities. Or when HRC as SofS signed off on selling a big chunk of our uranium to foreign interests?
The most telling line in another story in this newspaper: "Mr. Trump said on Friday morning that no one should expect his White House to give completely accurate information." How true. When your president is a serial liar you can't expect his press spokespeople to keep up with all the lies. By now it should be clear to everyone that the president has something to hid and everything points to Russia, Russia, Russia. Sooner or later truth will prevail and the Republicans will have to impeach. The only question is, how many will be impeached or jailed with him?
3
The Trolls are out in force today.
Bravo Times! That's proof you've hit paydirt.
Bravo Times! That's proof you've hit paydirt.
2
Follow the money. Treason.
1
I don't think we need a special prosecutor. All we need if to have the FBI squeeze Flynn, Page and Manafort to produce a smoking gun in Trump's hand. They can do it.
2
Trump is beginning to resemble dictators like Maduro and Duterte and Putin. He threatens constantly, bullies, lies with every breath he takes, preens, and threatens some more. Trump enterprises are taking in money hand over fist, much of it from foreign nationals patronizing his hotels and golf courses, hoping to curry favor with the president. His son-in-law's family, the Kushners, lost no time shilling for megabucks using their White House connections. This administration is thoroughly corrupt. We need investigations not just of the many Russian ties, but also of the web of financial dealings Trump is overseeing or overlooking. It stinks.
2
This Editorial, like this whole Russophobia, is ridiculous.
The 10-month-old Russia probe remains an investigation in search of a crime.
This is Benghazi for Democrats.
The level of schizophrenia in US elitist circles with regard to Russia has reached a hallucinating level of stupidity. Multitudes of degreed, ostensibly intelligent people are tying themselves up in knots, promoting wild-eyed, byzantine theories of a “multi-year Kremlin plot to install the guy from The Apprentice in the West Wing.” The Rooskie paranoia is reaching Kubrick levels in the national discourse, and the NYTimes is leading the charge. The horse is dead, and beaten.
I thought the US had reached its lowest point with the election of the Orange Ignoramus, but this Russia ruse takes the cake.
What a joke this country has become.
I think the Democrats are digging their own graves by harping on this Russian business.
They'd be better served to do some soul searching as to their policies since 2009 that led to people being so desperate that they actually voted for the Orange One.
It will take more than a phoney Unity Tour with Tom Perez to convince voters that Democrats are sincere about change.
The 10-month-old Russia probe remains an investigation in search of a crime.
This is Benghazi for Democrats.
The level of schizophrenia in US elitist circles with regard to Russia has reached a hallucinating level of stupidity. Multitudes of degreed, ostensibly intelligent people are tying themselves up in knots, promoting wild-eyed, byzantine theories of a “multi-year Kremlin plot to install the guy from The Apprentice in the West Wing.” The Rooskie paranoia is reaching Kubrick levels in the national discourse, and the NYTimes is leading the charge. The horse is dead, and beaten.
I thought the US had reached its lowest point with the election of the Orange Ignoramus, but this Russia ruse takes the cake.
What a joke this country has become.
I think the Democrats are digging their own graves by harping on this Russian business.
They'd be better served to do some soul searching as to their policies since 2009 that led to people being so desperate that they actually voted for the Orange One.
It will take more than a phoney Unity Tour with Tom Perez to convince voters that Democrats are sincere about change.
6
Michael Flynn talked to the Russian Ambassador about lifting sanctions during the Republican National Convention that was before Donald Trump was elected so there was another sitting president hence it was a crime. it was recorded on tape because the Russian Ambassador was being surveiled. James Comey is a lifelong Republican. This is not a democrat witch hunt. Wake up!
2
Dear Mr. Comey,
Leak, baby leak. Leak all you know.
Sincerely,
America
Leak, baby leak. Leak all you know.
Sincerely,
America
Trump currently has all the support he needs to stay afloat with the spineless leadership in the House and Senate. McConnell, whose spine is as weak as his chin, said in so many words that we don't need to continue the Trump-Russia investigation. (And why is that, other than wishing and hoping?) Ryan just uses his ever-spinning weathervane to determine which way the wind is blowing as he provides direction to the House. Good for strong Congressmen like John Katko who are independent of tribal politics.
3
You can't make this stuff up!
We had Deep Throat and Martha Mitchell during Watergate, leaking information about Nixon, with Trump, now it's better than that, we have Trump speaking for himself and making a fool, a liar and showing his dishonesty every time he opens his mouth, as we all watch in real time.
Donald Trump is acting like someone who thinks he can manipulate the news media and control the narrative, but the trouble with someone like Trump, who is a pathological and chronic liar, they can never get their lies and stories straight.....Trump is turning shows like Morning Joe, and other MSNBC and CNN shows must watch television.
Trump is finally getting what he wanted all along a new top rated reality show that is going to get great ratings, and he is the star and this one will out last the Apprentice, although it is sort of apropos, since he is now the ultimate apprentice; only we can call this show........The Floundering Donald Trump Presidency.
We had Deep Throat and Martha Mitchell during Watergate, leaking information about Nixon, with Trump, now it's better than that, we have Trump speaking for himself and making a fool, a liar and showing his dishonesty every time he opens his mouth, as we all watch in real time.
Donald Trump is acting like someone who thinks he can manipulate the news media and control the narrative, but the trouble with someone like Trump, who is a pathological and chronic liar, they can never get their lies and stories straight.....Trump is turning shows like Morning Joe, and other MSNBC and CNN shows must watch television.
Trump is finally getting what he wanted all along a new top rated reality show that is going to get great ratings, and he is the star and this one will out last the Apprentice, although it is sort of apropos, since he is now the ultimate apprentice; only we can call this show........The Floundering Donald Trump Presidency.
1
Americans that put Country before Party must insist on an Independent Prosecutor.Those that resist this which includes the President are actually saying they are afraid of the results that a independent prosecutor would unravel, in other words they are hiding incriminating information that might unseat Trump & his cohorts.Trump is as guilty as sin, & can’t win for losing, stick a fork in him he’s done.
2
I remember Obama being recorded (while not knowing the micro and the camera were still running) asking Medvedev ( at that time Russia's president) and Vladimir (prime minister at that time) to "give him some space" until the end of the 2012 election. That was clearly asking the Russian to interfere in the election, to allow Obama to gain some advantage on Mitt Romney, in order to be re elected... No need for investigation, that was an indisputable "treason" as the Dems would put it today...https://www.washingtonpost.com/politics/obama-tells-medvedev-solution-on...
1
Don't leave out the photos from this week of the Russians visit. The big grins and hearty handshake show Trump's delight at their meeting. I can recall no similar photos of Trump with other foreign visitors. Certainly his petulant scowl sitting next to Merkel conveyed a very different feeling. It would be a treat to see them published side by side!
3
So we have nothing, just like Whitewater. I don't know which folks are more partisan and shrill, Dems or Reps. Enough....
Good grief!!!! How long before we can be rid of lying, cheating, venal,ignorant behavior and I don"t mean only the 45? The majority of the Republican loyalists have even more responsibility to share this. They once were better?
Shame, shame, shame !!!!!!!
Shame, shame, shame !!!!!!!
1
Where there is smoke there is fire. This stinks. Add to it all that Donald Trump is a serial liar and can't keep his stories straight.
This investigation can be the F.B.I.'s finest moment.
This investigation can be the F.B.I.'s finest moment.
if it looks like a fish
smells like a fish
feels like a fish
tastes like a fish
it ain't chocolate
smells like a fish
feels like a fish
tastes like a fish
it ain't chocolate
3
Fool me once. Lie to me twice. Three strikes you're OUT. The only real business Trump is getting done as the Precedent is occupying the "failed, dishonest media's" attention. Trump related revenue is probably helping sustain the damaged Fox network, et al. The business of government is not getting done and all we're fed is a constant stream of disavowal, denial, spin doctoring, degradation, and lies (who knew presidential misdirection could be so complex and fun!). This has long failed the smell test yet there are no calls for impeachment. All we get is "impede-ment." NYT stepped up before the election to declare Trump unfit to serve. When will rational mainstream media start calling for impeachment proceedings? That's obviously not coming from the Red Congress before 2018 if at all. Everyone is alternately reviled by Trump threats and amused by his stumbles. We're fiddling while D.C. is smoking. The FBI is hobbled. Justice is compromised. And any self respecting, ethical government official is being slandered and shown the door. The Democrats are cuckolded, and can't choose who to lead or who to blame. If this were an episode of "House of Cards" it might be entertaining. But it's not.
Circumstantial evidence is pervasive against the Trump camp. But no one is standing tall for truth. If Trump is innocent until proven guilty then let him prove it. The world awaits due process. Maybe the best we can hope for is a complete Trump mental breakdown. Wouldn't THAT get ratings!
Circumstantial evidence is pervasive against the Trump camp. But no one is standing tall for truth. If Trump is innocent until proven guilty then let him prove it. The world awaits due process. Maybe the best we can hope for is a complete Trump mental breakdown. Wouldn't THAT get ratings!
But for the national security implications for the US Trump-Russia connections would be a nonevent.
If McConnell and Ryan continue hiding in their offices refusing to send the fire trucks to investigate all the smoke, they shouldn't be our fire chiefs
3
Cover-up and complicity is the new GOP brand.
5
That Trump does not consider the Constitution or our country's well-being in determining his actions - which is reflected, among myriad examples, in his long delay in firing Mr. Flynn and his hasty, lied-about firing of Mr. Comey - is not excusable even if it turns out to have originated in his narcissistic and ignorant arrogance and not in an overt treasonous motive. It's not excusable, and he must be held to account. We expect the sniveling likes of McConnell to hide in the bushes during this but will the true patriots (and grownups) among Republicans in Congress PLEASE stand up?
Your article shows zero evidence of collusion. ZERO.
I've got no horse in this race, but really, this paper should be embarrassed for cobbling together desperate details to paint a picture of collusion. And most importantly, for what? What was the payoff? What act can we look to as the basis of this collusion??
I've got no horse in this race, but really, this paper should be embarrassed for cobbling together desperate details to paint a picture of collusion. And most importantly, for what? What was the payoff? What act can we look to as the basis of this collusion??
5
Are you serious? The payoff was the presidency.
3
Trump always has been an enigma, and he is unable to see through his own ignorance and ineptitude. Donald surely must believe that, if he is willing to get cozy with Vladimir Putin, everyone would--and certainly should--just follow his lead!
Ever since he announced his candidacy, back in June of 2015, Donald Trump has never expressed anything but admiration for the Russian President. As retirees, we have the news on virtually all the time--trying to keep on with the next preview of what Alec Baldwin will say, come Saturday night. And I do not recall ever hearing Donald Trump make even one derogatory comment about former KGB Colonel, and now Russian President, Vladimir Putin.
https://thetruthoncommonsense.com
Ever since he announced his candidacy, back in June of 2015, Donald Trump has never expressed anything but admiration for the Russian President. As retirees, we have the news on virtually all the time--trying to keep on with the next preview of what Alec Baldwin will say, come Saturday night. And I do not recall ever hearing Donald Trump make even one derogatory comment about former KGB Colonel, and now Russian President, Vladimir Putin.
https://thetruthoncommonsense.com
1
Patience my friends, patience. It will be worth the wait.
5
"Here is a partial accounting of the connections we do know something about." is the promise.
and by way of such striking certainties as 1. "author James Dodson said that another son, Eric Trump, told him in 2013 that Russians have bankrolled Trump golf courses, "...we have all the funding we need out of Russia' Eric Trump denies saying that."
2. that the times "knowlege" of meetings, a common habit of oligarchs, is left hanging, from them, btw, the times actually "knows" nothing...
but the times and the world would "know more" if trump showed his irs paperwork....so what the times "knows" is "less."
3. the times "knows" that paul manafort "has been accused of receiving secret payments"...4.the times "knows" that american officials "believe" that carter page "had contacts with russian intelligence officials during the campaign and also 5."knows" that page worked for merrill lynch in moscow where he worked with gazprom..."
6.the times "knows" that roger stone "seemed to know in advance that wikileaks would release" podesta's emails.
and so we arrive at where these "known facts" says the paper of record, "suggest, a network of relationships with a major foreign power"
no evidence mind that the times "knows" anything about those relationships, content again, to let innuendo stand, demonstrating, like so much press posturing does, that they "know" very little and prefer trump bashing to finding out.
this is the same lot that slept through the kim philby collusions.
and by way of such striking certainties as 1. "author James Dodson said that another son, Eric Trump, told him in 2013 that Russians have bankrolled Trump golf courses, "...we have all the funding we need out of Russia' Eric Trump denies saying that."
2. that the times "knowlege" of meetings, a common habit of oligarchs, is left hanging, from them, btw, the times actually "knows" nothing...
but the times and the world would "know more" if trump showed his irs paperwork....so what the times "knows" is "less."
3. the times "knows" that paul manafort "has been accused of receiving secret payments"...4.the times "knows" that american officials "believe" that carter page "had contacts with russian intelligence officials during the campaign and also 5."knows" that page worked for merrill lynch in moscow where he worked with gazprom..."
6.the times "knows" that roger stone "seemed to know in advance that wikileaks would release" podesta's emails.
and so we arrive at where these "known facts" says the paper of record, "suggest, a network of relationships with a major foreign power"
no evidence mind that the times "knows" anything about those relationships, content again, to let innuendo stand, demonstrating, like so much press posturing does, that they "know" very little and prefer trump bashing to finding out.
this is the same lot that slept through the kim philby collusions.
Is that all ?! if so, one could easily come to a conclusion that it is indeed a hoax... where is the smoking gun ?
The Donald consults only himself.
Not the FBI nor his AG elf.
He skews our elections,
based on Putin's directions,
but he only enriches himself.
Not the FBI nor his AG elf.
He skews our elections,
based on Putin's directions,
but he only enriches himself.
Ridiculous. Lots of smoke yes, any fire - after all this time still just smoldering embers. BTW how did they interfere with the process of the election? At best they hacked into Hillary and revealed what most of us knew was going on anyway. Hence the Trump win, such as it is.
4
The suggestion is Trump team COLLUDED with a foreign power (and a nemesis to boot), not just in re the hacking, but talking to them about the economic sanctions our govt placed on them while there was still a different sitting president. That's high crimes and misdemeanors, my friend, if proven.
James Comey is a lifelong Republican - don't think these are Democrat talking points or "fake" news.
James Comey is a lifelong Republican - don't think these are Democrat talking points or "fake" news.
1
If any on this is illegal you may have a argument but nothing here is. It is such a disservice to the public to fabricate situations that do not break any laws or policy. No wonder the public's faith in reporting is getting less all the time. This Russian thing is a fad and all the left has and is nothing more than noise.
4
What we have witnessed as helpless citizens of our once great country is the beginning of the end. Trump has stated on camera that he fired FBI Director Comey because of "Trump Russia you know". That is possibly obstruction of justice. I am not a lawyer. Attorney General Sessions, who apparently did not recuse himself has used the power of his office and the Department of Justice to aid and abet Trump.
It was an in your face dare - What are you going to do about it?
Trump could be so blatant and bold because nothing will be done. Anyone who might bring this up as a possible matter for inquiry will be labeled a hysterical opponent.
I remember when Steve Miller pronounced that President Trump WILL NOT be questioned!
Trump the mean vindictive liar is once again above the reach of the law.
Sessions will abuse his position as Attorney General to make sure of that.
The GOP will fall brown shirt lock step behind their man and do nothing.
Just like taxes, the laws are for the little people.
It was an in your face dare - What are you going to do about it?
Trump could be so blatant and bold because nothing will be done. Anyone who might bring this up as a possible matter for inquiry will be labeled a hysterical opponent.
I remember when Steve Miller pronounced that President Trump WILL NOT be questioned!
Trump the mean vindictive liar is once again above the reach of the law.
Sessions will abuse his position as Attorney General to make sure of that.
The GOP will fall brown shirt lock step behind their man and do nothing.
Just like taxes, the laws are for the little people.
1
The only brown shirts I see are hooded liberal thugs violently interfering with lawful free speech at universities.
You folks are funny.
Back when the Russians were a real threat, you ignored -- or worse, dismissed -- them. Your writer wrote that he had seen the (Communist) future, and it works. You excoriated RWR for his anti-Russian actions. As recently as four years ago, BHO, in response to Romney's assertion that the Russians were a problem, said: "The 1980s are now calling to ask for their foreign policy back because the Cold War’s been over for 20 years".
And, now, this, the latest in a long string of editorials, which sounds reminiscent of another speech:
“I have here in my hand a list of 205 people (close to Trump) that were known to the Secretary of State as being members of the Communist Party..." At least McCarthy was right; the Soviets WERE a threat and DID have spies in the US government.
You, on the other hand...
Please. The left has precisely zip credibility when it comes to the Soviets ... er, Russians. And the "crime" of which the Russian are accused is telling the truth about HRC and the Dems.
Computer crime is nothing to be scoffed at. That said, the Dem dopes who fell for a transparent phishing scheme share much of the blame. And, in the end, if it benefited the country, by revealing to the electorate exactly how HRC and the Dems think, that's a crime with a huge silver lining.
Anyway, feel free to pursue this nutty Truther-type investigation. It will keep your reporters off the streets.
Back when the Russians were a real threat, you ignored -- or worse, dismissed -- them. Your writer wrote that he had seen the (Communist) future, and it works. You excoriated RWR for his anti-Russian actions. As recently as four years ago, BHO, in response to Romney's assertion that the Russians were a problem, said: "The 1980s are now calling to ask for their foreign policy back because the Cold War’s been over for 20 years".
And, now, this, the latest in a long string of editorials, which sounds reminiscent of another speech:
“I have here in my hand a list of 205 people (close to Trump) that were known to the Secretary of State as being members of the Communist Party..." At least McCarthy was right; the Soviets WERE a threat and DID have spies in the US government.
You, on the other hand...
Please. The left has precisely zip credibility when it comes to the Soviets ... er, Russians. And the "crime" of which the Russian are accused is telling the truth about HRC and the Dems.
Computer crime is nothing to be scoffed at. That said, the Dem dopes who fell for a transparent phishing scheme share much of the blame. And, in the end, if it benefited the country, by revealing to the electorate exactly how HRC and the Dems think, that's a crime with a huge silver lining.
Anyway, feel free to pursue this nutty Truther-type investigation. It will keep your reporters off the streets.
5
You may also add that many of Trump's business associates through Russia are under investigation themselves. The investigative Dutch news site Zembla is reporting that, by using corporate structures in their country, millions of dollars are alleged to have been laundered by Trump's development associates, Bayrock and the Khrapunov family from Kazakhstan.
1
If this man in the White House really has nothing to hide, a good start would be the release of tax returns.
1
the press needs to stay after it as the GOP will block what is obvious to a majority of the electorate.
as to your 'partial accounting", you might want to add Wilber Ross and The Bank of Cypress. when the book is written on the degradation of our democracy, the bank and Ross will be command more than a footnote.
as to your 'partial accounting", you might want to add Wilber Ross and The Bank of Cypress. when the book is written on the degradation of our democracy, the bank and Ross will be command more than a footnote.
This will all come down to following the money--a gargantuan task made all the more difficult by a) holding companies hiding real identities; b) technology's ability to obliterate evidence.
We need "deep journalism" at this point--delving that starts off with the puffs of smoke out there even ordinary citizens like me can easily see:
1. Trump’s ownership of a pair of offshore companies in Cyprus (notoriously the place for laundered money of Russian oligarchs).
2. Trump companies active in Russia right now.
3. Trump's making a Cabinet appointment of Wilbur Ross, the Vice Chair of Cyprus's largest bank.
4. The Trump and Deutschebank fiasco (see the Guardian: https://www.theguardian.com/world/2017/mar/21/deutsche-bank-that-lent-30...
We need "deep journalism" at this point--delving that starts off with the puffs of smoke out there even ordinary citizens like me can easily see:
1. Trump’s ownership of a pair of offshore companies in Cyprus (notoriously the place for laundered money of Russian oligarchs).
2. Trump companies active in Russia right now.
3. Trump's making a Cabinet appointment of Wilbur Ross, the Vice Chair of Cyprus's largest bank.
4. The Trump and Deutschebank fiasco (see the Guardian: https://www.theguardian.com/world/2017/mar/21/deutsche-bank-that-lent-30...
2
Why does the NYT continue to push this fantasy of Russians stole the election?
A made-up conspiracy in search of a crime.
What you should be demanding is answers to the real crime of leaking secrets from the intelligence and Justice departments undermining the President and his administration by Obama's holdovers.
But I realize finding out that truth would undermine your push to destroy the Trump administration and prove once again the Obama regime was the most lawless in US history using the government as a weapon against half the country that disagreed with him and his policies.
A made-up conspiracy in search of a crime.
What you should be demanding is answers to the real crime of leaking secrets from the intelligence and Justice departments undermining the President and his administration by Obama's holdovers.
But I realize finding out that truth would undermine your push to destroy the Trump administration and prove once again the Obama regime was the most lawless in US history using the government as a weapon against half the country that disagreed with him and his policies.
5
You must be a member of the 1%. Blaming Obama, now that's funny
Worse than watergate. Lies, lies and more lies. Is it possible that these people have no idea what truth and facts mean?
I suppose if you throw enough garbage at a wall, some might stick !
Why is it unusual for a politician to have meeting with Russian politicians? Don't Democrats meet with Russian politicians? Why is it unusual for a foreign country to try and influence another countries election? The US has done it forever and so have the Russians.
This transparent attempt to explain away the Clinton loss is quite evident. Yet, you all fail to acknowledge that it was the actions and ideas of Hillary that caused her to lose.
Why is it unusual for a politician to have meeting with Russian politicians? Don't Democrats meet with Russian politicians? Why is it unusual for a foreign country to try and influence another countries election? The US has done it forever and so have the Russians.
This transparent attempt to explain away the Clinton loss is quite evident. Yet, you all fail to acknowledge that it was the actions and ideas of Hillary that caused her to lose.
3
The real issue is that all those Americans who voted for him believe the illusive American dream and that billionaire plutocrat celebrities should be worshiped and can do no wrong...
1
I still blame Mitch McConnell and other Republicans for not working to fix this damaged presidency. Trump is not only a liar, he is now an unhinged man. He becomes more frightening daily. McConnell can call the Senate to stand up to Trump, even impeach him. Jeff Sessioms had met with the Russians, and still was appointed Attorney General. Now he has become involved with the Russian Connection by helping Trump to fire Comey. Is Sessions more involved? The Senate can call for his removal. McConnell, you are throwing the Republican Party under the bus for Trump?! The election is coming. We voters won't forget so easily.
So, you're telling me you have nothing but possible connections. What is everyone so whiny about? So from your perspective, anyone running for office while having ANY connection with ANY foreign country would be considered "colluding with a foreign entity." Didn't Obama just collude with Macron to get elected? Since we're broadening the definition of collude, isn't that exactly what Macron just did with Obama? I guess french people should start calling for his impeachment too. LOL!
4
If Comey testifies that he did request additional funds for the Russia/Trump investigations and the other justice officials deny it or claim that additional funds were not necessary, any Republican legislator with any regard as to how history will treat them would support an independent investigation.
The New York Times should be emphasizing the difference between a special prosecutor and an independent commission regarding the investigation of Russian involvement in the election. Far too many people who should know better are using the terms interchangeably. We need an independent commission which will produce a complete report including disclosing the actions of all individuals involved and recommendations as to future actions to be taken. In contrast a special prosecutor could easily conclude that there was no ability to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that law was broken, because there may not be any directly applicable laws or the evidence is murky, and not name anyone. We did not have special prosecutors after 9/11 or the financial crisis, but correctly had independent commissions.
“…The question then becomes what did Putin hope to gain by aiding Trump? Absent writing Russia a big check, how could Trump cause Russia to gain $200 billion? The answer would be a $50 increase in the price of oil.
We know what has caused most of the oil price spikes in the last 50 years. That has been wars in the Middle East..” http://seekingalpha.com/article/4034048
The New York Times should be emphasizing the difference between a special prosecutor and an independent commission regarding the investigation of Russian involvement in the election. Far too many people who should know better are using the terms interchangeably. We need an independent commission which will produce a complete report including disclosing the actions of all individuals involved and recommendations as to future actions to be taken. In contrast a special prosecutor could easily conclude that there was no ability to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that law was broken, because there may not be any directly applicable laws or the evidence is murky, and not name anyone. We did not have special prosecutors after 9/11 or the financial crisis, but correctly had independent commissions.
“…The question then becomes what did Putin hope to gain by aiding Trump? Absent writing Russia a big check, how could Trump cause Russia to gain $200 billion? The answer would be a $50 increase in the price of oil.
We know what has caused most of the oil price spikes in the last 50 years. That has been wars in the Middle East..” http://seekingalpha.com/article/4034048
1
He becomes more Nixonian by the second.
You are so right. The Russians could not have carried this out alone.
There is no way that the Russians hacked the DNC's computers without Donald's help. The Russians do not have anywhere near the technological expertise that Donald has.
Only Donald could have delivered the emails to Assange and WikiLeaks. Putin is clueless when it comes to espionage.
Only Donald could have convinced the American media to cover the emails. He is so persuasive that they had no choice.
Donald Trump is a genius mastermind who should not be underestimated.
There is no way that the Russians hacked the DNC's computers without Donald's help. The Russians do not have anywhere near the technological expertise that Donald has.
Only Donald could have delivered the emails to Assange and WikiLeaks. Putin is clueless when it comes to espionage.
Only Donald could have convinced the American media to cover the emails. He is so persuasive that they had no choice.
Donald Trump is a genius mastermind who should not be underestimated.
1
Conspiracy theory nonsense. This kind of "analysis" could be used to link Obama to ISIS.
3
Sjaco, then why is Trump acting like a guilty man (and not a particularly smart one at that)? Now he is threatening Comey not to leak. So that has kept Trump up at night, the possibility of Comey leaking, which he says after admitting to Lester Holt that he was thinking of the Russia investigation when deciding to fire Comey. Is that the thought process of an innocent man?
Look, I have actually posted that Trump could be innocent of the Russia hacking collusion and his motive could simply be the same thing that caused him to lie about crowd size and the popular vote -- he has to lie about anything that threatens his bigly election. But the more Trump talks, the guiltier he sounds.
Look, I have actually posted that Trump could be innocent of the Russia hacking collusion and his motive could simply be the same thing that caused him to lie about crowd size and the popular vote -- he has to lie about anything that threatens his bigly election. But the more Trump talks, the guiltier he sounds.
Have you now or have you ever been in contact with any Russian while being a Republican?
Are we kidding ourselves again?
Exxon-Mobile signed a contract with Russia worth 500 BILLION dollars to drill in the arctic.
Obama put sanctions on Russia that stopped this contract from moving forward.
Putin most likely had backdoor talks with Maniford and Flynn that if Trump wins with Russian's help he will lift the sanctions.
Most likely the missing 19% buyer of the Russian oil giants Rosneft stock is a gift from Putin to Trump for all his hard work. Who better to work the entire deal than the former COE of Exxon-Mobile itself Sec. Tillerson.
http://www.reuters.com/article/us-russia-rosneft-privatisation-insight-i...
It is all there . Money and greed is the most powerful emotion and no matter what people say Trump is one of the most greedy people on the planet.
Exxon-Mobile signed a contract with Russia worth 500 BILLION dollars to drill in the arctic.
Obama put sanctions on Russia that stopped this contract from moving forward.
Putin most likely had backdoor talks with Maniford and Flynn that if Trump wins with Russian's help he will lift the sanctions.
Most likely the missing 19% buyer of the Russian oil giants Rosneft stock is a gift from Putin to Trump for all his hard work. Who better to work the entire deal than the former COE of Exxon-Mobile itself Sec. Tillerson.
http://www.reuters.com/article/us-russia-rosneft-privatisation-insight-i...
It is all there . Money and greed is the most powerful emotion and no matter what people say Trump is one of the most greedy people on the planet.
1
Sometimes, very often for the editorial board of the nytimes, is better to let other people to think you are intelligent instead of speaking up and remove any doubts.
This article, presumed to steer clear of any doubts about the "collusion" has in fact the effect of enforcing its pretestous liberal-leaning base.
Its main rationale is that people in first- second and umpteenth order of relationship with mr. Trump have, could have, there is a confidence about he/she could have relation with russian, whose nature is businesslike or diplomatic- like.
By the same standard since the publication of this article on the nyt https://www.nytimes.com/2017/03/24/opinion/i-loved-my-grandmother-but-sh... there would be a righteous suspect that the nytimes is promoting underground ties with nazi culture. Which is absolutely and equally preposterous.
Furthermore, the nytimes should inquire also the russian ties ex-president Reagan had (before having the nuclear agreement signed) and the cuban ties ex-president mr. Obama has with Castros, since the removing of the embargo, or really what intentions were behind the letter all the republican senators sent via diplomatic channel to the iranians leaders after the -again- nuclear deal.
Insofar there is nothing like an indirect proof, nothing near the concept of order, suggestion, that is none smoking gun which would assure the legal basis for proceeding further.
That's why all this propaganda sounds very disturbing and alarming
This article, presumed to steer clear of any doubts about the "collusion" has in fact the effect of enforcing its pretestous liberal-leaning base.
Its main rationale is that people in first- second and umpteenth order of relationship with mr. Trump have, could have, there is a confidence about he/she could have relation with russian, whose nature is businesslike or diplomatic- like.
By the same standard since the publication of this article on the nyt https://www.nytimes.com/2017/03/24/opinion/i-loved-my-grandmother-but-sh... there would be a righteous suspect that the nytimes is promoting underground ties with nazi culture. Which is absolutely and equally preposterous.
Furthermore, the nytimes should inquire also the russian ties ex-president Reagan had (before having the nuclear agreement signed) and the cuban ties ex-president mr. Obama has with Castros, since the removing of the embargo, or really what intentions were behind the letter all the republican senators sent via diplomatic channel to the iranians leaders after the -again- nuclear deal.
Insofar there is nothing like an indirect proof, nothing near the concept of order, suggestion, that is none smoking gun which would assure the legal basis for proceeding further.
That's why all this propaganda sounds very disturbing and alarming
3
Anyone who actually read the dossier, and understands that its author, a highly respected UK former Intelligence Agent had to go into hiding as a result of its publication cannot credibly deny the Trump/Russian connection.
