Comrade Donald and his republican congressional supporters have disguised, and perhaps seriously harmed, the America we love and respect. We now have an elected group that appears to support party and loyalty above freedom and democratic institutions. If it's better for the government to fear its citizens than for the citizens to fear its government, it may be nearing time for the citizenry to start to rebel against our dreadful elected officials who fail to act responsibly to stop the nonsense and dissembling offered daily by the Trump administration.
3
I have no real thought as to whether the Democrats are grasping at straws but thus far little beyond what is construed as circumstantial evidence, if that, has been produced.
While that is often good enough to convict people with little by way of a good or even qualified defense team, the party in power has a drawer full of top rated legal flunkies to act as a bulwark against allowing any truth to spill out.
It will come as a surprise if this is "a scandal of Watergate dimensions", but, given what appears as careless disregard for basic human values, it will not be shocking.
While that is often good enough to convict people with little by way of a good or even qualified defense team, the party in power has a drawer full of top rated legal flunkies to act as a bulwark against allowing any truth to spill out.
It will come as a surprise if this is "a scandal of Watergate dimensions", but, given what appears as careless disregard for basic human values, it will not be shocking.
If Comey realized that he was dead meat regardless of who was elected, he could have invented no better pretext for remaining than doubling-down on a Russian cahooting investigation of Trump’s people. The left would protest: “How can you fire someone now that he’s investigating YOU”, instead of an HRC who illegally used a private email server over which state secrets passed on a computer kept in a bathroom by a start-up? Even HRC has admitted that firing Comey had she won could have been difficult due to APPEARANCES.
If that was Comey’s motivation, then … it didn’t work out too well for him, did it?
The left constantly forgets that the appearances that matter to Trump aren’t those that matter to Andrew Rosenthal. That’s probably why we finally punished Assad for murdering his own people with chemical weapons that another president naively believed were destroyed; and why we’re finally challenging Kim Jong-un on nuclear blackmail attempts that have proven so successful under serial U.S. administrations. It’s also probably why, instead of merely accepting a dysfunctional and bankrupting healthcare system, we’re finally going through the hard work of defining another more functional and strategically viable – no small effort; and why we’re rolling back this layered pall of regulation that strangles every activity as effectively as those stupid speed-bumps the mayor of Jersey City installed on his streets that, if you hit them at the posted speed limit, you’ll kill yourself.
If that was Comey’s motivation, then … it didn’t work out too well for him, did it?
The left constantly forgets that the appearances that matter to Trump aren’t those that matter to Andrew Rosenthal. That’s probably why we finally punished Assad for murdering his own people with chemical weapons that another president naively believed were destroyed; and why we’re finally challenging Kim Jong-un on nuclear blackmail attempts that have proven so successful under serial U.S. administrations. It’s also probably why, instead of merely accepting a dysfunctional and bankrupting healthcare system, we’re finally going through the hard work of defining another more functional and strategically viable – no small effort; and why we’re rolling back this layered pall of regulation that strangles every activity as effectively as those stupid speed-bumps the mayor of Jersey City installed on his streets that, if you hit them at the posted speed limit, you’ll kill yourself.
7
Forget an “independent investigation”. They never end up by being “independent”, and they never end. After what happened to Bill and Hillary in the nineties, no president not actually bereft of his senses will EVER appoint another “independent prosecutor”.
By all means continue congressional investigations, but give them to the Democrats to conduct: surely there must be SOMETHING they can do besides refuse to engage and effectively protect the interests of their constituencies. The rest of us will just watch, be entertained, and get on with transforming America.
A “scandal of Watergate dimensions”? It wasn’t Trump who cahooted with HRC to derail Bernie’s candidacy, and it wasn’t Trump who arranged a Russian monopoly on our uranium – or who subverted the functions of government. All he did was fire an FBI director who had lost his boss’s trust.
Ho hum.
By all means continue congressional investigations, but give them to the Democrats to conduct: surely there must be SOMETHING they can do besides refuse to engage and effectively protect the interests of their constituencies. The rest of us will just watch, be entertained, and get on with transforming America.
A “scandal of Watergate dimensions”? It wasn’t Trump who cahooted with HRC to derail Bernie’s candidacy, and it wasn’t Trump who arranged a Russian monopoly on our uranium – or who subverted the functions of government. All he did was fire an FBI director who had lost his boss’s trust.
Ho hum.
My God, McConnell's wife is Trump's Secretary of Transportation! Every time this well-groomed "toady" bloviates on this growing scandal, he should be reminded of that inherent conflict.
6
I'm fairly sure comparing Mitch McConnell to a toad is animal cruelty.
10
Well of course Shumey wants the DOJ's senior career official to appoint "the Russian prosecutor". That career bureaucrat was a supporter of the candidate from whom the Rooskies stole the election and gave it to their stooge. But let us be clear. Just because "the official" contributed to the loser's campaign, there is absolutely no reason to believe that "the official" would have ANY conflict of interest whatsoever in appointing a totally disinterested and unbiased liberal to save our democracy.
Elsewhere, The Times Corporation will do everything within its powers to ensure that there is a scandal of Watergate proportions.
The First Law of Corporatism : Follow the Money.
Elsewhere, The Times Corporation will do everything within its powers to ensure that there is a scandal of Watergate proportions.
The First Law of Corporatism : Follow the Money.
1
I don't know about Water Gate dimensions....I believe that Comey should have been fired by Pres. Obama because of the way he acted, and let's not forget he was only there so Obama could try to be bipartisan. If he had appointed a Democrat Hillary would be President, and she would have fired him too.
As to the President's motives, I think many people way over think this guy. Comey was fired, in my opinion, because the way news organizations reported on his testimony to Congress. The specific thing that got Comey fired is the statement that he was mildly nauseous at the thought that he may have affected the outcome of the election. Many news organizations reported this as if to say that Comey was sick at the thought that he had helped to elect Trump, this isn't what Comey said or meant, but I believe that this is what Trump heard. End of Story
As to the President's motives, I think many people way over think this guy. Comey was fired, in my opinion, because the way news organizations reported on his testimony to Congress. The specific thing that got Comey fired is the statement that he was mildly nauseous at the thought that he may have affected the outcome of the election. Many news organizations reported this as if to say that Comey was sick at the thought that he had helped to elect Trump, this isn't what Comey said or meant, but I believe that this is what Trump heard. End of Story
1
Maybe he will implode. Maybe he will explode. If only the damage would be to himself. But have no fear: he will bring the country down with him. Does the country deserve that? Jury still out.
5
Interesting and disturbing. All my life I have had hope that we, as a nation were moving forward into a brighter, more just and equitable future. From what I see, have read and witness recently, my hope is diminished with each day that passes without the Congressional Republicans stepping up in defense of our republic and democracy.
"All that tyranny needs to gain a foothold is for people of good conscience to remain silent." - Thomas Jefferson
"All that tyranny needs to gain a foothold is for people of good conscience to remain silent." - Thomas Jefferson
13
Mr Rosenthal do you really think there is one Trump voter who cares about this. Do you think there is one Republican voter who cares about this. The health Care debacle-now that was something that caused a fire storm. This is seen as politics, and sour grapes from the Hillary voters. If anything this will make the republicans circle the wagons. This will make the Trump voters, the Trumpers and the Trumpettes rally to their man. People just don't care, half the country couldn't be bothered to vote last November, people only care about their own self interests. Trump has a whole class of people that will vote and do what he wants, can the democrats say the same?
I would say if you put ten republicans in a room that they would be united in the way they thought. Put ten democrats in a room and they would have ten different points of view and fight amongst themselves.
Trump doesn't have the problem, Democrats have the problem. The truth is, if the election was held again tomorrow, with the same candidates, Trump would win again.
I would say if you put ten republicans in a room that they would be united in the way they thought. Put ten democrats in a room and they would have ten different points of view and fight amongst themselves.
Trump doesn't have the problem, Democrats have the problem. The truth is, if the election was held again tomorrow, with the same candidates, Trump would win again.
3
In the past decades, the news of Trump's failure to pay contractors for work that they accomplished was won by DJT through lawyers who pushed the limits of decency and expanded the credible parts of the law to Trump's advantage.
How appropriate then, that it is lawyers who are compiling the evidence day by day that certainly appears will not stop at the door of the President. I lived through the days of the Nixon Administration's "Saturday Night Massacre." This is unfolding to be much more entertaining.
How appropriate then, that it is lawyers who are compiling the evidence day by day that certainly appears will not stop at the door of the President. I lived through the days of the Nixon Administration's "Saturday Night Massacre." This is unfolding to be much more entertaining.
4
Rosenthal is a hypocrite along with the other Democrats who were critics of Comey up until the day of his firing.
They had no confidence in his ability to perform his responsibilities as FBI Director before his removal,but are now aghast that he is gone.
Trump's election was fueled by the disgust of Americans for this hypocrisy.
They had no confidence in his ability to perform his responsibilities as FBI Director before his removal,but are now aghast that he is gone.
Trump's election was fueled by the disgust of Americans for this hypocrisy.
4
Bragging bad business man equals bragging bad President. Rebellious child sent to military school equals rebellious President who is self destructive. Unfaithful husband (twice!) equals disloyal person. Trump's flaws are long standing and deep. Look at the fine mess he has made and we are just four months into the run. I would like to order one impeachment and make it snappy.
15
Trump resigns, regretfully but bravely; Pence takes over; the Republicans have control of Congress. and can push forward with their right-wing agenda and Supreme Court also in its corner, Trump keeps his base who will support him no mater what and the injustice of it all is more fuel for Rush Limbaugh.
2
As long as McConnell controls the Senate and Ryan controls the House, there will be no meaningful investigations of this administration.
If any of us want the truth to be known, McConnell, Ryan, et al, have to be replaced in 2018.
If they stay in power, there will never be an investigation and everything will be swept under the rug.
Republicans used the nomination of a Supreme Court Justice as a strong motivator to get out the vote.
Democrats must use the promise of investigations into this administration as their prime motivator to get out the vote.
If any of us want the truth to be known, McConnell, Ryan, et al, have to be replaced in 2018.
If they stay in power, there will never be an investigation and everything will be swept under the rug.
Republicans used the nomination of a Supreme Court Justice as a strong motivator to get out the vote.
Democrats must use the promise of investigations into this administration as their prime motivator to get out the vote.
9
I am hopeful that the investigations go on but when it comes time to indite the political bosses will take over.
Clearly a cover up of immense proportions is being perpetrated by trump himself and his henchmen. It's obvious that Putin won trump the election and expects pay back. It's also obvious that trump isn't forthcoming on what he knows and when he knew it. Most troubling is Priebus et al running interference with the FBI to thwart its investigation. And the recent ‘private’ telephone calls between trump and Putin are ominous as well. Treasonous malfeasance now looms as a real possibility.
11
Team Trump has tried to block the Russia investigation every step of the way. Director Comey recently asked for more resources to expand the investigation. Far from winding down, this was intensifying. And then Trump fired the head of the investigation. Classic examples of obstruction of justice and a cover-up. Our great nation cannot allow this...
11
Wait for deep throat. The more obstruction the more likely someone is going to talk.
9
In the Gettysburg Address, Lincoln coined the phrase we all should live by, "...government for the people, by the people." It doesn't mean that corporations should call the shots, because by definition they are only concerned with their own survival over that of anyone or thing. The only 'corrupt media' is the one which asserts that the president had the largest crowd, was wiretapped, suffered massive voter fraud, and doesn't play more golf than most PGA members. I fought for and love my country, and what they are doing is wrong. It has nothing to do with liberal or conservative points of view, it is a perversion of law and our way of life and needs to be stopped. The people in control are not friends of Justice or freedom, and I can only hope you will try to see that before it's too late.
16
They are all complicit in a brazen attempt to obscure the true nature and actions of a venal and angry man-child, because it may threaten their hold on the entire government. The republicans completely control all branches of the US government now, and they are not about to let a foolish, but principled and possibly un-bribable, man get in their way. Total control to get the programs they want, the way they want them. The base likes to think that republicans are cleaning up 'the mess', and when it begins to hit them in the wallet or at the hospital they may wake up, but by then it'll be too late. We used to be such a decent people who respected the rule of law, what's happened?
12
Mitchell McConnell is showing his true colors. He will not appoint a special prosecutor because he believes Trump will have a better chance to advance his (McConnells) agenda. His loyalty is not to the Constitution of United States of America but his own political plans. To bad he and Aaron But cannot get together and compare notes.
8
Actually, we'd be lucky to have a scandal of
Watergate dimensions. Watergate was a routine volcanic eruption...think Teapot Dome. This is the Yellowstone Caldera.