This is not "fake news" or a political witch hunt -- evidence of the ties to Russia were brought to the FBI by concerned foreign governments.
It has been manifest since Trump stood on the debate stage and egged Wikileaks on to publish the Clinton Campaign emails. Where is the mystery here? Why do the media outlets continue to talk about collusion as if it's an unknown. Roger Stone exchanged emails with the Gucifer 2.0, the Russian backed hacker. He predicted the hacked email publication before it happened.
Russia put this President into office. The only querstion is how long will it take to build a criminal case by following the money trail. The FBI and Congress must stop the ongoing carnage to our formerly democratic system.
This is not "fake news" or a political witch hunt -- evidence of the ties to Russia were brought to the FBI by concerned foreign governments.
It has been manifest since Trump stood on the debate stage and egged Wikileaks on to publish the Clinton Campaign emails. Where is the mystery here? Why do the media outlets continue to talk about collusion as if it's an unknown. Roger Stone exchanged emails with the Gucifer 2.0, the Russian backed hacker. He predicted the hacked email publication before it happened.
Russia put this President into office. The only querstion is how long will it take to build a criminal case by following the money trail. The FBI and Congress must stop the ongoing carnage to our formerly democratic system.
3
Republicans really want to make this about Comey, when in reality it's about the investigation of Trump's campaign collusion with the Russians and whether outside interference lead to Trump's presidency. AG Lynch and Obama could have fired Comey for Clinton's email server investigation, but the echoes of Republican screams and Trump tweets would still be heard today, especially if she won.
Nobody liked Comey. He was trying to do the bidding of his fellow Republicans in an effort to keep Clinton off balance should she win the election. She lost, and he turned to the other big investigation on his plate, the Trump campaign's collusion with Russian operatives. But he, himself, is not the issue. The issue is whether the FBI will be able to finish its investigation with the at least the same fervor it investigated HRC's email server.
Nobody liked Comey. He was trying to do the bidding of his fellow Republicans in an effort to keep Clinton off balance should she win the election. She lost, and he turned to the other big investigation on his plate, the Trump campaign's collusion with Russian operatives. But he, himself, is not the issue. The issue is whether the FBI will be able to finish its investigation with the at least the same fervor it investigated HRC's email server.
3
Thanks for that. It is reassuring that America made the right choice in November.
When you compare the business ties of Trump to Russia well before he was in politics, and some fairly benign contacts of Trump aides to Russia, to the much more troubling foreign entanglements around the globe of Hillary Clinton through a family foundation that we know from leaked emails by her aides was a thinly veiled 'Pay for Play' scheme, Trump looks like Caesar's wife. There was outright extortion by the Clintons, as in having aides reach out to donors to have them hire Bill Clinton for six-figure speeches, money that went directly into his and his wife's pockets. Thank goodness America avoided that mess, though given the New York Times' biases, we may never have heard of much of it.
When you compare the business ties of Trump to Russia well before he was in politics, and some fairly benign contacts of Trump aides to Russia, to the much more troubling foreign entanglements around the globe of Hillary Clinton through a family foundation that we know from leaked emails by her aides was a thinly veiled 'Pay for Play' scheme, Trump looks like Caesar's wife. There was outright extortion by the Clintons, as in having aides reach out to donors to have them hire Bill Clinton for six-figure speeches, money that went directly into his and his wife's pockets. Thank goodness America avoided that mess, though given the New York Times' biases, we may never have heard of much of it.
3
Donald Trump's presidency took only slightly more than 100 days to devolve into a full-scale war against almost every other branch of government, as well as the vast majority of our journalists and news outlets, and at least 60% of the population.
By now, any objective observer with a functioning brain can make a few simple assumptions: Donald Trump feels no obligation to perform his duties in the role of a civil servant. Donald Trump has no discernible feelings of human empathy, or desire to understand the root causes of the poverty that inflicts tens of millions of citizens of the country that he leads. Donald Trump feels no obligation to speak truthfully to anyone since the truth very rarely benefits him personally. Donald Trump has no morality, no core values, no guiding principles and no beliefs in anything that have allowed him to shape a consistent worldview. He is like a goldfish that responds only to immediate threats and has no plans beyond the next 10 seconds.
His goals are not to unite us as a country, but instead to divide people to the greatest extent possible. Interestingly enough, this is the same goal that Putin and his cronies had when they did everything they could to ensure his election as President of the US and leader of the free world.
We are all watching the death of the world's youngest and greatest democracy at the hands of this President and all of his GOP enablers.
By now, any objective observer with a functioning brain can make a few simple assumptions: Donald Trump feels no obligation to perform his duties in the role of a civil servant. Donald Trump has no discernible feelings of human empathy, or desire to understand the root causes of the poverty that inflicts tens of millions of citizens of the country that he leads. Donald Trump feels no obligation to speak truthfully to anyone since the truth very rarely benefits him personally. Donald Trump has no morality, no core values, no guiding principles and no beliefs in anything that have allowed him to shape a consistent worldview. He is like a goldfish that responds only to immediate threats and has no plans beyond the next 10 seconds.
His goals are not to unite us as a country, but instead to divide people to the greatest extent possible. Interestingly enough, this is the same goal that Putin and his cronies had when they did everything they could to ensure his election as President of the US and leader of the free world.
We are all watching the death of the world's youngest and greatest democracy at the hands of this President and all of his GOP enablers.
1
I've just about given up on any help in this investigation coming from the republicans. Perhaps American oligarchs are comfortable with Russian oligarchs and see no problem here. The Koch brothers, Adelson, Mercer and their ilk seem to have tight control over the current Republican Party and Trump allows them to reconfigure our society to what they want so we'll see no help from this group or their minions.
2
A lot of these comments are all about whether there is or isn't evidence of collusion. But that is for the FBI etc to decide, not NYT readers. We just need to let the investigation happen and to make sure it is not driven by partisan politics. There is enough of a perception of smoke that we need to check for fire, just to maintain people's faith in government. And if there is no fire, so much the better for us all. We all win. And if there is fire, then we put it out and we all win. Happy day. The only way we lose is by not conducting the investigation, because an incomplete investigation at the very least will leave in place doubt and mistrust among Americans. And at most, of course, it will leave in place a collusive relationship between the US and a foreign power that many Americans view as hostile.
I no longer know what or whom to believe. How many of us feel this way, we Americans who believe that, as Americans, we actually can be steadfast in our beliefs because America itself used to stand for things like truth and justice?!? I do not discount our troubled history by saying that. But the Constitution is our lifeboat.
I feel as if I'm being played from all sides, including the media. I'm hungry for the truth because I want my country to not only stand for something, but to also be the great place we all want it to be, propaganda or no propaganda, party or no party. Yet even the progressive press and TV often hash and rehash the same "news" ad nauseam, ad infinitum for the sake of ratings. This isn't a race for a Pulitzer, as some here suggest. Or, it shouldn't be.
This is my cri de coeur. Can somebody put an end to this circus? Does the GOP really want this madness to continue, whereby we're all stuck in an endless national nightmare? The Republican Congress has the power to end this now by calling for an independent investigation. Period. Enough is enough.
Or, can I no longer believe in anything? If that's the case, then what to do? Give up? Stop reading? Stop hoping? Wish for a lobotomy?
And what about our children?!
I feel as if I'm being played from all sides, including the media. I'm hungry for the truth because I want my country to not only stand for something, but to also be the great place we all want it to be, propaganda or no propaganda, party or no party. Yet even the progressive press and TV often hash and rehash the same "news" ad nauseam, ad infinitum for the sake of ratings. This isn't a race for a Pulitzer, as some here suggest. Or, it shouldn't be.
This is my cri de coeur. Can somebody put an end to this circus? Does the GOP really want this madness to continue, whereby we're all stuck in an endless national nightmare? The Republican Congress has the power to end this now by calling for an independent investigation. Period. Enough is enough.
Or, can I no longer believe in anything? If that's the case, then what to do? Give up? Stop reading? Stop hoping? Wish for a lobotomy?
And what about our children?!
1
When two Washington Post reporters discovered the Watergate and began publishing the truth that President Richard Nixon was behind this assault, Nixon was forced to resign and leave the Executive Office in disgrace. I’m certain The New York Times will continue with its investigation to show evidence that President Trump fired the FBI Director James Comey because he was getting close to reveal that Trump colluded with Russia during the presidential elections. Evidently, a powerful reason for impeachment but ignored by most unscrupulous Republicans who are looking the other way because they need to keep this Dictator in power without realizing that nothing stays the same and that all gets crushed and they're no different.
I take umbrage at the last para wherein it says whether, how, and through whom. Whether is a KNOWN from the Intel Folks and the press has uncovered. I must admit though that we only know a fraction of how and a lot of through whom.
Not only is Trump's position unraveling, but he's compulsively unraveling it himself. He can't stop calling attention to the elephant in the room, the Russia investigation -- first conspicuously waving our attention away from it with those letters to Comey, then contradicting the letters, then positively gravitating to the subject of the investigation to assert that it's a made-up scandal and that anyway he's been told he's not under investigation only he didn't have to be told because he already knew it, then warning the dismissed Comey not to leak anything negative about him....
Has he forgotten that there's nothing negative to leak? But it must be hard to keep all this straight, even for a very smart person.
Has he forgotten that there's nothing negative to leak? But it must be hard to keep all this straight, even for a very smart person.
This article is forgetting about Steve Mnuchin's ties to the Bank of Cypress where Russian Oligarchs are known to launder all their money (see Rachael Maddow investigation). This is the same bank where Dmitry Rybolovlev parked the $95M that he used to pay for Trump's Palm Beach mansion, the highest price ever paid for a Palm Beach home and no one has ever even lived there!
Why was a $50M premium above the market value paid to Trump for a home that was never lived in and had mold problems at a time when Trump was in dire financial straights?
I realize when you get to Trump's level of wealth, money laundering is a "yeah, so what" course of affairs but its still supposed to be illegal. Then there are the FAA records that show Tybolovlev's plane arriving at airports strangely coincidental with Trump campaign events.
We may not know what's going on but we can certainly smell the stench from pretty much anywhere.
Why was a $50M premium above the market value paid to Trump for a home that was never lived in and had mold problems at a time when Trump was in dire financial straights?
I realize when you get to Trump's level of wealth, money laundering is a "yeah, so what" course of affairs but its still supposed to be illegal. Then there are the FAA records that show Tybolovlev's plane arriving at airports strangely coincidental with Trump campaign events.
We may not know what's going on but we can certainly smell the stench from pretty much anywhere.
There is no doubt that Trump and his associates do not want the American public to know the truth of Russian meddling. Evidence may be lacking for individual or group criminality or conviction, but what is clear is that the administration does not even give lip service to caring about Russian meddling in our elections. This is a problem. Don't defend Trump. His lack of loyalty to the truth and American democracy are indefensible.
3
Regrettably there are whole bunch of people out there who are not part of the thinking east/west coast elite (including me) who think that Trump walks on water. No matter how many deplorable things he says and does he gets a pass. Maybe when they don't get their jobs back or the health care that he has promised they may wake up. Just maybe but I'm not holding my breath.
Was there for Nixon's downfall and it's disheartening to witness these shocking similarities in nature if not in content again unfold...and even after 45 years, the rhetoric from the administration hasn't changed much, if at all...they're losing it.
1
How about Kellyanne Conway's husband, now employed at the DOJ, who recently represented a corporation accused of bribing Russian officials.
8
Our government has always been incestuous with corporations. Lobbyists line up the corridors of the Capitol, day in day out. How do you thing politicians are refinanced for re-elections, as soon as they are elected into office?
1
And then there's DeVoss,s brother, Eric the prince!
This is very simple. If Trump has nothing to hide, then appoint a special investigator. It is obvious that Trump and the GOP do not want that and will fight it under any circumstances. That should be all you need to know.
A perspective on Trump's alleged foreign entanglements may be essential to evaluating your claims for readers. All you suggest about Russia's influence on the Trump administration may threaten our national security, unless that influence (and cash) gives the Russians no more influence over Trump's foreign policy than the Obama-British nexus, no more influence than the Obama-Israeli-nexus, the Obama-South Africa nexus, the Obama-Saudi nexus, etc. gave them over Obama's foreign policy.
One could easily suspect, for example, that Buckingham Palace invitations to the Obamas for personal visits, informal telephone chats with the Monarch, or her grandchildren, Obama palling around with wealthy British billionaires like Richard Branson, could indicate undue influence on Obama's foreign policies. But where would one find proof that Obama's foreign policy was compromised by British interests? The media here ought to cover not just the Trump-Russian nexus.
Has there, for example, been any Democratic Congressional-Russian Nexus?
What were other foreign government attempts to influence our government officials, past and present, through subtle forms of bribery?
One could easily suspect, for example, that Buckingham Palace invitations to the Obamas for personal visits, informal telephone chats with the Monarch, or her grandchildren, Obama palling around with wealthy British billionaires like Richard Branson, could indicate undue influence on Obama's foreign policies. But where would one find proof that Obama's foreign policy was compromised by British interests? The media here ought to cover not just the Trump-Russian nexus.
Has there, for example, been any Democratic Congressional-Russian Nexus?
What were other foreign government attempts to influence our government officials, past and present, through subtle forms of bribery?
To all of those right wing Trump supporters who say that there is nothing to see here, maybe you are right. Yes, the evidence so far is circumstantial, but given the scope and magnitude of the evidence, it's more than worthy of a truly independent investigation to determine the true facts.
Why would his supporters be against this? After all, they were more than supportive of independent investigations when Bill Clinton was in office.
Also, if Trump is so confident that this is a witch hunt, he should simply release his tax returns so he can back up his claims of innocence.
Why would his supporters be against this? After all, they were more than supportive of independent investigations when Bill Clinton was in office.
Also, if Trump is so confident that this is a witch hunt, he should simply release his tax returns so he can back up his claims of innocence.
6
"Why would his supporters be against this?"
I'm no supporter, but here are some reasons:
1. Independent investigations are rarely independent. Remember Kenneth Starr? How did that turn out?
2. Congress is already running its own bi-partisan investigation. Do you not trust them? If so, why? Why would you want to downgrade this investigation?
3. FBI is already looking into this. You think because the incompetent Comey is gone, that somehow the investigation stops?
4. In statistics, there is danger of multiple comparisons. If I run a million different measures, surely something will show significance. It increases the chances of a spurious result. So I teach my students to limit the measures, so as to preclude the possibility of 'fishing' for a result. This witch-hunt is fishing, and you liberals are trying your best to increase the odds of 'finding something' (cf. this stupid editorial).
I'm no supporter, but here are some reasons:
1. Independent investigations are rarely independent. Remember Kenneth Starr? How did that turn out?
2. Congress is already running its own bi-partisan investigation. Do you not trust them? If so, why? Why would you want to downgrade this investigation?
3. FBI is already looking into this. You think because the incompetent Comey is gone, that somehow the investigation stops?
4. In statistics, there is danger of multiple comparisons. If I run a million different measures, surely something will show significance. It increases the chances of a spurious result. So I teach my students to limit the measures, so as to preclude the possibility of 'fishing' for a result. This witch-hunt is fishing, and you liberals are trying your best to increase the odds of 'finding something' (cf. this stupid editorial).
There are only two people in the United States that can drive this investigation to its inevitable conclusion: McConnell and Ryan. Until they believe that supporting Trump will cost them the majority in the Senate and/or House, they will stand by him.
4
I don't understand their reluctance to act. They would still be assured a Republican president if Trump were removed. They are destroying their party by supporting trump
FOLLOW THE MONEY- Not just the money flowing from Russia, Exxon, and Trump's business dealings, but the dark money that set the stage over the past 20 years for this sorry state of affairs. None of this would have been possible without Citizens United and the massive influx of money from the Koch brothers and a virtual handful of billionaires who have bankrolled the demonization of the Democrats for years and are interested in nothing more than using the US government as their own personal ATM.
2
And, if I may add here. The then, presidential candidate Trump spoke so glowingly of Vladimir Putin, the Russian President. Perhaps, that was the starting point.
To add to all this mystery, we have seen the POTUS meeting with the Russian Ambassador and that country's Foreign Minister at the White House recently. This is in fact, after the firing of the FBI Director. According to news reports, a Russian photographer gained access to take photographs of our POTUS meeting with the Russian officials. And, now questions arise as to how the photographer was allowed access. This is disturbing. Even our own Press Corps were either not allowed or not present. Was this a PR coup on the part of the Russians? Let us hope, there were no bugs planted anywhere where our POTUS was meeting his visitors. These Russians are capable of anything. They are not our friends. Period.
I just do not trust these Russians.
To add to all this mystery, we have seen the POTUS meeting with the Russian Ambassador and that country's Foreign Minister at the White House recently. This is in fact, after the firing of the FBI Director. According to news reports, a Russian photographer gained access to take photographs of our POTUS meeting with the Russian officials. And, now questions arise as to how the photographer was allowed access. This is disturbing. Even our own Press Corps were either not allowed or not present. Was this a PR coup on the part of the Russians? Let us hope, there were no bugs planted anywhere where our POTUS was meeting his visitors. These Russians are capable of anything. They are not our friends. Period.
I just do not trust these Russians.
2
This is a measured collection of possible Russia-Trump connections. That is a good start. But let's remember the troll farms written about in these pages:
"The Agency"
https://www.nytimes.com/2015/06/07/magazine/the-agency.html
Also, the Reuters report on Russian think tank documents showing connections:
"Putin-linked think tank drew up plan to sway 2016 US election - documents"
http://www.reuters.com/article/us-usa-russia-election-exclusive-idUSKBN1...
The overlooked but truly exhaustive & excellent summation: "The Curious World of Donald Trump’s Private Russian Connections"
https://www.the-american-interest.com/2016/12/19/the-curious-world-of-do...
And possibly the Steele dossier. Alfa Bank perhaps. Oh, also the call for Russia to hack Clinton and the constant admiration of Putin.
"The Agency"
https://www.nytimes.com/2015/06/07/magazine/the-agency.html
Also, the Reuters report on Russian think tank documents showing connections:
"Putin-linked think tank drew up plan to sway 2016 US election - documents"
http://www.reuters.com/article/us-usa-russia-election-exclusive-idUSKBN1...
The overlooked but truly exhaustive & excellent summation: "The Curious World of Donald Trump’s Private Russian Connections"
https://www.the-american-interest.com/2016/12/19/the-curious-world-of-do...
And possibly the Steele dossier. Alfa Bank perhaps. Oh, also the call for Russia to hack Clinton and the constant admiration of Putin.
2
No one pushing this story wants to clarify what they think this "collusion" and "interference" actually was. It's classical conspiracy theory construction: throw in as many "ties" and "relations" as possible, speak darkly about the "danger to our democracy," and add, in an effort to appear honest, "we don't know everything." But never spell out what you claim this "interference" exactly was. Hacking the DNC and revealing its hand-in-glove relationship to the media? Does "our democracy" depend on keeping secret the cheating at the DNC? Of course, the big deal would be: did the Russians actually alter the vote? Did they hack into voting machines? Nobody claims this because it's not possible. But the conspiracy theorists want people to believe that. And they apparently have persuaded a majority of credulous Democrats. So the Russians altered the vote so that their Manchurian candidate Trump lost by more than 2 million votes? And won the electoral college by fewer than 100,000 votes in 3 states? That's giving the Russians-Trump enormous credit and expertise. Does anyone see any sign of that at the White House or the Kremlin?
3
The Russians played Donald Trump, his family and his advisors. And then, in turn, told Donald Trump was told what to say for the base. The threat of leaks to help Trump were thrown out before the election. Doesn't anyone remember: Eric Trump's wife Lara Trump, along with his foundation's vice president Lynne Patton, appearing pm 'Fox & Friends', and Donald Trump's daughter-in-law hinting that team Trump may have something damaging to drop on Hillary Clinton in the campaign's last days 'Well, there's still a couple days left in October,' she said, floating the idea that the Trump campaign has an 'October surprise' to use on Clinton
Rudy Giuliani appeared on the same program; asked about Trump's plans he said, 'You'll see. We've got a couple of surprises left'
Boy, no truer words every spoken. They were all in on it. Every single last one of them.
Rudy Giuliani appeared on the same program; asked about Trump's plans he said, 'You'll see. We've got a couple of surprises left'
Boy, no truer words every spoken. They were all in on it. Every single last one of them.
2
What is it (really) that Democrats want when it comes to Russia?
No interaction whatsoever between American politicians, government/military figures, and business people with their Russian counterparts?
Do they want less contact and coordination with Russia than we have with Saudi Arabia and Israel? Both of which — despite the disproportionate influence of their respective lobbies in Washington — are far (far) less important than Russia when it comes to the fate of our world.
Do Democrats what a world war with Russia? It sure sounds like it.
No interaction whatsoever between American politicians, government/military figures, and business people with their Russian counterparts?
Do they want less contact and coordination with Russia than we have with Saudi Arabia and Israel? Both of which — despite the disproportionate influence of their respective lobbies in Washington — are far (far) less important than Russia when it comes to the fate of our world.
Do Democrats what a world war with Russia? It sure sounds like it.
2
Please do not be silly. Every single American should expect transparency and zero lying. Right now both Sessions and Flynn have been caught out. Why are they lying? What are they hiding?
I'm sorry, but I'm really getting sick of this. I endured relentless hounding of Hillary Clinton regarding her ill-conceived private email server, then Comey finally comes up with nothing. And, before anyone starts in on Comey's "handling" of the investigation, the AG, Loretta Lynch, gave Comey the authority to make those conclusions after the tarmac incident with Bill Clinton. Yes, she did.
We live on a very small globe and politics is global, and business is global. I expect Americans to be interacting with the Chinese, the Russians, the Australians, you name it, every single day. I expect those interactions to be fully transparent and above board, especially with our public officials. And if money changes hands, there could be conflict of interest.
Poor Loretta Lynch got pilloried just for talking to a fellow American who was the husband of someone under investigation because it "looked bad." Does this administration not understand how bad this Russia thing looks?
Of course, just because it looks bad doesn't mean it is bad. Perhaps these investigations will again result in nothing, just like the Clinton email thing. We just want some honesty and some answers. Without that there will never be any sort of trust or respect for this administration.
I'm sorry, but I'm really getting sick of this. I endured relentless hounding of Hillary Clinton regarding her ill-conceived private email server, then Comey finally comes up with nothing. And, before anyone starts in on Comey's "handling" of the investigation, the AG, Loretta Lynch, gave Comey the authority to make those conclusions after the tarmac incident with Bill Clinton. Yes, she did.
We live on a very small globe and politics is global, and business is global. I expect Americans to be interacting with the Chinese, the Russians, the Australians, you name it, every single day. I expect those interactions to be fully transparent and above board, especially with our public officials. And if money changes hands, there could be conflict of interest.
Poor Loretta Lynch got pilloried just for talking to a fellow American who was the husband of someone under investigation because it "looked bad." Does this administration not understand how bad this Russia thing looks?
Of course, just because it looks bad doesn't mean it is bad. Perhaps these investigations will again result in nothing, just like the Clinton email thing. We just want some honesty and some answers. Without that there will never be any sort of trust or respect for this administration.
No, Democrats don't want our elections rigged by Vladimir Putin and Russia with (possible) collusion from the sitting president's team. That's a lot different than not wanting better relations.
I'd like to have better relations with my neighbor, but I won't sleep with his wife to accomplish.
I'd like to have better relations with my neighbor, but I won't sleep with his wife to accomplish.
Every powerful country "meddles" in the affairs of other countries, as they should. The more cross-influence among governments the safer the world as a whole will be; eventually, if humanity is lucky, it will be but one government.
Don't insult my intelligence by trying to tell me that the USA doesn't meddle abroad. From the assassination of heads of state to the toppling entire governments and the rigging of national elections, we've been and continue to be at the forefront of transnational interference. I won’t even go into the endless bombings and invasions.
The Russians have an existential stake (as we all do) in the kind of government that is in place in Washington. Will be it one like Obama's (and Clinton's if she had been elected) committed to implacable animosity and constant provocation when it came to Russia?
The Russians are right not to want that — and frankly, neither should any of us here in the States.
Don't insult my intelligence by trying to tell me that the USA doesn't meddle abroad. From the assassination of heads of state to the toppling entire governments and the rigging of national elections, we've been and continue to be at the forefront of transnational interference. I won’t even go into the endless bombings and invasions.
The Russians have an existential stake (as we all do) in the kind of government that is in place in Washington. Will be it one like Obama's (and Clinton's if she had been elected) committed to implacable animosity and constant provocation when it came to Russia?
The Russians are right not to want that — and frankly, neither should any of us here in the States.
It might be that the Russian government is pleased with how its efforts which lead to D. Trump becoming the American president are paying off by causing the disruption of the American government and the frightening of the American people?
Is a way out of this a bi-partisan committee of congress people helping the president alter his ways and govern effectively? Or is the way out of this the president, for the sake of our nation, deciding the most helpful way out is for him to patriotically resign the presidency for the sake of all Americans?
Is a way out of this a bi-partisan committee of congress people helping the president alter his ways and govern effectively? Or is the way out of this the president, for the sake of our nation, deciding the most helpful way out is for him to patriotically resign the presidency for the sake of all Americans?
Not being among the "impeach him now, for any reason or no reason" crowd, I don't take the time to read, and hang on, every new piece of conspiracy theory reporting out there (that is not really a reference to the NYT, perhaps to the WPost) so I found the simple summary in this editorial, devoid of opinion really, of great value. Thank you NYT for a piece presenting "just the facts".
So, how come the Secretary of State is not mentioned as part of this Nexus?
"Here’s what we know about the collusion story so far. "
Emphasis on STORY.
Emphasis on STORY.
1
"JEFF SESSIONS Mr. Sessions, the attorney general, said during his Senate confirmation hearing that he did not have any contacts with Russian officials while he was actively campaigning for Mr. Trump. In fact, he met with Mr. Kislyak twice, once in his Senate office and once at the Republican National Convention."
Why was Mr. Kislyak at the Republican National Convention? What other countries sent agents? Did they attend the DNC as well? Seems suspicious that any foreign involvement would be allowed at either convention.
Why was Mr. Kislyak at the Republican National Convention? What other countries sent agents? Did they attend the DNC as well? Seems suspicious that any foreign involvement would be allowed at either convention.
2
The Trump-Russia nexus is almost as strong as the Clinton-Russia nexus. For example, the Clinton's getting outrageous speaking fees in return for Hillary giving the ok to sell US uranium interests to a Russian-controlled company whose president is on the Clinton Foundation Board. And John Podesta and his brother taking investments in a Russian company.
1
Why is the Times not following up on the Deutsche Bank connection? After four bankruptcies, Trump turned to Deutsche Bank for financing, as he was shunned by major American banks. Deutsche Bank was fined nearly $700 million by the Justice Department under the previous administration for laundering hundreds of millions of dollars for Russian oligarchs, which may explain why it was willing to underwrite Trump projects.
1
I don't know about anyone else, but I have to wonder about intelligence secrets and whether they were for sale.
"Mr. Flynn, a retired military intelligence officer,....."
Isn't it odd that no one else is questioning this?
"Mr. Flynn, a retired military intelligence officer,....."
Isn't it odd that no one else is questioning this?
Many have noted that the famous photo of Flynn together with Putin at a Moscow dinner includes another American political character sitting at the same table: Jill Stein. I've seen no reporting that follows up with Ms. Stein as to the reason for her inclusion in this event. This is a person who ran as an independent candidate, siphoning off a significant number of votes from other liberal candidates. Did she receive Russian funding or other help for her presidential run? I'm just curious as to whether or not The NY Times has looked into this.
2
How is it that the NSA can get hacked, yet Trump's tax returns have yet to be leaked?
3
McCabe has a questionable background. Merrick Garland would be an excellent choice for Director of the FBI. The evidence of trump crimes is undeniable. Let's get this Russian show on the road. The sooner we rid ourselves of trump, and possibly pense, the better. I think the country can handle the duplicitous, and unprincipled, Paul Ryan. I would favor a new election, another FIRST for our country, but absolutely necessary. Who knew all these criminals, and incompetents, would take control of our government?
1
I have thought all along that Russia DID NOT interfere with the election. Can anyone answer my questions?
- How did the Russians tamper with voting machines? How?
- How did the Russians tamper with the Electoral College? How?
- How did the Russians tamper with voting machines? How?
- How did the Russians tamper with the Electoral College? How?
2
Honestly, this sounds like I'm reading an appellate brief arguing against Trump. NY Times, could you provide at least a few countervailing facts? (E.g. Sessions claimed his meetings were strictly in his role as a member of the Committee on Foreign Relations; mention that businessmen doing business in Russia is not unheard of.) Really anything that would give this some more credibility via slightly more objectivity.
Ok, so far so good. But, what is more interesting is what the NYT is not saying. There is much more going on and I would suggest the Editorial Board knows full well this is the case, and is not coming forward with it because it is not yet after-the-fact concretely factual.
Repeatedly there are reports that Grand Juries are convened and are producing indictments. The FBI raided a lobbying firm with ties to the administration. It goes on.
The Washington Post has just reported a survey that shows 84% of Republicans not only are supportive but strongly approve of the job he is doing. (I won't even dignify him with the number 45)
This explains everything. The radical right runs the Republican Party now and it shows. Unless and until the NYT calls for the investigation it suggests and demands every other news organization does the same, you are fighting with one hand tied behind your back using a dull sword.
Now is the time for all good men to come to the aid of their country.
Repeatedly there are reports that Grand Juries are convened and are producing indictments. The FBI raided a lobbying firm with ties to the administration. It goes on.
The Washington Post has just reported a survey that shows 84% of Republicans not only are supportive but strongly approve of the job he is doing. (I won't even dignify him with the number 45)
This explains everything. The radical right runs the Republican Party now and it shows. Unless and until the NYT calls for the investigation it suggests and demands every other news organization does the same, you are fighting with one hand tied behind your back using a dull sword.
Now is the time for all good men to come to the aid of their country.
I wonder who opposed Nixons impeachment and what happened to their careers?
1
Where is the Truth-About-Benghazi crew when we need a good investigation? In a completely partisan hideout.
3
The kisses our president regularly throws to Russia and Vladimir Putin are bizarre--especially to those of us who grew up in the Cold War. And the connections so many with the Trump campaign, the Trump White House or otherwise close to Trump or his businesses have with Russia are more than a little troubling--if nothing more than in their sheer number. (I am particularly troubled by that server in Trump organization offices reported to be connected to a Russian banks--seeming to put to lie Trump's denials of Russian loans.) But without more, for progressive politicians and pundits to keep screaming "Fire!" only diminishes their credibility and allows Trump supporters to pooh-pooh the need for a full-fledged investigation.
And it inevitably invites comparisons with the conduct of both parties during the Benghazi investigations--and that in turn sets up yet another false equivalency. But there is nothing close to equivalency here. If the GOP had proven its Benghazi claims, Hillary Clinton would have gone down In flames and become a footnote in history. If the many connections and coincidences between Trump and Russia are proven to be nefarious, it will be the biggest assault to our democracy in our nation's history--one that threatens the future of America as we know it.
The magnitude of that is why we need not to cry "Fire!" but to use the continued pile-up of Russian coincidences to demand a no-holds-barred independent investigation of this "historic" presidency.
And it inevitably invites comparisons with the conduct of both parties during the Benghazi investigations--and that in turn sets up yet another false equivalency. But there is nothing close to equivalency here. If the GOP had proven its Benghazi claims, Hillary Clinton would have gone down In flames and become a footnote in history. If the many connections and coincidences between Trump and Russia are proven to be nefarious, it will be the biggest assault to our democracy in our nation's history--one that threatens the future of America as we know it.
The magnitude of that is why we need not to cry "Fire!" but to use the continued pile-up of Russian coincidences to demand a no-holds-barred independent investigation of this "historic" presidency.
3
"In 2008, Donald Trump Jr. told a real estate conference, 'Russians make up a pretty disproportionate cross section of a lot of our assets; say in Dubai, and certainly with our project in SoHo and anywhere in New York,' according to eTurboNews, a travel industry news site."
Pro tip to the FBI and Congress: subpoena Donnie Jr. ASAP.
Unlike brother Eric, who's in denial mode about his admissions regarding the Trump's financial entanglements with Russians, Donnie blabbed in front of the camera. That doesn't mean he and his old man won't scream "fake news," but it will expose them for the liars they are when they do.
Pro tip to the FBI and Congress: subpoena Donnie Jr. ASAP.
Unlike brother Eric, who's in denial mode about his admissions regarding the Trump's financial entanglements with Russians, Donnie blabbed in front of the camera. That doesn't mean he and his old man won't scream "fake news," but it will expose them for the liars they are when they do.
The Russian connection seems to be quite simple. After bankrupting businesses numerous times, Trump could not get any more loans from US banks. So he borrowed from Russians, who became active business partners. These same Russians have strong ties to Putin. When Trump was running for President it was in Russia's interest to help him win. What better puppet than a man who owes you lots and lots of money?
2
How could you forget Tillerson?
NYT missed an important Trump/Russia connection. Whether Trump owns Russian investments is irrelevant. Russia "owns" Trump-investments. Who owns " little Russia" condos in Miami and NY? Who bailed out Trump when US Banks refused Trump loans during his Casino Bankruptcies and the housing crisis? Did Russia finance Trump through Russian Oligarch money-laundering? Eric Trump and Arnold Palmer:
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/2017/05/07/eric-trump-said-fathers-golf-...
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/2017/05/07/eric-trump-said-fathers-golf-...
This story is why I subscribe. Our democracy is in peril.
In other words, nothing. Maybe be honest about that?
3
You forgot Trump publicly asking Russia to hack Clinton. Does it only count as collusion if it's in secret?
This is the most threadbare "nexus" I've ever seen
The time is nigh for Trump to fall on his sword and resign. He won't do it, though, and the Republicans control the House until November 2018, so impeachment proceedings won't begin until at least 2019, and only then if Democrats retake control of the House. What misery.
Donald, like a mafia boss, asked FBI Director James Comey for loyalty. Mr. Comey said he could only offer honesty. Then Donald fired him. If that's not obstruction of justice I don't know what is and, by the way, this was the main reason Nixon was going to get impeached before he resigned. I say we try that again.
Because of Trump's sleazy business behaviour, numerous bankruptcies when he still walked away with millions of dollars while his subcontractors - mostly small businesses lost their shirts - US banks stopped financing his enterprises.
Shortly after that Russian oligarch and banks opened their money faucets to hold Trump above water.
I assume that the F.B.I. can have a little peak into his tax returns.
Follow the money!
Shortly after that Russian oligarch and banks opened their money faucets to hold Trump above water.
I assume that the F.B.I. can have a little peak into his tax returns.
Follow the money!
1
I wish commenters would understand that the House and Senate investigations are not over. The NYT is just summing up the "smoke." Whether or not there is real fire is up to those committees and our intelligence community to decide. Do any of you seriously think the NYT has inside info from our federal investigators? Of course not. If they did, it would be front page news.
By the way, the House and Senate are both Republican controlled. Even they can't shut this whole thing down--enough Republicans actually want the truth. Go figure.
And that's the weird thing about Trump's firing Comey. A rational president would think "my hands and the hands of my family members and campaign associates are clean. This whole thing will play out and amount to nothing, just like the Clinton emails amounted to nothing."
That's what normal people with nothing to hide think. They don't fire the lead investigator.
Thanks for summing up the "smoke," NYT. You're not "blowing smoke," just reporting it. Thanks for doing your job.
By the way, the House and Senate are both Republican controlled. Even they can't shut this whole thing down--enough Republicans actually want the truth. Go figure.
And that's the weird thing about Trump's firing Comey. A rational president would think "my hands and the hands of my family members and campaign associates are clean. This whole thing will play out and amount to nothing, just like the Clinton emails amounted to nothing."
That's what normal people with nothing to hide think. They don't fire the lead investigator.
Thanks for summing up the "smoke," NYT. You're not "blowing smoke," just reporting it. Thanks for doing your job.
1
Americans who support Trump accept his unethical behavior, because they see him not as the president of America the country, but the president of America the corporation.
It just dawned on me; the information that is NOT in Trump's tax returns is what is most telling. The Feds have had those tax returns for years and there's nothing illegal in them - obviously. Trump would have been brought up on tax fraud/evasion/etc. charges a long time ago. So, where's Trump's money? It's all off-shore and it's all Russian. Back in the 90's, after he bankrupted himself the first time, there wasn't a U.S. or EU bank that would do business with him. He was a laughing stock. The only place to go? Russia. Crystal Clear.
To quote John Dean of Watergate fame, 'There is a cancer on the Presidency" and it seems to have metastasized to the entire Executive Branch. With willing Republican collaborators in Congress led by Senate Majority Leader, Mitch McConnell, our democracy is hanging by the slimmest of threads. The Russians may have succeeded beyond their wildest dreams in promoting a coup d'etat that installed a Putin-style and Putin-friendly oligarchy. All this in little over 100 days while we were distracted with legislative accomplishments. All may be lost if there are not at least three patriotic Republican Senators who put country over party and the Constitution over power.
You didn't mention Dmitry Rybolovlev who provided Trump with a life-saving cash injection by buying a Florida property from him at a highly inflated price just as Deutsche Bank was demanding a very similar amount as a partial payment on his loans. (The same Deutsche Bank that was fined for laundering Russian money.)
It almost goes without saying that there is nothing illegal about selling property to a foreign national or doing business on an international scale. But you have to exercise due diligence when doing so. Trump doesn't seem to have done that in, say, Azerbaijan, the financing of his project was shady, and while Trump himself had no ties with the Iranian Revolutionary Guard and probably had no part in money laundering, by doing deals with those who did, he was, in a way, complicit.
I am reminded of his defense of Putin in which he told Bill O'Reilly, "There are a lot of killers. We have a lot of killers. Well, you think our country is so innocent?" That was so telling. You do deals and it doesn't matter with whom because, in the end, we're all corrupt. I'm not sure exactly what that says about him in a legal sense, but it makes him morally reprehensible.
It almost goes without saying that there is nothing illegal about selling property to a foreign national or doing business on an international scale. But you have to exercise due diligence when doing so. Trump doesn't seem to have done that in, say, Azerbaijan, the financing of his project was shady, and while Trump himself had no ties with the Iranian Revolutionary Guard and probably had no part in money laundering, by doing deals with those who did, he was, in a way, complicit.
I am reminded of his defense of Putin in which he told Bill O'Reilly, "There are a lot of killers. We have a lot of killers. Well, you think our country is so innocent?" That was so telling. You do deals and it doesn't matter with whom because, in the end, we're all corrupt. I'm not sure exactly what that says about him in a legal sense, but it makes him morally reprehensible.
18
If Trump is a Russian puppet when do we get to see the Faberge Eggs they've given him to keep him happy and obedient? After all, he can't be doing this for free.
3
The number and nature of these contacts with an antagonist foreign nation are utterly without precedent in our history. Trump's 'move on, nothing to see here' just won't wash. The nation needs to know just how beholden Trump and his administration are to Russia. Perhaps the real goal is Make Russia Great Again.
8
"The number and nature of these contacts with an antagonist foreign nation are utterly without precedent in our history."
Exaggerate much?
Exaggerate much?
2
I am no Trump supporter but this editorial along with every other left leaning news outlet has yet to provide one shed of evidence that shows collusion between the Russian government and the Trump campaign to undermine the election. Its nothing mroe than speculation.
6
Then why is trump so paranoid? What's he hiding? Why not volunteer to testify, under oath! To put this behind him?
He's hiding something Yuge!
This is not going away. Till we see its length and breadth and width.
He's hiding something Yuge!
This is not going away. Till we see its length and breadth and width.
Left leaning?
You mean they write facts instead of little fairy tales?
You mean they write facts instead of little fairy tales?
During James Comey’s appearance before the Senate Judiciary Committee last week, Sen. Al Franken asked the FBI director, “What is your assessment of why the Russian government had a clear preference for President Trump?” Comey answered, “The intelligence communities' assessment had a couple of parts with respect to that. One is he wasn't Hillary Clinton, who Putin hated and wanted to harm in any possible way, and so he was her opponent, so necessarily they supported him.” This is why Russia meddled in the 2016 election. Russia didn’t need the Trump campaign’s help to hack Democratic National Committee email or spread misinformation through social media. There is no evidence they asked for or received any help from the Trump campaign.
2
Except that they changed the Republican platform vis-à-vis the Ukraine and Russia!
And policy has changed towards Russia!
And, that Trump made statement after statement praising Putin and even Russian-backed Assad.
So, trying to dismiss this by saying "there is no evidence" is false, but you missed the point of the editorial-- it shows a network of interrelationships with Russia that need to be investigated.
At this point, we do not know what evidence will turn up, but given the clear efforts by Trump and his minions to cover up, obfuscate, interfere with investigations, lie about what when on, and deflect attention, it's virtually certain that compelling evidence of malfeasance and improper Russian connections and influence will turn up.
Just wait and then come back here and acknowledge that you were wrong and even naive about how politics and Trump work!
And policy has changed towards Russia!
And, that Trump made statement after statement praising Putin and even Russian-backed Assad.
So, trying to dismiss this by saying "there is no evidence" is false, but you missed the point of the editorial-- it shows a network of interrelationships with Russia that need to be investigated.
At this point, we do not know what evidence will turn up, but given the clear efforts by Trump and his minions to cover up, obfuscate, interfere with investigations, lie about what when on, and deflect attention, it's virtually certain that compelling evidence of malfeasance and improper Russian connections and influence will turn up.
Just wait and then come back here and acknowledge that you were wrong and even naive about how politics and Trump work!
Sen. Mitch McConnel, the Republican leader of the Senate, may end up being history's most despised character for this turbulent political era. It was McConnel who called a meeting on the night that Barack Obama was inaugurated and recruited pledges from Republicans to work together to make sure the new president fails and serves only one term, inflaming once again the racism simmering since Nixon's "Southern Strategy" to attract Southern whites; and it is McConnel who has not given Senate investigators the resources they need to find out whether there were inappropriate links between Trump and his campaign and the Russians, and who holds Congressional Republicans in line now in support of Trumps crumbling presidency. It may very will be that history will look back and wonder if it wasn't McConnel who did the most damage to the country.
9
Please review why Representatives Chaffetz and Nunes ended up quiting their investigating positions. Every time a republican attempts to do something towards investigating this they quit. What do they have on them to scare them so much?
6
They quit because there's nothing there maybe?
Amen! My thought exactly. We know Russia hacked both parties during the election, but only spilled Dem beans. Perhaps they've got a boatload they're holding over the GOP....
Compared to What? Trump/Russia is a fleabite compared to the shameless in -your-face corruption in congress. If there is an independent consul let it be for every senator who ran for re-election. Senator: "Have you ever voted on an issue after receiving more than a coffee cup from corporations involved? Do you recuse yourself if more than five dollars of campaign contributions are involved?"
Also investigate every government worker who handles a "secret" more than two years old. Secrecy + two or more people+ dollars=fraud. Why are we putting up with "secrets" from the Kennedy era? Russia/Trump is a useless distraction.
Also investigate every government worker who handles a "secret" more than two years old. Secrecy + two or more people+ dollars=fraud. Why are we putting up with "secrets" from the Kennedy era? Russia/Trump is a useless distraction.
4
President Trump's finances and tax returns must become public for American citizens to know possible nexus not only with Russia but other dictatorial powers.
3
Obviously, the bi-partisan IRS has access to his returns. And obviously, by their lack of any action or red flags (no pun intended) there's no need to share his returns with the public.
James Dodson on Eric Trump is the news. If Russians might have provided significant funds for Trump golf courses, this should be investigated. There is a strange possibility that Trump's personality might be calling more attention to the Russia connection than it deserves??? But he protests too much, while concealing too much, and doing his best to distort any fact he doesn't like. This behavior calls great suspicion on himself.
3
The photographs from the Oval Office meeting with Lavrov are powerful clues to the Trump-Putin relationship. Before a relaxed Putin scores seven goals playing hockey he makes a phone call and has our president do a little well photographed dance to show the world who is in charge. Putin plays chess as well as hockey.
2
Trump denied having any investments in Russia but he pointedly did not comment on Russian investments in him. Will the truth ever be known? Will the Republicans put public interest ahead of investing in Trump?
2
This may not seem related, but at the same RT meeting Jill Stein was also at the table with Putin. Stein came back and her entire campaign consisted of denigrating Hillary Clinton, and ignoring Trump. I believe there is a story that has not been investigated. Stein, of the "Green Party" was willing to turn the country over to Trump, who immediately removed all references to climate change, and appointed an anti climate change secretary. This is something that I think should not be ignored. Jill Stein was very much a part of taking votes from Clinton. Collusion with Trump? Or bought by the Russians?
7
I, too, noticed that Stein was in attendance at the same dinner as Flynn and have come to the same opinion as you. Frankly, I am confused as to why there has been not a single reference to Stein's possible role in this investigation. This entire situation becomes more convoluted and bizarre every day. It also raises more questions that I fear will remain unanswered. It's certainly time for someone to step up and quickly settle this scandal without all of the games and intrigues that are so commonplace in Washington.
2
@CLSW2000: Good point!
I've been curious about Jill Stein as well.
I've been curious about Jill Stein as well.
2
Yeah right. Dedham is not too far from Lexington, why don't you go over and ask her for yourself.
1
Personally, I think there is something behind the allegations but it's going to take a long time to get there if we get there at all. Why? Because the GOP doesn't want to upset your average Trump voter because that voter is his/her voter. Of course, the investigation may only reveal a few stupid moves or conversations that resulted in the appearance of wrong doing and actually reveals nothing criminal. But that's enough to rattle or discredit a very insecure Trump. Correct: the tax returns are critical but they will reveal that Trump is in deep with Russian banks and that he probably has less money than he wants us to think. It's ultimately about a very fragile ego.
8
Wilbur Ross, the Secretary of Commerce should be at the trop of this list. He shared the VP position with a Putin selected ex KGB agent at Bank of Cyprus, known for money laundering activities.
6
Interesting anecdotal information that bears no relationship to collusion in the election. Nice try. Let the investigation continue.
6
China bought and sold the Clinton's when Bill ran for office, and nobody on the Left said boo.
Anyone remember Charlie Trie and the hundreds of illegal Chinese bundlers?
I have no doubt Russia tried to damage Hillary Clinton before she became President. It would have made the 33,000 emails they have about the Pay for Play Operation she ran out of the State Dept. that much more valuable to them.
However, it's a giant leap of faith to think they played Soviet Jedi Mind Tricks to convince her to avoide MI, WI and elsewhere before the election and instead spend all her time with JayZ, Beyonce and Katy Perry. If there's anything that says "I'm one of you working men and women"...that's it.
Anyone remember Charlie Trie and the hundreds of illegal Chinese bundlers?
I have no doubt Russia tried to damage Hillary Clinton before she became President. It would have made the 33,000 emails they have about the Pay for Play Operation she ran out of the State Dept. that much more valuable to them.
However, it's a giant leap of faith to think they played Soviet Jedi Mind Tricks to convince her to avoide MI, WI and elsewhere before the election and instead spend all her time with JayZ, Beyonce and Katy Perry. If there's anything that says "I'm one of you working men and women"...that's it.
3
What needs to be demonstrated is that Trump's campaign staff or other associates were aware of or cooperating in Russian intelligence operations aimed at affecting the US presidential elections. The things you've enumerated here don't do this, but only suggest that having business or other professional associations or (heaven forbid) actual friends or family in Russia is a BAD thing and proof of treason. Many US companies have invested in and are active in Russia and they aren't criminals a priori. On the contrary, since 1990 or so until the Ukraine crisis developed, the US had strongly endorsed as a matter of core national interest the inclusion of Russia and Russians in all kinds of linkages with the West: cultural, educational, commercial, professional, even military (eg NATO-Russia Council). The suggestion that mere association with Russians is suspicious was not advanced by anyone serious even during the depths of Cold War. What have we become? Are we trying to emulate Putin?
13
Ever heard of money laundering? I bet we're gonna hear a lot about that.
A dripping faucet may become a gusher very soon.
A dripping faucet may become a gusher very soon.
As a public we can safely say that Russia was interfering with our elections, because our intelligence agencies are confirming that.
As a rule there is no smoking gun. Generally prosecutors put together their cases with circumstantial evidence until they have enough to convince a jury beyond a reasonable doubt. As of now, there is a growing preponderance of circumstantial evidence that Trump, who was driving that champaign bus, had indeed colluded with the Russians. . . . . . Does the FBI need more? Yes, of course the FBI does, but they are getting there. So needing just a little more circumstantial evidence to prove the case — tell me again, why did Donald fire James Comey? (Which of course is yet another piece of circumstantial evidence.)
As a rule there is no smoking gun. Generally prosecutors put together their cases with circumstantial evidence until they have enough to convince a jury beyond a reasonable doubt. As of now, there is a growing preponderance of circumstantial evidence that Trump, who was driving that champaign bus, had indeed colluded with the Russians. . . . . . Does the FBI need more? Yes, of course the FBI does, but they are getting there. So needing just a little more circumstantial evidence to prove the case — tell me again, why did Donald fire James Comey? (Which of course is yet another piece of circumstantial evidence.)
1
Nice try. You conveniently ignore the established fact (thanks to counter-intelligence evidence) that Flynn was talking to the Russians about the sanctions imposed on them by Obama, AT THE TIME HE WAS ACTIVELY CAMPAIGNING FOR TRUMP'S ELECTION. It does not take a rocket scientist to deduce that any favorable consideration on such a matter would give the Russians incentive to further interfere in the election to tilt it Trump's way. That is quid pro quo and TREASON, not mere suspicion. Giving aid and comfort to a foreign agent in undermining our democratic process of government. Why do you think Flynn is asking for immunity in return for spilling the beans? This was not just some "mere association" with Russians as you describe it. What have we become? A country where three star generals are willing to sell out their country to the highest bidder.
Do you really think Carter Page was clandestinely meeting with known Russian intelligence figures just to talk about soccer scores? Yea, I know, innocent until proven guilty, but get real.
Do you really think Carter Page was clandestinely meeting with known Russian intelligence figures just to talk about soccer scores? Yea, I know, innocent until proven guilty, but get real.
1
It's all connected, and reveals that we have a Russian puppet in the White House.
But the connections and implications can be hard to follow, especially for people who aren't in the #Resistance, who are un-woke, or who just don't read the news.
So I encourage everyone here to build an "evidence wall." I have one in a spare room in my apartment. It consists of the names of all of these nefarious conspirators, with a "bad deeds" note card underneath, with strands of colored painter's tape connecting the conspirators. As you can guess, all lines connect back to Putin and Trump. Why do this, when the truth of the conspiracy is so self evident? Because the truth needs to be spread. Whenever I have guests over, I take them to the "evidence wall" to show them the facts.
One word of advice though. Initially I was using yarn to connect the profiles. If you have cats, this is a bad idea. They will literally destroy the "evidence wall" if yarn is used as a major component. So if you have cats, or are using a room that was previously the "cat room" before being repurposed into the "Russian-Trump Evidence Room" just be sure not to use yarn.
But the connections and implications can be hard to follow, especially for people who aren't in the #Resistance, who are un-woke, or who just don't read the news.
So I encourage everyone here to build an "evidence wall." I have one in a spare room in my apartment. It consists of the names of all of these nefarious conspirators, with a "bad deeds" note card underneath, with strands of colored painter's tape connecting the conspirators. As you can guess, all lines connect back to Putin and Trump. Why do this, when the truth of the conspiracy is so self evident? Because the truth needs to be spread. Whenever I have guests over, I take them to the "evidence wall" to show them the facts.
One word of advice though. Initially I was using yarn to connect the profiles. If you have cats, this is a bad idea. They will literally destroy the "evidence wall" if yarn is used as a major component. So if you have cats, or are using a room that was previously the "cat room" before being repurposed into the "Russian-Trump Evidence Room" just be sure not to use yarn.
Knowing Trump's cheating ways and unscrupulous behavior, it is very credible he would have, at the least, encouraged the Russians the hacking into the e-mails of his presidential opponent, candidate Hillary Clinton. This, and with a little help from Comey's untimely irrelevant non-news, catapulted this monster into the Oval Office. Trump's vulgar insults, and outright lies, demeaning to any and all of his opponents was outrageous, but somehow tolerated by a complacent press and public (at the time), suggesting a 'new normal'. Crooked lying Trump, our 'mafioso' in the White House, has a lot to answer for; short of treason, he has all the 'attributes' necessary to be fired from an office he does not deserve. This brutish bull, in our 'china shop', seems quite able, and willing, to fully destroy any vestiges of civility and order. He is the king of governmental misrule. And a most reliable Russian enabler.
3
He literally did encourage the Russians to hack Clinton's emails. At a campaign rally in Miami on July 27th.
How interesting that Fox News believes a change at the helm of the FBI will yield positive results in a resumption of Hillary Clinton investigation. No wonder a third of our population that relies on this one source for information denies/disputes the essence of Comey's firing and the Russian collusion investigation;the implications for this government.
We must agree that Koch brother's money, Fox News, Mitch McConnell and Congress and this administration will continue to manipulate reality until America becomes scorched earth morally financially and economically.
We must agree that Koch brother's money, Fox News, Mitch McConnell and Congress and this administration will continue to manipulate reality until America becomes scorched earth morally financially and economically.
4
Are the Koch Brothers still Democratic all-purpose demons? I thought they were eliminated from this pantheon of naughtiness after they came out against Trump.
"The Pentagon is investigating whether Mr. Flynn, a retired military intelligence officer, failed to disclose and obtain approval from the State and Defense Departments before taking money from a foreign government." I'm puzzled. Isn't it known for a fact that Flynn did not register with the government as a foreign agent and failed to disclose his close ties with people associated with Putin, if not Putin himself--all while he WAS earning money from the Russians and the Turks?
1
In the name of justice and the U.S. Constitution, let us pray that Trump's last reality TV appearance is a globally televised event of him and his cronies being given lethal injections after being convicted of Treason. And, let us never forget the betrayal and complicity of the craven Republican party members who enabled these crimes against our nation.
4
What seems to be forgotten, is that all of these events were occurring in the heat of a very competitive campaign, while the Republicans were trailing. So what were they doing while all efforts should be directed toward winning our election? Well, they were talking to the Russians. The only possible reason is they thought the Russians could help them win the election--and they were right.
1
The acting director of the FBI did not disclose that his wife received contributions from a close Clinton backer prior to July last year. "As first reported by The Wall Street Journal, Clinton confidant and Virginia Gov. Terry McAuliffe urged McCabe’s wife to run for statewide office shortly after news reports were published that Hillary Clinton used a private email server and address for all her government business while serving as secretary of State.
For the reporting period of October through November 2015, McCabe's campaign filings show she received $467,500 from Common Good VA, a political action committee controlled by McAuliffe, as well as an additional $292,500 from a second Democratic PAC."
That is a clear conflict of interest.
For the reporting period of October through November 2015, McCabe's campaign filings show she received $467,500 from Common Good VA, a political action committee controlled by McAuliffe, as well as an additional $292,500 from a second Democratic PAC."
That is a clear conflict of interest.
5
So the deputy FBI director's wife receiving campaign contributions two years ago from a PAC run by someone Clinton talks to a lot is "a clear conflict of interest", but Trump's businesses having been rescued from financial oblivion by shadowy Russian backers that he now pretends never to have dealt with, that's totally above board.
No. The election is over, Clinton is not being investigated and there are no unseemly contacts between her campaign associates and a foreign power that nakedly attempted to subvert our political process. But nice try at distraction, distortion and false equivalency
Well maybe with a new FBI director she will be investigated. That would make a lot of deplorables happy as well as a few Bernie voters. And in case you forgot she received money from foreign governments for speeches, both her and Bill and we all know the corruption of the Clinton foundation.
The son denies saying that the golf courses are bankrolled by the Russians? The author missed his drum roll by not following up on this observation. Instead, he left his point at insinuation, which is a poor start to an essay on a President who only insinuates by not following a thought with a fact.
What causes Trump to lose sleep at night is not directly "collusion with Russia" by his aids in the campaign, but rather his business and family dealings with Russia. Corruption is wide spread and a systemic part of economic and political life in Russia and satellite countries. When you do business there you may partner up with foreign reps. Issues of bribery, money laundering and conflicts of interest are not uncommon. Others are cutting in front of you winning contracts. Out of greed, naivety or the fact that everyone is doing it, an event there may be haunting him, running afoul of the US Foreign Corrupt Practices Act, It's a coffin nail that would taint irrevocably both the family enterprise and presidency.
1
The worst nightmare for this den of thieves: Sally Yates as Special Prosecutor. Obviously, that's not going to happen. But this wonderful country deserves at least a tough, seasoned prosecutor with the integrity of a Leon Jarwoski who would pursue the truth and frighten some who might want to lessen their fall from grace to begin cooperating with investigators.
I have to wonder how differently things might have been had Nixon been prosecuted and jailed instead of pardoned. A precedent would have been established and maybe there would be a modicum of respect (based on self preservation) for the separate branches that the ilk of trump would understand.
1
Josh Marshall of TPM (TalkingPointsMemo) has proposed a useful metaphor: the black hole. This is a thing so massive that nothing can escape its gravitational pull, not even light. So a black hole can't be seen directly; however, we know it is there because of its effect on other bodies.
The nonstop lying and deranged tweeting from trump and his minions is the effect; what is the black hole itself? I propose that the Trump Organization has been laundering dirty Russian money since that 90s. That was the time when trump was financially on the ropes, his schemes bankrupt, with no credit from US banks. Where did he get the capital to keep going?
Ask the Bank of Cyprus, Deutschebank (convicted of money-washing themselves) and Felix Sater, a felon with extensive Russian Mob connections who had an office in Trump Tower and claimed to be close to the Man himself.
The "Access Hollywood" tape scarcely hurt trump, so some frolic with hookers in a Moscow hotel can't be that threatening. But money laundering is a serious crime, and would provide excellent leverage for Russian interests (government or Mafia, there is little difference) to blackmail the POTUS. Follow the money... it cracked Watergate and it will crack this.
The nonstop lying and deranged tweeting from trump and his minions is the effect; what is the black hole itself? I propose that the Trump Organization has been laundering dirty Russian money since that 90s. That was the time when trump was financially on the ropes, his schemes bankrupt, with no credit from US banks. Where did he get the capital to keep going?
Ask the Bank of Cyprus, Deutschebank (convicted of money-washing themselves) and Felix Sater, a felon with extensive Russian Mob connections who had an office in Trump Tower and claimed to be close to the Man himself.
The "Access Hollywood" tape scarcely hurt trump, so some frolic with hookers in a Moscow hotel can't be that threatening. But money laundering is a serious crime, and would provide excellent leverage for Russian interests (government or Mafia, there is little difference) to blackmail the POTUS. Follow the money... it cracked Watergate and it will crack this.
This editorial makes an excellent case for what we all have known for quite some time - there is nothing to the Trump-Russia collusion nonsense. Hopefully, tomorrow brings an editorial asking for Democrats to internalize that Hillary Clinton was a shockingly bad candidate, and that she lost, to get over it and start working on a vision for the future rather than an excuse for the past.
4
No. This is not about the results of the election or Clinton. It is about whether anyone committed any crimes. Racketeering and conspiracy come to mind as hacking is a crime.
Not to mention mounting attempts to obstruct justice and perjury
Trump is guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. The truth is the truth, even if they deny it. There's no defense so they are blowing smoke directly into out faces: changing the subject, blaming the messenger, "Bill Clinton's wife lets him do it", "it's Obama's fault", so on. The Republicans have no choice but to go along. They're as much to blame and they know it. This case should be in a criminal court. All the elements for conviction of conspiracy to do-what?-sell us to the enemy have been met. It's a conspiracy so there's no smoking gun to be found. Then again, guilt by association is all you can go by. Wonder if we could subpoenae Putin? Nah! But the Prez sure acts like a guilty man with something terrible to hide. And, your Honors, evidence of Habit can be introduced. Like Habitual Lying. We got Trump now. Guilty of conspiracy to sell us out. And guilty of actually doing it.