Watergate dimensions. Watergate was a routine volcanic eruption...think Teapot Dome. This is the Yellowstone Caldera.
6
Right out of the gate McConnell declared it was the GOP's sole aim to make him a one term president. Then closing out his second term McConnell then declared the GOP wouldn't co operate with Obama appointing a supreme court judge regardless of circumstances. In between he masterminded an unprecedented filibustering campaign to block all Obama legislation regardless of merit.
Now they're deliberately using Obama as a foil to deflect attention to their treasonous malfeasance. How treacherous can they get?
Now they're deliberately using Obama as a foil to deflect attention to their treasonous malfeasance. How treacherous can they get?
12
Listening to General McMaster (National Security adviser) lay out the yuge trip to Saudi Arabia, Rome, Sicily, Brussels the first trip abroad for our beleaguered and much unloved President is staggering for anyone let along a 70 year old passenger in Air Force One who is on tenterhooks because of the mess he has been making of his administration since he took office. Especially in the last few days - his firing of FBI Director Comey -
threatening him (in Tweets!) that he'd better not have recorded or leaked any of his 3 conversations with Trump - and the odd Russians (Putin's Foreign Minister and Ambassador to the US, along with 94 year old Henry Kissinger (Nixon's Secretary of State) - the 4 of them gathering in the Oval office and -using only Russian journalists and photographers to record this seminal event in US history. No American media or photographers allowed. How do you like them apples, Mr. and Mrs. America?- as Walter Winchell used to broadcast on radio when he was a personage of the 1930s and 40s. Stay tuned for Trumps and Melania's amazing first Presidential trip abroad!
threatening him (in Tweets!) that he'd better not have recorded or leaked any of his 3 conversations with Trump - and the odd Russians (Putin's Foreign Minister and Ambassador to the US, along with 94 year old Henry Kissinger (Nixon's Secretary of State) - the 4 of them gathering in the Oval office and -using only Russian journalists and photographers to record this seminal event in US history. No American media or photographers allowed. How do you like them apples, Mr. and Mrs. America?- as Walter Winchell used to broadcast on radio when he was a personage of the 1930s and 40s. Stay tuned for Trumps and Melania's amazing first Presidential trip abroad!
7
Trump has no troubles as long as Republicans in Congress place loyalty to the Republican Party above loyalty to the Constitution, the country, and the human race.
9
After reading Henry S Wallaces' chilling op-ed piece in today's NYT, I believe that this latest fiasco of the Trump administration is but more evidence of America's brand of fascism. The corporate kind.
Set out in detail, by his grandfather, who was vice-president to FDR, at the time, was our modern GOP! Now I understand, clearly, what has happened in our country. His grandfather’s description of “corporatism” was another type of fascism. ”The American breed doesn’t need violence. Lying to the people is so much easier.”
I am not being hyperbolic when I say the entire GOP has been infected with this brand of fascism, to one degree or another! The Grover Norquist oaths, the marching in lockstep maneuvers, their scapegoats, the loyalty of ideology and party over country. Setting up media to “poison the channels of public communication” deceives the public. By “deliberate perversion of truth and fact,” he wrote, “their newspapers and propaganda carefully cultivate every fissure of disunity.”
It is all there; there is nothing missing! I concede these statements are an enormous idea to wrap one’s mind around, as it applies to our current state of affairs. Please read the op-ed and the original essay and think about it. The future of our republic hangs in the balance.
Set out in detail, by his grandfather, who was vice-president to FDR, at the time, was our modern GOP! Now I understand, clearly, what has happened in our country. His grandfather’s description of “corporatism” was another type of fascism. ”The American breed doesn’t need violence. Lying to the people is so much easier.”
I am not being hyperbolic when I say the entire GOP has been infected with this brand of fascism, to one degree or another! The Grover Norquist oaths, the marching in lockstep maneuvers, their scapegoats, the loyalty of ideology and party over country. Setting up media to “poison the channels of public communication” deceives the public. By “deliberate perversion of truth and fact,” he wrote, “their newspapers and propaganda carefully cultivate every fissure of disunity.”
It is all there; there is nothing missing! I concede these statements are an enormous idea to wrap one’s mind around, as it applies to our current state of affairs. Please read the op-ed and the original essay and think about it. The future of our republic hangs in the balance.
7
I would like to know what other officials besides James Comey were asked to swear loyalty to Donald Trump and if they actually went through with it.
5
He fired all the federal attorneys once he figured out that they wouldn't take a loyalty pledge.
So far, we seem to be in the "if the president does it it's not illegal" swamp with senatorial toadies.
3
You insist on isolating and elevating one circumstance among many.
Corruption, nepotism, obstruction of justice, abuse of power.......what's next, and what will it finally take to remove this huckster from power?
3
The president doth protest too much, methinks.
14
And also from Shakeseare: Something is rotten in the State of Denmark.....
1
Next thing you know, someone will call you out for being a "nattering nabob of negativism!" You'll be in good company.
4
Watergate is going to look like a second rate burglary attempt compared to this....oh wait! It was a second rate burglary attempt that snowballed into impeachment because of a second rate cover up attempt.
The fear I have of the second coming of Watergate is when t rump is impeached or resigns his republican successor will pardon him for his crimes.
I want his successor to be Nancy Pelosi and I want revenge. I am not going to be satisfied with him retiring to Marred Lago to resume picking the pockets and grifting the innocent.
I want to see he and Sessions and Pence and Bannon and Priebus doing the perk walk with cuffed hands trying to shield their pathetic faces from the cameras showing their utter disgrace to the entire world.
Maybe then republicans will return to a semblance of a sane political party that has a stake in democracy, not the taliban party of religious zealots and war mongers that we have seen the last 50 years.
The fear I have of the second coming of Watergate is when t rump is impeached or resigns his republican successor will pardon him for his crimes.
I want his successor to be Nancy Pelosi and I want revenge. I am not going to be satisfied with him retiring to Marred Lago to resume picking the pockets and grifting the innocent.
I want to see he and Sessions and Pence and Bannon and Priebus doing the perk walk with cuffed hands trying to shield their pathetic faces from the cameras showing their utter disgrace to the entire world.
Maybe then republicans will return to a semblance of a sane political party that has a stake in democracy, not the taliban party of religious zealots and war mongers that we have seen the last 50 years.
20
We have a sick, paranoid president. He needs to go.
17
Wow, Andrew, I didn't a respectable paper like the NYT would use a word like 'toady'. Majorly LOL, of course. Just like mcconnell is a toady of the first degree.
3
"Trump’s loyal toady, Senator Mitch McConnell ......"
What an absolute insult to toads everywhere!!!
What an absolute insult to toads everywhere!!!
18
Spicer is back! Apparently Huckabee's kid was called to an emergency assignment trying to help DeVos figure out what this Geometry stuff is that kids are being forced to learn by pinko math egg headed teachers and if it should be replaced with more relevant lessons about the Book of Revelations....
10
"Trump’s loyal toady, Senator Mitch McConnell"? Mitch McConnell is many ugly things, but a "loyal toady" has never been one of them. His loyalty is to himself, his immediate associates and his agenda. When Trump was running for the presidency and even Paul Ryan was expressing his doubts (and where has Paul Ryan been these past few days?), McConnell tucked his big head and fat gullet into his shell to wait out the storm, and didn't bring it out again until after the Republican Convention and Trump's selection (which illustrates my belief that McConnell is more turtle than a toad). And when matters heat up and a special prosecutor is brought on, watch McConnell as he slowly withdraws back into his shell to wait out the storm.
Congress is full of lawyers. I wish someone would ask the Republicans the following: If Trump were a witness in a court case, given all the stories and lying, would you consider him credible? If not, what makes you think he is qualified to be President? If so, is it only because you are both Republicans and Republicans can do no harm?
7
Why would anyone with any integrity or self-respect work for this astonishingly dishonest, ignorant and unethical 'president'? How can they tolerate his insane rants, his vindictiveness, his disrespect for the office and our institutions, and indeed for anyone who doesn't 'pledge loyalty'? How can they live with themselves?
I agree with other comments: for these republicans to salvage any shred of their reputations they need to step up and do the right thing. The time for politics as usual has passed.
I agree with other comments: for these republicans to salvage any shred of their reputations they need to step up and do the right thing. The time for politics as usual has passed.
11
I think the "loyalty" request might have been in the form of one of Trump's longtime "non-disclosure" contracts that every one of his employees is forced to sign when they're hired. Even the maids and janitors at Trump hotels are forced to sign them in order to retain their jobs. What Trump doesn't realize is that James Comey is not one of "his" employees. James Comey WAS employed by the citizens of our country, and he was doing his job.
I just cannot imagine working for a man like Donald Trump. You'd have to check your self-respect at the door to do so. Only those with NO credibility, integrity and honesty need apply. This is the beginning of the end of Trump in the White House.
I just cannot imagine working for a man like Donald Trump. You'd have to check your self-respect at the door to do so. Only those with NO credibility, integrity and honesty need apply. This is the beginning of the end of Trump in the White House.
4
In light of the WH account of the Comey firing as well as many other inconsistencies, I suspect that Mr Rosenstein holds both Sessions and Trump in low regard. If so, I hope that he does not resign but does his best to force his boss and the WH to be held accountable for their actions up until the point they fire him too. Furthermore, Rosenstein ought to be at the top of the list of Senate committee witnesses.
1
Before anything happens to Rosenstein, I want him to somehow cajole Patrick Fitzgerald into reprising his role as special prosecutor and take this on. I realize Fitzy has a family now and is in private practice, but this matter needs someone above reproach.
"And the need for independent investigation has moved far beyond the Russia connection, right into the heart of the unfolding ethical and constitutional disaster that is the Trump administration." THIS MADNESS WOULD NOT BE HAPPENING HAD HILLARY R. CLINTON WON (which frankly she did.) Every time we have a Republican administration in power = disasters. I truly cannot decide if America will come through this.
7
Do Republicans see a future with Trump? I would think those who dump him are the REAL Republicans. Right now, The Republic is up for grabs and bus rides to the dark side.
The GOP don't HAVE to carry this burden. Cameron could not prevent Murdoch from taking his lumps regarding his hacking scandal, and look where that got them. All alone in the middle of the ocean with Trump to back them up? Is the GOP THAT stupid?
The GOP don't HAVE to carry this burden. Cameron could not prevent Murdoch from taking his lumps regarding his hacking scandal, and look where that got them. All alone in the middle of the ocean with Trump to back them up? Is the GOP THAT stupid?
1
Nothing is proven yet, nobody convicted yet. BUT, if it should come to pass that Trump colluded with Russia to help throw the election, then it seems to me that his crime is one of treason and he will get his just deserts. But what of those who are accessories after the fact, and they are many, doing what they can to prevent the truth from coming out? I am talking about Sessions, Ryan and McConnell, who care more about raping the country than democracy. They will continue until they are replaced by a new administration or voters. But surely they bear some guilt by trying to prevent an independent investigation.
6
As absurd and disturbing as the WH is, it's also absurd to expect anything noble out of Rosenstein, aka the Survivor -- the guy knuckled under on immigration and may cling to a few shreds of integrity, but like his protests, it rings hollow. Also absurd and possibly stupid is Comey's asking the guy being investigated for more funds for the said investigation; I might have fired him for that too, just based on the eye-popping "are you kidding me?" nature of the lack of discretion. I find it impossible to believe that the FBI doesn't have the power to divert funds or doesn't have a little rainy day/Russians-have-invaded-the-government discretionary fund.
5
Mr. Trump has been violating the Constitution since the day he took office. Why have there been no lawsuits or discussions about impeachment?
6
It was that "slightly nauseous" comment Comey made in the Hearings that got him fired. The disloyalty of it must have infuriated Trump.
9
This is all great drama but there is not real expectation that anything will come from it. King Trump will soon figure out how to throw some sort of bomb in a different direction to distract everyone and scatter reporters every which way. It's a bit like ISIS. They take over a place, everyone goes there, then they start throwing bombs elsewhere....
2
There are several investigations into Russia-Trump associates and connections;
each could have a straight path to truth re Trump-Putin via the IRS. Think of the Al Cpone solution. The IRS knows lots [probably not all] about the business dealings, comings and goings and has enormous powers, and beyond ......
Why not go where the money trail is illuminated? It seems that would be a fast and reliable source of WOW.
each could have a straight path to truth re Trump-Putin via the IRS. Think of the Al Cpone solution. The IRS knows lots [probably not all] about the business dealings, comings and goings and has enormous powers, and beyond ......
Why not go where the money trail is illuminated? It seems that would be a fast and reliable source of WOW.