1
This editorial is comical. Everyone knows that Trump had/has business interests in Russia. And some of his former campaign officials met with Russians, as have many other people, including Democrats. And much of this was well before he knew he was running for President.
So, how exactly, does this translate into Trump colluding with Russia to affect the US elections? How would that even play itself out? They paid the Russians to hack the DNC?
Really, someone explain. Democrats, including Schiff and Feinstein, have said there is no evidence. Clapper said this.
So, how exactly, does this translate into Trump colluding with Russia to affect the US elections? How would that even play itself out? They paid the Russians to hack the DNC?
Really, someone explain. Democrats, including Schiff and Feinstein, have said there is no evidence. Clapper said this.
15
There are documented interactions between the Trump Campaign and the Russian Ambassador, as well as documented interactions between Flynn and high level Russian officials.
And that is the question, Jackie. I assume you think it is worth getting to the bottom of it.
Again with the Clapper line. He explained, he wasn't in the loop on the investigation, so obviously he wasn't privy to any evidence said investigation had turned up. You guys keep twisting "he didn't know of any evidence" into "he knows there wasn't evidence", and at this point I have to assume it's on purpose.
Are all of these contacts with Russia prior to Trump becoming President illegal?
Can you borrow money from Russian citizens to invest in any project domestic or foreign? We have had contacts with Russia and the Soviet Union since their inceptions. If I take a Viking Cruise in Russia this summer is that suspect? Is working for Merrill Lynch in Moscow illegal? Are exchanging messages illegal? We have lots of contact allegations but are they in and of themselves illegal?
Can you borrow money from Russian citizens to invest in any project domestic or foreign? We have had contacts with Russia and the Soviet Union since their inceptions. If I take a Viking Cruise in Russia this summer is that suspect? Is working for Merrill Lynch in Moscow illegal? Are exchanging messages illegal? We have lots of contact allegations but are they in and of themselves illegal?
14
Imagine your huge business is failing. Shadowy Russian backers come out of nowhere and suddenly pump huge amounts of cash into it, rescuing you from financial oblivion. Then later, when you become President, you refuse to show any tax records from that time, and you deny the Russian backers ever even existed. Then it comes out that during the campaign, one in which you very publicly encouraged Russians to hack your opponent, that Russians hacked your opponent.
Nobody's saying this is proof of actual illegal activity. We're just saying that it's all suspicious enough to merit looking into further, and we're not sure why you're not able to see that at this point, especially considering how hard he's trying to make it go away.
Nobody's saying this is proof of actual illegal activity. We're just saying that it's all suspicious enough to merit looking into further, and we're not sure why you're not able to see that at this point, especially considering how hard he's trying to make it go away.
What is suspicious isn't Trump's ties, but his lies to cover them up. Like you say, it's not illegal nor suspicious on the surface. So why is he lying about it and trying to hide it? Doing all your business in cash is perfectly legal too. But if someone lies about why he's carrying 10 grand in bills, I'm going to think there is some funny business going on.
That's why two congressional investigations and an FBI investigation are ongoing. To find out if anybody did anything illegal or not. Nobody cares about your Viking Cruise unless you work for the federal government and for some reason the Russians gave you a free cruise. Then perhaps our government would ask you what the Russians expected in return for the free cruise.
The key thing is that if you work for the federal government there are certain transactions that must be disclosed, and certain things that you are not allowed to do. I suspect you don't work for the federal government, or at least not in a national security position, so you can do whatever you want, unless you are a hacker and you send send secret stuff to Russia, then you're in deep doo-doo if they catch you.
The key thing is that if you work for the federal government there are certain transactions that must be disclosed, and certain things that you are not allowed to do. I suspect you don't work for the federal government, or at least not in a national security position, so you can do whatever you want, unless you are a hacker and you send send secret stuff to Russia, then you're in deep doo-doo if they catch you.
Putin and his murderous lackeys are feeling the heat from the investigation. They must have told one of Trump's ilk who then informed Trump during one of his Florida trips. Roger Stone is on first name basis with Guccifer 2.0 so it was probably him. That's why Comey was fired. The Russian ambassador then visits Trump to let him know what Putin knows about the investigation and how to kill it. This cannot be that far-fetched, can it? Aside the drama, this does mean Trump was in on it all along. He was fully complicit in the Russian interference of our election. Maybe even a victim of extortion from the prostitute urination video. Regardless, it's not just an impeachable offense. It's Treason. Trump is looking at hard time at the Supermax. And we all can look forward to that video being released on YouTube someday. Looks like it's gonna to be Christmas in July. I can't hardly wait!
America invests in Russia. Russian invests in America. American money was all over it like bloodhounds when Russia emerged from decades of suppression under communism creating new labor opportunities, development opportunities, and natural resource opportunities. None of that is a smoking gun to treason. The "extensive network of relationships" is nothing more than a bunch of people with money looking for opportunities to make more money. The hunt for money is bipartisan: there is Obama now taking six figure speaking fees; there is Hillary now writing another book and launching yet another entity that will seek political contributions. Nearly every politician in our era uses the benefits of office to enrich and/or promote themselves, one way or another. Many public figures break the rules too when it suits them, like Bill Clinton visiting Loretta Lynch on the tarmac for a chat when that looked a lot more like undue influence than careful restraint. Meanwhile America now has something like six different agencies and congressional committees running "investigations" - instead of focusing on what the country's citizens really need.
The closest thing to questionable here might be Stone and Guccifer, if Guccifer are in fact the hackers who put egg on the DNC's face, but even that is thin - no different from a Times source calling the editorial desk with tips and giving reporters "advance notice" about a story that might break soon.
Is that collusion?
The closest thing to questionable here might be Stone and Guccifer, if Guccifer are in fact the hackers who put egg on the DNC's face, but even that is thin - no different from a Times source calling the editorial desk with tips and giving reporters "advance notice" about a story that might break soon.
Is that collusion?
2
One more thread: how many tenants in Trump Tower or condo owners in Trump properties are-- or are connected with-- Russia? How many oligarchs? How many invested and snagged those special U.S. visas for plunking down a mere $500,000?
I gather that tracing ownership and control of parties doing biz w Trump is challenging-- so many intermediaries, so many shell corporations, so many arcane partnership agreements and clandestine off-shore accounts. But I suspect these are avenues worth pursuing. More Russian connections are likely, esp'y given Donald Jr's famous quote about a disproportionate of the money flowing to The Trump Org coming from Mother Russia.
I gather that tracing ownership and control of parties doing biz w Trump is challenging-- so many intermediaries, so many shell corporations, so many arcane partnership agreements and clandestine off-shore accounts. But I suspect these are avenues worth pursuing. More Russian connections are likely, esp'y given Donald Jr's famous quote about a disproportionate of the money flowing to The Trump Org coming from Mother Russia.
It's seems interesting how the NYT, MSNBC, CNN harp on all these supposed connections which are nothing more than standard meetings and private business occurring daily. All senior politician's meet with all types of international, powerful business executives as government and private business executives.
This is mainly an effort to hamstrung the current president. Let him work on fixing the mess the Dem/Rep's have provided us with for the last 25 years.
And Hillary receives a pass because she didn'the have "intent" with her email server? Really, that is the worst grievous security violation by a US politician ever. Instead, we should be chasing meetings?
Please provide some balance.
This is mainly an effort to hamstrung the current president. Let him work on fixing the mess the Dem/Rep's have provided us with for the last 25 years.
And Hillary receives a pass because she didn'the have "intent" with her email server? Really, that is the worst grievous security violation by a US politician ever. Instead, we should be chasing meetings?
Please provide some balance.
2
Why was Comey fired the day before Trump met in our Oval Office where our press was barred but Russian state t.v. had the scoop?
I'm a lifelong Democrat, but it doesn't take a genius to realize that unless the Republican party as a whole comes together to actively support the hiring of an "independent prosecutor" to pursue the truth about Trump and his Russian affiliations.
America needs to know, in no uncertain terms, about how his relationship with Russia can adversely influence his ability to function in an evenhanded, independent, and trustworthy manner as president of the United States, then the Republican Party will also go down in flames along with their president.
Clearly, all of America -- in fact, all of the free world -- now knows that Trump is a pathological liar whose only loyalty is to his own selfish desires. This man is not equipped to lead our country into a brighter and more stable future.
So, again, I state that unless the Republican party wakes up and smells the coffee, they too will be on the losing end of this whole sad and sordid affair.
America needs to know, in no uncertain terms, about how his relationship with Russia can adversely influence his ability to function in an evenhanded, independent, and trustworthy manner as president of the United States, then the Republican Party will also go down in flames along with their president.
Clearly, all of America -- in fact, all of the free world -- now knows that Trump is a pathological liar whose only loyalty is to his own selfish desires. This man is not equipped to lead our country into a brighter and more stable future.
So, again, I state that unless the Republican party wakes up and smells the coffee, they too will be on the losing end of this whole sad and sordid affair.
I'm a lifelong Democrat, but it doesn't take a genius to realize that unless the Republican party as a whole comes together to actively support the hiring of an "independent prosecutor" to pursue the unmitigated truth about Trump and his Russian affiliations, then they too will also go down in flames when the truth is discovered in all its vivid, sordid detail.
America needs to know, in no uncertain terms, about how his relationship with Russia can adversely influence his ability to function in an evenhanded, independent, and trustworthy manner as president of the United States.
Clearly, all of America -- in fact, all of the free world -- now knows that Trump is a pathological liar whose only loyalty is to his own selfish desires. This man is not equipped to lead our country into a brighter and more stable future. He has no conscience, no integrity, and no moral purpose. He is motivated purely by a rabid desire to be respected while saying and doing things that create the exact opposite effect.
So, again, I state that unless the Republican party wakes up and smells the coffee, they too will be on the losing end of this whole sad and sordid affair.
America is at an important crossroads right now. This has never happened before. I believe that the events that have unfolded over these past weeks portend something far more dangerous to our collective future than Nixon's Watergate.
America needs to know, in no uncertain terms, about how his relationship with Russia can adversely influence his ability to function in an evenhanded, independent, and trustworthy manner as president of the United States.
Clearly, all of America -- in fact, all of the free world -- now knows that Trump is a pathological liar whose only loyalty is to his own selfish desires. This man is not equipped to lead our country into a brighter and more stable future. He has no conscience, no integrity, and no moral purpose. He is motivated purely by a rabid desire to be respected while saying and doing things that create the exact opposite effect.
So, again, I state that unless the Republican party wakes up and smells the coffee, they too will be on the losing end of this whole sad and sordid affair.
America is at an important crossroads right now. This has never happened before. I believe that the events that have unfolded over these past weeks portend something far more dangerous to our collective future than Nixon's Watergate.
The levels of involvement with the Russians and the conflicting statements call for the need for transparency -- even if to just clear Trump from the veil of suspicion. However, beyond possible collusion during the election, his business dealings are troubling and invite questions of money laundering, payoffs, FCPA violations, and ample fodder for blackmail. Just to be clear -- this is the President of the United States of America we are talking about.
1
Comrade Trump has shown that he has a facility for lying and subterfuge.
It is part of how he has gotten to where he is.
Normally, one is innocent unless proven otherwise but here we have a case where he is guilty unless proven innocent.
The man is incorrigible, non-repentant, paranoid, and willing to do just about anything to get what he wants.
Our president is mentally ill.
I am not the first one to suggest this and as time goes on it will become more obvious.
Meanwhile, he is destroying all he sees.
The man must be removed from office and prevented from inflicting further damage upon our nation and the world.
The Republicans will only cut him loose when their own futures are threatened.
It is part of how he has gotten to where he is.
Normally, one is innocent unless proven otherwise but here we have a case where he is guilty unless proven innocent.
The man is incorrigible, non-repentant, paranoid, and willing to do just about anything to get what he wants.
Our president is mentally ill.
I am not the first one to suggest this and as time goes on it will become more obvious.
Meanwhile, he is destroying all he sees.
The man must be removed from office and prevented from inflicting further damage upon our nation and the world.
The Republicans will only cut him loose when their own futures are threatened.
2
To this list, we should add former Trump campaign aid and someone who worked in early days with the White House (he was responsible for writing the notorious Holocaust Remembrance press release) Boris Epshteyn, the Russian-born financial wizard who became a familiar presence on TV screens this last fall as a Trump surrogate.
See the following for information about Epshteyn's relationship to Eastern European financiers and financial networks.
Interestingly, Trump recently and without much explanation severed connections with Epshteyn.
See the following for information about Epshteyn's relationship to Eastern European financiers and financial networks.
Interestingly, Trump recently and without much explanation severed connections with Epshteyn.
1
This administration, for all of the reasons cited in the article, makes Nixon and his merry band of buffoons look like Breslin's "Gang that Couldn't Shoot Straight." This updated version is every bit as concerning but arguably many times more nefarious, cunning, arrogant and dangerous in that their actions not only raise significant issues about their role in compromising the electoral process but, more concerning, placing the safety and security of the Country at risk. Nixon a warped and pathetic man - to be sure but Trump and his cronies, many times over much more dangerous and deviant. Time for our elected officials ( i.e., McConnell, Ryan et al.) to wake up and smell the coffee, or better still the rotting fish that reside in the White House.
A couple of months ago, the Guardian ran a story about Sec. of Labor, Wilbur Ross which included this paragraph:
"A group of Democratic senators have been waiting for two weeks for Wilbur Ross, a billionaire investor who has served as vice-chairman of the Bank of Cyprus since 2014, to answer a series of questions about possible links between the bank, Russian officials, and current and former Trump administration and campaign officials."
An article from Esquire back in February gives us additional details:
" More recently, he (Ross) led a rescue of Bank of Cyprus in September 2014 after the Cypriot government — in consultation with Russian President Vladimir Putin — first propped up the institution. "Cyprus banks have a long and painful history of laundering dirty money from Russians involved with corruption and criminality," said Elise Bean, a former Senate investigator who specialized in combating money laundering and tax evasion. "Buying a Cyprus bank necessarily raises red flags about suspect deposits, high-risk clients and hidden activities."
It should be obvious that Sec. Ross belongs on these lists of suspicious characters; I can't understand why he is not.
"A group of Democratic senators have been waiting for two weeks for Wilbur Ross, a billionaire investor who has served as vice-chairman of the Bank of Cyprus since 2014, to answer a series of questions about possible links between the bank, Russian officials, and current and former Trump administration and campaign officials."
An article from Esquire back in February gives us additional details:
" More recently, he (Ross) led a rescue of Bank of Cyprus in September 2014 after the Cypriot government — in consultation with Russian President Vladimir Putin — first propped up the institution. "Cyprus banks have a long and painful history of laundering dirty money from Russians involved with corruption and criminality," said Elise Bean, a former Senate investigator who specialized in combating money laundering and tax evasion. "Buying a Cyprus bank necessarily raises red flags about suspect deposits, high-risk clients and hidden activities."
It should be obvious that Sec. Ross belongs on these lists of suspicious characters; I can't understand why he is not.
If there were any “evidence” of collusion, the New York Times would present it, but there isn’t any evidence. Instead, the Times exaggerates and distorts “links” between Trump and Russia. For example, what Donald Trump Jr. actually told potential investors in 2008 is that ““Russians make up a pretty disproportionate cross-section of a lot of our assets; say in Dubai, and certainly with our project in SoHo and anywhere in New York. We see a lot of money pouring in from Russia. There's indeed a lot of money coming for new-builds and resale reflecting a trend in the Russian economy and, of course, the weak dollar versus the ruble." Of course the Trump Organization never followed through on its plans to build hotels in Russia. We are supposed to accept this as evidence of collusion?
2
Collusion between the Trump campaign and Russia!? Did Russian interference in the 2016 election cost Clinton the election by hacking DNC emails highlighting anti-Bernie Sanders activities and resurrecting Clinton’s emails resulting in the loss of key states like Pennsylvania, Michigan, and Wisconsin.
Did they?
Clinton lost those three states by a combined margin of 77,000 votes. Such a narrow loss would support an accusation of outside intervention.
Does it?
A recent Franklin & Marshall University poll concerning Pennsylvania has shown an increase of Tump support. The pollster is quoted as saying, “The drain-the-swamp, anti-establishment themes are what won him the presidency.”
Shouldn’t there be a serious investigation into why Clinton tanked in these three key states? If Russian meddling was responsible for her loss in these traditional “blue” states, then a much stronger opposition to Trump’s leadership is required. But what if it isn’t?
As a life-long Democrat, I believe that, without some real basis for explaining the 2016 defeat, the future success of the party depends on accurately identifying what led to the failure. If it was Moscow, then the present course may insure a Trump loss in 2020. But if the Democratic Party has lost touch with what was its base, then blaming the Russians and not making a change in its appeal will keep Trump in power until 2025.
Did they?
Clinton lost those three states by a combined margin of 77,000 votes. Such a narrow loss would support an accusation of outside intervention.
Does it?
A recent Franklin & Marshall University poll concerning Pennsylvania has shown an increase of Tump support. The pollster is quoted as saying, “The drain-the-swamp, anti-establishment themes are what won him the presidency.”
Shouldn’t there be a serious investigation into why Clinton tanked in these three key states? If Russian meddling was responsible for her loss in these traditional “blue” states, then a much stronger opposition to Trump’s leadership is required. But what if it isn’t?
As a life-long Democrat, I believe that, without some real basis for explaining the 2016 defeat, the future success of the party depends on accurately identifying what led to the failure. If it was Moscow, then the present course may insure a Trump loss in 2020. But if the Democratic Party has lost touch with what was its base, then blaming the Russians and not making a change in its appeal will keep Trump in power until 2025.
That is NOT the issue. The issue is 1. How did the Russians hack our systems and how far did they get. Did Trump and/or his associates commit any crimes and 3. What measures do we need to take to prevent foreign interference, influence and hacking.
As reported by Reuters: "The FBI's acting head [Andrew McCabe] said on Thursday he believed the agency has sufficient resources to investigate alleged Russian interference in the 2016 U.S. election and he was not aware of any request for more resources."
The report that Comey had requested further resources would seem to indicate a broadening investigation as would appear reasonable in the face of growing awareness of Trump's extensive and tangled financial involvement with the Russians. Comey's firing is consistent with Trump's determination not to release his tax returns.
McCabe's remarks about having sufficient capacity within the FBI already is an indication that he has received the message to wrap up this investigation and not to broaden its scope. In sum, write up a clear report as things now stand and drop it.
The report that Comey had requested further resources would seem to indicate a broadening investigation as would appear reasonable in the face of growing awareness of Trump's extensive and tangled financial involvement with the Russians. Comey's firing is consistent with Trump's determination not to release his tax returns.
McCabe's remarks about having sufficient capacity within the FBI already is an indication that he has received the message to wrap up this investigation and not to broaden its scope. In sum, write up a clear report as things now stand and drop it.
1
As I understand it, there is no proof of any election collusion in spite of extensive investigations including covert surveillance and unmasking. One crime apparently did occur as part of the investigation in the unmasking of Flynn. It appears that scale of unmaking has increased dramatically over the last three years.
Because investigations have been ongoing, involved covert surveillance and unmasking, and apparently turn up no evidence of collusion, and were initiated during the last administration against the opposition party, this looks very political.
It is not illegal to have communications with Russia. What is of national concern is election collusion and there does not seem to be any.
If the intelligence agencies have been used to investigate an administration of the opposition party, and if laws were broken in doing so, perhaps that is a bigger story than Russian contacts with no illegal collusion found. NYT, please investigate the investigation.
Because investigations have been ongoing, involved covert surveillance and unmasking, and apparently turn up no evidence of collusion, and were initiated during the last administration against the opposition party, this looks very political.
It is not illegal to have communications with Russia. What is of national concern is election collusion and there does not seem to be any.
If the intelligence agencies have been used to investigate an administration of the opposition party, and if laws were broken in doing so, perhaps that is a bigger story than Russian contacts with no illegal collusion found. NYT, please investigate the investigation.
3
No laws were broken as FISA warrants were obtained and zero evidence has been advanced to support the administration's lies and blatant attempts to smear and distract.
We are looking at potential racketeering, money laundering, conspiracy, perjury and obstruction of justice here.
We are looking at potential racketeering, money laundering, conspiracy, perjury and obstruction of justice here.
1
I understand leaking information about the Flynn call to the Ambassador is a crime.
Also, if FISA warrants are used for foreign surveillance with the real intent being getting intelligence on the opposition party, I assume that would be illegal. The Forth Amendment requires probable cause and oath of affirmation and a few. I assume if those requesting the surveillance and unmasking presented false information in their request, that would be a crime.
Many assumed HRC was certain to win and in that case I expect any possible misuse of surveillance was not at as much risk of being punished. With Comey and Clapper out of power, hopefully the new Admin can Audit the past use of surveillance identifying and addressing any abuses.
Also, if FISA warrants are used for foreign surveillance with the real intent being getting intelligence on the opposition party, I assume that would be illegal. The Forth Amendment requires probable cause and oath of affirmation and a few. I assume if those requesting the surveillance and unmasking presented false information in their request, that would be a crime.
Many assumed HRC was certain to win and in that case I expect any possible misuse of surveillance was not at as much risk of being punished. With Comey and Clapper out of power, hopefully the new Admin can Audit the past use of surveillance identifying and addressing any abuses.
So let's lay out the narrative.
1. Trump engaged the Russians for funds to bail out his bankrupt businesses as well as to seek investments in new properties. The fact that the funding agencies were linked to the oligarchs and the gangsters is pertinent, but not illegal. The issue here is that disclosure of the funding mechanisms and indebtedness would certainly have compromised his image during the campaign. That, plus any blackmail potential.
2. Trump's coterie have long cultivated Russian oligarchs in order to enrich themselves. Again, given the reputations of the oligarchs, unsavory but not illegal.
3. Mike Flynn's solicitation of Russians against the backdrop of his career in military intelligence is at best compromising, at worst, as yet uncharged, treasonous.
4. Russian collusion with members of the Trump campaign during the campaign is either the most coincidental series of events or just what it appears to be. The foreknowledge of such actors as Stone, Page, Giulianni about news and accusations against Clinton prior to their appearance in the media is damning. The issue here is whether Trump was actively involved or passively involved.
5. Trump's scorn of the American intelligence community findings that Russia did try to sabotage the presidential election and his repeated interference with the investigations certainly indicates at best a guilty conscience and at worst obstruction of justice.
Smells like a swamp inhabited by swamp creatures.
1. Trump engaged the Russians for funds to bail out his bankrupt businesses as well as to seek investments in new properties. The fact that the funding agencies were linked to the oligarchs and the gangsters is pertinent, but not illegal. The issue here is that disclosure of the funding mechanisms and indebtedness would certainly have compromised his image during the campaign. That, plus any blackmail potential.
2. Trump's coterie have long cultivated Russian oligarchs in order to enrich themselves. Again, given the reputations of the oligarchs, unsavory but not illegal.
3. Mike Flynn's solicitation of Russians against the backdrop of his career in military intelligence is at best compromising, at worst, as yet uncharged, treasonous.
4. Russian collusion with members of the Trump campaign during the campaign is either the most coincidental series of events or just what it appears to be. The foreknowledge of such actors as Stone, Page, Giulianni about news and accusations against Clinton prior to their appearance in the media is damning. The issue here is whether Trump was actively involved or passively involved.
5. Trump's scorn of the American intelligence community findings that Russia did try to sabotage the presidential election and his repeated interference with the investigations certainly indicates at best a guilty conscience and at worst obstruction of justice.
Smells like a swamp inhabited by swamp creatures.
Jeff Sessions needs to go. He was involved in the firing of Comey who was investigating the Russian connection from which Sessions recused himself. His action and involvement is not recusal; it is direct involvement. Perhaps that is the reason for the Rosenstein excuse letter? In any case, may I suggest that the President clearly put into writing a comment about Comey telling him that he was not being investigated so that Trump himself could not be accused of interfering with a federal investigation, which is a criminal offense. Every day is an adventure in lying with this President, not to mention incompetence. Meanwhile, in the background S. Bannon continues to destroy the functioning of the federal agencies.
Trump has to go. If not on constitutional grounds and on the grounds of gross mental unfitness for the office he occupies as a pretend president, he has to go because he is polluting the national and global air we must all breathe on a daily basis. He is not only a vulgar and ignorant human being, he vulgarizes everything about America and everything he touches. Whatever one may think of Obama as president, he had and he exuded dignity and decency as fundamental American values. Now we have nothing but vulgarity, ignorance, utter stupidity, and endless indignities to anyone and everything, the very democratic foundation of the country included. No self-respecting nation should have to put up with that. Living with Trump in the White House means having to take some sort of shower every couple of hours. This is, not to put too fine a point on it, a disgusting way to live.
So how will this ultimately play out? I don't mean Comey's firing but the whole Trump Administration with it's daily outrages.
Will the media continue to analyze each debacle 24/7 until the next situation occurs? It certainly is great for distracting us while Trump and his minions are slowly but surely disassembling everything that the United States has stood for. Our rights, both civil and constitutional are eroding, health care is a disaster, environmental and other protections are disappearing and our cherished freedoms are being destroyed. Worst of all, this administration is encouraging hate, racism, misogyny, violence which are the ultimate distractions.
Why aren't The Clinton's, The Obama's, such mouthpieces as Senator Warren, Pelosi, Schumer, other democrats and republicans and the media screaming bloody murder on a daily basis? The occasional sound bites are just lip service.
This is becoming very tiresome and has been going on for almost 2 years now! Enough is enough!
Will the media continue to analyze each debacle 24/7 until the next situation occurs? It certainly is great for distracting us while Trump and his minions are slowly but surely disassembling everything that the United States has stood for. Our rights, both civil and constitutional are eroding, health care is a disaster, environmental and other protections are disappearing and our cherished freedoms are being destroyed. Worst of all, this administration is encouraging hate, racism, misogyny, violence which are the ultimate distractions.
Why aren't The Clinton's, The Obama's, such mouthpieces as Senator Warren, Pelosi, Schumer, other democrats and republicans and the media screaming bloody murder on a daily basis? The occasional sound bites are just lip service.
This is becoming very tiresome and has been going on for almost 2 years now! Enough is enough!
2
Having a decent working relations with Russia is mutually beneficial. Having mutual respect is of importance. If there is concrete evidence that Russia influenced the elections that would be important to know. Whether Russia attempted to influence it needs to be disclosed and appropriate action needs to be taken diplomatically. We already know Gen Flyn received money from Russians, it is important to know what for and whether he did anything because he got the money.
1
Democracy is critically imperiled without transparency.
Democracy is indeed critically imperiled when freedom of speech is curtailed by violent protests silencing scholarly speakers. It is understood that there are certain aspects of government that are not for public disclosure and transparency has to be limited to what the country needs to know. In this century the USA has been engaged indirectly or directly in conflicts in 5 countries in the middle east and South Asia, without transparency and millions have been rendered homeless and thousands have died. Where has transparency been during the Bush and Obama years?
1
The more we hear about this the more reminiscent it becomes of Watergate and other scandals where there was an abuse of power to cover up something even more scandalous.
Trump's version of America and the GOP version are not living up to the values I and others were taught in school about America. We were taught about an America where justice worked because we were judged by our peers. We were taught that in America all men (including women) were equal. We were told that hard work, honesty, and education would serve us well as citizens and workers. Since the 1980s, when the last of the Baby Boom generation entered the workforce, that has not been true.
We've seen CEOs and CFOs of banks, pharmaceutical companies, insurance companies assist or allow swindling of customers. We've seen them go free or lose their jobs but get their golden parachutes while their employees and customers lost everything. We've watched this administration embark on wholesale religious and ethnic discrimination when it comes to immigrants. We are a nation descended from immigrants. Some of our best ideas came from people who emigrated here.
Trump and the GOP have managed, in less than 4 months, to change the face of America for the worse. Their combined hunger for power is leading us down a dangerous road: disintegration of the USA into a third rate republic with a tyrant running things. I don't think this is what our founding fathers had in mind when they set up this republic.
Trump's version of America and the GOP version are not living up to the values I and others were taught in school about America. We were taught about an America where justice worked because we were judged by our peers. We were taught that in America all men (including women) were equal. We were told that hard work, honesty, and education would serve us well as citizens and workers. Since the 1980s, when the last of the Baby Boom generation entered the workforce, that has not been true.
We've seen CEOs and CFOs of banks, pharmaceutical companies, insurance companies assist or allow swindling of customers. We've seen them go free or lose their jobs but get their golden parachutes while their employees and customers lost everything. We've watched this administration embark on wholesale religious and ethnic discrimination when it comes to immigrants. We are a nation descended from immigrants. Some of our best ideas came from people who emigrated here.
Trump and the GOP have managed, in less than 4 months, to change the face of America for the worse. Their combined hunger for power is leading us down a dangerous road: disintegration of the USA into a third rate republic with a tyrant running things. I don't think this is what our founding fathers had in mind when they set up this republic.
2
Did you mean to post your comment to another article. This article is about alleged collusion between the Trump campaign and Russia.
Treason!
7
Yeah, right, hope you asked the Bushes about their intimate relationship with the Saudis, and the fact that most of the hijackers on 9/11 were from Saudi Arabia? Yet, Busj Jr led us to Iraq as distraction. Why not Saudi Arabia?
1
There are two main issues: Russian influence directly over Trump or indirectly over Trump Advisors and whether for not anyone in the Trump Campaign colluded with Russia.
Trump has it within his power to clear up much of the innuendo about possible Russian influence: Simply release his tax returns. If he is concerned about disclosing trade secrets or otherwise giving advantage to business opponents, he can make his tax returns available to a bipartisan Congressional Committee.
And he can stop with the tweets and other attempts to distract and delay. And stop with the obvious obfuscations. No one believes that Putin, Lavrov or Kislyak personally hacked the DNC and trotted over to Wikileaks. The absence of Trump Towers or Trump Resorts in Russia doesn't means that he has had no dealings with Russians.
And if Trump has no worries about his campaign colluding with Russia, he can instruct all involved to open up their files and computers for the FBI. And he can take the IC's assessment of Russian interference in the past election seriously. For once he should stop feeding his ego and do what is right for the country.
Delays and distractions are the tactics of one who has something to hide.
Trump has it within his power to clear up much of the innuendo about possible Russian influence: Simply release his tax returns. If he is concerned about disclosing trade secrets or otherwise giving advantage to business opponents, he can make his tax returns available to a bipartisan Congressional Committee.