4
Here in Louisiana we are known for our swamps, yet we have none as deep and wide as Donald's.
8
The truth is sometimes right before your very eyes but it is not easy to accept. The fact is Trump campaign operatives were photographed with Putin in Russia in the case of Flynn, and documented to having received large sums of money from Russian sources (Manafort) that are directly linked to the Putin government. To think any of those events would happen without the knowledge of Trump is just stupid. What has happened is that from the President of the United States to the Secretary of State, to the members of Congress who aid and abett the Trump administration, acts of treason are being committed that harm the security of the U.S. It would explain why hundreds of positions in government go without so much as even a nomination, and why the State Department has similarly been effectively speaking, depopulated that destroys its ability to manage foreign affairs. Our government is being destroyed from within by an administration which supported by a foreign power and by members of Congress looking to capitalize on the situation like the Senate majority leader's wife working for Trump's cabinet. Maybe that's why he doesn't want an investigation. We now have a Justice Department led potentially by an Attorney General complicit in the first campaign with the Russians and complicit in the coverup of such events even now. Watergate wasn't even close to this. It is time for Americans to accept the truth before them, our leader is a traitor and his actions speak louder than his lies.
11
Does/can the FBI access Trump`s income tax returns ?
When will a patriot emerge in the IRS & release Trump`s tax return`s ? We should offer a HUUUGE reward if necessary to cover the cost of his/her legal defence & loss of employment.
When will a patriot emerge in the IRS & release Trump`s tax return`s ? We should offer a HUUUGE reward if necessary to cover the cost of his/her legal defence & loss of employment.
4
This is what happens when Ivanka and Jared aren't in the room.
The prosecutor should be appointed by the DC court of appeals.
3
Great Op-Ed piece. The DAG ought to resign in this instance if he is to save his own career and integrity and speak out as well as to the truth of the situation.
2
The sad truth is so many FOP in the congress seem to put their own agenda ahead of what they always claim to be their priority:NATIONAL SECURITY. They rather accommodate a mad man in order to get their agenda, particularly huge tax cut to the rich, than to be concerned about our government being influenced by Russia! Even Richard Nixon wouldn't do that!
2
Who else has had the bad dream that they have awoken to martial law being declared in the United States?
4
Remember the good ole days when the Republicans thought it was an impeachable offense for a president to have lied about having a sexual relationship with a subordinate? Where are those folks now?
8
the WP had it right.
Trump was "hot" and he wanted to be rid of Comey.
He then went to his weasel of an AG Sessions and said "let's cook something up to get rid of this man."
AG Sessions then dispatched the fool Rosenstein to compose a document that would enable Trump to have an excuse to fire Comey.
Which he promptly did.
so, all reports I'm hearing on cable news this morning regarding Trump's interview with Lester Holt which POTUS says it was he that wanted Comey gone are accurate.
he just went around it the sneaky, dishonest way that he has always done things.
is anyone really surprised about this???
it's time for the Republicans to stand up and fight for their Country...
not Trump, who will eventually drag this Country into the gutter and those standing by him.
Trump was "hot" and he wanted to be rid of Comey.
He then went to his weasel of an AG Sessions and said "let's cook something up to get rid of this man."
AG Sessions then dispatched the fool Rosenstein to compose a document that would enable Trump to have an excuse to fire Comey.
Which he promptly did.
so, all reports I'm hearing on cable news this morning regarding Trump's interview with Lester Holt which POTUS says it was he that wanted Comey gone are accurate.
he just went around it the sneaky, dishonest way that he has always done things.
is anyone really surprised about this???
it's time for the Republicans to stand up and fight for their Country...
not Trump, who will eventually drag this Country into the gutter and those standing by him.
2
The only way Rosenstein cam redeem himself is to charge Trump with obstruction.
Will any of the people who have allowed themselves to be sucked into Trump's orbit be able to find good jobs later on? I'm thinking of Rosenstein in particular but what about Sarah Sanders e.g. all?
RL Stevenson said that, "man is a creature who lives not upon bread alone, by primarily by catchwords." I think we need to find the right catchwords to describe Trump's threat to the nation, and keep repeating them.
For example, we might try "you're fired". over and over again.
Another might be "you're a liar."
The problem in combating Donald Trump is that wordy criticisms are soon forgotten and boring. The NY Times is often too wordy in dealing with Trump.
==========================================================
For example, we might try "you're fired". over and over again.
Another might be "you're a liar."
The problem in combating Donald Trump is that wordy criticisms are soon forgotten and boring. The NY Times is often too wordy in dealing with Trump.
==========================================================
1
Many are asking for Trump's tax returns but I'd satisfy myself with a neuropsychiatric evaluation to rule out a cognitive disorder.
6
Did Trump promise Comey something that he doesn't want the world to know about? If so Trump didn't follow the cardinal political rule. Keep your friends close and your enemies closer. Or maybe Comey was someone who couldn't be bribed. Whatever the case is with the exception of Guiliani's pals at the FBI, Trump has no friends in the FBI.
11
Not only did Donald fire the guy, but he and his PR department went out of their way to tear Comey down.
Does anyone believe "countless" rank and file FBI employees dashed off support notes to Sarah Huckabee Sanders? The very idea....
Does anyone believe "countless" rank and file FBI employees dashed off support notes to Sarah Huckabee Sanders? The very idea....
20
Would you rather suffer through this mess for another year ( or at least until the late summer when Congess turns into re-election mode, , or put it behind us and leave the GOP to get on with its agenda?
2
Easy answer---impeach him NOW and get it over with.
2
Um, I think I'd rather get to the bottom of this. Are you serious?
2
So we were all wrong : the most powerful person in the US government is MICH Mconnel, not trump. Definitely not the American people. We don't have a voice, or a chance, for that matter. Why ? Because Mconnel et al are effectively running the show as they see fit, NOT as the over- riding road posts of America stipulate.
7
The American people put Trump in the white house, maybe you were asleep in Nov?
@Ja
CORRECTION: The Electoral College put Trump in the White House -- NOT the American People.
CORRECTION: The Electoral College put Trump in the White House -- NOT the American People.
1
Excuse me, but did Mr. Trump just threaten James Comey, a potential witness in an ongoing and ever-expanding investigation?
Are we in "high-crimes and misdemeanor" territory yet?
Someone? Anyone out there listening? John McCain? Paging John McCain.
Are we in "high-crimes and misdemeanor" territory yet?
Someone? Anyone out there listening? John McCain? Paging John McCain.
18
The GOP is now a clear and present danger to the republic!
11
While we are all focusing on the stolen election and the possible treason involved, the first family and its "godfather" continue to flaunt US law and the Constitution by using their political positions to fill their pockets from sources foreign and domestic.
There needs to be a SECOND investigation into the financial dealings of this crime syndicate with special attention to anti corruption laws and the Emoluments Clause
There needs to be a SECOND investigation into the financial dealings of this crime syndicate with special attention to anti corruption laws and the Emoluments Clause
14
Mr. Rosenthal knows in his "fors interieur" that the alleged collusion with Russia is a red herring, designed to distract us from the loss by the hapless HRC of an election she was supposed to have won going away. Would we be having this discussion if HRC had won, but she was a lousy candidate,dessicated, bereft of ideas, and whose main pitch to the voters was that she was not Trump. You overlooked her collusion with DWS to sabotage Sanders's bid for the nomination, tragic for the party since Bernie could have beaten Trump. Existentialism teaches us that we are responsible for our own fates, our own mistakes. Months have gone by and there is still no evidence that Russian "interference" changed one vote in favor of Trump. Where was the outcry when Obama spent 3 million to send operatives to Israel to defeat the re election bid of BENJAMIN NETANYAHU. Operatives included Carville, and they were on the ground working for BN's opponent. What do you say now Mr. Rosenthal? Was introduced once to your father out in Queens in a saloon, Pep McGuire's, and found him to be gracious, and a good fellow. Jimmy Breslin, whose campaign I volunteered for in 1969, made the introduction. i would like to think that you are as broadminded as Rosenthal "pere," "ojala!"
1
Hey, you want to talk about anything but the matter at hand. I don't blame you.
2
Um, HRC lost, she is not the president, Trump is ,and his actions are causing the scrutiny. Can't you see that ?
3
The real question now is; How many more "Troubles" will it take before it's recognized that it's not only Donald Trump who's in trouble, but our country as well.
It's bad enough that the entire G.O.P. "leadership" is in lockstep with Trump -- alternating between bowing and cowering at his threats, especially when they are the only ones who can intercede on behalf of the nation.
But it all goes so much deeper than that, with the involvement of a foreign power in the affairs of State, with the continuing specter of conflicts of interests in Trump's business transactions, with the rants and raves against the First Amendment and the free press -- and most recently, the firing of the head of the FBI, for wanting to do his job in the ongoing investigation.
There's little doubt that all these troubles won't go away, until
justice is served -- and he does.
It's bad enough that the entire G.O.P. "leadership" is in lockstep with Trump -- alternating between bowing and cowering at his threats, especially when they are the only ones who can intercede on behalf of the nation.
But it all goes so much deeper than that, with the involvement of a foreign power in the affairs of State, with the continuing specter of conflicts of interests in Trump's business transactions, with the rants and raves against the First Amendment and the free press -- and most recently, the firing of the head of the FBI, for wanting to do his job in the ongoing investigation.
There's little doubt that all these troubles won't go away, until
justice is served -- and he does.
49
Given what can only be described as republican obstruction on this issue, it increasingly appears that it's going to take a mid-term tsunami of an election loss of seats to persuade them of the error of their ways.
8
Just a small but needed correction to a previous post: only 46% of the American voting public are imbeciles. Not a great thing but it's better than 52%.
7
Trump jumps in with threats following his demand for loyalty oaths.
At this point, white house press briefings are nothing but fodder for comedians. Trump wants Comey to control leaks? Trump himself has opened the spigot to the fire hose. Stay tuned.
At this point, white house press briefings are nothing but fodder for comedians. Trump wants Comey to control leaks? Trump himself has opened the spigot to the fire hose. Stay tuned.
11
It surely is the moment for Rosenstein and Sessions to offer a public justification of their apparent complicity in the firing of Comey over the Russia matter and the resulting attendant cover up. Or did I miss it? Of course, Sessions is a political tool, but what happened to his recusal. But Rosenstein?
7
Time is not our friend. While we're distracted Jeff Session is upending any progress we may have made since the war of northern aggression. Devos is making sure our college graduates are mired in debt for life. Ben Carson is making it impossible for the poor to rise past a prison cell Sessions will have waiting for them. Meanwhile, Trump is so unhinged he's closing the White House briefing room and circling his wagons with all the paranoia of a Branch Davidian. He even threaten James Comey like he was Bugsy Siegal: “James Comey better hope that there are no ‘tapes’ of our conversations before he starts leaking to the press!” Mr. Trump wrote on Twitter. And the criminals in congress still want to cleave themselves to Trump, who makes Richard Nixon almost seem tame, almost . . . No matter what happens let's not forget that Trump believes he will be pardoned, just like Nixon. That's why he's swaggering around with a smile. There will be no consequence to what he's done. Let's put him in Guantanamo Bay Prison and shave his rearend and teach him to walk backwards
17
In threatening Comey, is Trump guilty of witness intimidation in a Federal investigation? If so, is that a high crime or misdemeanor? Trump is actively digging himself into an ever larger hole. He appears incapable of keeping his mouth shut (which I assume any lawyer would tell him to do at this point). The Trump family should consider whether a 70 year old, overwhelmed by a job that is not right for him, should take a little break, let Pence act as president for a while (or maybe up to 2020). I don't think Pence would be a good president, but the level of craziness would probably drop a bit.
15
Anyone who works for Trump knows what he's getting into.
Rosenstein is contemptible as are Trump's many enablers.
Time for some of our well-heeled, well-paid "public servants" to stand up for the constitution and the nation instead of their pay packets and future prospects.
We're waiting.
Rosenstein is contemptible as are Trump's many enablers.
Time for some of our well-heeled, well-paid "public servants" to stand up for the constitution and the nation instead of their pay packets and future prospects.
We're waiting.
16
Rosenstein has shown himself to be a coward and a careerist. He swore an oath to the Constitution; instead he has taken a role that throws it under the bus. He's just another swamp creature. He wants to stay, in a powerful position (whatever the cost to reputation, which is now ruined), keep his DC life in Bethesda, a sinicure that will lead do a hugely well paid partnership in a DC law firm. Was it worth it, Mr. Rosenstein? Will your children be proud of it?
14
It will be interesting when Putin and Trump meet in July. They may take a private walk in the garden. It wouldn't surprise me if a few national security secrets were handed over to the Russians.
12
The Colonial Leaders wanted to run the whole show by themselves so they
named the Colonies the States, and joined them together and called them all The United States of America, and then went to war with England. They won
the war and became a country.
The Republicans want to run the whole show by THEMselves so they are trying to get rid of the whole idea of collective decision making and going back to the idea of individual States. Trump seems to want to take it farther and move in
the direction of 'individuals" with individuals, starting with him, calling the shots.
Somehow we have to keep in mind, as a group, where this new way of thinking
will lead.
named the Colonies the States, and joined them together and called them all The United States of America, and then went to war with England. They won
the war and became a country.
The Republicans want to run the whole show by THEMselves so they are trying to get rid of the whole idea of collective decision making and going back to the idea of individual States. Trump seems to want to take it farther and move in
the direction of 'individuals" with individuals, starting with him, calling the shots.
Somehow we have to keep in mind, as a group, where this new way of thinking
will lead.
3
Turning the White House into a Trump/Kushner cash machine is bad enough. The GOP's utter failure to govern, even with control of most of the government, is an abject lesson in incompetence. The GOP's silence and complicity as Trump abuses his office, the Constitution, and our republic should result in political ruin for decades to come.
12
All the Democrats have boarded the Russophobe Train.
Their attempts to line opposition to Trump behind the foreign policy preferences of a section of the ruling class will be even more of a pathetic failure than their attempts to win the 2016 presidential election.
The bourgeois press, as an extension of bourgeois politics, in times of crisis will always line up behind reactionary forces instead of challenging the capitalist order.
I always thought Democratic voters were a little smarter than the "Obama's a Kenyan Muslim"-crowd.
Boy, did they prove me wrong.
It's just two groups of people that have chosen two different sides. And they'll believe anything the mental manipulator of their chosen side tells them to.
Trumpelstiltskin has innumerable problems, but this Russia affair is still a ruse.
The new book 'Shattered' by Clinton insiders reveals that "blame Russia" plan was hatched "within twenty-four hours" of election loss.
Their attempts to line opposition to Trump behind the foreign policy preferences of a section of the ruling class will be even more of a pathetic failure than their attempts to win the 2016 presidential election.
The bourgeois press, as an extension of bourgeois politics, in times of crisis will always line up behind reactionary forces instead of challenging the capitalist order.
I always thought Democratic voters were a little smarter than the "Obama's a Kenyan Muslim"-crowd.
Boy, did they prove me wrong.
It's just two groups of people that have chosen two different sides. And they'll believe anything the mental manipulator of their chosen side tells them to.
Trumpelstiltskin has innumerable problems, but this Russia affair is still a ruse.
The new book 'Shattered' by Clinton insiders reveals that "blame Russia" plan was hatched "within twenty-four hours" of election loss.
4
OK then - please explain Flynn. I would love to hear what convoluted reasoning will ensue.
8
Your are from Berlin, sure you are. I have a nice bridge to sell you but you must have dollars, not rubles to but it. Please send me your bank account info and we can have a deal in no time.
1
An example of misinformation.
I often read that republicans of Nixons time put the country before the party, as they were noble people, but really, they behaved the way they behaved because of the leaks. Current Republican representative and senators will also put country before the party today if some noble official leaks information showing Trump and Russia Collusion, if there was one. Intuitively, I think that was because Trump has taken some measures to cover up the connections and the dismissal of Comey was an extraordinary one. Only someone desperate would take such extreme action. US needs a leaker!
47
Trump's problems may be that he is cognitively impaired. He acts as though he is suffering from early onset dementia based on his irrational behavior. He doesn't seem to remember what he said from one tweet to the next. First, he said he fired Comey for mishandling Hillary Clinton's emails. The same day he told a TV reporter that he fired Comey because of the Russian investigation. Then he tweets it without bothering to delete the earlier reason for the firing. He doesn't seem to remember his earlier statements and doesn't think there is a contradiction in them. This is not about conservative or liberal anymore. This is about the leader of the free world being mentally impaired. I am afraid that his supporters do not care that he is not right in the head. Everything he tweets they agree with even if it contradicts what he wrote two minutes earlier. His Republican supporters want Trump to sign whatever is put in front of him, which he does happily. It is up to the grown ups in Congress to counteract this insanity. The FBI should keep up the pressure with the Russian investigation. Trump told Comey to hope there were no tapes of their conversations. I hope there are tapes that the news media will broadcast so his supporters can hear for themselves his irrationality.
16
Could this all be an elaborate plan for Trump to step aside and put Pence in as POTUS?
I'm not convinced Pence didn't know what was going on from the beginning. It is his cover story that needs investigation as well.
The entire administration needs to go!! Americans have already given move votes to HRC and the other party candidates than to this cabal.
Hopefully, a true patriot will provide The Times or The Washington Post with the evidence needed to end this once and for all.
I'm not convinced Pence didn't know what was going on from the beginning. It is his cover story that needs investigation as well.
The entire administration needs to go!! Americans have already given move votes to HRC and the other party candidates than to this cabal.
Hopefully, a true patriot will provide The Times or The Washington Post with the evidence needed to end this once and for all.
15
Don't hold your breath waiting for anything that will rid us of this idiot who is calling himself President.It seems like no one knows what to do about this nightmare.
Trump has "no investments in Russia." But, does it have money laundered in Trump properties? I guess the IRS/FBI should be looking into that interpretation/possibility, instead?
18
Yes, and his denial was distractingly phrased, for the question wasn't whether he invested in Russia, the issue is the extent to which Russia invested in him.
5
Trump personally has no investments anywhere, but that's a legal distinction. He seems to think that is a critical point.
2
It's not investments I worry about. It's loans from the Russian elite.
1
Think of Sessions and Rosenstein as Knights of the Oval Office, Trump as Henry II. From the Wikipedia article on Becket:
>…The king's exact words are in doubt and several versions have been reported.[11] The most commonly quoted, as handed down by oral tradition, is "Will no one rid me of this turbulent priest?",[12] but according to historian Simon Schama this is incorrect: he accepts the account of the contemporary biographer Edward Grim, writing in Latin, who gives us "What miserable drones and traitors have I nourished and brought up in my household, who let their lord be treated with such shameful contempt by a low-born cleric?"[13] Many variations have found their way into popular culture….
>…The king's exact words are in doubt and several versions have been reported.[11] The most commonly quoted, as handed down by oral tradition, is "Will no one rid me of this turbulent priest?",[12] but according to historian Simon Schama this is incorrect: he accepts the account of the contemporary biographer Edward Grim, writing in Latin, who gives us "What miserable drones and traitors have I nourished and brought up in my household, who let their lord be treated with such shameful contempt by a low-born cleric?"[13] Many variations have found their way into popular culture….
16
Spot on! I have thought of this analogy as well. Now we are left to wonder when and how this will all end. The sooner, the better. Every day brings yet another low blow. A national and global disgrace.
Yes! I'm thinking that in some weird Shakespearean twist Falstaff was crowned and paranoid and deluded is pacing the chambers calling for his courtiers to dispatch his Barons and Earls to bloody hell.
We're going to survive this fool's reign, and it's going to make for great theater.
We're going to survive this fool's reign, and it's going to make for great theater.
1
Do they still hang people for the crime of treason? I don't think we can build a gallows big enough to accommodate all of the guilty actors in this debacle.
21
Probably can't actually hang them, but as a matter of fact the maximum penalty for treason is still death. So we've still got something to work with! ;-) Same penalty for espionage too! (But I'm pretty sure you're only allowed to execute them once)
"Whoever, owing allegiance to the United States, levies war against them or adheres to their enemies, giving them aid and comfort within the United States or elsewhere, is guilty of treason and shall suffer death, or shall be imprisoned not less than five years and fined under this title but not less than $10,000; and shall be incapable of holding any office under the United States.
(June 25, 1948, ch. 645, 62 Stat. 807; Pub. L. 103–322, title XXXIII, § 330016(2)(J), Sept. 13, 1994, 108 Stat. 2148.)
"Whoever, owing allegiance to the United States, levies war against them or adheres to their enemies, giving them aid and comfort within the United States or elsewhere, is guilty of treason and shall suffer death, or shall be imprisoned not less than five years and fined under this title but not less than $10,000; and shall be incapable of holding any office under the United States.
(June 25, 1948, ch. 645, 62 Stat. 807; Pub. L. 103–322, title XXXIII, § 330016(2)(J), Sept. 13, 1994, 108 Stat. 2148.)
1
RUSSIAGATE makes Watergate child's play. Nixon committed a crime. RUSSIAGATE involves treason as well as crimes.
35
What all these people, Sessions, Rosenstein, McConnell, Ryan, etc. etc., ad nauseum (OMG what a crew!) don't realize is that their careers are shot already, there's nothing to be gained by sticking to T., who in any event will throw them under the train the moment it becomes expedient. And their reputations as well: if we lose this democracy it will be on their heads along with T.'s. So they might as well do the right thing and mitigate the judgement of history by that means. But they won't. Let them carry the guilt of their complicity in the ruination of this once great country to their graves.
38
Not only "arrower" here is correct to the T, but we need to add that :
The unraveling of the sacred principle of BALANCE OF POWER " within the US GOVERNMENT should have been anticipated with the installation of trump at the helm. Just watching and
Listening to him for months during the primaries and subsequently until the elections- would have clearly point to how flawed a candidate he was to step into the presidency. The demagoguery, the insults, the glaring disrespect for anyone and anything- the lust is way too long to cite here - were there to see.
The unraveling of the sacred principle of BALANCE OF POWER " within the US GOVERNMENT should have been anticipated with the installation of trump at the helm. Just watching and
Listening to him for months during the primaries and subsequently until the elections- would have clearly point to how flawed a candidate he was to step into the presidency. The demagoguery, the insults, the glaring disrespect for anyone and anything- the lust is way too long to cite here - were there to see.
1
I like your views. Please remember to demand a SPECIAL PROSECUTOR, free from the boney fingers of McConnell, to look into the trump/Russia affair.
1
What does Ryan, the choir boy, tell his priest in confession?
1
Rosenstein is ruined. The poor man should resign. For all the glowing press about this man, he turned out to be either extremely naive or not what he was cracked up to be to begin with. I pity him, in a way.
28
It looks on the surface anyway, that Mr. Rosenstein rolled for Mr. Sessions and Mr. Trump. How sad to see his career end this way. Not matter how this happened, his reputation has been ruined. As usual, Mr. Trump has destroyed someone. So why would we be surprised he's done this for 50 years.
5
If you lie down with dogs, you may wake up with fleas. Trump is becoming a toxic figure and those politicians who get to close to him may well suffer a job loss in 2018.
He was probably blackmailed for something wrong he did in the past.
Perhaps Trump's plan here is to every day add new outrages to the already loaded basket of outrages so no one knows where to start protesting or investigating...
17
Ryan lost what little credibility he ever had when he sat idle during the Devin Nunes debacle. What a feckless stain on democracy. McConnell is a smug DC swamp creature of the lowest form. Expect nothing from either of them. Only our career government employees can right this faultering ship.
107
You are right about government employees. If they are anything like Sally Yates, then there is some reason to be hopeful. (Plus anyone who can so elegantly put Ted Cruz in his place is OK in my book).
2
Hey Richard,
i only wish we could expect nothing....but stink is stink and they will do what is best for them, not our country. Hope is fading fast.
i only wish we could expect nothing....but stink is stink and they will do what is best for them, not our country. Hope is fading fast.
It is disappointing to see the Senate Majority Leader and the Speaker of the House continue to put their parties and personal agendas ahead of survival of Democracy as we know it . I guess I am idealistic but these two have leadership roles and they do not seem to be leading, as I understand leadership. Hopefully each of us who is concerned, will phone, e mail or write our Congressman or Congresswoman and express our concerns and hopefully someone in either house of Congress will rise up and do what is right for the country and put their personal concerns for their positions aside.
45
Yes yes !!!
2
Nothing more is needed to impeach Trump. If he fired Comey to interfere with the investigation of possible links between his campaign and the RUssians that is obstruction of justice and case closed. Of course the other investigation must continue. The public must be told what was done and why. Congress must insure that this happening twice is enough, it must never happen again (we should not forget Reagan convincing the Iranians to reject Carter's efforts to have the hostages freed as that would had an impact on the elections).
59
So, once again, and of absolute critical importance, who voted for this imbecile.
Does that indicate that 52% of the American voting constituency are also imbeciles? Points in that direction.
Frederick
Does that indicate that 52% of the American voting constituency are also imbeciles? Points in that direction.