And he can stop with the tweets and other attempts to distract and delay. And stop with the obvious obfuscations. No one believes that Putin, Lavrov or Kislyak personally hacked the DNC and trotted over to Wikileaks. The absence of Trump Towers or Trump Resorts in Russia doesn't means that he has had no dealings with Russians.
And if Trump has no worries about his campaign colluding with Russia, he can instruct all involved to open up their files and computers for the FBI. And he can take the IC's assessment of Russian interference in the past election seriously. For once he should stop feeding his ego and do what is right for the country.
Delays and distractions are the tactics of one who has something to hide.
4
Rita--Last night's NBC interview provided us with yet another claim that trump has "nothing to do" with Russia, well..except for a few things "many years ago." Subpoena the transactional documents being held by the treasury, and let the state of New York do the same with trump's tax returns. Then, we will know, for sure.
1
Oh Eric, Eric, Eric... Like father like son... Li da li, li da li li li da li, li da li. Li da li li li da li, li da li li li...(PS's "The Boxer")
1
These editorial are nice. There will be no action against Donald Trump as long as the Republicans hold the Congress. They will protect their power and their party over their country. We are seeing it. Many Americans support them in this effort and are laughing off this Russia connection with a sitting President. Will the denial continue when there are Russians working in the West Wing? Most likely.
3
Meg--If they don't, they will lose their jobs. Pure and simple.
When does a campaign talking point dissolve into nonsense? By connecting the dots in this editorial thinking people are supposed to draw a conclusion that there is a nefarious political as well as an enriching business relationship between the Trump family and the Russian government. That's stretching the Un-American rubber band to the breaking point. Count me as a non-believer.
5
I count you as another anonymous stooge acting out "I can't see the 800 lb. gorilla!" You people reinforce my low opinion of the integrity and intelligence of a dangerously large fraction of the American public.
Putin's "odd" comments the other day were, I think, mis-interpreted by the entire media. I think the guy showed a great deal of reserve but couldn't COMPLETELY hide the fact that he was gloating! After all, his plan to get Trump as President is working far better than expected, if not as well as Putin hoped. While he doesn't have compete and total control over his "Manchurian Candidate" Trump HAS managed to turn the US government into total chaos with his personal needs for adulation, always being right (even when blatantly wrong), absolute power, sex, money, and vengeance. Despite the unexpected (from Putin's POV) attack on Syria, Trump has managed to alienate virtually ALL of our Democratic allies, save the UK, has embraced dictators that Putin has good or at least moderate relations with, and has given Putin TREMENDOUS PR chops!
OTOH, his hacking and Trump's inability to quash the investigation (indeed he keeps making it worse) has backfired on Putin: Macron won by 10% more than expected due to the last minute hack of his emails that couldn't be answered under French Law.
Since virtually the entire GOP is very anti-Russia (to the point of obsession) Trump's ties to it are slowly eroding support for him in Congress. It only takes 217 determined votes in the House to FORCE Ryan's hand--& 193 are Democrats. It only takes 67 votes in the Senate to convict on impeachment, and 48 are already there. Managed correctly, 19 people like Rubio who hate Trump are possible.
OTOH, his hacking and Trump's inability to quash the investigation (indeed he keeps making it worse) has backfired on Putin: Macron won by 10% more than expected due to the last minute hack of his emails that couldn't be answered under French Law.
Since virtually the entire GOP is very anti-Russia (to the point of obsession) Trump's ties to it are slowly eroding support for him in Congress. It only takes 217 determined votes in the House to FORCE Ryan's hand--& 193 are Democrats. It only takes 67 votes in the Senate to convict on impeachment, and 48 are already there. Managed correctly, 19 people like Rubio who hate Trump are possible.
4
The U.S. intelligence community assessment is that Russia worked to undermine Hillary Clinton's campaign because Putin hated her for remarks she made about him while she was secretary of state and because he though U.S./Russian relations would improve under Trump. None of this points to collusion between Russia and the Trump campaign.
Connection between President Trump and Russia?
The Cold War, confusion, constant lack of clarity and closure between the U.S. and Russia is apparently not over, nor is the decades old strategy and hysteria of undermining political parties in the U.S. by connecting them to Russia over. Take the U.S./Russia history up to the 1950's: Constant fear of the Reds, constant accusations within the U.S. of connections between the left wing and Russia--all the hysteria, lives destroyed, lack of clarity, closure.
Take the Kennedy assassination: Constant speculation whether a Russian connection existed, but because Kennedy was a Democrat constant speculation it was some right wing plot as well. Again, hysteria, conspiracy theories, no clarity, no closure. Take Vietnam and the constant tension between U.S. political parties through the seventies, eighties and nineties, all the talk of covert U.S. operations setting up or taking down this foreign government or that, this or that left wing connection to communist powers overseas--so on and on.
Now we have with the collapse of the Soviet Union and Russia right wing, authoritarian, under Putin, a possible connection between Trump, the right wing and Russia and the left having its turn in the driver's seat with the accusation of the Russian Connection. Whether Trump has a connection to Russia or not, history seems to point to a sad, ongoing, process of no clarity, no closure,--just a mysterious, mutually confusing, entanglement with Russia.
The Cold War, confusion, constant lack of clarity and closure between the U.S. and Russia is apparently not over, nor is the decades old strategy and hysteria of undermining political parties in the U.S. by connecting them to Russia over. Take the U.S./Russia history up to the 1950's: Constant fear of the Reds, constant accusations within the U.S. of connections between the left wing and Russia--all the hysteria, lives destroyed, lack of clarity, closure.
Take the Kennedy assassination: Constant speculation whether a Russian connection existed, but because Kennedy was a Democrat constant speculation it was some right wing plot as well. Again, hysteria, conspiracy theories, no clarity, no closure. Take Vietnam and the constant tension between U.S. political parties through the seventies, eighties and nineties, all the talk of covert U.S. operations setting up or taking down this foreign government or that, this or that left wing connection to communist powers overseas--so on and on.
Now we have with the collapse of the Soviet Union and Russia right wing, authoritarian, under Putin, a possible connection between Trump, the right wing and Russia and the left having its turn in the driver's seat with the accusation of the Russian Connection. Whether Trump has a connection to Russia or not, history seems to point to a sad, ongoing, process of no clarity, no closure,--just a mysterious, mutually confusing, entanglement with Russia.
1
I think Trump is envious of Putin and tries to emulate him. The problem is (luckily) that he doesn't have the intellectual capacity or temperament to do it. Ego, mendacity, and a big mouth will only get him so far. When a problem arises, his first reaction might be:What would Putin do? Firing Comey fits the profile.
1
Thank you for the concise yet informed summary of known Trump campaign interactions with Russian State interests. Of course, these leads must be pursued and resourced honestly, objectively and swiftly to get this sorry mess behind us.
Even if so, the mess-making factory in DC will spawn new messes on a daily basis. The President's adamant refusal to release his tax returns reminds me of his strident and misguided campaign to prompt his predecessor to release his long-form birth certificate, which he did to put that sorry Trump-instigated mess behind the American people.
Even if so, the mess-making factory in DC will spawn new messes on a daily basis. The President's adamant refusal to release his tax returns reminds me of his strident and misguided campaign to prompt his predecessor to release his long-form birth certificate, which he did to put that sorry Trump-instigated mess behind the American people.
2
If, as Trump claims, this is a made-up story, why doesn't he let an investigation run it's course so he can brag about it afterwards? Well, we all know the obvious answer to that. Funny, but it seems like the only ones who don't know are the republicans in Congress.
Is the republican thirst for power really greater than their love of country? So far it is. Why they're covering for Trump, who will be going down eventually, is beyond me. If they would reverse course and oust him at this early stage they would have time to repair the damage by the next election and spin another falsehood to voters that they're somehow statesman. As a bonus they would get the stable and ultra right-wing Pence to rubber-stamp their ridiculous agenda. Instead they're hitching the star to an anchor, which, ironically, in the long run will be better for the country. The quicker the disingenuous gop are voted out in the next election, the better for everyone.
Is the republican thirst for power really greater than their love of country? So far it is. Why they're covering for Trump, who will be going down eventually, is beyond me. If they would reverse course and oust him at this early stage they would have time to repair the damage by the next election and spin another falsehood to voters that they're somehow statesman. As a bonus they would get the stable and ultra right-wing Pence to rubber-stamp their ridiculous agenda. Instead they're hitching the star to an anchor, which, ironically, in the long run will be better for the country. The quicker the disingenuous gop are voted out in the next election, the better for everyone.
2
The Republican Leadership Gamble
If the Republicans had not won the triple crown of American politics, I think we would be seeing things play out much differently. My thinking is that many Republicans are as outraged and dissatisfied as the rest of the country but remain silent so as not to upset their dominance. This once in a lifetime situation for the Republicans guides everything they do. Impeachment takes time to wind through the process. None of the news is good. Republicans are facing down the barrel of the mid-term elections and their time is running out.
What they are doing, in fact, for the sake of their party is throwing the country under the bus.
If the Republicans had not won the triple crown of American politics, I think we would be seeing things play out much differently. My thinking is that many Republicans are as outraged and dissatisfied as the rest of the country but remain silent so as not to upset their dominance. This once in a lifetime situation for the Republicans guides everything they do. Impeachment takes time to wind through the process. None of the news is good. Republicans are facing down the barrel of the mid-term elections and their time is running out.
What they are doing, in fact, for the sake of their party is throwing the country under the bus.
An interesting speculation is solving the Rubric's cube of what DJT could have done which is consistent with his personality and past with what would be clearly criminal. I think one combination of twists yields that he paid the Russian government, in particular a part of it that can do such things, the KGB. He bought a victory against Clinton brought by clandestined acts -- inclusive of hacking and sequenced releases on social media. A recorded conversation of x dollars for delivery of such a y product would speak of irrefutable collusion.
A second solution is less satisfying and less provable: I'll scratch your back with removal of sanctions, if you hack into emails and release them adroitly or as needed during the campaign. This scenario has no smoking gun, but it seems to be consistent with what we observe, past (email hacks), present (constant praise for Putin). This puzzle solution allows for real estate deals -- receipt of large sums of money by DJT. The removal of sanctions is worth billions to Russia. The challenge is to move chess pieces to that end without detection: the photos of Russians in the oval office are a good gambit.
A second solution is less satisfying and less provable: I'll scratch your back with removal of sanctions, if you hack into emails and release them adroitly or as needed during the campaign. This scenario has no smoking gun, but it seems to be consistent with what we observe, past (email hacks), present (constant praise for Putin). This puzzle solution allows for real estate deals -- receipt of large sums of money by DJT. The removal of sanctions is worth billions to Russia. The challenge is to move chess pieces to that end without detection: the photos of Russians in the oval office are a good gambit.
1
Trump's campaign rhetoric was the first indication something was way off. No American running for office with any sense would declare the foreign policy of an adversary intent on destroying American power and influence was a good idea. My view was and remains Trump has been compromised in some manner.
Rex Tillerson, Carter Page, Paul Manafort, Roger Stone, Jeff Sessions, Mike Flynn, Jared Kushner, Eric and Donald Jr. involved in some way with Russian intelligence operatives, banks, or oligarchs is more than coincidental.
It seemed a given (to me) the FBI was conducting an investigation into possible links between Trump, associates, businessesand Russian operatives. The public revelation the investigation had been on-going since this past summer was not a surprise as much as a validation of what was obvious.
Whether or not solid evidence is discovered through investigations, I have no confidence the Trump administration will act in the best interests of the US in terms of American democracy and values and regarding our European allies. There are too many coincidences to ignore.
Rex Tillerson, Carter Page, Paul Manafort, Roger Stone, Jeff Sessions, Mike Flynn, Jared Kushner, Eric and Donald Jr. involved in some way with Russian intelligence operatives, banks, or oligarchs is more than coincidental.
It seemed a given (to me) the FBI was conducting an investigation into possible links between Trump, associates, businessesand Russian operatives. The public revelation the investigation had been on-going since this past summer was not a surprise as much as a validation of what was obvious.
Whether or not solid evidence is discovered through investigations, I have no confidence the Trump administration will act in the best interests of the US in terms of American democracy and values and regarding our European allies. There are too many coincidences to ignore.
2
There are two threads running here. The obvious one is that the president's policy judgment might be clouded by his financial interests in Russia. In other words, Trump may be in open violation of the emoluments clause which prohibits a president from possible influence by prohibiting gifts from a foreign country. In this case "gifts" may include favors.
If this is the focus of the "Russian contacts" inquiry it's not clear why the Times hasn't said so directly? But this leads to the implicit criticism of Trump and that is that in his campaign he suggested a significant change in policy toward Russia; a lessoning of tension, cooperation on fighting ISIS and possible removal of sanctions.
This point seems to have gotten the liberal elites in a tizzy. Though little has been said about why a policy shift is unwise, far more attention has been devoted to that concern than to Trump's obvious conflicts of interest, which have been well known since the beginning of the campaign.
If Comey was getting too close to the real details of Trump's investments and loans from Russian oligarchs, then this is precisely where congress should focus its attention. But an investigation on the emoluments clause should be the focus.
Vague assertions about 'contacts' with Russia make little sense. Presidential candidates have 'contacts' with many foreign powers before and during their campaign. But loans and investments are different and the Times should make that clear.
If this is the focus of the "Russian contacts" inquiry it's not clear why the Times hasn't said so directly? But this leads to the implicit criticism of Trump and that is that in his campaign he suggested a significant change in policy toward Russia; a lessoning of tension, cooperation on fighting ISIS and possible removal of sanctions.
This point seems to have gotten the liberal elites in a tizzy. Though little has been said about why a policy shift is unwise, far more attention has been devoted to that concern than to Trump's obvious conflicts of interest, which have been well known since the beginning of the campaign.
If Comey was getting too close to the real details of Trump's investments and loans from Russian oligarchs, then this is precisely where congress should focus its attention. But an investigation on the emoluments clause should be the focus.
Vague assertions about 'contacts' with Russia make little sense. Presidential candidates have 'contacts' with many foreign powers before and during their campaign. But loans and investments are different and the Times should make that clear.
If Trump were innocent of any wrong doing, he would release his tax returns and welcome an independent investigation into the Russian meddling.
If Trump were guilty of any wrong doing, he would not release his tax returns and be against an independent investigation into the Russian meddling.
If Trump is innocent, he sure is acting like he is guilty.
If Trump were guilty of any wrong doing, he would not release his tax returns and be against an independent investigation into the Russian meddling.
If Trump is innocent, he sure is acting like he is guilty.
1
Focus on Trump's actions.
Trump is taking concrete steps to increase the production of oil/gas. The last thing an energy exporter like Russia wants is more global supply that will lower prices.
Trump is proposing a large military buildup and continuing with the beefed up deterrence policies in Eastern Europe. This is the opposite of what Russia wants.
Perhaps everyone that wants to limit U.S. oil/gas production and cut back on military spending wishes to support Russia, since these actions work directly for Russia's benefit. Moreover, Russia would like to see a divided United States where the democratically elected president is actively discredited and undermined. By their actions, many liberals might be considered "Putin stooges". (Of course, they aren't. But then again, neither is Trump.)
Trump is taking concrete steps to increase the production of oil/gas. The last thing an energy exporter like Russia wants is more global supply that will lower prices.
Trump is proposing a large military buildup and continuing with the beefed up deterrence policies in Eastern Europe. This is the opposite of what Russia wants.
Perhaps everyone that wants to limit U.S. oil/gas production and cut back on military spending wishes to support Russia, since these actions work directly for Russia's benefit. Moreover, Russia would like to see a divided United States where the democratically elected president is actively discredited and undermined. By their actions, many liberals might be considered "Putin stooges". (Of course, they aren't. But then again, neither is Trump.)
1
If Trump had any sense of honor he would voluntarily end the
country's nightmare that he has generated.
This whole thing may end with just a sentence or two, or a
tape, of evidence of Trump's knowledge of, or involvement
in, collusion.
I'm betting that those choice tidbits exist and will be found.
country's nightmare that he has generated.
This whole thing may end with just a sentence or two, or a
tape, of evidence of Trump's knowledge of, or involvement
in, collusion.
I'm betting that those choice tidbits exist and will be found.
1
After reading through a few handfuls of the responses here it is clear that Trumps supporters are not being honest with themselves. They are demanding respect for the man when he has done very little if anything to earn it since taking office. If anything he has provided a boatload of clear reason to deny him respect. The clear reality is that we should never have to question on a daily basis the credibility and wisdom of our president thoughts and actions. Trump is his own worse enemy and has given none of us any reason to have any faith in him. That is not a liberal or conservative consensus. It is the simple easily read human based reality that Trump has presented to us and the world on a daily basis. Any observation to the contrary would require complete denial of what is right in front of us. What is in plain view for all to clearly see.
2
I don't like Mr. Trump one bit. He's a dangerous man seriously unfit for the job the country has given him.
That said, I've always felt this whole Russia spin seemed like a canard invented by John Podesta during the 2016 campaign, one that to date we're given much in the way of the circumstantial, and little in the way of direct fact. It's seemed all along the nitty gritty of this story is to remain classified, and the public is supposed to take the word of a variety of politicians and newscasters with one agenda or another.
My landlord frequently sends Russian laborers to perform work in my apartment. I have a Russian neighbor a few doors down. I suppose were I to run for office I could be in very deep trouble. Apparently I too have a 'Russia nexus'.
Until I get to see some real meat on the bone I continue to think the current straights the Trump administration is in, are more a matter of severe ineptitude and ego, than anything else. And clearly that's quite enough to be concerned about. Given the high and mighty Mr. Trump's erratic behavior, it would be just as easy to conclude he felt no one has the right to be looking over his shoulder, and that justified the firing of Mr. Comey. I've seen enough to believe that narrative, and still nothing firm to adhere to a story about collusion with the Russians.
That said, I've always felt this whole Russia spin seemed like a canard invented by John Podesta during the 2016 campaign, one that to date we're given much in the way of the circumstantial, and little in the way of direct fact. It's seemed all along the nitty gritty of this story is to remain classified, and the public is supposed to take the word of a variety of politicians and newscasters with one agenda or another.
My landlord frequently sends Russian laborers to perform work in my apartment. I have a Russian neighbor a few doors down. I suppose were I to run for office I could be in very deep trouble. Apparently I too have a 'Russia nexus'.
Until I get to see some real meat on the bone I continue to think the current straights the Trump administration is in, are more a matter of severe ineptitude and ego, than anything else. And clearly that's quite enough to be concerned about. Given the high and mighty Mr. Trump's erratic behavior, it would be just as easy to conclude he felt no one has the right to be looking over his shoulder, and that justified the firing of Mr. Comey. I've seen enough to believe that narrative, and still nothing firm to adhere to a story about collusion with the Russians.
21
Well said. Agree on all points
Dude, seriously? You have Russian neighbors. Trump's entire multibillion dollar business was rescued from financial oblivion by shadowy Russian backers that he now denies ever dealing with. How is that the same?
It's not far-fetched to imagine collusion when Manafort, Flynn, Stone and Sessions all had repeated contact with Russian agents during the campaign. It's not unrealistic to envision that scenario when his National Security Advisor was a paid foreign agent. Maybe something is up when a candidate goes out of his way to fawn over an autocrat like Putin time and again.
There might not be any fire here, as you suggest, but there is an awful lot of smoke.
There might not be any fire here, as you suggest, but there is an awful lot of smoke.
It is no accident or coincidence that Trump is surrounded by so many with Russian contacts from day one of his campaign and since the days he was bankrupting his casino partners - with Russian loan sharks ready and willing to lend.
Collusion with Russia is being done in public! IN YOUR FACE, AMERICA!
- Trump encouraging Russia to hack our election via Hillary and Dems.
- Trump lavishing praise on Putin.
- Trump calls our top intelligence agencies Nazis for alerting us to Russia's involvement in getting Trump elected.
- Trump fires Comey while criticizing the top law enforcement agency for investigating his Russia connections.
- Trump photo with Lavrov and Kislyak laughing, at the American People from the Oval Office, complete with a bit of showboating and grandstanding for good measure.
Forget what we do not know for sure - how about what we already know and have witnessed?
As for speculation, what are the chances Trump and his Russian friends in OUR HOUSE renegotiated new terms of his Russian loans now that he is POTUS? Perhaps he will use Alaska as collateral.
Trump could learn a lesson from the fate of Yanukovych, the other Putin backed former leader.
Can't we fire POTUS for lying to his employers - the American People?
Collusion with Russia is being done in public! IN YOUR FACE, AMERICA!
- Trump encouraging Russia to hack our election via Hillary and Dems.
- Trump lavishing praise on Putin.
- Trump calls our top intelligence agencies Nazis for alerting us to Russia's involvement in getting Trump elected.
- Trump fires Comey while criticizing the top law enforcement agency for investigating his Russia connections.
- Trump photo with Lavrov and Kislyak laughing, at the American People from the Oval Office, complete with a bit of showboating and grandstanding for good measure.
Forget what we do not know for sure - how about what we already know and have witnessed?
As for speculation, what are the chances Trump and his Russian friends in OUR HOUSE renegotiated new terms of his Russian loans now that he is POTUS? Perhaps he will use Alaska as collateral.
Trump could learn a lesson from the fate of Yanukovych, the other Putin backed former leader.
Can't we fire POTUS for lying to his employers - the American People?
3
Among your omissions: the Trump International Hotel & Tower in Baku overseen by Ivanka.
3
Yet another Editorial that is full of innuendo and meaningless facts, that supports an anti-Trump conclusion.
Why I bother to read this paper anymore is beyond me. I gain little insight from it.
Why I bother to read this paper anymore is beyond me. I gain little insight from it.
8
Better to be an eagle than an ostrich
Mr. Trump and his associates, in telling us there is no smoke and no fire, are taking us for idiots. Given that every day I read polls or interviews about people who still support Trump and think the whole Russia affair is just a distraction, it seems they have a point, at least regarding some of us.
It's worrisome when so many adult Americans are just too damn lazy to think.
It's worrisome when so many adult Americans are just too damn lazy to think.
2
OK I get it. Trump is an ass. but I knew that. I still await proof that he had done anything criminal or treasonous. dangerous, stupid, racist, plutocratic - yes.
8
Don't you understand that you won't get your answer because the investigations will continue to be obstructed? If there is no evidence of anything nefarious, fine. Let's see it!
All of this was known during the campaign, but the Times hatred of Bill and Hillary blinded it to the danger of Trumputin to the country. You are now too late with too little and we all may soon be living in a Trumputin dictatorship.
6
Let's add some important and verified items to this list:
-JD Gordon's role in changing the Republican platform to weaken support for the Ukraine at the convention.
-Rex Tillerson's friendship with Putin and the massive Exxon land holdings that can't be explored due to sanctions.
-Wilbur Ross's role in the Bank of Cyprus, a Russian money laundering operation.
-Erik Prince, Devos's brother and friend to Bannon and the Mercers, had a meeting in the Seychelles to create a back channel line of communication with Russia
Impeach the traitor!! How can any reasonable person be allowing this to happen.
-JD Gordon's role in changing the Republican platform to weaken support for the Ukraine at the convention.
-Rex Tillerson's friendship with Putin and the massive Exxon land holdings that can't be explored due to sanctions.
-Wilbur Ross's role in the Bank of Cyprus, a Russian money laundering operation.
-Erik Prince, Devos's brother and friend to Bannon and the Mercers, had a meeting in the Seychelles to create a back channel line of communication with Russia
Impeach the traitor!! How can any reasonable person be allowing this to happen.
14
Trump can't read English, so we shouldn't expect him to read Cyrillic. However, Putin's secret police clearly have damning evidence on him.
3
Many comments are using old thinking to solve what is a new problem that presents new dangers and difficulties: the issue is not guilt or innocence--it is influence, symbolic and psychological influence among the world's leaders and the tactics used to win the hearts and souls of millions of Americans.
First, Americans: tie influence to their avowed biases and beliefs, amplify the imagined dangers of religious differences as being fraught with terror, accentuate the idea that minorities have more rights than whites, that the system is rigged, that political correctness infringes on the freedom of belief.
Use a series of positive and negative messages on social media through 1000s of bot accounts. (To earn money, kids in eastern Europe set up fake net sites capitalizing on this belief!)
Keep America in the dark about influence, the power of symbols and money, behind the scenes and in front of the camera. Here, we have direct evidence, a real smoking gun: Lead by Russia-paid (millions!) proxy Paul Manafort, Trump's people pushed and got a change in the GOP platform at the convention, removing the calls for sanctions against Russia for its invasion of Ukraine.
It is imperative we investigate the new tactics and strategies Russia and Putin are using as they extend influence over national elections, policies, and alliances. It is imperative to understand the symbolism of a Oval Office Russian photo-op the day after Comey was fired!
First, Americans: tie influence to their avowed biases and beliefs, amplify the imagined dangers of religious differences as being fraught with terror, accentuate the idea that minorities have more rights than whites, that the system is rigged, that political correctness infringes on the freedom of belief.
Use a series of positive and negative messages on social media through 1000s of bot accounts. (To earn money, kids in eastern Europe set up fake net sites capitalizing on this belief!)
Keep America in the dark about influence, the power of symbols and money, behind the scenes and in front of the camera. Here, we have direct evidence, a real smoking gun: Lead by Russia-paid (millions!) proxy Paul Manafort, Trump's people pushed and got a change in the GOP platform at the convention, removing the calls for sanctions against Russia for its invasion of Ukraine.
It is imperative we investigate the new tactics and strategies Russia and Putin are using as they extend influence over national elections, policies, and alliances. It is imperative to understand the symbolism of a Oval Office Russian photo-op the day after Comey was fired!
8
Not just Putin's use of meta data to release the bots. The financial backers of Trump and Employers of Steve Bannon are the Mercers. The Mercers and Steve Bannon own Cambridge Analytica which does the same thing. Cambridge Analytica worked for Ted Cruz along with Kellyanne Conway before switching to Trump.
It is happening in America thanks to our own billionaire oligarch families.
It is happening in America thanks to our own billionaire oligarch families.
Beautifully said, walterhett.
Is there really any sane person with an IQ of at least 100 that doesn't believe that Trump was at least briefed by his colleagues during the campaign about Russia? Will Trump ever come forth with that knowledge on his own? Of course not! You know what scares me more than that? Most of Trump supporters don't really care. He once remarked that he could shoot someone in NYC and NOT be charged, or something like that. That's exactly how the supporters of Hitler during his persecution of the Jews during the Holocaust. If you're one of those supporters, then shame on you!
7
Come on now - stop it already with the comparisons to Nazi Germany. Do you really believe he fired Comey in an effort to stop an investigation? The investigation will continue and Comey can always appear before Congress whether he is still FBI director or not. How quickly we forget the nonsense republicans put Bill Clinton through. Travelgate and Whitewater and what did they find? Monica's dress. That's it. They brought in s special prosecutor who performed a fishing exhibition. We don't need that again
5
Trump is in water much deeper than he is equipped to navigate. His veiled psyche is not a match for those of Putin team members he's inviting into our country. We may need a psychotic break.
7
Trump, Pence, Rosenstein, McConnell, Tillerson, Priebus, Spicer, Kushner, McCabe, Nunes, and Bannon. Liars and kleptocrats, all of them.
Name two or three of them who should be given immunity. Then, go after the rest.
Name two or three of them who should be given immunity. Then, go after the rest.
6
Sorry, forgot Sessions, of course.
Rail away all you want but Trump, his base and his cronies don't give a damn. Just the same, the Russia investigation needs to continue full bore. Our country's honor hangs in the balance.
Trump and Putin are like twins separated at birth. Putin has no law to contend with and trump tries his best to circumvent the law in Whatever country it is possible. The both engage in the exact same behavior as most alpha criminals do whether it was Hitler or Escobar. Eliminate all opposition by any means possible and be as deceitfully as possible. Show overwhelming strength to the opposition and always keep them guessing. When trump states that the liberal media is fake news, Murdoch is smiling because he brought fake news to American via his British tabloid journalism. Trump wants to operate not in the light of day but at night when fewer are watching. Too bad this is America for trump and not Russia or some banana republic. It's pure entertainment to watch the man weasel and squirm. Trump is fake. His tin plated empire is all he cares about. Impeach now.
6
I honestly think the draft dodging daughter dater thought the Russia investigation would stop after he fired comey.
This is the man/child the useful idiots thought would properly represent their "values."
This is the man/child the useful idiots thought would properly represent their "values."
2
You are giving him too much credit .. I think he was just at Comey and wanted him gone .. Trump does not think before shooting
This is what the leading newspaper in the world has come up with? Trump hosted the Miss Universe Pageant in Moscow? This is the most silly editorial I have read in a long time. The times has managed to do something I thought impossible which is to make Trump look truthful when he says any Russian collusion is fake news and phony.
8
If you actually believe Trump, you need a mental assessment. This article, and others, have so provided reasonable evidence of wrongdoing by someone who was raised with a silver spoon and believes that laws are for the little guys and not him.
2
I know the median Republican does not have a college degree and is fairly stupid .. So let me break it down for you.. The main purport of the article is that there exists an extensive set of connections that entangle his business dealings and that we need to know more to clear him of the doubts that are fairly rational given the evidence. Did that help? Or do you need it to be dumbed down further?
Name calling but zero evidence, Roger Stone's twitter messages is your reasonable evidence? This wouldn't even cut it in Putin's Russia for an indictment. Trump is an awful president but you traffic in innuendo and nothing more. Do you really think with how much this guy is hated by everyone in the government they wouldn't have leaked his "collusion" already. You and the people peddling pizzagate are no different.
Sessions met with Kislyak a third time at a campaign event with Trump, where Getty caught both of them on camera, in the infamous night at the Mayflower Hotel.
2
Where there's smoke, there's fire. It looks like now it's up to the fourth estate to uncover this treason by the Trump campaign.
3
Senators Grassley and Feinstein have agreed that statements by Mr Comey have not contradicted the President's claims that he isn't being investigated by the FBI.
When the NYT decides to give little or no coverage to this development, its claims of unbiased coverage of events is in jeopardy and the Times begins to resemble Fox News.