Frederick
69
46%
A clear majority of Americans voted against him.
A clear majority of Americans voted against him.
3
Would that it were that simple. Neither Russia nor the Republican party did anything to cement the Democrats' decision to run a campaign based on worship and a candidate who had no visible relationship to common people. The Republicans did the same in pushing the regal and really rich Romney; but I don't think anyone could have ousted Obama anyway (for which I, personally, am thankful). I hope that my fellow Democrats do not overplay the situation and manifest again the flaws in the last campaign. We need to be deliberate and determined and persistent; what we don't need is screaming jackals.
2
Check your math and take heart. There were 225 million eligible voters in 2016. Trump got 62 million votes or 24.8%.
Trump is not leading. He's only reacting, which may be the extent of his abilities.
93
Honestly now- Trump is Bernie Madoff. There never was any difference whatsoever between these two shysters. Bernie Madoff would have done no different as "President" and, arguably, had the carnival hawker capability that Trump has displayed and that does so well on television.
A large part of the American electorate has always and will always be gullible. Its the lemming mentality. Among the "educated" its the same lemming mentality that leads to stock market run-ups and declines. We are a nation of dupes, in large part.
Yet, we are also still a nation of laws. Madoff is in prison the rest of his life. It increasingly looks like our man Trump is heading in a similar direction.
Let us hope.
A large part of the American electorate has always and will always be gullible. Its the lemming mentality. Among the "educated" its the same lemming mentality that leads to stock market run-ups and declines. We are a nation of dupes, in large part.
Yet, we are also still a nation of laws. Madoff is in prison the rest of his life. It increasingly looks like our man Trump is heading in a similar direction.
Let us hope.
107
" Madoff is in prison the rest of his life. It increasingly looks like our man Trump is heading in a similar direction. '
I agree and pray for it to happen even though I am an atheist.
I agree and pray for it to happen even though I am an atheist.
2
What do you think will come of this? My prediction is nothing. In a culture where celebrities' bankers, and politicians can commit felonies, defraud millions, and beat their wives with impunity, is it reasonable to expect the president himself to face a jury of his peers? I'm not optimistic.
78
Hoping against hope, McConnell will come to realize he will go down in history as the man how stopped a traitor from being outed. Will he come to his senses, or is he so impressed with his "victories" (squishing the nomination of a legitimate Supreme Court nominee) that his ego won't let him budge?
His choice: later disgrace or doing the right thing. No, I'm not hopeful either.
His choice: later disgrace or doing the right thing. No, I'm not hopeful either.
112
Are you kidding? McConnell coming to his senses and loving this country more than his position, and money? Never going to happen. He is a disgrace, as greedy and malevolent as the so-called president.
1
I think of the people who followed DJT to D.C., probably excited by the opportunities in the new administration, maybe even uprooting their families.
By now they must realize they hitched their little wagon to the crazy train. They must protect the boss to the point of having to lie for him and may even be subjected to his wrath when he's not satisfied with their performance. I say to them: think about how expensive lawyers will be when the subpoenas start dropping, think about how your boss always finds someone else to blame and think about your own future and peace of mind. I've been there at the state level and, believe me, life is too short.
By now they must realize they hitched their little wagon to the crazy train. They must protect the boss to the point of having to lie for him and may even be subjected to his wrath when he's not satisfied with their performance. I say to them: think about how expensive lawyers will be when the subpoenas start dropping, think about how your boss always finds someone else to blame and think about your own future and peace of mind. I've been there at the state level and, believe me, life is too short.
150
I'm sure they have been thinking about their legal and reputational exposure. I'm sure most of them are lawyered up.
We will get the truth on everything.
Someone at the FBI or other bureau or committee will do the right theing for the country if necessary.
Someone at the FBI or other bureau or committee will do the right theing for the country if necessary.
89
I hope. But we are relying on a handful individuals to save us from the collapse of our democratic institutions.
Will no leaders on the GOP stand up and do what's right for the nation? Do their tax cuts for the ultra-wealthy mean that much? Their opportunity to rule using Ayn Rand as their playbook?
Is this America?
Will no leaders on the GOP stand up and do what's right for the nation? Do their tax cuts for the ultra-wealthy mean that much? Their opportunity to rule using Ayn Rand as their playbook?
Is this America?
2
Don't count on it. There were many in the FBI who hated Hillary because they spend their free time watching FOX news all day in the office. They can develop bias just as easily as anyone else. Remember Giuliani got information from sources... like friends in the FBI in the NY office who somehow overlooked all of his paid political musings being spouted on FOX as if he were some kind of apostle to truth and justice and not just the grifter he turned out to be.
I share your concerns, but at the end of the day Mark Felt the Dep. AG during watergate became Deepthroat, because he saw the potential for damage to the nation.
Yet, I am very confident that there are many individuals in the DOJ and investigations who place country, constitution, law, truth, and justice above all else and we can be grateful that they do.
Yet, I am very confident that there are many individuals in the DOJ and investigations who place country, constitution, law, truth, and justice above all else and we can be grateful that they do.
2
One thing this isn't, is a scandal of Watergate dimensions. Watergate was miniscule and pointless compared to this. Watergate was merely all about Nixon covering up having sent thugs to spy on the Democratic campaign, in an election that he won by a comfortable margin. It had no wider reach, no major implications, except that the president had done something criminal. Just breaking and entering, illegal espionage, nobody got killed or anything.
But the Trumpgate caper is all about subverting our democracy, in league with the Russians. It is treason, plain and simple. Far bigger and more important than Watergate in every way.
Thankfully Trump and his team of incompetent lackeys are completely incapable of covering this up, or lying about it effectively. The truth of the matter is already clear enough to anybody willing to think. Republican stalwarts, delusional supporters, and the completely ignorant still believe Trump is an upstanding guy, but the rest of us are pretty sure he's a traitor.
So if this doesn't bring Trump down, then American democracy is basically over, and we will be living in a totalitarian state like Russia, which is what Putin wanted all along.
But the Trumpgate caper is all about subverting our democracy, in league with the Russians. It is treason, plain and simple. Far bigger and more important than Watergate in every way.
Thankfully Trump and his team of incompetent lackeys are completely incapable of covering this up, or lying about it effectively. The truth of the matter is already clear enough to anybody willing to think. Republican stalwarts, delusional supporters, and the completely ignorant still believe Trump is an upstanding guy, but the rest of us are pretty sure he's a traitor.
So if this doesn't bring Trump down, then American democracy is basically over, and we will be living in a totalitarian state like Russia, which is what Putin wanted all along.
236
A fate worse than death...where are our patriots?
I really doubt they believe in him. Tax cuts....that's what they believe in.
They think he can help them deliver tax cuts and then we'll just get on with destroying what else that is good about America.
They think he can help them deliver tax cuts and then we'll just get on with destroying what else that is good about America.
1
Heads up, at least one journalist has been arrested for being uppity already.
2
The Donald rules, with all do respect to my mother in law, just like her. I really like my Venezuelan suegra and have incredible respect for a woman who raised 5 children thru college (by herself), put herself thru law school and had a practice to boot. But she, and he, has an (ahem) uncanny knack for controlling a situation (and people) via chaos.
19
Rosenstein is another trumpian puppet . It's amazing how his ill fated decision of joining the elimination of the FBI director will be the demise of his long impeccable career. It appears that the trumpian bad apple is corrupting everyone it touches . I feel sorry for this great country , this political farse will cause lasting damages and ruin the expectations of future generations.
56
Putin may have ordered Trump to fire Comey. It's quite possible Putin owns the White House right now. We're all watching this farce as our health care, environment, education, everything is being stripped away. The French were much more savy at his game.
66
The so-called Swamp has become a cesspool. And the R's are trying hard to ignore the stench that is wafting up from beneath their feet.
66
They are "the swamp". A cowardly and mendacious swamp indeed.
The swamp has no shame and those alligators are vicious and extremely dangerous to us human beings. They will do anything to survive and hold their
territory. That's what our country has become. 45 must be removed as soon as possible before it's too late. If the Republic depends on the GOP it may well already be too late.
The swamp has no shame and those alligators are vicious and extremely dangerous to us human beings. They will do anything to survive and hold their
territory. That's what our country has become. 45 must be removed as soon as possible before it's too late. If the Republic depends on the GOP it may well already be too late.
2
With Donald, everything comes down to money. Without wealth, he has no value to himself or anyone else. He is his money. But it looks like his greed, rashness, and general incompetence gotten him into some deep trouble, from which he can only escape by gaining and wielding political power. Russia gave him that power. So the question is, why?
The truth is out there, the tax returns do exist, and eventually fear or basic human decency will nudge someone out of the woodwork. It will be interesting to see who finally drops the dime.
The truth is out there, the tax returns do exist, and eventually fear or basic human decency will nudge someone out of the woodwork. It will be interesting to see who finally drops the dime.
71
I am still amazed that the tax returns have not been leaked.
How about Rudolph Giuliani as an independent investigator? Okay, sorry. It's just black humor during a black period in America now.
48
The Trump Administration is more like the Russian Mafia. The Family is using the White house for economic gain. They are marketing Trump properties with every weekend trip, the nepotism, conflicts of interest, and the shameless profiteering are much like a mafia family business in the heyday of New York. How is it that we think that members of the Trump Campaign had no leader? Where did they get their talking points, their marching orders? Who were they being loyal to? Mr. Trump, so if they were colluding they were doing so with the full understanding and knowledge of the President Elect. Russian hackers helped elect him, and he willfully and shamelessly promoted their ill gained hacked emails and benefited from them. Hhe loves Wikileaks. He was and is complicit. Sessions firing the FBI Director puts him right in the middle of the Russia investigation trying to impede its progress, no funding, no Director. We know they wanted to lock Hillary up, they don't care how she was treated, they are sorry she didn't go to jail. Trump praised Comey for his handling of the situation. Why won't they appoint a special Prosecutor? Republicans would rather hold on to power and lose our Democracy to a traitorous few headed by a small minded man who would rather chew the fat with our enemies in the OVAL OFFICE than shake hands with our most trusted and loyal allies. Republicans aren't Patriots anymore, they are as despotic as our new President. Shameless, unethical and Unpatriotic.
82
To me, a common plebeian, it seems it's time to revise our National Pledge of Allegiance; to wit:
"I pledge allegiance to the United States of Trump and to the corruption for which it stands, one nation under siege and deprived of liberty and justice for all."
Sounds about right to me.
Michael Bain
Glorieta, New Mexico
"I pledge allegiance to the United States of Trump and to the corruption for which it stands, one nation under siege and deprived of liberty and justice for all."
Sounds about right to me.
Michael Bain
Glorieta, New Mexico
41
Trump requested loyalty from Comey and did not receive that pledge. In time, Trumo interpreted Comey's actions as failing even marginal loyalty, so he fired him.
Now we are left to wonder, if Rosenstein's first act was to pen that letter and in the doing provide some degree of cover to both Sessions and Trump, can we count on this guy to serve justice or has Trump succeeded in prevailing upon Rosenstein to pledge the loyalty to which Comey would not?
It is a rare occurance for one prominent member of the intelligence community to condemn another, much less take part in firing him.
Initially we heard that Rosenstein threatened to resign if Trump did not make clear that it was he, not Rosenstein whose idea it was to find reason to fire Comey. The next day, Rosenstein denied that threat.
Now, instead of being merely a dutiful minion, however distinguished, Rosenstein may very well be central to Trump's obstruction of justice.
"We just want the Russian investigation to end."
To add insult to injury, RM just reported that Manifort never registered as a foreign agent after having been guided by the JD headed by Sessions who was supposed to have recused himself. When asked by RM if the recusal applied to Manifort, the JD repeatedly declined to respond in the affirmative.
Let's all hope that the public servants our country is in the hands of, do the right thing.
Now we are left to wonder, if Rosenstein's first act was to pen that letter and in the doing provide some degree of cover to both Sessions and Trump, can we count on this guy to serve justice or has Trump succeeded in prevailing upon Rosenstein to pledge the loyalty to which Comey would not?
It is a rare occurance for one prominent member of the intelligence community to condemn another, much less take part in firing him.
Initially we heard that Rosenstein threatened to resign if Trump did not make clear that it was he, not Rosenstein whose idea it was to find reason to fire Comey. The next day, Rosenstein denied that threat.
Now, instead of being merely a dutiful minion, however distinguished, Rosenstein may very well be central to Trump's obstruction of justice.
"We just want the Russian investigation to end."
To add insult to injury, RM just reported that Manifort never registered as a foreign agent after having been guided by the JD headed by Sessions who was supposed to have recused himself. When asked by RM if the recusal applied to Manifort, the JD repeatedly declined to respond in the affirmative.
Let's all hope that the public servants our country is in the hands of, do the right thing.
20
Schadenfreude: pleasure derived by someone from another person's misfortune.
A better man (or woman) than I might not gain pleasure from seeing the Republican toadies twisting in the wind, along with their maniacal titular head, but that's not me.
But there is also a practical reason for liking the way they are cooking their own goose. If by their fruits they are known, the Republicans stand for death and suffering (at least 24 million humans losing the capacity to seek help for pain, disease, etc.). According to a Harvard study, about 40,000 people died a year for lack of health insurance. Add to that the many bankruptcies due to hospital bills. Make Americans Die Again is the Republican plan.
They also stand for the transfer of wealth from the poor and middle-class to those who could never spend it in many lifetimes, in a country that already has one of the highest poverty rates amongst developed economies.
I could go on, but the point is that the Democratic Party, especially its progressive wing that stands for the well-being of the majority of Americans, must recapture Congress in 2018 and the White House in 2020. If Trump disappears (takes his money and runs or gets impeached), a man just as evil but not as crazy, one that could rebuild the Republican Party through less transparent spin and deception, takes over.
I rather have Trump and his party to kick around until the destruction they stand for sinks further into the quicksand of their own making.
A better man (or woman) than I might not gain pleasure from seeing the Republican toadies twisting in the wind, along with their maniacal titular head, but that's not me.
But there is also a practical reason for liking the way they are cooking their own goose. If by their fruits they are known, the Republicans stand for death and suffering (at least 24 million humans losing the capacity to seek help for pain, disease, etc.). According to a Harvard study, about 40,000 people died a year for lack of health insurance. Add to that the many bankruptcies due to hospital bills. Make Americans Die Again is the Republican plan.
They also stand for the transfer of wealth from the poor and middle-class to those who could never spend it in many lifetimes, in a country that already has one of the highest poverty rates amongst developed economies.
I could go on, but the point is that the Democratic Party, especially its progressive wing that stands for the well-being of the majority of Americans, must recapture Congress in 2018 and the White House in 2020. If Trump disappears (takes his money and runs or gets impeached), a man just as evil but not as crazy, one that could rebuild the Republican Party through less transparent spin and deception, takes over.
I rather have Trump and his party to kick around until the destruction they stand for sinks further into the quicksand of their own making.
31
Maybe this is how it looks to you, but unfortunately his supporters live in a parallel world. Read the NYT article "For Trump Supporters, the Real Outrage Is the Left’s Uproar Over Comey" and you'll see how the anger and dismay expressed about the firing just *reinforces* their view that Trump is the best thing to come along.
22
Part of right wing theology, I mean ideology, is not to question authority but to defer to it. That's why they hate protests - it goes against the grain of a controlled and predictable authoritarian system. It is also why they stay in lock step with their leaders; none of that pantywaist, fact-based, liberal critical thinking for them. Do what you're told or go away. This also happens to be exactly how religion works, thus the historical marriage of the two.
29
This will not turn into anything close to Watergate. Why? It's already rigged in Trump's favor. There was a Democrat majority when Watergate happened, Nixon himself gave AG Richardson the go-ahead to hire a special prosecutor (yeah--even Nixon functioned with more respect for the law and governmental procedure than Trump). Of course that backfired and Nixon had Bork fire Cox. But then Nixon couldn't ignore the appearance of impropriety and (because he did have some twisted sense of scruples that was still more than anything Trump can claim) had Bork appoint a new prosecutor, Jaworski. It does begin to seem that Trump believes the lesson of Watergate is to not make Nixon's mistake of playing along. Unfotunately for America, he has all the pieces in place to play his own game, including a Republican majority of mostly unprincipled white male opportunists who believe anything is fair play to make up for eight years of a black president and the near-miss of having a woman president, and a DOJ headed by one of the prime suspects in this scandal that can't quite seem to happen. Who's gonna pull the trigger here? Answer: No one. Calling Deep Throat II...
29
America is awash with corruption with a leadership strikingly similar to that of an African Banana Republic.
Trump is a liar. The media have no ethics and carried him to the top during the Republican selection process, for high ratings.
Now, Congress has become his commode. His urinal.
In all the lies, posturing, ratings, and now the latest campaign of misinformation led by the barely educated Hannity of Fox News, the casualty remains The American People.
This is the age of the Intellectual! Thinking and learning the truth is required for any politically aware Individual.
Trump is a liar. The media have no ethics and carried him to the top during the Republican selection process, for high ratings.
Now, Congress has become his commode. His urinal.
In all the lies, posturing, ratings, and now the latest campaign of misinformation led by the barely educated Hannity of Fox News, the casualty remains The American People.
This is the age of the Intellectual! Thinking and learning the truth is required for any politically aware Individual.
39
Dear Delightful lawyer:
Take a drive east from Sedona, Arizona to the Southeastern USA; down I-10 to 1-20 to Atlanta and back up to Memphis on 1-40 to Amarillo and then lets talk.
To you from Vega, Texas this night as I head back home to New Mexico from my native Alabama.
This is not the age of the Intellectual.
Michael Bain
Glorieta, New Mexico
Take a drive east from Sedona, Arizona to the Southeastern USA; down I-10 to 1-20 to Atlanta and back up to Memphis on 1-40 to Amarillo and then lets talk.
To you from Vega, Texas this night as I head back home to New Mexico from my native Alabama.
This is not the age of the Intellectual.
Michael Bain
Glorieta, New Mexico
13
Rosenstein accepted his new position with his eyes wide open He probably did not expect Trump would ask him to sacrifice his integrity so early in the game, but that is what happened. Why produce and sign such a document into the hands of an Attorney General who said he would recuse himself from the Trump and Russia investigation. Was the lure of the position of Deputy Attorney General so great that he was willing to sacrifice his decades of building his reputation up to see it vanish almost overnight. His name is now forever linked with Trump and the Comey firing scandal. Let the shunning begin.
39
He could fix that reputation problem by taking some action....
12
Trump fired Comey because Comey was incompetent. Comey should have been fired in the summer of 2016 after he literally indicted Hillary publicly (not his job) and then decided (not his job again) that she was innocent. That angered right wingers. Then Comey says he has new evidence right before Election Day which people, including Hillary herself, attribute to Hillary's loss--not true, Hillary was just a bad candidate. That angered left wingers. Everyone agrees that Comey is bad so Trump deservedly fires him (hilarious!--I wish we could fire more incompetent workers in the government! I love it!).
Now the corrupt mainstream media which is not literally "fake" but it so biased and distorted that it is really just an extension of the Democratic Party is trying to say that it's Trump's way to cover up the "Russian ties." I'm laughing again--the investigation is not going away!--as if just Comey alone was the keeper of all things related to the investigation! There's probably 30 agents working the case and still there is absolutely nothing but SMOKE and no fire. Give it up NY Times and Hollywood, I admit you're not fake, but you're IRRELEVANT AND DYING! Obama stunk, Trump stinks too, but Trump saved the country from the intellectually failed ideas of the left wing Frankfurt school worshippers who are too miserable to realize that they live in the greatest country on the planet. Why are you so sad Rosenthal?--You are one of the most elite people on Earth...SMILE!
Now the corrupt mainstream media which is not literally "fake" but it so biased and distorted that it is really just an extension of the Democratic Party is trying to say that it's Trump's way to cover up the "Russian ties." I'm laughing again--the investigation is not going away!--as if just Comey alone was the keeper of all things related to the investigation! There's probably 30 agents working the case and still there is absolutely nothing but SMOKE and no fire. Give it up NY Times and Hollywood, I admit you're not fake, but you're IRRELEVANT AND DYING! Obama stunk, Trump stinks too, but Trump saved the country from the intellectually failed ideas of the left wing Frankfurt school worshippers who are too miserable to realize that they live in the greatest country on the planet. Why are you so sad Rosenthal?--You are one of the most elite people on Earth...SMILE!
2
" there is absolutely nothing but SMOKE and no fire. "
Gee, that sounds like the Benghazi myriad of investigations! Yet that's all we heard from GOP and their media outlet, FOX News. You cannot discount the analogy sir!!
Gee, that sounds like the Benghazi myriad of investigations! Yet that's all we heard from GOP and their media outlet, FOX News. You cannot discount the analogy sir!!
10
This gloating comment with no iota of robust evidence based assertion is the reason Trump continues to hoodwink so many folks.
When I get Fox News updates, I see comments similar to this one. One of the things I find alarming is the raging conflating of anti establishment and anti intellectualism.
I am a proud intellectual, always reading and researching White papers and data to find the truth.
Trump is a horrible president. His conduct APPEARS to be In furtherance of obscuring criminal activity.
The issue is not whether there are other people in the FBI investigating the election of Trump by Russia. The issue is that be fired Comey when he sought funding to further examine whatever he found.
Our president appears to be hiding something... And THE THING HE IS HIDING APPEARS TO BE DRIVING HIM TO TAKE DESPERATE AND UNLAWFUL EFFORTS TO THWART A LAWFUL INVESTIGATION THAT SEEMS TO IMPLICATE HIM IN MANIPULATING OUR ELECTIONS.
When I get Fox News updates, I see comments similar to this one. One of the things I find alarming is the raging conflating of anti establishment and anti intellectualism.
I am a proud intellectual, always reading and researching White papers and data to find the truth.
Trump is a horrible president. His conduct APPEARS to be In furtherance of obscuring criminal activity.
The issue is not whether there are other people in the FBI investigating the election of Trump by Russia. The issue is that be fired Comey when he sought funding to further examine whatever he found.
Our president appears to be hiding something... And THE THING HE IS HIDING APPEARS TO BE DRIVING HIM TO TAKE DESPERATE AND UNLAWFUL EFFORTS TO THWART A LAWFUL INVESTIGATION THAT SEEMS TO IMPLICATE HIM IN MANIPULATING OUR ELECTIONS.
Comey did not bungle all aspects of the Clinton e-mail investigation. Rather, he only bungled the public announcements he made regarding it. By all accounts his investigation competently sought out all of the facts and correctly concluded that no reasonable prosecutor could bring any charges in the matter.
If Comey testifies that he requested additional funds for the Russia/Trump investigations and other justice officials deny 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 report disclosing the actions of all individuals involved and recommendations. 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.
“…what did Putin hope to gain by aiding Trump? a $50 increase in the price of oil. Wars in the Middle East caused most of the oil price spikes ..” http://seekingalpha.com/article/4034048
If Comey testifies that he requested additional funds for the Russia/Trump investigations and other justice officials deny 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 report disclosing the actions of all individuals involved and recommendations. 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.
“…what did Putin hope to gain by aiding Trump? a $50 increase in the price of oil. Wars in the Middle East caused most of the oil price spikes ..” http://seekingalpha.com/article/4034048
8
This is the gang that can't even lie straight.
Imagine the exact same situation as we currently face, but with Hillary Clinton instead of what's his name as POTUS... Republican heads would be exploding all over; Mitch, Paul, et al., would be apoplectic; and there would be literal riots in the streets (no doubt supported by Breitbart and financed by the Koch brothers).
Democrats, on the other hand, patiently await a legally and Constitutionally legitimate outcome.
THAT is the difference between "Blue" and "Red"... One is all for, believes in, and lives the American democratic system. The other controls all three branches of the federal government.
Drain the swamp, indeed. BYO torches and pitchforks.
RESIST! IMPEACH! DUMP TRUMP!!!
Democrats, on the other hand, patiently await a legally and Constitutionally legitimate outcome.
THAT is the difference between "Blue" and "Red"... One is all for, believes in, and lives the American democratic system. The other controls all three branches of the federal government.
Drain the swamp, indeed. BYO torches and pitchforks.
RESIST! IMPEACH! DUMP TRUMP!!!
46
Progressives focus on process
Conservatives focus on results
Flawed process yields flawed results
Conservatives focus on results
Flawed process yields flawed results
Time for asking questions is over. We know what is going on. Trump and his kids and in-laws are money laundering for the Russians. Rod Rosenstein is working for the Israeli Government and Benjamin Netanyahu and the American Israeli Public Affairs Committee.
16
How do you know that about Rosenstein? Cite proof.
One question about Trump's letter to Comey: did Trump really ask Comey whether he (Trump) was a target? Did Comey really say "No you aren't? I think DJT is being way too clever. Comey can't, under the law, contradict these obvious fictitious "facts."
8
The debate on Comey’s firing seems to boil down to whether Comey was the main issue or whether it was really about alarm in the White House over the recent acceleration of the Russia investigation.