When the NYT decides to give little or no coverage to this development, its claims of unbiased coverage of events is in jeopardy and the Times begins to resemble Fox News.
8
What Grassley and Feinstein said demonstrates nothing about whether Trump is or isn't being investigated. What's the story here? There isn't one.
Let us hope that the FBI is able to continue its investigation because otherwise we are in big, big trouble as this president with an undiagnosed malignant narcassism moves rapidly toward becoming a dictator, or at least the potential of it given that the Republicans in Congress are collectively without consciences.
3
This article says everything we need to know about the ties between Trump and Russia. There is also a lot more we do not know, thus the need for a special investigation to uncover what we do need to know.
"Mr. Trump and his associates can cry themselves hoarse that there is neither smoke nor fire here. But all in all, the known facts suggest an unusually extensive network of relationships with a major foreign power. Anyone who cares about the credibility of the American electoral process should want a thorough investigation of whether and how Russia interfered in the election and through whom."
"Mr. Trump and his associates can cry themselves hoarse that there is neither smoke nor fire here. But all in all, the known facts suggest an unusually extensive network of relationships with a major foreign power. Anyone who cares about the credibility of the American electoral process should want a thorough investigation of whether and how Russia interfered in the election and through whom."
1
The Republicans in congress need to take a philosophy 101 course in logic. The evidence is overwhelming that an investigation is necessary to determine if the multitude of contacts with Russian operatives by the trumpsters was treason. They also should know that the only federal offense that carries the death penalty is treason. So this is not a trivial matter to be swept under the rug by the Irish undertaker RyAN.
5
Irish undertaker? What does that mean? Sounds a little racist my friend
All good and well, however...
Everyday you and other media catapults one of his lies and his tweets is a good day for him. You are used as fodder for his base. That is how he beat everyone. It is a winning formula in this country: denigrate media and anyone who comes in your way. The formula will be repeated because: stupid electorate. Idiocracy is around the corner.
You should start a sister paper. A mocking commentary going further Left than the Times dares. It's our only hope Obi Wan.
Everyday you and other media catapults one of his lies and his tweets is a good day for him. You are used as fodder for his base. That is how he beat everyone. It is a winning formula in this country: denigrate media and anyone who comes in your way. The formula will be repeated because: stupid electorate. Idiocracy is around the corner.
You should start a sister paper. A mocking commentary going further Left than the Times dares. It's our only hope Obi Wan.
3
There are other idiots: those who stay home and do not vote.
1
One of these ties would be enough for a Republican-controlled Congress to start impeachment proceedings against a Democratic president. I'm completely disgusted that the GOP has devolved to the point where power and ideology trump (no pun) love of country. Where are all the tea-bag bedecked "patriots" now? Where are the tri-corn hat reactionaries who went into full meltdown when Obama had the "nerve" to wear a tan suit to a press briefing? Sitting quietly, mumbling about "partisanship" and "not giving the president a chance". If we don't have a truly independent, non-partisan investigatory body with full subpoena power to get to the bottom of this - no matter WHERE it leads - then we can stop calling ourselves a representative democracy and accept the failed state we have become. If we don't, as a country, find the courage to seek the truth, then we probably deserve that fate.
13
Buckle your seatbelts. It's going to be a bumpy night.
So far as I am aware, nobody has suggested that the Russians hacked into a voting machine or computer. So they did not "tamper with" nor "interfere in" the 51 presidential elections of November 2016. The uproar seems to be chiefly that they revealed information that embarrassed the Democrat National Committee and brought about the DN Chairman's resignation.
Maybe we should send President Putin a Thank You note.
Maybe we should send President Putin a Thank You note.
11
That's your definition of "interference," therefore you've cleared the Russians of wrongdoing. Too bad that's not the only definition of "interference."
1
What part of "colluded with Russia to weaken Nato, lift sanctions, enable more Crimean land grabs, and otherwise seek to weaken our national security, for his personal financial benefit" did you miss?
Save Postage and just send it to PA Avenue. And he'll get it sooner.
It's a lynching in the left leaning press, so far. And I voted for Hillary.
13
Just like the letter to Comey, the comments are full of reasoned arguments that have nothing to do with the writers' true motivation. Distract and deflect: Russian dressing, Miss Universe, Uranium Sales, Obama met Russians - deliberate systematic Fox-like avoidance of substance. They are running for cover-age today - the editorial must be hitting home.
2
The NYT slants in bogus fashion your list of "Facts" as if they imply negative things about OUR president former president Obama told the Russian president he would be flexible and sent Hillary with goofy re-set buttons. Obama failed abysmally in relating to Russia and preached impotently at Putin. Obama via Hillary tried to influence a Russian election against Putin. In face of Obama's impotence Trump and associates sought more effective re-set buttons. Your slanted coverage tries to make these efforts sinister. Shame on your twisted journalism.
12
While you applaud Trump's fresh new approach to foreign affairs; you disparage Obama's similar effort with Russia.
4
Perhaps you can convince Congress to have hearings on it?
All this media manufactured palace intrigue entertainment distracts the country from the serious events that will soon drasticly change our history.
I am still not certain why oh why, must I fear the Russians....or why I should be upset that Russians talk to US politicians, or spy on US politicians or monitor US elections.....as I am certain that We do the same thing in Russia and everywhere else in the world. All this Special Prosecutor, Investigative Committee, Media Hysteria is nothing more than meally-mouthed, petty back-stabbin, sore loser revenge for the DNC having foolishly, and arrogantly mishandled a lot of details.
Drop it and get back to business, before we boot MORE of you out of your offices!!!
I am still not certain why oh why, must I fear the Russians....or why I should be upset that Russians talk to US politicians, or spy on US politicians or monitor US elections.....as I am certain that We do the same thing in Russia and everywhere else in the world. All this Special Prosecutor, Investigative Committee, Media Hysteria is nothing more than meally-mouthed, petty back-stabbin, sore loser revenge for the DNC having foolishly, and arrogantly mishandled a lot of details.
Drop it and get back to business, before we boot MORE of you out of your offices!!!
11
The President stated his reasons for sacking Comey - Russia investigation. He then directed his Administration to "cover up" his reason. You may not agree with it BUT there is an active investigation. The only things manufactured were White House lies. Trump did this to himself.
All of this is not an attempt to malign any Trump voters. It was about time that we heard from these voices. No one in America should be silent and forgotten.
All of this is not an attempt to malign any Trump voters. It was about time that we heard from these voices. No one in America should be silent and forgotten.
“Mr. Trump and his family have sought to do business in Russia since at least the 1980s.”
He has actually done “business” with Russians in the form of a land deal in Palm Beach County Florida where trump purchased Maison de L'Amitie -- and then a Russian oligarch, Dmitry Rybolovlev bailed him out and put 100M in his pocket. The oligarch lost $85MM in a later sale of the same property.
Beyond real estate, look at the number of Russians that own Premier League Soccer franchises or interests in other sporting businesses: all the kind of “glitz” someone like trump loves even though he “only” maintains golf courses. Trump wants to be with the “elite” Russians and that is especially true because the boy from Queens County never could break into the society of the Rockefellers and Morgans.
We need the historical tax returns.
He has actually done “business” with Russians in the form of a land deal in Palm Beach County Florida where trump purchased Maison de L'Amitie -- and then a Russian oligarch, Dmitry Rybolovlev bailed him out and put 100M in his pocket. The oligarch lost $85MM in a later sale of the same property.
Beyond real estate, look at the number of Russians that own Premier League Soccer franchises or interests in other sporting businesses: all the kind of “glitz” someone like trump loves even though he “only” maintains golf courses. Trump wants to be with the “elite” Russians and that is especially true because the boy from Queens County never could break into the society of the Rockefellers and Morgans.
We need the historical tax returns.
13
What is sad is how the Russians compromised our democracy with a cyber break in. And how 45 creates confusion with distracting actions making the investigation more difficult. To his supporters, 45 is being unfairly attacked and not properly supported and respected. To those who are his adversaries, there is anger and frustration that their work is unnecessarily being impeded. Meanwhile the oxygen is sucked out of the room and other real needs are not being addressed; healthcare that cares for the health of all Americans, infrastructure repair, fair and equitable tax reform, and an environmental policy that leaves the world in better shape than when we entered it. Justice does need to be done, but soo too, actions which constructively affirm our common citizenship. May our government do good for all.
4
Well said and thoughtful. If his goal is to bring economic improvement to our nation what a difference from the last 25 years.
Focus on the results, he needs to rock the establishment to get things done.
Focus on the results, he needs to rock the establishment to get things done.
They also polish his thin skinned ego as if it were a Fabergé Egg.
6
The "guilt by association" and the smearing of individuals by innuendo, is modern day McCarthyism.
The lack of facts and substance in this summary is shocking.
The American political system is mired in divisiveness and histrionic antics fueled by politician's need for attention and the news media's need for ratings.
The lack of facts and substance in this summary is shocking.
The American political system is mired in divisiveness and histrionic antics fueled by politician's need for attention and the news media's need for ratings.
15
Taxes & an independent investigation that is allowed to proceed. Until then this will not be over, nor should it be.
Sure looks to me like our fake President is indeed a Russian stooge.
McConnell and Ryan probably are too - how else to explain their ongoing support for the criminal enterprise running roughshod in the West Wing?
McConnell and Ryan probably are too - how else to explain their ongoing support for the criminal enterprise running roughshod in the West Wing?
13
I wonder why the name Rex Tillerson is never mentioned along with these others on the Russian honor roll? Didn't Putin afix a pin on his lapel with the Russian equivalent of the Medal of Freedom? While perhaps he wasn't a formal part of the campaign, I don't believe that our Secretary of State was pulling for Hillary.
14
I have a great idea. Let's be the frog in the slowly heating water that notices the temperature, shall we? There is more than enough to impeach (think "blue dress') or invoke the 25th Amendment. Trump is clearly not mentally sound, and is obviously incompetent to execute the duties of the office. If he had a rigorous mental exam by a reliable panel of professionals or was forced to reveal his taxes, it would all over in 24 hours. Shall we do this before he acts impulsively on his paranoid delusions, with disastrous results, or do we have to wait until the craven cowards in the GOP have squeezed the last little bit of advantage they can out of this epic failure of a Presidency. No doubt, once Trump's approval ratings reach single figures, they will find their courage. Once their betters have cleaned up their mess, they will claim they always knew Trump was a little off, but what could they do, the voters spoke? Well, in terms of voters speaking, you ain't heard nothing yet. Republicans are preparing a case for voting straight D from Dog Catcher to President. Trump showed us what relentlessly stoked fear of the totally imaginary can do to motivate voters. Wait until the GOP sees what real fear of real dangers does at the ballot box.
20
Historians know better but are we not in unprecedented territory with a businessman as President? At this point in history Trump and his family businesses represent America's unbridled capitalist tendencies. Our country has never penalized anyone for doing business with other countries. When Russians became newly wealthy in the late onwards 1990s (?) all one heard about was Russians buying up properties golf courses, everywhere. No body asked who was involved who were their American counterparts.
The same phenomenon is apparent now with Chinese buying properties everywhere, we have read many articles right here in NYT real estate sections about wealthy Chinese buying mansions. It has been happening here widely in the north east given the abundance of good schools and colleges. They buy properties with cash no questions asked. Our real estate brokers tell us sometimes it's the same day transaction as the couple is flying back to Shanghai the same night!! Who is watching? First the Russians now the Chinese. Someone is getting rich because they are buying. So we, our towns are all colluding with Russians and Chinese. Is that illegal? I don't see any outrage anywhere in fact our town people encourage this, the high school is offering mandarin classes (used to be Russian just a while ago). Come on.
The same phenomenon is apparent now with Chinese buying properties everywhere, we have read many articles right here in NYT real estate sections about wealthy Chinese buying mansions. It has been happening here widely in the north east given the abundance of good schools and colleges. They buy properties with cash no questions asked. Our real estate brokers tell us sometimes it's the same day transaction as the couple is flying back to Shanghai the same night!! Who is watching? First the Russians now the Chinese. Someone is getting rich because they are buying. So we, our towns are all colluding with Russians and Chinese. Is that illegal? I don't see any outrage anywhere in fact our town people encourage this, the high school is offering mandarin classes (used to be Russian just a while ago). Come on.
3
Nice try but it seems the Republican leadership, McConnell and Ryan, are on board with denying any "Russian Thingy".
Meanwhile, President Lunkhead has announced he wants a panel to look into "voter fraud" even though he can't seem to figure out that he WON the election and the only "fraud" is his constant lying.
Yet when asked, most of the "rank and file" that voted for this egomaniac stand by their decision proving the saying "there's no cure for stupid".
So just how does Canada view "illegal immigration" as in a bunch of us running North?
Meanwhile, President Lunkhead has announced he wants a panel to look into "voter fraud" even though he can't seem to figure out that he WON the election and the only "fraud" is his constant lying.
Yet when asked, most of the "rank and file" that voted for this egomaniac stand by their decision proving the saying "there's no cure for stupid".
So just how does Canada view "illegal immigration" as in a bunch of us running North?
9
Connection between President Trump and Russia?
The Cold War, confusion, constant lack of clarity and closure between the U.S. and Russia is apparently not over, nor is the decades old strategy and hysteria of undermining political parties in the U.S. by connecting them to Russia over. Take the U.S./Russia history up to the 1950's: Constant fear of the Reds, constant accusations within the U.S. of connections between the left wing and Russia--all the hysteria, lives destroyed, lack of clarity, closure.
Take the Kennedy assassination: Constant speculation whether a Russian connection existed, but because Kennedy was a Democrat constant speculation it was some right wing plot as well. Again, hysteria, conspiracy theories, no clarity, no closure. Take Vietnam and the constant tension between U.S. political parties through the seventies, eighties and nineties, all the talk of covert U.S. operations setting up or taking down this foreign government or that, this or that left wing connection to communist powers overseas--so on and on.
Now we have with the collapse of the Soviet Union and Russia right wing, authoritarian, under Putin, a possible connection between Trump, the right wing and Russia and the left having its turn in the driver's seat with the accusation of the Russian Connection. Whether Trump has a connection to Russia or not, history seems to point to a sad, ongoing, history of no clarity, no closure,--just a mysterious, mutually confusing, entanglement with Russia.
The Cold War, confusion, constant lack of clarity and closure between the U.S. and Russia is apparently not over, nor is the decades old strategy and hysteria of undermining political parties in the U.S. by connecting them to Russia over. Take the U.S./Russia history up to the 1950's: Constant fear of the Reds, constant accusations within the U.S. of connections between the left wing and Russia--all the hysteria, lives destroyed, lack of clarity, closure.
Take the Kennedy assassination: Constant speculation whether a Russian connection existed, but because Kennedy was a Democrat constant speculation it was some right wing plot as well. Again, hysteria, conspiracy theories, no clarity, no closure. Take Vietnam and the constant tension between U.S. political parties through the seventies, eighties and nineties, all the talk of covert U.S. operations setting up or taking down this foreign government or that, this or that left wing connection to communist powers overseas--so on and on.
Now we have with the collapse of the Soviet Union and Russia right wing, authoritarian, under Putin, a possible connection between Trump, the right wing and Russia and the left having its turn in the driver's seat with the accusation of the Russian Connection. Whether Trump has a connection to Russia or not, history seems to point to a sad, ongoing, history of no clarity, no closure,--just a mysterious, mutually confusing, entanglement with Russia.
3
Good points. Sure, be wary of the Russia of today but do not tar the many connections with the same Cold War brush.
It appears what's unfolding may in retrospect be aptly titled as "Matryoshka-gate".
2
What is so interesting about the Trump-Nexus situation is that Trump
doesn't truly understand what is going on. He is living in his own world
a legend in his own mind. He approaches the presidency as if it were
nothing more than a day at Trump tower. He shows absolutely no
interest in the traditions and history of this office. If at the end of this
mess he leaves before 2020 he will still be dazed & confused. It seems
that even Nixon as he was walking to his helicopter one last time he had some idea of what had happened. Trump has always been a shallow
pretentious individual and that will never change. His petty tirades
and lack of personal boundaries have diminished the office. A truly sad
fact that will come out of this is that the fervent Trump supporters
will never comprehend the damage done to our government. Our
nations concept of leadership has changed since I was born. No
longer is intelligence, personal maturity and respect for institutional
history a basis for running for elected office. We have travelled
back in time to the days of carnival barkers and snake oil salesmen.
Trump cannot comprehend that to be POTUS is place country
above ones own self interests. He is unable to grasp that leadership
is not what one can receive whether the trappings of office or the
adulation of cheering crowds. It is not about yourself but a concern
for the betterment of those you lead. He will be summed up by
future historians in one word-pathetic.
doesn't truly understand what is going on. He is living in his own world
a legend in his own mind. He approaches the presidency as if it were
nothing more than a day at Trump tower. He shows absolutely no
interest in the traditions and history of this office. If at the end of this
mess he leaves before 2020 he will still be dazed & confused. It seems
that even Nixon as he was walking to his helicopter one last time he had some idea of what had happened. Trump has always been a shallow
pretentious individual and that will never change. His petty tirades
and lack of personal boundaries have diminished the office. A truly sad
fact that will come out of this is that the fervent Trump supporters
will never comprehend the damage done to our government. Our
nations concept of leadership has changed since I was born. No
longer is intelligence, personal maturity and respect for institutional
history a basis for running for elected office. We have travelled
back in time to the days of carnival barkers and snake oil salesmen.
Trump cannot comprehend that to be POTUS is place country
above ones own self interests. He is unable to grasp that leadership
is not what one can receive whether the trappings of office or the
adulation of cheering crowds. It is not about yourself but a concern
for the betterment of those you lead. He will be summed up by
future historians in one word-pathetic.
14
Could ot have been bettter stated.
1
Are you leaving people out? Secretary of State? Other cabinet members? Senate Majority leader? House majority leader? Anyone else in Congress, such as leaders of investigative committees in Congress? Does this tangled web, which does deceive, block us from seeing others lurking in the shadows? Who benefits, financially, from a Trump presidency? Follow the money, please.
7
follow the money
ESPECIALLY with trump that's how he defines himself. as do his congressional enablers
it is interesting to see all the unhappiness from the right
from t
from ryan
from mcconnell especially
with all that they steal from the average working american it's utterly amazing how that $ can't seem to buy happiness
what will make them happy?
probably nothing ever will
ESPECIALLY with trump that's how he defines himself. as do his congressional enablers
it is interesting to see all the unhappiness from the right
from t
from ryan
from mcconnell especially
with all that they steal from the average working american it's utterly amazing how that $ can't seem to buy happiness
what will make them happy?
probably nothing ever will
Those who know Washington realize that the American public requires the findings of a special commission now.
But is the toxic atmosphere such that such an act will be prevented?
But is the toxic atmosphere such that such an act will be prevented?
3
Obstruction of justice.
Vast corruption.
Impeach.
Congress, do your job.
Vast corruption.
Impeach.
Congress, do your job.
14
One could have said the same thing about our last president. Would you have supported impeachment by the same level of facts with Pres. Obama?
I am positively sick and sleepless over these Republicans selling our country to our enemy for 30 pieces of silver. Yes, they are still our enemy, yes, they are in a silent war with us. Ask anyone who has ever managed a website about the constant attacks. Ask the Ukrainians, Estonians and any country with gas lines from Russia. There is no worse combination than venal and foolish, and that is what Trump's enablers in the Republican party are. Get impeachment proceedings underway, have the cabinet remove him as unfit, but get it done.
15
The FBI needs to take the "follow the money" theory even further and ask what incentives are causing Republican congressional leaders to be so hesitant about pursuing this investigation. Putin is said to be one of the world's richest men and it wouldn't be the first time he established a large bank account for a foreign government official. A billion here and a billion there can buy a lot.
I can remember a day when patriotic Republicans would have taken a very strong stance against such Russian interference and influence. What has made them go soft? What do they fear from a Trump removal that would make Pence the President, still leave them in control of the government and have them lauded by their base and perhaps others for taking such strong action (the same way most Americans cheered bipartisan cooperation during the Watergate episode).
The Republicans' hesitance is indeed strange. It sounds like the plot of a spy thriller to think that American leaders could be influenced by money from a foreign leader. Of course, a year ago, it also sounded crazy to think that someone like Trump would occupy the Oval Office.
I can remember a day when patriotic Republicans would have taken a very strong stance against such Russian interference and influence. What has made them go soft? What do they fear from a Trump removal that would make Pence the President, still leave them in control of the government and have them lauded by their base and perhaps others for taking such strong action (the same way most Americans cheered bipartisan cooperation during the Watergate episode).
The Republicans' hesitance is indeed strange. It sounds like the plot of a spy thriller to think that American leaders could be influenced by money from a foreign leader. Of course, a year ago, it also sounded crazy to think that someone like Trump would occupy the Oval Office.
16
Yes, it's certainly very strange, especially when they know they can get everything they want without any trouble through Pence, without all the drama. There's definitely something fishy about not only why they're all holding back, but about how they kowtow to Trump, ignoring the fact that they're an independent branch of government. I mean, Nunes, my God! With what he did, that man definitely has something to hide.
Trump calling someone a "showboater" -- now that is truly the pot calling the kettle black.
17
Fake editorial. So doing business in Russia is now '' collusion''? Really? So the Podesta brothers colluded with Russia because of their stock interests in Russian energy companies? Nancy Pelosi colluded because she met the Russian ambassador more then twice?Bill Clinton colluded because he had a speaking engagement in Russia? Countless other Americans who do business in Russia have colluded as well? This editorial would have made the smear-kings of the McCarthy period proud.
20
Exactly
2
The business dealings speak to motivation and obligation. Suppose there emerges proof that companies owned by the President and/or his family owe significant money to banks controlled by either the Russian government or their mafia. Suppose sales of Trump property are shown to have been grossly inflated when paid for by money emanating from Russia. Would you then at least feel uncomfortable and want to know whether Russia helped an asset gain power? Look deeper: was Trump's promotion of the birther campaign even his own idea or has he been an agent of destabilization for years?
1
Financing beauty pageant four years ago. How does that tie into the election? Carter page once worked in Russia. After the election Kushner met with the Russian ambassador. What was the level of our relationship with Russia before the election? Bad and increasingly hostile. Should the transition team treat them as though they didn't exist? Or should someone meet with them to see if there is a way to dial down the hostility? Is the NYT suggesting business ties to Russia in the 1980s has anything to do with an election in 2016. If this is all the FBI and congress have, they should quit wasting our money. How long has it been that the FBI has been investigating this issue. It turns out that they were working on this even before the election and certainly after the election. After all of their work, all we have is beauty paget, business relationships that go back thirty years and rumors of conversations. But none of this even hints of collusion concerning the election. In fact some took place after the election. It's time to move on.
19
"Some of this took place after the election."
That would be among the concerns.
Most people see a complex web of political and business connections with an adversary who interfered with a presidential election and think that this merits an investigation of more than a few months. But then, most people can see...
That would be among the concerns.
Most people see a complex web of political and business connections with an adversary who interfered with a presidential election and think that this merits an investigation of more than a few months. But then, most people can see...
3
sycophants and apologists for trump might ask themselves :
if the words ' Hillary Clinton' were substituted for trump who would be raising hell now?
are they the only ones with the constitutional right
to free speech?
is there some new amendment restricting the questioning of sitting elected officials that the American public has not been made aware if?
besides as donald has repeatedly asserted before he was elected 'i am innocent'
now prove you are- or you APPEAR to have something to hide: which you do.
what was that you said? " i am above the law". ?
if the words ' Hillary Clinton' were substituted for trump who would be raising hell now?
are they the only ones with the constitutional right
to free speech?
is there some new amendment restricting the questioning of sitting elected officials that the American public has not been made aware if?
besides as donald has repeatedly asserted before he was elected 'i am innocent'
now prove you are- or you APPEAR to have something to hide: which you do.
what was that you said? " i am above the law". ?
My only question is "What if Clinton had won the election and this fact set applied to her?" The Republicans and their base would be in the streets with pitchforks and torches, and impeachment proceedings would already be rolling. How Trump supporters manage to be so completely willfully blind to what is obvious is beyond me. Party over country every time.
Last Wednesday, Sergey Lavrov was in Washington, meeting Rex Tillerson and feigning a sarcastic surprise when he was asked by journalists about Comey's dismissal. He later met Trump in the White House.
The Russia media released a photo of three men in the Oval Office - Trump, Lavrov and the Russian ambassador to Washington, Sergey Kislyak. While a Russian photographer was allowed to be present, all other journalists were kept away. What were they discussing about? Why was Kislyak there?
The Russia media released a photo of three men in the Oval Office - Trump, Lavrov and the Russian ambassador to Washington, Sergey Kislyak. While a Russian photographer was allowed to be present, all other journalists were kept away. What were they discussing about? Why was Kislyak there?
14
Ok so now we will all become Russian experts. Just yesterday we were all middle eastern experts. When are we becoming experts on China?
5
the united states of putin
and you call this investigative reporting? all of these activities are legal and actually quite appropriate to anyone involved in world activities, be it Germany, France, the U.K. or Russia. Based on that to imply "collusion", lies and to invoke a special prosecutor, is nothing short of partisan insanity, Certainly not journalism. You do not represent the "press" any longer. You are political agents, with one-sided opinions. Please, don't think otherwise with self-granted assertion of "righteousness". You should register for what you are: unelected democratic opinion spinners, unprotected from libel laws.
16
Bernard, you do not know what Kislyak and Flynn discussed. And this was an Editorial--no one called it investigative reporting. It is time to put America First and do what is necessary to clear the President and his team of any collusion or cover up.
2
Wha?!
Yet, even yesterday on NBC Trump emphatically denied having any dealings with Russia other than holding the Miss Universe pageant there a number of years ago.
2
"Anyone who cares about the credibility of the American electoral process..." hmmm...Lets keep looking. No, not over there on the right.
The Russians are coming! The Russians are coming! It's Watergate all over again!
Chill, comrades. This is not Watergate and Trump is not a Russian agent. This new Red Scare will lead nowhere. It didn't work for Joe McCarthy and it won't work for Democrats.
Chill, comrades. This is not Watergate and Trump is not a Russian agent. This new Red Scare will lead nowhere. It didn't work for Joe McCarthy and it won't work for Democrats.
13
So there's no "there" there? Would be happy to agree except that he FBI doesn't agree with you and the Grand Jury that has supposedly issued subpoenas doesn't agree with you And the Republican leaders of the committees that are pressing forward with investigations and now their own subpoenas don't agree with you.
1
Trump betrayed his country there is no question about it.
3
trump lies with every breath.
4
For all the posters below who insist on carrying water for the most unqualified president in the history of this Republic, answer this one question.
Why won't Trump release his tax returns?
Why won't Trump release his tax returns?
17
The democrats have uncontrollable anger over losing the 2016 election; they need a topic to complain about and a Russian collusion story fits the bill. At least it will keep them occupied as they certainly were on "cruise control" for the past eight years.
4
Hold on, this is a really strange, school-yard narrative that never seems to go away. No one I know is angry about or needs to be angry about 2016 to be uncomfortable with Trump,in the White House. There are enough incoherent things that happen each week to take care of that. Russian trolls and bots love this '2016 anger' thing as a way to diminish facts that pile up every day.
3
I really do not believe there is much to this Russian involvement, however I am very concerned by the cover up trump and his pals are trying to do. First, it shows what a vindictive and self centered person trump is, all for him and none for the American people, go against his wishes and your out, His word means nothing and he should never be trusted. Second, it shows how little credibility the GOP has, they walk in lockstep behind a man like trump hoping to get a few crumbs.
1
And please let's not forget Donald Trump's ties to the Bayrock Group, later Bayrock-Sapir: a real estate investment company, administered by wealthy and suspect Russians, that for years had its offices in Trump Tower. The Trump Soho was developed through a joint venture between the Trump organization, Bayrock, and Tamir Sapir.
Tevfik Arif, the head of Bayrock, was a Russian official from Kazakhstan. His close associate, Felix Sater, the Russian CCO of Bayrock, had a criminal past, sometimes acted as a mole for US intelligence services, and was generally soiled. At one point Sater billed himself as Trump's Senior Advisor, and he may well have been. Tamir Sapir is the other Russian entrepreneur to track in this little club.
It appears that the investigative Dutch news agency, ZEMBLA, has uncovered a paper trail that proves money laundering by Bayrock, in association with Trump.
I think Trump has made a big big mistake alienating, insulting, and angering so many capable and professional US intelligence agents, not only in the FBI but also the CIA and NSA (wizards on computers). The news will keep coming ... with a little help from the Dutch. And The Times. And The Washington Post. And a few spies in France, Britain, Germany, and the Balkans.
Does Donald Trump feel the earth trembling and yet realize that he's set up camp on the slope of a volcano?
Tevfik Arif, the head of Bayrock, was a Russian official from Kazakhstan. His close associate, Felix Sater, the Russian CCO of Bayrock, had a criminal past, sometimes acted as a mole for US intelligence services, and was generally soiled. At one point Sater billed himself as Trump's Senior Advisor, and he may well have been. Tamir Sapir is the other Russian entrepreneur to track in this little club.
It appears that the investigative Dutch news agency, ZEMBLA, has uncovered a paper trail that proves money laundering by Bayrock, in association with Trump.
I think Trump has made a big big mistake alienating, insulting, and angering so many capable and professional US intelligence agents, not only in the FBI but also the CIA and NSA (wizards on computers). The news will keep coming ... with a little help from the Dutch. And The Times. And The Washington Post. And a few spies in France, Britain, Germany, and the Balkans.
Does Donald Trump feel the earth trembling and yet realize that he's set up camp on the slope of a volcano?
8
Yes Americans have had global business interests since perhaps WWII! Before these Trump's became wealthy household names, big Coca Cola and multinational companies spread American business far and wide. You get their products all over Africa, Russia, Central Asia, Asia, their labels might be written in local native scripts but it's their products all right. Nothing new. Since when has it been criminal to do business globally, in the name of American capitalism? Our military industry complexes are no different. Our weapons sales to countries are no different. It's been going on in front of our noses but NYT is now questioning it because a businessman President has been elected by the electoral college, defying the popular vote of NYT annointed candidate of choice. How dare the electoral college? The nyt will fight its decision at Any cost. And it's ok. Because Trump had it coming. For years he pressed baseless birther charges on president obama, let him get a taste of how it means to be harassed ceaselessly.