One gets the sense that those who support Trump’s action think it was mainly about Comey and that they don’t think the Russia investigation is actually such a big deal, perhaps because Russia is not the threat to American power that it once was.
But what if next time it’s the Chinese doing the meddling, and doing it more cleverly and effectively than the Russians? What price do Americans put on the value of their vote?
One gets the sense that those who support Trump’s action think it was mainly about Comey and that they don’t think the Russia investigation is actually such a big deal, perhaps because Russia is not the threat to American power that it once was.
But what if next time it’s the Chinese doing the meddling, and doing it more cleverly and effectively than the Russians? What price do Americans put on the value of their vote?
6
Considering the previous lies by the administration, there should be no surprise that the need to remove Comey was next. However, I doubt that a Republican congress would do what needs to be done: begin impeachment proceedings.
21
Trump's next move will be to disembowel the FBI itself, the same way the EPA is being gutted, removing all remnants of its investigation into his Russian connections. Expect massive resignations/dismissals. Doubtless this cleansing is already afoot with the deliberate sabotaging of all related records throughout the entire administration. Of course this shouldn't come as a surprise ... it's right out of senior advisor steve bannon's so-called de-institutionalization playbook .
And as for the 2118 elections, the GOP is undoubtedly using its newly bestowed wide powers to shove their voter suppression and gerrymandering scheming into high gear to keep it that way in the 2018 mid terms and beyond. Deliberately demagoguing the supreme court will also entrench this skulduggery for generations.
And as for the 2118 elections, the GOP is undoubtedly using its newly bestowed wide powers to shove their voter suppression and gerrymandering scheming into high gear to keep it that way in the 2018 mid terms and beyond. Deliberately demagoguing the supreme court will also entrench this skulduggery for generations.
24
The Moral of the big picture story is don't be friends with Russia but don't be enemies.
The Russians interfered with our election in favor of Trump because he was friendly to get him elected to destroy us from within. Now that he is President, the national psyche is unraveling, the government is in disarray, and the Russians took advantage of the White House meeting to embarrass Trump and made a chump out of him.
Fool me once, fool me twice, never again. That should be our national motto.
Put up a fence between us and Russia. Fences make good neighbors.
The Russians interfered with our election in favor of Trump because he was friendly to get him elected to destroy us from within. Now that he is President, the national psyche is unraveling, the government is in disarray, and the Russians took advantage of the White House meeting to embarrass Trump and made a chump out of him.
Fool me once, fool me twice, never again. That should be our national motto.
Put up a fence between us and Russia. Fences make good neighbors.
9
"Trump's loyal toady, Senator Mitch McConnell ...". That's so rich and on point that this one phrase makes the whole opinion piece stand out like a piece of gold found in the muck of the Trump mess. Thank you NYT for continuing to pan for the nuggets of truth out there and bring them into the light of day.
32
". . . a scandal of Watergate dimensions."
Our long national nightmare has just begun.
Our long national nightmare has just begun.
12
Ms. Sanders, I urge you to think carefully about where you stand. You know as well as we that he is unreliable, vain, and vindictive. He will take you down with him with nary a second thought.
Keep detailed, accurate notes. Have them time-punched. Store them in secure locations, locations beyond the reach of those who cannot be trusted.
You stand at the edge of history. What you say and why you said it will be parsed to the nth degree by historians today and into the future. Do not bring shame upon your family. Do not go down with the Trump ship.
Your only duty is to We The People, for whom the United States of America was created. Speak truth, despite the cost. You and yours will remembered for having stood up for your country.
Keep detailed, accurate notes. Have them time-punched. Store them in secure locations, locations beyond the reach of those who cannot be trusted.
You stand at the edge of history. What you say and why you said it will be parsed to the nth degree by historians today and into the future. Do not bring shame upon your family. Do not go down with the Trump ship.
Your only duty is to We The People, for whom the United States of America was created. Speak truth, despite the cost. You and yours will remembered for having stood up for your country.
8
And hire a food taster
I think we should thank Rosenstein for writing a "shallow, poorly reasoned memo". By describing what Comey did relative to the Clinton emails as the rational for firing Comey, he made it obvious to everyone that that could not possibly be the real reason for the firing.
17
The problem now is that regardless of Trump's involvement with the Russians, he is now vulnerable to coercion by Putin--who can threaten Trump based on nothing more than appearances...into doing what Russia requires of him to do. Trump, who thinks he is a genius, is actually stupid, and has fallen into the Russian trap. Now he is compromised, and whether he is already a tool for the Russians or not, they now have enough on him that in effect he can be leveraged one way or the other.
10
This is more scandalous than Watergate. This involves Russia! It would be like Nixon asked the Russians to help break into the Democratic offices.
16
It seems that Mr. Comey refused to pledge loyalty to president Trump; juts honesty, when they both met at a White House dinner. So, Mr. Comey refusing to fall on the sword, for Trump, doomed him.
Guess what? We can add wrongful termination to the growing list of an every growing scandal. An employer cannot force an employee to do something illegal, and then terminate them with cause, for insubordination.
President Trump has not grasped the fact he is work for the government, and the government does not handle personnel issues like one can do in a private business. Even though Mr. Comey is an appointee he does have similar rights due all government employees.
Of course, Mr. Ttrump flailed tonight, thank you Lester Holt, telling one whopper after another only getting himself deeper in his own personal swamp in Washington. The man who was going to "drain the swap", has create a few new ones.
It took a good part of a year to get Nixon resign; Mr. Trump is on a far faster track. It is only a matter of time that the canaries start singing at the FBI, and elsewhere (Flynn).
It will be very soon that the rates of the GOP will start deserting Trump's sinking Titanic. But, like the Titanic, a fair percentage will go down with him.
Keep pressing 4th estate a Pulitzer will be the journalistic prize, and the world could be free of another dictator and autocrat wannabe.
Guess what? We can add wrongful termination to the growing list of an every growing scandal. An employer cannot force an employee to do something illegal, and then terminate them with cause, for insubordination.
President Trump has not grasped the fact he is work for the government, and the government does not handle personnel issues like one can do in a private business. Even though Mr. Comey is an appointee he does have similar rights due all government employees.
Of course, Mr. Ttrump flailed tonight, thank you Lester Holt, telling one whopper after another only getting himself deeper in his own personal swamp in Washington. The man who was going to "drain the swap", has create a few new ones.
It took a good part of a year to get Nixon resign; Mr. Trump is on a far faster track. It is only a matter of time that the canaries start singing at the FBI, and elsewhere (Flynn).
It will be very soon that the rates of the GOP will start deserting Trump's sinking Titanic. But, like the Titanic, a fair percentage will go down with him.
Keep pressing 4th estate a Pulitzer will be the journalistic prize, and the world could be free of another dictator and autocrat wannabe.
58
I won't believe any of this until they are all gone for good one way or another. Make sure that Pence and Gorsuch and McConnell and Ryan and the Kushners are gotten as well. Stolen election. Stolen seats. Anyway, remember that war criminal Bushie administration is still running around free as that was swept under the rug just as this will, too. Nixon got off lightly too. What is this aversion to putting Republican'ts into jail where they belong?! In Latin "Nemo Est Supra Legis" No One Is Above The Law.
Should've voted for good person, bad only in your tiny little minds, President Hillary Clinton and the Dems instead.
Should've voted for good person, bad only in your tiny little minds, President Hillary Clinton and the Dems instead.
42
That's right! Rosenstein is just another Trump toadie. The NYT needs to stop making him out to be some type of model of "probity." He is a slimy, unethical, "look Ma, I can lie without lying," stooge just like the other dangerous toadies in Trump's bizarro and deadly to America world.
24
Rosenstein never explicitly recommends firing Comey until the last paragraph of his strange letter. Including that final paragraph is something he will live to regret, IMO.
10
“Trump’s Troubles Go Way Beyond Russia”. Perhaps. But our troubles go way beyond Trump. Roughly half of our fellow citizens have absolutely no problem with Trump, nor with any of his actions. They would gladly vote for him again.
The Comey scandal means nothing to them, as long as they have national leaders who reflect their rabid racism, sexism and xenophobia. They know that Trump is a pathological liar and a dangerous tyrant. He hasn’t hoodwinked them. They simply don’t care.
After Mr. Comey’s firing, anyone who now believes that Trump wouldn’t use the flimsiest of excuses to seize power indefinitely is not paying attention. We will look back on the 2018 midterms with incredulity at how naïve we were – thinking that the nation would surely right itself at that point.
But if history is any guide, dictators are toppled only when a solid majority of a nation’s citizens stand up and literally risk their very lives to cry out “Enough. We won’t live under fascism. We’re better than this.” But America, apparently we’re not better than this. Nearly half of us are quite satisfied with this dangerous and unhinged man at the nation’s helm. And this half is not at all interested in ceding its control of all three branches of our government. In fact, they will fight us with every fiber of their being to retain a despot and his enablers in Congress. With fellow citizens thrilled to jack boot on behalf of the Republicans in power, Russia is the least of our problems.
The Comey scandal means nothing to them, as long as they have national leaders who reflect their rabid racism, sexism and xenophobia. They know that Trump is a pathological liar and a dangerous tyrant. He hasn’t hoodwinked them. They simply don’t care.
After Mr. Comey’s firing, anyone who now believes that Trump wouldn’t use the flimsiest of excuses to seize power indefinitely is not paying attention. We will look back on the 2018 midterms with incredulity at how naïve we were – thinking that the nation would surely right itself at that point.
But if history is any guide, dictators are toppled only when a solid majority of a nation’s citizens stand up and literally risk their very lives to cry out “Enough. We won’t live under fascism. We’re better than this.” But America, apparently we’re not better than this. Nearly half of us are quite satisfied with this dangerous and unhinged man at the nation’s helm. And this half is not at all interested in ceding its control of all three branches of our government. In fact, they will fight us with every fiber of their being to retain a despot and his enablers in Congress. With fellow citizens thrilled to jack boot on behalf of the Republicans in power, Russia is the least of our problems.
57
Although I'll agree that our troubles go beyond Trump, I also think you're overstating the true number of people who DO support him. Keep in mind, onlly about 24% of voting age Americans actually voted for Trump. Out of the ones who did not, there are 100's of thousands of others, and especially in at least one key swing state, who were either purged from the voting records through Crosscheck and had problems getting any vote counted, OR were unable to comply with a particular state's strict voter ID laws. So in actuality, while vocal and vociferous (and constantly pandered to by our MSM in interview after interview...analysis after analysis so their numbers SEEM larger) they're really only a small minority of Americans who outright support him. His approval ratings are at an almost historically record low, and that's BEFORE he fired Comey. Plus, many comments on social media which seem very pro-Trump are actually bots or Russian trolls. Don't even doubt for one minute that they're not still interfering. Putin is nowhere near finished with messing with out democracy. But if you're onboard, join on June 3 for the March For Truth, when millions of us can show Congress that we want answers.
17
Trump asking Rosenstein to provide him with a written case for getting rid of Comey, is like Trump asking Giuliani how to make Muslim ban legal.
In the end, Trump couldn't even show Comey the professional decency of firing him one on one in person - instead Comey found out from television.
Trump disgraces our country every day. He does't deserve to be called President of the United States.
In the end, Trump couldn't even show Comey the professional decency of firing him one on one in person - instead Comey found out from television.
Trump disgraces our country every day. He does't deserve to be called President of the United States.
56
It's hard to take an objective look at Washington politics and not feel like the whole thing is anything but a farce. The investigations that look everywhere except for what's in plain sight. How about the screaming conflicts of interest residing in the white house, the incessant lying and deception of elected officials, starting with the president, the obvious and continuous process to undermine democratic institutions, the usurping of power, the politicizing of the judiciary. The party in power isn't making America "great again" it's turning it into the greatest banana republic.
27
This regime seems less like a Presidential administration and more like a mafia clan, and one--and only one--anger-driven sociopath makes all the decisions, usually from the hip not from the head.
23
#MarchForTruth re #Russiagate on June 3 in 25 US cities.
12
Thanks for that
1
Something is rotten in the state of Donmark.
22
Please, may I borrow that? Excellent.
3
Comey's request for more resources for this investigation still stands. Sessions and Rosenstein have to make a decision. If their answer is "no". They need to justify it.
The decision, either way, lies with the DOJ, not the President. Trump can keep hiring and firing his "apprentices" until he gets the flunky he wants, but one hopes he quickly runs out of people willing to destroy their career for this
inept and unethical President.
The decision, either way, lies with the DOJ, not the President. Trump can keep hiring and firing his "apprentices" until he gets the flunky he wants, but one hopes he quickly runs out of people willing to destroy their career for this
inept and unethical President.