3
My God. A Russian just walked into the White House the other day. Where are the protesters? #1 Hillary, Schumer, and Reid have met with Russian leaders more than all the Trumps combined.
#2 Manafort got paid by Ukrainians. They are NOT Russians.
#3 Carter Page, a nobody, gave "a Pro-Russian" speech as an ex-employee of a Russian firm. Would you give an anti-Russian speech?
#4 Stone exchanged messages with Guccifer. Want me to find 10 Dems in 10 minutes who have done the same?
#5 What exactly had Comey found out in 10 months to show undue influence in the election to favor Trump.? In fact what did investigators do TODAY to move the attack further?
This really is a bore, not worth the space of this revered news outlet.
#2 Manafort got paid by Ukrainians. They are NOT Russians.
#3 Carter Page, a nobody, gave "a Pro-Russian" speech as an ex-employee of a Russian firm. Would you give an anti-Russian speech?
#4 Stone exchanged messages with Guccifer. Want me to find 10 Dems in 10 minutes who have done the same?
#5 What exactly had Comey found out in 10 months to show undue influence in the election to favor Trump.? In fact what did investigators do TODAY to move the attack further?
This really is a bore, not worth the space of this revered news outlet.
12
Each one of your points is misleading or not applicable to the context. Who cares how many times someone has met with a Russian? That's kinda irellivant to the argument, no? Ukrainians? Are you hoping that whoever reads your comment is so ignorant they don't understand current events and the relationship of Russia and Ukraine? We should excuse Carter Page because an anti-Russian speech would have been awkward? Who said the opposite of his pro-Russian, anti-American speech had to be an anti-Russian one? Plus he could have declined the invitation. Stone and Guccifer? Where are you going to find those 10 Dems? From the Hillary campaign? I don't understand your 5th point--that's not what Comedy was investigating, was it.
I am impressed by the orchestrated criticism of this piece here in the comments section. It's as if conservatives are parroting lines that they are fed to them by someone. I don't mean to imply that Robert Mercer or some other right-wing billionaire is paying these people to write these comments, but it wouldn't surprise me. We all know what their reaction would be of there was even the slightest question of a Democrat colluding with a foreign power, but it's okay if you're a Republican.
18
Just say it: it's another plot by those pesky Russian agents.
I agree. They echo one another in ways beyond just content.
NYT Editorial Board: you have consistently dropped these people's names as evidence of a connection. Maybe if you started educating people about active measures, Cambridge Analytica, micro-targeting, coordinated bot networks, trump campaign's use of fake news, offshore investments into superPACs for election technology services, etc... your "investigative journalism" would not be akin to splashing around in a puddle and acting like it's the bottom of the ocean. It's a cyber crime novel, not a political soap opera.
4
They are on a mission to obliterate this president, it has nothing to do with systematic investigative journalism, it is political venegeance because the media happens to have a liberal flair at the moment. Not too long ago NYT did its very best to convince all its readers that supporting George W Bush's call to invade Iraq was the best thing since Coca Cola.
7
Quite frankly I no longer have faith in Congress nor the FBI in this matter. Trump's tax returns for at least a decade should have been obtained by subpoena early on. He is not hiding that he pays little or no federal taxes on income....he already publicly admitted that "makes me smart." He is not hiding the actual amount of his wealth....we don't really care if he exaggerates that and he already acknowledged publicly the he "loves debt" and we already know he makes liberal use of bankruptcy laws and civil suits. No, there is something much more damaging in those tax return or he would have released them voluntarily. An independent investigation with full subpoena powers need to "follow the money" and the lies to unearth the bitter truth about this con artist.
9
This is it, this is what you have? There is nothing here. The Trump family business stuff is McCarthyism pure and simple. Except for Flynn none of this is even nefarious let alone illegal. Flynn got fired for lying, he is done and gone. Yes, let the investigations go forward, but you must have something real to get a special prosecutor.
11
mkm
And Sessions.
And Manafort.
And Page.
And Stone.
And Jared.
And Donald.
And anyway, it's not what they did. It's that they lied about it. Many under oath. And then lied about lying. And then Trump lied for them.
McCarthy, erstwhile hero of the Right, was both judge and executioner.
All we're asking for is an investigation.
And that makes you go crazy?
We have "something real": it's Nunes, McConnell, Sessions, all openly committed to subverting a Congressional investigation. And its Trump who, whatever legitimate reasons there may be for firing Comey, chose to fire the person investigating him at exactly the moment the investigations were finding traction and becoming more public.
And Sessions.
And Manafort.
And Page.
And Stone.
And Jared.
And Donald.
And anyway, it's not what they did. It's that they lied about it. Many under oath. And then lied about lying. And then Trump lied for them.
McCarthy, erstwhile hero of the Right, was both judge and executioner.
All we're asking for is an investigation.
And that makes you go crazy?
We have "something real": it's Nunes, McConnell, Sessions, all openly committed to subverting a Congressional investigation. And its Trump who, whatever legitimate reasons there may be for firing Comey, chose to fire the person investigating him at exactly the moment the investigations were finding traction and becoming more public.
Well, say what you will about the investigation, but at least they so spooked the Russians that no phone was safe that they got a meeting at the White House so they could just whisper in Trump's ear. Try recording that and playing it for a Senate investigation.
I can only hope they arranged for Trump to get asylum when he travels to Russia later this year, just like Vanukovych got asylum.
Hugh Massengill, Eugene Oregon
I can only hope they arranged for Trump to get asylum when he travels to Russia later this year, just like Vanukovych got asylum.
Hugh Massengill, Eugene Oregon
1
Lock up Trump, and the entire Congressional Republican cohort, until we get to the bottom of this.
1
Trump applauded Comey in October 2016 for his investigation of Clinton's emails. Now during an -on-going FBI investigation into Russian influence of the 2016 Presidential election, Trump suddenly fires Comey?
This is beyond suspicious and if the GOP-led Congress and Trump supporters choose to ignore that obvious condition, then they favor part of country.
So Sad!
This is beyond suspicious and if the GOP-led Congress and Trump supporters choose to ignore that obvious condition, then they favor part of country.
So Sad!
4
A very simple path to show your innocence: Where are your taxes????
11
I know people like to compare Trumps Russian scandal to Watergate but this is not even close. Watergate was a total domestic scandal. Trumps Russiagate involves a hostile foreign power and potential treason not even close when you think deeply about it.
7
It is Constitutional Action time for Patriots. Bring in the tanks.
Time to tell Mr. Trump, Congress, and The Supreme Court - our nation's triumvirate of power - AKA President Putin's three stooges, "You're ALL Fired!
Why is the Pentagon investigating Flynn?
Because the military has the constitutional obligation to investigate, tribunal, and sentence, any and all treasonous activity within their ranks - aiding and abetting the enemy - including that of all associated civilians. It is their core job - to defend our State against all enemies foreign and domestic - not just their reality show adventure.
The Pentagon might enhance their Constitutional Action with the endorsement of all of our surviving Presidents at the start and effect their boots-on-the-ground action by recalling supportive members of Federal Governance to aid in the subsequent tribunal (called an oligarchy purge in Russia).
Because a few key voting machines in a few key counties were likely to have enabled Mr. Trump's wrongful accession, with his corrupted Congress and even state-level collusion, an immediate Federal re-vote must be held ASAP, say over the internet in November, to legitimize the restoration of powers.
This Pentagon Constitutional Action is no more bizarre than your globalized Three Stooges comedy American's are apparently forced to witness.
Time to tell Mr. Trump, Congress, and The Supreme Court - our nation's triumvirate of power - AKA President Putin's three stooges, "You're ALL Fired!
Why is the Pentagon investigating Flynn?
Because the military has the constitutional obligation to investigate, tribunal, and sentence, any and all treasonous activity within their ranks - aiding and abetting the enemy - including that of all associated civilians. It is their core job - to defend our State against all enemies foreign and domestic - not just their reality show adventure.
The Pentagon might enhance their Constitutional Action with the endorsement of all of our surviving Presidents at the start and effect their boots-on-the-ground action by recalling supportive members of Federal Governance to aid in the subsequent tribunal (called an oligarchy purge in Russia).
Because a few key voting machines in a few key counties were likely to have enabled Mr. Trump's wrongful accession, with his corrupted Congress and even state-level collusion, an immediate Federal re-vote must be held ASAP, say over the internet in November, to legitimize the restoration of powers.
This Pentagon Constitutional Action is no more bizarre than your globalized Three Stooges comedy American's are apparently forced to witness.
1
"What did the President know and when did he know it?"
-Senator Howard Baker
It wasn't the crime, it was the cover-up that brought Nixon down. And with what has been uncovered to date that's where this is all headed with Trump.
Trump may not be under investigation by the FBI "yet", but it's coming. There is just too much circumstantial evidence, and the Republican Congress will take a little longer to act. But as each day goes by more will be be leaked by those "Deep Throats", and their everywhere now because of the manner in which Comey was fired.
I watched every bit of Watergate as it unfolded and this investigation is tracking it almost to a "tee". The truth always comes out, the FBI will see to it. And I would suggest Trump, Sessions, and Rosenstein don't have one ally over at the FBI.
-Senator Howard Baker
It wasn't the crime, it was the cover-up that brought Nixon down. And with what has been uncovered to date that's where this is all headed with Trump.
Trump may not be under investigation by the FBI "yet", but it's coming. There is just too much circumstantial evidence, and the Republican Congress will take a little longer to act. But as each day goes by more will be be leaked by those "Deep Throats", and their everywhere now because of the manner in which Comey was fired.
I watched every bit of Watergate as it unfolded and this investigation is tracking it almost to a "tee". The truth always comes out, the FBI will see to it. And I would suggest Trump, Sessions, and Rosenstein don't have one ally over at the FBI.
7
Am I wrong thinking that the longer these various investigations take, the more evidence is destroyed? Maybe paper shredding is archaic, and everything stays on a server somewhere, forever. I don't know. But this thing seems like it may suffer death by committee. Maybe we'll even find Trump himself is an out and out spy so. Unfortunately, I don't know what good that would do if this he is halfway through his second term and the press has been outlawed.
1
The NYT's neurotic preoccupation with Trump and his imagined relationship with Russia is nothing more than click bait. There is absolutely zero news value in the repeating the same tired innuendos and slanders day after day. No matter how you shake-up the same words to appear different, there's nothing new here.
The fact is, there is no evidence to support the accusations that bounce around on these pages, only the same old imaginings- like watching for faces in the clouds- look long and hard enough and you will convince yourself that you see a portrait of George Washington in the clouds. Go ahead, knock yourselves out!
In these many months since Hillary and Co. first started blaming the Russians for her electoral loss, we have had the FBI throwing massive resources into the investigations, they have found nothing. We have the house, the senate, and the media all working to discover if the unsubstantiated charge of collusion possibly holds water. They have found nothing.
When is enough, enough? Could it be that the clicks keep coming, and the NYT beancounters are happy?
Meantime, yesterday, Trump signs an EO to strengthen Federal cybersecurity and protect critical infrastructure, and not a word about it mentioned by the NYT. The EO is very interesting- it would (I'm sure) lead to some intelligent, and perhaps required debate on these pages.
Check it out https://www.whitehouse.gov/the-press-office/2017/05/11/presidential-exec...
The fact is, there is no evidence to support the accusations that bounce around on these pages, only the same old imaginings- like watching for faces in the clouds- look long and hard enough and you will convince yourself that you see a portrait of George Washington in the clouds. Go ahead, knock yourselves out!
In these many months since Hillary and Co. first started blaming the Russians for her electoral loss, we have had the FBI throwing massive resources into the investigations, they have found nothing. We have the house, the senate, and the media all working to discover if the unsubstantiated charge of collusion possibly holds water. They have found nothing.
When is enough, enough? Could it be that the clicks keep coming, and the NYT beancounters are happy?
Meantime, yesterday, Trump signs an EO to strengthen Federal cybersecurity and protect critical infrastructure, and not a word about it mentioned by the NYT. The EO is very interesting- it would (I'm sure) lead to some intelligent, and perhaps required debate on these pages.
Check it out https://www.whitehouse.gov/the-press-office/2017/05/11/presidential-exec...
8
It took over 2 years to bring Nixon down after "Watergate." Slow, methodical evidence gathering and careful analysis of data goes on behind the scenes. Your willful ignorance doesn't change that fact.
4
If you want to see an imagined scandal think about Benghazi. Or Clinton's emails. Or Mr Clinton's affairs. Pizzagate. Obama being a foreign born Muslim.
Trump stinks far worse than any of these
Trump stinks far worse than any of these
9
I'll take the Times every day. I pay for a subscription to help fund honest journalism. Trump's actions don't pass the smell test. Looks worse than Watergate to me.
4
I support the various investigations but as of right now, as Robert DeNiro said to Kevin Costner in the Untouchables, "...you got nothing."
Businessmen are allowed to do business in Russia. People are allowed to consult for the Russian government. I don't like it, I wish they wouldn't, but as long as they end those ties before they become government officials there is nothing illegal about it. The Trump campaign is allowed to have contacts with foreign governments as is the incoming administrations. Forgetting to mention running into someone somewhere does not constitute collusion.
Meanwhile, what about the inappropriate behavior of the State Department under Clinton? Racketeering charges have been documented (the NYT said "extensively documented") including a State Department decision to allow the sale of advanced cell phone technology to the Iranian National Guard in exchange for one of Bill's speeches, HRC's entire staff working for the Clinton Foundation and a trust fund Bill was on the board of without approval, and the sale of American uranium assets to Russian companies in exchange for a Clinton Foundation consulting contract. These charges have never been answered let alone investigated.
Somehow the NYT's indignation stops at the edge of political affiliations. I do not want Russian collusion but sometime soon please provide us with evidence of wrongdoing. Where we have evidence of racketeering is in regards to HRC's actions. For that you're quiet.
Businessmen are allowed to do business in Russia. People are allowed to consult for the Russian government. I don't like it, I wish they wouldn't, but as long as they end those ties before they become government officials there is nothing illegal about it. The Trump campaign is allowed to have contacts with foreign governments as is the incoming administrations. Forgetting to mention running into someone somewhere does not constitute collusion.
Meanwhile, what about the inappropriate behavior of the State Department under Clinton? Racketeering charges have been documented (the NYT said "extensively documented") including a State Department decision to allow the sale of advanced cell phone technology to the Iranian National Guard in exchange for one of Bill's speeches, HRC's entire staff working for the Clinton Foundation and a trust fund Bill was on the board of without approval, and the sale of American uranium assets to Russian companies in exchange for a Clinton Foundation consulting contract. These charges have never been answered let alone investigated.
Somehow the NYT's indignation stops at the edge of political affiliations. I do not want Russian collusion but sometime soon please provide us with evidence of wrongdoing. Where we have evidence of racketeering is in regards to HRC's actions. For that you're quiet.
9
What could be more transparent: Trump and the Russians in the Oval Office
grinning right after Trump fires James Comey. This photo op putting Putin
in charge of the Oval Office....no wonder Putin is grinning in the hockey rink.
A picture transmitting around the world ...: Putin has won his chess game.
at least for now.....leaving Trump to drown in his own excuses for firing the
head of the FBI....Checkmate Putin...but maybe not....
The GOP is coming out of the fog of denial....McConnell bad chess player;
and Ryan too conceited to concede he is just a motor mouthpiece for whomever funds his seat in the House.....so....we too Mr. Putin can play...
Let's try GO.....a bit more rubric than the old Chess play off....
The transparency of Putin will be checked sooner than later.
grinning right after Trump fires James Comey. This photo op putting Putin
in charge of the Oval Office....no wonder Putin is grinning in the hockey rink.
A picture transmitting around the world ...: Putin has won his chess game.
at least for now.....leaving Trump to drown in his own excuses for firing the
head of the FBI....Checkmate Putin...but maybe not....
The GOP is coming out of the fog of denial....McConnell bad chess player;
and Ryan too conceited to concede he is just a motor mouthpiece for whomever funds his seat in the House.....so....we too Mr. Putin can play...
Let's try GO.....a bit more rubric than the old Chess play off....
The transparency of Putin will be checked sooner than later.
1
Just last month Tillerson met with Lavrov and Putin in Moscow. It's called diplomacy.
2
IS this all the New York Times could come up with after months of investigative journalism? Miss Universe?
13
If this becomes another Watergate, the end game is impeachment. Not a good omen for a real estate mogul of oversized ego and in a mission from his wealthy friends to make America great again, for them!
1
What garbage. If there was collusion, it would've been leaked already...like all the other million leaks since last year. The testimony from Klapper, et.al., under oath, is that there is no evidence.
Here's where there was collusion: Obama ("Tell Vladimir I'll have more flexibility after I win re-election"), and Hillary(selling Putin 20% of American uranium reserves).
Here's where there was collusion: Obama ("Tell Vladimir I'll have more flexibility after I win re-election"), and Hillary(selling Putin 20% of American uranium reserves).
12
Mr. Trump's opacity regarding his finances have always suggested two primary components to me.
First, after numerous business failures (that are always the fault of others), he is not as wealthy as his ego demands that people believe. Transparency would counter his grandiose image he works so hard to project.
Second, and most importantly, I believe he is in collusion with the oligarchs and criminals who have looted the former Soviet Union. Many of these people need investments such as real estate to park or launder their money. With collusion comes obligations. The evidence is screaming out to any objective observer.
First, after numerous business failures (that are always the fault of others), he is not as wealthy as his ego demands that people believe. Transparency would counter his grandiose image he works so hard to project.
Second, and most importantly, I believe he is in collusion with the oligarchs and criminals who have looted the former Soviet Union. Many of these people need investments such as real estate to park or launder their money. With collusion comes obligations. The evidence is screaming out to any objective observer.
2
The Times is now only 3 months behind the citizen journalists on Twitter . The paper has put more effort into normalizing Trump and writing Margaret Mead-style studies of downtrodden, MAGA hat wearing, middle American white people in than investigating him. When are you going to apologize for condemning Buzzfeed for publishing the Steele dossier which has proven to be authentic and accurate? Your commitment to "both sides do it" journalism is harming your credibility.
3
This is the weirdest presidency I've ever seen, and I go back to FDR. The sheer inconsistencies of President Trump keep adding up to lies, and nothing less.
It's one thing to fire someone but then to smear them, disparage them and lie about them is unconscionable. This is the worst of us, occupying our highest office. We will go down in history, disgraced - then too the characters around this president are appalling - Spicer was bad enough, but this Sara sanders boggles the mind - blatantly telling untruths and adding to our disgust.
How can the Republicans not see and act on this repressive, inept president. Tell me how? They were gutless throughout the Obama presidency and remain so to
date. Oh, the shame of it !
It's one thing to fire someone but then to smear them, disparage them and lie about them is unconscionable. This is the worst of us, occupying our highest office. We will go down in history, disgraced - then too the characters around this president are appalling - Spicer was bad enough, but this Sara sanders boggles the mind - blatantly telling untruths and adding to our disgust.
How can the Republicans not see and act on this repressive, inept president. Tell me how? They were gutless throughout the Obama presidency and remain so to
date. Oh, the shame of it !
3
The only legitimate reason to invoke a Special Prosecutor is when an administration may act in treasonous ways. Republicans obfuscate this, calling any Democrat policy treasonous, especially if it fails. But treason involves undermining a system of government by making its institutions falter and violating standing foreign policy. Watergate didn't really rise to treason; it was the Nixon tapes that did, and which forced him to resign.
Even Iran-Contra didn't rise to the potentially treasonous behavior of Trump's team. If ever there was a Special Prosecutor situation, this is it: foreign power, system of government. Perhaps Democrats could take the sting out, by admitting to Republican that Mitt Romney was right when he called Russia our greatest foreign threat. Democrats ridiculed Romney at the time, but we were wrong. Perhaps Republicans can admit they're going to be wrong if they continue to deny Russia's involvement.
Even Iran-Contra didn't rise to the potentially treasonous behavior of Trump's team. If ever there was a Special Prosecutor situation, this is it: foreign power, system of government. Perhaps Democrats could take the sting out, by admitting to Republican that Mitt Romney was right when he called Russia our greatest foreign threat. Democrats ridiculed Romney at the time, but we were wrong. Perhaps Republicans can admit they're going to be wrong if they continue to deny Russia's involvement.
100
It's the way the power is being wielded that's disturbing. It's the sense that the GOP and Trump don't want to know the truth and will go to any lengths to prevent it from surfacing that's suspicious. If there's nothing to see why fire Comey now? Congress and all Americans ought to be concerned about who Trump nominates because if Trump selects someone who swears loyalty to him we cannot rely upon that person to act independently when necessary. The GOP, in refusing to acknowledge that we have reasons to be upset, is validating the feelings many have about what Trump did to Comey: fire him to hide something. Having this feeling about Trump so early in his term is not good for Trump, the GOP, or anyone else who is watching.
1
Thank God we haven’t let that Threat snick away. It has been so useful for so many years!
Russia may be a threat, but not like the Chinese. We'll never know, we'll never see it, but it will be there underpinning our whole infrastructure from banking, to food and currently the software that is being produced there. For a public viewing regarding computer security, see the National Academy of Sciences, National Research Council's book, "Information Assurance for Network-Centric Naval Forces" 2010, ISBN 978-0-309-13663-1,
Actually it's the NYT Editorial Board that's "crying itself hoarse."
So Trump attempted to develop property in Russia. So Russia hosted a Trump beauty pageant. This proves collusion to interfere with the 2016 elections?
The only real connection here appears to be Manafort - who Trump fired.
It appears that Hillary Clinton had a more nefarious connection with Russia when, as Secretary of State, she approved the transfer of 20% of the US Uranium supply to the Russians, as the NYT itself reported in an article dated April 23, 2015!
So Trump attempted to develop property in Russia. So Russia hosted a Trump beauty pageant. This proves collusion to interfere with the 2016 elections?
The only real connection here appears to be Manafort - who Trump fired.
It appears that Hillary Clinton had a more nefarious connection with Russia when, as Secretary of State, she approved the transfer of 20% of the US Uranium supply to the Russians, as the NYT itself reported in an article dated April 23, 2015!
9
Hopefully someday this issue will be resolve – the effect of Russian released emails on the election process and quantified by scholars. Won’t it be disappointing if those measurements carry little weight and there were other reasons that carried more?
The FBI is investigating ties between the Trump campaign and Russia, and is not investigating Trump personally. Presumably, it lacks probable cause of criminal activity related to Trump and his businesses.
Because there are no known criminal ties between the Russians and Trump's businesses, the Board's allegations constitute rank speculation, void of any legitimate news content. In other words, the Board is making up a possible criminal case involving Trump's businesses dedpite the fact that the FBI lacks supporting evidence. Slander???
Because there are no known criminal ties between the Russians and Trump's businesses, the Board's allegations constitute rank speculation, void of any legitimate news content. In other words, the Board is making up a possible criminal case involving Trump's businesses dedpite the fact that the FBI lacks supporting evidence. Slander???
6
I simply cannot understand why Trump is still in the White House. It is just horrifying. Has the entire GOP been tainted by Russian money? How can GOP members support this man? The groveling photos of Trump in the WH with Lavrov should make any patriotic American feel sick. Trump is trying to completely politicize the FBI and intelligence services and he is part way there. The remaining forms of resistance must move fast, or our democracy will be lost. We have already lost so much.
3
Sarah, we felt the same way about George W Bush. In horror we watched him get re-elected.
1
It is clear that folks in the Accella Corridor have a caviar complex. Bill gives a highly compensated speech; Russians immediately get a favorable deal on some nuclear resource after approval by HRC's State Dept. Fringe actors in the Trump campaign may or may not have been whispering to one or more Russian business people, or politicians, or hackers, during the campaign. If there is a scandal here, the whiff is so faint it's hard to detect. To us in the hinterlands it seems to be business as usual. Please find more facts and fewer "what ifs."
6
So . . . Since there's no real scandal, Trump should welcome an investigation as a chance to clear his name, right?
5
JPE
Since you have decided that coincidence of timing equals demonstrable fact, here's mine:
Comey testifies there is reason for concern in Trump's behavior, and requests resources to investigate; Trump fires Comey.
If you don't feel like committing the time to respond, maybe you could use it taking a beginners course in logic.
And English. In most quarters "campaign chairman" does not equal "fringe actor".
Since you have decided that coincidence of timing equals demonstrable fact, here's mine:
Comey testifies there is reason for concern in Trump's behavior, and requests resources to investigate; Trump fires Comey.
If you don't feel like committing the time to respond, maybe you could use it taking a beginners course in logic.
And English. In most quarters "campaign chairman" does not equal "fringe actor".
Roger Stone has debunked everything stated in this editorial. Why don't you give him a call and let him debunk it again.
2
You're seriously going to cite Roger Stone of Wikileaks fame as your counter? You might as well add President Trump to the list of "debunkers". Both are about equally credible.
6
Regardless of what the Trump family claims, or the vociferous support of their rabid followers, a lie is still a lie.
Every time Trump proclaims his innocence, you can see his nose visibly grow.
Every time Trump proclaims his innocence, you can see his nose visibly grow.
10
Trump knows someone that knows a Russian - sheesh, this sounds like Rachel Maddow spinning one of her tales of woe.
The real story of Russian collusion is with Hillary Clinton and how Bill received massive speaking fees and Russia ended up with 20% of our Uranium. Makes a lot of sense selling the Russians our Uranium so they can make bombs and kill us.
Still, the Russians are relevant here - the last time I've seen such a "fever of fake news and innuendo" was the Army-McCarthy hearings. I believe these were brought to an end when Joseph Welch ended his argument, and McCarthy's career with, "...Have you no sense of decency."
The real story of Russian collusion is with Hillary Clinton and how Bill received massive speaking fees and Russia ended up with 20% of our Uranium. Makes a lot of sense selling the Russians our Uranium so they can make bombs and kill us.
Still, the Russians are relevant here - the last time I've seen such a "fever of fake news and innuendo" was the Army-McCarthy hearings. I believe these were brought to an end when Joseph Welch ended his argument, and McCarthy's career with, "...Have you no sense of decency."
7
The simple question is:
Why wouldn't a leader with ethics strive to help PROVE their innocence with all the resources at hand?
The simple answer is:
At least one of the elements in the question is missing, either ethics or innocence or both.
Why wouldn't a leader with ethics strive to help PROVE their innocence with all the resources at hand?
The simple answer is:
At least one of the elements in the question is missing, either ethics or innocence or both.
10
The Government and Congress cannot be trusted to do their duty in these matter and protect the Constitutional order. Today we need the NY Times, the Washington Post, the Guardian, and others, to press the investigations into Trump's finances, the nexus of connections with Russia and other despots, and the spreading stain of the Trump/Kushner families using positions of public trust and security for their personal enrichment. I hope the Times and others have the courage, resourcefulness and money to preserver.
1
It would be nice if those same papers looked into the Clinton Foundation.
8
We will probably never know where the Russian money trail filtered in and around the 2016 Trump campaign. For years, we do know not to trust the Russian Federation, as much as they do not trust us. Exploit information? Extract influence? Both the US and RF live by these acts of persuasion.
Sad? No, REAL.
Sad? No, REAL.
Everyone knows the Trump playbook; Deny,lie, deny, lie and so forth.
Never admit an error-you can make no errors. One only needs to go back to Trumps ridiculous birther claims. The man is a sad joke on us. What we really need to do is to start a conversation, a serious one, as to how to remove him from office. This is not about Dems or Repubs it is about America and what we stand for. Trump stands for nothing but himself
Never admit an error-you can make no errors. One only needs to go back to Trumps ridiculous birther claims. The man is a sad joke on us. What we really need to do is to start a conversation, a serious one, as to how to remove him from office. This is not about Dems or Repubs it is about America and what we stand for. Trump stands for nothing but himself
5
Trumpgate makes Nixon look borderline decent. Since the majority of the GOP leadership on the Hill are supporting the cover-up with great impudence, there should be a popular movement to request an independent prosecutor in order to restore our democratic system, which is what is under attack.
It would also help a national roadshow to explain to Trump followers how the President already forgot them.
It would also help a national roadshow to explain to Trump followers how the President already forgot them.
2
It is time for Congress to pressure Trump to release his tax returns and to make a clear statement of any business or other things he has interests in that are connected to Russia or Russians. There is no other explanation for his man-love for Putin other than something they have over him, either financial and/or something embarrassing. I'm betting both. In any event, business ties that create leverage over him constitute a huge conflict of interest that will affect policy decisions involving Russia and Putin. We have already seen such conflicts play out the decisions regarding which countries to include in the illegal Muslim travel ban.
2
Can this get any thinner? I've heard Trump also likes Russian salad dressing. That should have been your lead. It's your strongest evidence.
7
Compared to what?
Please, please balance things by explaining the contacts that Bill and Hillary Clinton - and the Obama Administration - had during this same period.
Please further explain what, if any, policies have been affected. Did President Trump refrain from bombing Syrian planes after their use of chemical weapons? No. Did President Trump withdraw sanctions against Russia? No. Did President Trump suggest that the USA Women's hockey team throw their game against the Russian team? No.
The unbalanced coverage by the NY Times undermines its credibility. Every day.
Please, please balance things by explaining the contacts that Bill and Hillary Clinton - and the Obama Administration - had during this same period.
Please further explain what, if any, policies have been affected. Did President Trump refrain from bombing Syrian planes after their use of chemical weapons? No. Did President Trump withdraw sanctions against Russia? No. Did President Trump suggest that the USA Women's hockey team throw their game against the Russian team? No.
The unbalanced coverage by the NY Times undermines its credibility. Every day.
5
Um, Alex., just a wee correction here, or two.
Mr Trump did not "bomb Syrian planes after their use of chemical weapons".
He bombed the sand trap on the tenth hole. After hours. At a closed course.
And you say it like its a good thing....
Mr Trump did not "bomb Syrian planes after their use of chemical weapons".
He bombed the sand trap on the tenth hole. After hours. At a closed course.
And you say it like its a good thing....
I think there is an organized effort to discredit this editorial and the positions it holds. All of the critical comments I have read make exactly the same points, in virtually the same language. Let's have diversity of opinion, by all means. Let's seek it out. But this, I think, is a campaign.
9
Our fate is the product of our people, and we are so not united.
Opinion polls of now about 36 percent are reflecting that at least one third of us is apparently still loyally buying DJT.
In other words, imho, we're portending profound chaos.
This is too depressing of a scenario that is too discomforting to slough off.
I fear discombobulation.
I hope I'm overwrought with fear.
Opinion polls of now about 36 percent are reflecting that at least one third of us is apparently still loyally buying DJT.
In other words, imho, we're portending profound chaos.
This is too depressing of a scenario that is too discomforting to slough off.
I fear discombobulation.
I hope I'm overwrought with fear.
In reply to myself:
The rational point should be:
While approximately a third of our nation seems to be denying what seems rather embarrassingly obvious:
The son has previously openly acknowledged DJT borrowing from Russian financial sources, apparently acknowledging USA financial sources were closed
to DJT's notorious credit riskiness
Apparently DJT's hard core voters don't regard this financial relationship as bad for our elected leader's POTUS to be beholden.
They apparently do regard Hillary's alleged negatives as overall worse.
In other words at least one third of us is not (apparently enough) concerned about DJT's alleged financial dependence upon Russian financial sources.
To boringly repeat: DJT's alleged financial dependence on Russians had been acknowledged by a son a few years prior to November 8th.
Do we need intelligence agency proof of that?
H, yes, I wish it were not true.
The rational point should be:
While approximately a third of our nation seems to be denying what seems rather embarrassingly obvious:
The son has previously openly acknowledged DJT borrowing from Russian financial sources, apparently acknowledging USA financial sources were closed
to DJT's notorious credit riskiness
Apparently DJT's hard core voters don't regard this financial relationship as bad for our elected leader's POTUS to be beholden.
They apparently do regard Hillary's alleged negatives as overall worse.
In other words at least one third of us is not (apparently enough) concerned about DJT's alleged financial dependence upon Russian financial sources.
To boringly repeat: DJT's alleged financial dependence on Russians had been acknowledged by a son a few years prior to November 8th.
Do we need intelligence agency proof of that?
H, yes, I wish it were not true.
I note the NYT says DJT attorneys deny DJT owing moneys to Russian finance companies.
Okay, then why have any further issue?
The Russian dependence connection is allegedly a non-starter.
Release those tax returns, please.
Why act so suspicious?
Doesn't the FBI have access to his tax filings?
If not, are we shooting ourselves in the foot?
"National Security" versus POTUS's "Right To Privacy(?)"
As a pragmatist (not an idealist), I perceive the national security interest trumps DJT's privacy.
Something there is there, Gertrude.
Okay, then why have any further issue?
The Russian dependence connection is allegedly a non-starter.
Release those tax returns, please.
Why act so suspicious?
Doesn't the FBI have access to his tax filings?
If not, are we shooting ourselves in the foot?
"National Security" versus POTUS's "Right To Privacy(?)"
As a pragmatist (not an idealist), I perceive the national security interest trumps DJT's privacy.
Something there is there, Gertrude.
Sessions committed perjury by lying under oath. This is a crime that others have been prosecuted for. In what alternative universe is it appropriate for him to be the Attorney General? And to obstruct the investigation he supposedly recused himself from?
He lied specifically about his Russian meetings, and a serious investigation is underway to examine the collusion of presidential associates with Russia during the election to put Trump in office. Trump himself was the subject of the Russian dossier with potentially blackmail worthy acts committed that were documented by Putin's people. Given his slimy background, it is entirely credible.
McConnell, Ryan, Grassley, Comyn, Nunes and others are entirely too complicit in the coverup that is going on. I hope the US or foreign intelligence agencies or investigative journalists are looking hard at the connections between the GOP Congress and Russia.
Have any of them received Russian money, promises, or extortion demands of their own?
There must be deeper corruption here. That is the only explanation for their desperate denials and obstruction of an independent investigation and into legitimate Congressional investigations.
Law enforcement and intelligence officers must expand their investigation to see which other Republicans have been caught up in the Trump treason.
He lied specifically about his Russian meetings, and a serious investigation is underway to examine the collusion of presidential associates with Russia during the election to put Trump in office. Trump himself was the subject of the Russian dossier with potentially blackmail worthy acts committed that were documented by Putin's people. Given his slimy background, it is entirely credible.
McConnell, Ryan, Grassley, Comyn, Nunes and others are entirely too complicit in the coverup that is going on. I hope the US or foreign intelligence agencies or investigative journalists are looking hard at the connections between the GOP Congress and Russia.
Have any of them received Russian money, promises, or extortion demands of their own?
There must be deeper corruption here. That is the only explanation for their desperate denials and obstruction of an independent investigation and into legitimate Congressional investigations.
Law enforcement and intelligence officers must expand their investigation to see which other Republicans have been caught up in the Trump treason.
4
I would agree that a thorough investigation is warranted. However, it appears that a thorough investigation has been underway for at least 6 months, and no evidence of collusion between the Trump campaign and Russia has been offered by any official or agency. Much of your editotial is nothing more than hearsay..."During the campaign, Mr. Stone seemed to know in advance that WikiLeaks would release emails from the account of John Podesta, Mrs. Clinton’s campaign manager." The good news is we don't really need the FBI, we've got the New York Times.
3
Dear Paul, Perhaps you don't recall or weren't alive during Watergate. Truth comes out in drips, as it is now, and the crook leaves after the continuos deluge gets too much. This guy is a crook. Grow up.
Of course we don't know the details of the evidence in this investigation--it is currently in progress. No doubt there is much information the public isn't privy to--that doesn't mean it doesn't exist.
In fact, today acting FBI director Andrew McCabe told the Senate Intel Committee that it was a “highly significant investigation”. It was also reported that last week, Comey requested more staff and resources for the investigation, and according to the WSJ, "started receiving daily instead of weekly updates on the investigation, beginning at least 3 weeks ago".
Grand jury subpoenas were issued Monday for business records of Gen. Micheal Flynn and his associates. It was also reported that the Senate Intel Committee has asked the Treasury Department office that investigates financial crimes for info related to Trump businesses & campaign associates, specifically related to money laundering. In 2015 Trump & Trump Taj Mahal was fined $10 million for multiple violations of money-laundering laws.
I'd say it appears the investigation is heating up.
And given the fact that Trump just fired the head of the FBI, and blatantly lied about the motives and circumstances for his dismissal--I'd say that you aren't doing yourself any favors by refusing to face the reality of who and what Trump is, and the damage he's causing this country. As much as any of us might like for it to all be over, we'll be dealing with the fallout from the election of Donald Trump for a long time.
In fact, today acting FBI director Andrew McCabe told the Senate Intel Committee that it was a “highly significant investigation”. It was also reported that last week, Comey requested more staff and resources for the investigation, and according to the WSJ, "started receiving daily instead of weekly updates on the investigation, beginning at least 3 weeks ago".
Grand jury subpoenas were issued Monday for business records of Gen. Micheal Flynn and his associates. It was also reported that the Senate Intel Committee has asked the Treasury Department office that investigates financial crimes for info related to Trump businesses & campaign associates, specifically related to money laundering. In 2015 Trump & Trump Taj Mahal was fined $10 million for multiple violations of money-laundering laws.
I'd say it appears the investigation is heating up.
And given the fact that Trump just fired the head of the FBI, and blatantly lied about the motives and circumstances for his dismissal--I'd say that you aren't doing yourself any favors by refusing to face the reality of who and what Trump is, and the damage he's causing this country. As much as any of us might like for it to all be over, we'll be dealing with the fallout from the election of Donald Trump for a long time.
223
You failed to mention Mr. Sessions promised to recuse himself from all things Russian.
Discussing removal of the person leading the Russian investigation is a novel definition of recusal.
Discussing removal of the person leading the Russian investigation is a novel definition of recusal.
9
Remember when Trump predicted Hillary's presidency would be caught up in scandals?
His supporters bought it.
I'll bet he has some real estate to sell them.
His supporters bought it.
I'll bet he has some real estate to sell them.
5
With the spinning of the wheels, it turns out now that Mr. Rosenstein was doing his master Trump biding and acted more like Nixon’s lackey John N. Mitchell than he was following the example set by Elliot Richardson – that’s certainly doesn’t bode well for the chances of an independent effective investigation. No wonder Lavrov and his staff were sharing laughs with Trump and his entourage in the White House. They all seem to be quite sure the whole “Russian Scandal” will end up as much ado about nothing serious, and maybe, with some meddling from Moscow, with the Liberal factions blaming each other for the failure to expose the “Muscovite Candidate” -- and, believe me, really believe me, really, stinky as it is, that’s not a bad result for the future of American-Russian relationships and for world order stability – though the whole affair is already not so beneficial for the quality of American democracy.
This obsession with the possibility of a Russian influence on our election is getting old.
Any republican would have won, Clinton was such a weak candidate. The Democratic Party with its betrayal of Bernie Sanders, should look only to itself for losing.
All city dwellers should really just drive an hour upstate, whether they are in New York, Pennsylvania or wherever. The Democratic Party lost because they lost the rural vote. The facts remain: trump won in Ohio, Pennsylvania and even in Wisconsin!! The democrats are doomed until they address why this happened.
Any republican would have won, Clinton was such a weak candidate. The Democratic Party with its betrayal of Bernie Sanders, should look only to itself for losing.
All city dwellers should really just drive an hour upstate, whether they are in New York, Pennsylvania or wherever. The Democratic Party lost because they lost the rural vote. The facts remain: trump won in Ohio, Pennsylvania and even in Wisconsin!! The democrats are doomed until they address why this happened.
3
So in other words it's a Freak Show conspiracy.
So far this week the NYT has published two stories that are completely false. Who writes the retractions?
So far this week the NYT has published two stories that are completely false. Who writes the retractions?
2
Whenever the cops pick up a couple of suspects, the first thing they do is separate them and question them one at a time. This is my thought whenever I hear the multiple conflicting statements from Trump and his various minions about everything. They are not only liars; they are hilariously inept liars who can't even keep their own stories straight.
3
There is nothing whatsoever about Trump that I like or want in my life. The man is simply a poisonous monster devouring a planet.
6
Steve, you perhaps have a short memory, not too long ago lived amidst us another poisonous monster named George W Bush who devoured the planet like never seen before in the history. Why did not the FBI probe Bushes' connections to the Middle East and his "real" reasons for invading Iraq. We do understand his compulsion to invade Afghanistan, the public demanded that after 9/11. But why Iraq? And why is the world still in turmoil, with ISIS and its morphs, terrorizing the planet?
1
Did anybody else, as I did, note the strange Trump effort to prove he has "no business interests IN Russia." He underscored it with claims to Lester Holt that he got "one of the best law firms" in the universe to send a certified letter to that effect to Lindsay Graham. He was strangely emphatic about making the point as if the use of a big law firm and a certified letter was all the evidence he needed to prove his critics wrong and the Russian probe a hoax.
But that isn't the big issue involved. It is how much money the Russians have given him and laundered through him and what they have demanded and gotten in return.
Methinks Mr. Trump hears the tumbrel coming and is trying desperately to muster a defense. Ron Wyden is right. Follow the money. It is at the heart of it all.
But that isn't the big issue involved. It is how much money the Russians have given him and laundered through him and what they have demanded and gotten in return.
Methinks Mr. Trump hears the tumbrel coming and is trying desperately to muster a defense. Ron Wyden is right. Follow the money. It is at the heart of it all.
7
One of your previous articles points to the most likely area where collusion of the Trump campaign and Russia will be evidenced. In addition there are reports of other intelligence agencies having documented contacts also. This is the crux of the case against Trump and his associates. What remains to be nailed down is whether Trump was aware of this collusion and/or approved it.
If evidence of any approval by Trump of collusion between his campaign and Russian operatives, inside the Russian government or those acting as proxies, grounds for impeachment and conviction will have been established.
There are also many other tangential threads that point to involvement with Russia but the contact and cooperation with Russian operatives in the hacking and dissemination of stolen files is the heart of the issue.
Let's remember that despite the numerous leaks that have occurred on this story the NSA, CIA, FBI and foreign intelligence agencies such as GCHQ (UK),CSIS (Canada), ASIS (Australia), NZSIS (New Zealand), BND (Germany), DGSE (France), EIB (Estonia), and FISU (Ukraine) all have the ability to keep whatever evidence they have acquired secret. We should also remember that they share intelligence with each other routinely. We do NOT know what evidence they have!
Don't forget the Russian dossier either. A roadmap.
Trump Campaign Aides Had Repeated Contacts With Russian Intelligence
https://www.nytimes.com/2017/02/14/us/politics/russia-intelligence-commu...
If evidence of any approval by Trump of collusion between his campaign and Russian operatives, inside the Russian government or those acting as proxies, grounds for impeachment and conviction will have been established.
There are also many other tangential threads that point to involvement with Russia but the contact and cooperation with Russian operatives in the hacking and dissemination of stolen files is the heart of the issue.
Let's remember that despite the numerous leaks that have occurred on this story the NSA, CIA, FBI and foreign intelligence agencies such as GCHQ (UK),CSIS (Canada), ASIS (Australia), NZSIS (New Zealand), BND (Germany), DGSE (France), EIB (Estonia), and FISU (Ukraine) all have the ability to keep whatever evidence they have acquired secret. We should also remember that they share intelligence with each other routinely. We do NOT know what evidence they have!
Don't forget the Russian dossier either. A roadmap.
Trump Campaign Aides Had Repeated Contacts With Russian Intelligence
https://www.nytimes.com/2017/02/14/us/politics/russia-intelligence-commu...
Proof of Trump/Russian collusion is hiding in plain site. Russia hacked the email accounts and Trump hawked them daily at every rally and interview. They worked hand in hand to discredit Clinton, the target of Putin's smear and disinformation campaign. Putin's goal was to attack Clinton and Trump was used as the means of delivery . It is not actually proof of collusion that is elusive, but rather the facts that motivated Trump's willingness to further Putin's agenda. The painstaking task facing the various investigations is to peel away the layers of Trump's financial dealings with Russian oligarchs and crime figures to uncover the rotten core of corruption that Putin's is aware of. Trump has virtually admitted that after his business failures left him unable to raise capital from legitimate sources, funds flowing from Russia kept him afloat. He may have been repaying a debt owed to Putin for steering capital his way, or Putin may have the facts to prove that Trump knowingly acted as a Russian laundromat.
Trump and his followers skeptical of the investigations harp on the failure to prove collusion. The full picture of the Trump-Putin alliance will not be revealed until the complex money trail is unraveled.
Trump and his followers skeptical of the investigations harp on the failure to prove collusion. The full picture of the Trump-Putin alliance will not be revealed until the complex money trail is unraveled.
2
Obviously Putin has already bought and paid for the trump administration.
I'm not too young to remember back to the Obama administration, or actually the Eisenhower administration, eight years without a scandal.
IMAGINE THAT!
I'm not too young to remember back to the Obama administration, or actually the Eisenhower administration, eight years without a scandal.
IMAGINE THAT!
2
The editors forgot to mention scandelouos facts about the Trumps that are at least the equal of what is presented in this piece, namely, that Mrs. Trump's favorite drink is a White Russian, his daughter was once seen smiling from ear to ear and applauding enthusiastically at a Russian ballet, and that his son's favorite cartoon figure is Boris from Rocky and Bullwinkle. Oh, did I forget to mention that the Donald's favorite salad spread is, you guessed it, Russian dressing!
I am no fan of Trump. In fact I did not vote for him. But in spite of his obvious weaknesses and ill conceived statements, I find myself instinctively defending him because of the blind hatred the left leaning press has tossed his way. The utter duplicity of politicians like Schumer and Polosi is nauseating. And the outright attempts of Democrats to bring his tenure as president to an end by any means necessary? I tell you it is treasonous! Trump is not the person I want in the White House but I will support him nonetheless. In my mind he is less odorous than the trash that opposes him. A sad reality indeed.
I am no fan of Trump. In fact I did not vote for him. But in spite of his obvious weaknesses and ill conceived statements, I find myself instinctively defending him because of the blind hatred the left leaning press has tossed his way. The utter duplicity of politicians like Schumer and Polosi is nauseating. And the outright attempts of Democrats to bring his tenure as president to an end by any means necessary? I tell you it is treasonous! Trump is not the person I want in the White House but I will support him nonetheless. In my mind he is less odorous than the trash that opposes him. A sad reality indeed.
3
Self Proclaimed Saint:
Speaking as a "trash", I'd like to get past innuendo and drooling leftist hysteria, too.
You may have forgotten, but here in America we have a pretty neat way to do that. It's called "investigating"...can you say "investigating"?
I would think a moral man such as yourself would prefer to deal in facts and empirical evidence rather than blind hatred and innuendo so ugly it leads you to defend even a President like Mr. Trump.
There is one way out of this morass: appoint an independent investigator, give him or her the resources and the time to do the work properly, and then let's see where we are at the end of it.
Again, the word is "investigating". Not railroading. Not impeaching. Not innuendoing. As people like you are fond if saying, "If Trump has nothing to hide, he should welcome the chance to put this all behind him". Yes?
All you people screeching "witch hunt", "lynching", "left wing conspiracy" are very curious to me for your absolute resistance to allowing a full-bore, old school investigation to clear the reputation of your champion, and to clear a path back to whatever passes for normalcy these days.
Speaking as a "trash", I'd like to get past innuendo and drooling leftist hysteria, too.
You may have forgotten, but here in America we have a pretty neat way to do that. It's called "investigating"...can you say "investigating"?
I would think a moral man such as yourself would prefer to deal in facts and empirical evidence rather than blind hatred and innuendo so ugly it leads you to defend even a President like Mr. Trump.
There is one way out of this morass: appoint an independent investigator, give him or her the resources and the time to do the work properly, and then let's see where we are at the end of it.
Again, the word is "investigating". Not railroading. Not impeaching. Not innuendoing. As people like you are fond if saying, "If Trump has nothing to hide, he should welcome the chance to put this all behind him". Yes?
All you people screeching "witch hunt", "lynching", "left wing conspiracy" are very curious to me for your absolute resistance to allowing a full-bore, old school investigation to clear the reputation of your champion, and to clear a path back to whatever passes for normalcy these days.
The game has changed, and all this fussing and fuming about Trump is mere fiddling with the deck chairs on the Titanic. Why did the unthinkable happen? Why is an anti-intellectual, morally repugnant fantasist sitting in the White House, while all branches of the federal government are controlled by right-wing idealogues? Answer those questions, and begin to repair the conditions that brought us to this pass, and we may stand a chance of avoiding that iceberg that is coming our way. http://alltogethernow.org
4
Wow. There is even less "there there" than I previously thought. If this is what the left has in their hysterical attempt to remove President Trump from office they will be seriously disappointed.
The left must eventually come to grips with the fact that Trump defeated Clinton in a fair election. Once they do this the Democrats can move on and try to win some elections. If not, the Republicans will have a field day in November 2018.
And where does the investigation stand regarding the only known crime, the person in the Obama administration who illegally unmasked Flynn and leaked classified information?
The left must eventually come to grips with the fact that Trump defeated Clinton in a fair election. Once they do this the Democrats can move on and try to win some elections. If not, the Republicans will have a field day in November 2018.
And where does the investigation stand regarding the only known crime, the person in the Obama administration who illegally unmasked Flynn and leaked classified information?
6
Trump is a 'Born again liar! ' nothing he says or his minions say should be taken seriously!
"He met, he talked, he said," and "blah, blah, blah," proving nothing. Hillary posed with her "reset" button. Arthur Miller would have a field day. You should all be ashamed. We are all Americans and our president is President Trump.
3
Sue Yu:
Do you remember, um, what was his name?
Obama! That's the guy, Obama. He was President once, remember. He was elected, twice in fact, by Americans.
We once thought we were all Americans, and our President was Obama. But you couldn't stomach having a Nigerian Muslim Chinese agent leading your country, and so you refused to allow him to do so.
Then an ex-President stumbled onto a runway somewhere. He met an old friend, the Attorney General. They sat, they talked, and "blah, blah, blah", proving nothing.
You all had so many cows the price of steak plummeted and still hasn't recovered.
There is one significant difference, though. The ex-President and the AG did not lie about it, repeatedly, under oath.
Out here in the depravity of blue-ish America, such things still matter. We tend to think if people decide to lie under oath, and then lie again, and then lie about lying, they likely have something they would prefer us not know.
An olive branch to move this conversation along: I must say I deeply appreciate how handily you-all controlled the evil that is the US military, saved Texas, and prevented the Chinese horde from emerging from their secret tunnels at midnight to take over America and hand Obama a sweeping coup. You should all be so very proud.
Not to be critical, but you're wrong. It's Eugène Ionesco who would be having a field day.
Do you remember, um, what was his name?
Obama! That's the guy, Obama. He was President once, remember. He was elected, twice in fact, by Americans.
We once thought we were all Americans, and our President was Obama. But you couldn't stomach having a Nigerian Muslim Chinese agent leading your country, and so you refused to allow him to do so.
Then an ex-President stumbled onto a runway somewhere. He met an old friend, the Attorney General. They sat, they talked, and "blah, blah, blah", proving nothing.
You all had so many cows the price of steak plummeted and still hasn't recovered.
There is one significant difference, though. The ex-President and the AG did not lie about it, repeatedly, under oath.
Out here in the depravity of blue-ish America, such things still matter. We tend to think if people decide to lie under oath, and then lie again, and then lie about lying, they likely have something they would prefer us not know.
An olive branch to move this conversation along: I must say I deeply appreciate how handily you-all controlled the evil that is the US military, saved Texas, and prevented the Chinese horde from emerging from their secret tunnels at midnight to take over America and hand Obama a sweeping coup. You should all be so very proud.
Not to be critical, but you're wrong. It's Eugène Ionesco who would be having a field day.
Odd isn’t that what you describe and appear to obsess over is simply representative of the usual machinations by the privileged few within a globalized world. Same old, same old.
The equal oddness resides in the fact that candidate Trump and President Trump has managed and continues to manage to leverage his opposition to this globalized world to his advantage.
Let’s marvel at the ridiculousness of it all and not get our knickers in a twist over what is merely the daily comings and goings of the privileged few within a globalized world.
The equal oddness resides in the fact that candidate Trump and President Trump has managed and continues to manage to leverage his opposition to this globalized world to his advantage.
Let’s marvel at the ridiculousness of it all and not get our knickers in a twist over what is merely the daily comings and goings of the privileged few within a globalized world.
2
Democrats, and the left more generally, has to be EXTREMELY careful here. By wildly over-inflating this Russia business they are putting an obscene number of eggs in one basket. If it turns out there was no active collaboration between Trump's campaign and the FSB (which I still think is the most likely scenario), even if a state-sponsored hacking of the Clinton campaign's emails is proven beyond any doubt, the Democrats will suffer a catastrophic loss of credibility. The Russia stuff, if proven to be nothing but hype and conspiracy theory, will show that most Democrats are every bit as credulous and blindingly partisan as the Republicans.
What people don't seem to realise is just what is at stake. What little hope for progressive change we have in America rests on the Left being able to consistently stand out as the sensible, reality-based adults in the room. Not wild Birthers, or Tea Partyists who thing the other party's leading politicians are Kenyan-born Muslim communists.
If there are is no clear and undeniable case of collusion proven, if no one goes to jail, the Republicans will be able to confidently claim that Democrats are just as crazy as they are....the equivalence will cease to be false.
Proceed with extreme caution!
What people don't seem to realise is just what is at stake. What little hope for progressive change we have in America rests on the Left being able to consistently stand out as the sensible, reality-based adults in the room. Not wild Birthers, or Tea Partyists who thing the other party's leading politicians are Kenyan-born Muslim communists.
If there are is no clear and undeniable case of collusion proven, if no one goes to jail, the Republicans will be able to confidently claim that Democrats are just as crazy as they are....the equivalence will cease to be false.
Proceed with extreme caution!
115
If no one goes to jail, it will be because the Republicans succeeded in derailing the investigations. As they did with the House investigation, in part with the Devin Nunes shenanigans. As they are trying to do with the FBI investigation. As the Senate is doing in its investigation.
2
"What little hope for progressive change we have in America rests on the Left being able to consistently stand out as the sensible, reality-based adults in the room."
Good on you, Krausewitz! I have conservative friends more conservative than I who sometimes call me Democrat for my progressive ideas.
Progressive and that political party are not synonymous, though many supporters are. Those who are not -- and I -- are called moderates. A faint-praise label I accept because there isn't a simplistic label for sensible, reality-based voters.
Good on you, Krausewitz! I have conservative friends more conservative than I who sometimes call me Democrat for my progressive ideas.
Progressive and that political party are not synonymous, though many supporters are. Those who are not -- and I -- are called moderates. A faint-praise label I accept because there isn't a simplistic label for sensible, reality-based voters.
We're not wildly over exaggerating the influence Russia and Russian money has had on Trump. The similarity of anti-American comments in support of Trump posted here is astonishing. My guess is that the Russian hackers are being kept very busy by the Kremlin in order to prop up their puppet in the Oval Office.
In Dutch newspapers the founder of the Moscow Times published an article about the Trump business ties in Russia, with names of Russian oligarchs closely related to the Kremlin, saving Trump from bankruptcy in the past. In 2 documentary reports the last week the Dutch TV programme "Zembla" produced an extensive report about the ties of Trump with Russian investors related to the Russian maffia, with great details about money laundering operations via a company called "Bayrock" which worked with letterboxes in Amsterdam, and made investments in New York, etc. No word about these links in your article. All you need is "Follow the Money".
1
This editorial is a joke.
3
I would like to see a list of the investment bankers and hedge fund managers who forked over money to Hillary.
2
Eloquent and persuasive as your column is, as they say, a picture paints a thousand words.
The picture of Donald Trump with Lavrov and Kislyak in the Oval Office will raise more questions in the minds of ordinary people than an avalanche of news articles.
I suggest that we begin a 'come up with a caption' competition for the photo. Let me start the ball rolling:
"Trump meets leadership coaches"
"In emergency meeting, Trump team to decide new FBI director"
"Trump meets delegation from 'the boss'"
"Putin sends little guys to straighten out wayward client state"
"Lavrov's dog!"
The picture of Donald Trump with Lavrov and Kislyak in the Oval Office will raise more questions in the minds of ordinary people than an avalanche of news articles.
I suggest that we begin a 'come up with a caption' competition for the photo. Let me start the ball rolling:
"Trump meets leadership coaches"
"In emergency meeting, Trump team to decide new FBI director"
"Trump meets delegation from 'the boss'"
"Putin sends little guys to straighten out wayward client state"
"Lavrov's dog!"
Trump reached his level of least competency long ago. His petulant petrified adolescence makes him the last person on earth to know whether or not he has actually been taken for a ride by the Russians. Eerily reminiscent of Reagan's lapse of memory regarding Iran-Contra. And so early in Donny's term.
While Trump denied in the NBC interview any dealings with Russia, he did say that he sold a house to a Russian. According to reports, the Russian in question was an oligarch who was trying to shield cash assets in a divorce case by moving them out of Russia. The house in question, an estate in Fl, Trump acquired for $40million and flipped to the Russian for $100million cash. There are some insinuations of financial wrongdoing regarding this transaction, like say if the Russian's assets were not legitimately acquired in the kleptocracy that is Russia. This sort of thing is what the Russians may have over Trump.
1
You know, for a "Fake News" story, there sure is a lot of damning evidence piled up here. Seems to me that even if half of this is entirely false there are still plenty of reasons for Americans to be very, very concerned.
1
See Anne's comment below, listing several articles re: Trump business ties. I too think he is money laundering. He has 500+ businesses and I have to wonder how many of them are mailboxes in Caymans just 'holding' money for the Russian oligarchs and perhaps some Azerbiajan gov't officials. Just take the most well know example of a biz deal with oligarch: Buys Trump property in Florida paying $40 million above Trump's purchase price. That man was in the middle of a divorce and supposedly stashing money to keep it from his wife. Speculation: Trump puts the $$ in a Cayman account. Waits for the buyer to ask for most of it back once divorce is settled. Trump keeps a 'fee'. I know that's just a guess, but it gets harder to not see how his "businesses" begin to make sense under this 'guess'. The tax returns will tell the tale. Trump will resign before he gives them up - guaranteed.
Why can't the congressional committees (or the FBI for that matter) subpoena Trump's tax returns?
3
What difference does it all make? It is now clear that McConnell and Ryan, and really most of the Republican leadership, would not care if Trump were Putin himself in a rubber mask as long as they can take health care away from tens of millions of Americans and deliver tax cuts to the very rich. How is it even possible that a whole political party is seemingly driven by an ideology that looks to be solely based on delivering tax cuts to the rich at any price.
Trump has violated pretty much all of the norms of decency and honesty,. He bases his foreign policy on the whims of his personal feelings, including his admiration of strong men and authoritarian rule. He has left our once values based foreign policy in the dust. Would it be any surprise to find Trump colluded with the Russians?
And yet his followers remain firm in their belief that it's all "fake" smoke, engineered by left wing media. If you assume the smoke is fake, how will you know your house is in fire? I greatly fear the house will have burned down before Trump's adherents admit anything is amiss.
Trump has violated pretty much all of the norms of decency and honesty,. He bases his foreign policy on the whims of his personal feelings, including his admiration of strong men and authoritarian rule. He has left our once values based foreign policy in the dust. Would it be any surprise to find Trump colluded with the Russians?
And yet his followers remain firm in their belief that it's all "fake" smoke, engineered by left wing media. If you assume the smoke is fake, how will you know your house is in fire? I greatly fear the house will have burned down before Trump's adherents admit anything is amiss.
430
Read Herodotus especially the section relating to GELO on Syracuse.
1. Trump is a human being. So are Russians. It’s a little vague at this point, but clearly there’s a connection. He must release his DNA sequence to prove his innocence.
2. Trump’s tax lawyer’s great grandfather’s second cousin twice removed served in the imperial court of Czar Nicholas. Bazinga. Smoking gun.
3. Trump claims to dislike borscht. The truth, however, is that this is just a distraction to throw investigators off his tail.
4. Trump spelled backwards is “Pmurt”. This is Russian for “secret agent”. Okay, I made that one up. But wouldn’t it be great if it was true.
Absurdist humor masquerading as a NY Times editorial is always a treat.