22
"Under oath" means nothing to Sessions, since he's already lied under oath to the Senate. Getting the truth from any of these people is impossible. We need concrete evidence from the FBI and the free press to prove the truth. It's a shame it's come to that, but I don't see any other way with this crowd.
41
An independent investigation is the only conclusive way Trump can be exonerated or else proven to be up to his ears in Russian entanglements. Efforts by Republicans to prevent an independent investigation only cast doubt on the party's honesty and slow down the work to be done.
But the investigation will go on despite them one way or another so the party would be wise to accept that. The new Republican Justice head must be recused of course.
But the investigation will go on despite them one way or another so the party would be wise to accept that. The new Republican Justice head must be recused of course.
6
Not only does every republican understand that the GOP Presidential Campaign worked closely with Russian Federation Intelligence to hack the election, they are completely OK with it.
Because in the GOP bubble, having our national security interests beholden to Vladimir Putin is far better than a Democrat in the White House.
Until and unless Democrats can gain majorities in Congress, absolutely nothing will be done about the Russia collaboration. Therefore, it is probably better that the investigation be prolonged and/or delayed, such that when conclusions are reached, the country is in a position to do something about them.
Because in the GOP bubble, having our national security interests beholden to Vladimir Putin is far better than a Democrat in the White House.
Until and unless Democrats can gain majorities in Congress, absolutely nothing will be done about the Russia collaboration. Therefore, it is probably better that the investigation be prolonged and/or delayed, such that when conclusions are reached, the country is in a position to do something about them.
17
Whoa boy! There are a lot of Republicans who were not fooled by Trump!
1
But, will they actually do something or just keep quiet "for the team"?
3
This entire situation has been bungled. Had Comey not bungled the way he handled the Clinton investigation the response from the Republican side would be different. Right now they have an excuse that has nothing to do with the Russian investigation because Comey gave it to them.
The sad thing is that this is going to drag on and it's going to damage our country. The world is watching and our children are watching. Our country is rapidly losing credibility and we did it too ourselves.
Hopefully when the dust settles we will take steps to protect our democracy and make sure that this never happens again. No one, not even the President is above the law.
The sad thing is that this is going to drag on and it's going to damage our country. The world is watching and our children are watching. Our country is rapidly losing credibility and we did it too ourselves.
Hopefully when the dust settles we will take steps to protect our democracy and make sure that this never happens again. No one, not even the President is above the law.
5
The damage you speak of is collateral damage on the way to saving the country and adhering to western values and the ideas of the Enlightenment as opposed to the left wing who is focused on socialism. Luckily Trump didn't break any laws so as long as he rides this whipped up storm created by the corrupt media, he's in the clear! And the truth is...we (non-USA hating citizens) love seeing a president do what's right!
1
I laughed when I read your claim that "Trump didn't break any laws". He has already broken several, starting with the Emolument Clause. This latest violation is called "Obstruction of Justice" and it will bring him down.
Get ready, because he is as crooked as they come.
Get ready, because he is as crooked as they come.
7
Western values includes health care as a human right.
3
At the pace that things move in Washington, the 2018 elections will be the determining factor in bringing justice to the American people. The Democrats cannot start high-fiving until they have majorities in both houses of Congress. Now is the time to put your shoulders into the work at hand and work like you never have before to defeat these authoritarian rich Republicans.
It is true that there needs to be investigations and criminal charges brought and that the political class should have no input into the investigations regarding criminal activity. It is also true that we have a dangerous political class (Republicans) moving forward to undermine our democracy and the only way to bury these individuals is through the election booth.
It is true that there needs to be investigations and criminal charges brought and that the political class should have no input into the investigations regarding criminal activity. It is also true that we have a dangerous political class (Republicans) moving forward to undermine our democracy and the only way to bury these individuals is through the election booth.
11
Let's not forget VP Pence. He should not be left unscathed. He was the head of Trump's transition team (among many other things) & was warned about Flynn directly - in writing - by Democratic House members.
Many assumed that Jared Kushner was behind Christie's ouster from the transition team. Christie had, after all, prosecuted Jared's father (who, once convicted, landed in jail.)
But maybe that's not what happened.
Maybe Christie advised Trump NOT to hire Flynn as NSA. Maybe Bannon & Flynn (rather than or in addition to Kushner) ousted Christie. ... Hum ... Might Christie have a big bone to pick and a whole lotta info to use (or leak)? ... And just how loyal do you suppose Christie's staffers might be considering the way their brethren were thrown under the Bridge-gate bus?
And don't get me started on Giuliani ...
Many assumed that Jared Kushner was behind Christie's ouster from the transition team. Christie had, after all, prosecuted Jared's father (who, once convicted, landed in jail.)
But maybe that's not what happened.
Maybe Christie advised Trump NOT to hire Flynn as NSA. Maybe Bannon & Flynn (rather than or in addition to Kushner) ousted Christie. ... Hum ... Might Christie have a big bone to pick and a whole lotta info to use (or leak)? ... And just how loyal do you suppose Christie's staffers might be considering the way their brethren were thrown under the Bridge-gate bus?
And don't get me started on Giuliani ...
8
Atleast he can not fire the Congress. Trump is getting cornered and it could be a pre-medidated affort by his team and even him to instruct Russa. Investigration should carry on till a final report and conclution is reached. I hope Judicial brach can stay indedependat during these difficult times and should be able to do its job. I hope there are more Patriotic Americans in Congress.
4
The scale of trumps misdeeds, lies, crimes, conflicts and compromises is going to necessitate an investigative staff the size of a small army. The number of those complicit in said activities is staggeringly large. At this stage I find it hard to believe we could get anyone with the ethics, backbone, experience and fortitude to lead such a charge, much the less muster the requisite troops to lay siege to the evil empire that is DJT. Even if we got Preet Bharara at Justice, Al Franken in congress and a phalanx of agents, aides, lawyers and investigators to pursue the mission, the entrenched powers that be will stymie them at every turn, because of blind loyalty and their own hideous complicity. So what's the endgame? It's going to take folks like John McCain to rally the remnants of patriotism in our government and join the fight. Only when the full breadth of Trump's treason can no longer be ignored can this movement gain momentum. I'd have thought the oval office stunt with russians but no Americans might do the trick, but I'd be wrong. Do we have to wait for Putin to drain the treasury and take over for Jared Kushner?
There's no doubt Trump is guilty, those protecting him know it. He's also desperate, and that's what will be his undoing. He's been sloppier than usual even for him. He's speaking more doubletalk than at any time since he announced. I believe the CIA, parts of the FBI, and our other clandestine services will not stand for this much longer.
There's no doubt Trump is guilty, those protecting him know it. He's also desperate, and that's what will be his undoing. He's been sloppier than usual even for him. He's speaking more doubletalk than at any time since he announced. I believe the CIA, parts of the FBI, and our other clandestine services will not stand for this much longer.
15
As the media and progressives debate whether or not Trump has finally gone too far, his administration and Republicans in Congress happily continue their assault on the judiciary, our environment, our health care, our educational system and our liberties. McConnell's and Ryan's cynical deceit allow the ultra-right to get everything they ever dreamed of, so there is little incentive for the Republicans to stop the march to fascism. And, rounding out this Machiavellian symbiosis, Trump will sign even the most extreme legislation without review or consideration of its consequences.
17
I used to think that too, but all the current mess has sucked the air and energy out of the politic al process, and we'll be into campaign mode in 6 months, then forget it.
1
There is no doubt there were russian dirty tricks and phished/phony blog posts which attacked Clinton. But we're never going to prove collusion.
Did Volkov or Syslik tell Flynn? Wink, Wink, nod, nod. Of course not.
What Trump is really hiding are business relationships which likely violate the emoluments clause. Russian KGB oligarchs who run the russian state owned oil company buy multi-million dollar apartments in Trump NYC buildings? How about the same oligarchs investing in middle east real estate, where Trump Enterprises also has interests?
Follow the money. And I'll bet that's where Comey was going.
Did Volkov or Syslik tell Flynn? Wink, Wink, nod, nod. Of course not.
What Trump is really hiding are business relationships which likely violate the emoluments clause. Russian KGB oligarchs who run the russian state owned oil company buy multi-million dollar apartments in Trump NYC buildings? How about the same oligarchs investing in middle east real estate, where Trump Enterprises also has interests?
Follow the money. And I'll bet that's where Comey was going.
7
I think you might be talking about Sergey Kislyak and Sergey Lavrov.
I think it would be wise of us to remember Hillary's words:
"There is no other Donald Trump.
This is it."
"There is no other Donald Trump.
This is it."
16
Jeff Sessions lied to his colleagues when he said he had not spoken to any of the Russians. And it was not just a simple lie. Sessions volunteered the lie in answer to a different question. Devin Nunes lied about Trump's baseless allegation that Obama had Trump "wiretapped." Ron Rosenstein has now been caught up in this mass of prevarications. He needs to go. They all do. And someone should be investigating Mitch McConnell and Reince Priebus, who have worked closely with this gang.
16
Trump’s firing of James Comey as F.B.I. director seems...like a huge abuse of executive power...
Said another way - something Trump can do that can't be countermanded by a municipal judge in Tacoma...
Imagine what other things he's going to do, now that he's found the instruction manual...
Said another way - something Trump can do that can't be countermanded by a municipal judge in Tacoma...
Imagine what other things he's going to do, now that he's found the instruction manual...
7
This is the act of a cornered animal panicking. Whatever will be unearthed by the intelligence agencies will be 100 times worse. Trump knows this. That's why he fired Comey to throw off the investigation. But it's only a matter of time. This will be really bad for him. We are looking at the possibility of the first American president to ever go to prison. Pence won't pardon him because it will be political suicide for him and the GOP. For traitors, don't they end up in the Supermax? At his age, he'll probably die there. What a precipitous drop from Mar a Largo. A shameful, embarrassing, humiliating drop forever recorded in American history as such.
18
I fear that Mr Rosethal is being too mild. Where is the spirt of the Minutemen of Lexington and Concord?How different are Sessions and Rosensein from General Gage?
2
Republicans, led like lemmings by their mouthpiece Fox News, accuse democrats of doing a 180 on Comey. But that's just it: Despite democrat anger with Comey, we at least gave him allowance on the Trump-Russia probe. When Comey shows signs of being independent, Trump goes ape. I agree with Phyliss Dalmatian, below: FBI, you KNOW you want to leak the evidence that made Trump act in such desperation, especially since the WH is heaping scorn on a Director you admired, rubbing rock salt into the wounds.
6
Right on. Rosenstein, two weeks on the job, went full Devin Nunes. He should resign. Let McCabe run the FBI. He knows what he's doing
25
Nobody knows the troubles he's seen
Nobody knows his sorrows
But we will. Hopefully soon. FBI: you can leak. You know you want to.
Nobody knows his sorrows
But we will. Hopefully soon. FBI: you can leak. You know you want to.
46
I objected to the gratuitous remark that Clinton was "extremely careless". That's not what should be said when no charges are brought. I also objected to his judgment in informing Congress 11 days before the election that the investigation would be reopened. He could have kept quiet until the FBI agents had reviewed the additional emails. As it was, there was nothing new about the additional emails. All that said, Comey was clearly demonstrating the independence required of an FBI director in pursuing the Russian investigation. I hardly think it is hypocrisy to object to both Comey's handling of the Clinton emails and to Trump's obstruction of justice. Trump has just established ground for his own impeachment.
3
Trump is a robot, programmed with artificial stupidity.
22
No, his stupidity comes naturally.
1
Ha ha so true--Trump is so stupid he flourished in the NYC real estate business, has hotels and buildings all over the world with his name on it, built golf courses, and was a successful reality TV star for about a decade. Oh yeah, and he beat like 10 Republicans in the primary and Hillary in the election. This guy is SOOOO dumb.
1
Just like Comey, Rosenstein will be the next fall guy. I see a long line forming there all over DC.
13
We'll see. I think Mr. Rosenstein is mulling over quitting and making a big deal out of it. He has to do something to save his reputation.
2
I think McCabe goes first
Think about it. How bad must the truth be for Trump to prefer this?
Think about it. How bad must the truth be for Trump to prefer this?
You wanted him fired when he was investigating Hillary, lol. Oh, the hypocrisy of Democrats knows no bounds.
7
So why did Trump wait so long?
Talk about hypocrisy. This is Trumpocrisy.
Talk about hypocrisy. This is Trumpocrisy.
5
Wanting someone to be removed from their position for cause cannot be reagraded as justification for endorsing an act of unethical behavior. There are two very different things involved here and it is problematic if someone cannot distinguish the difference.
7
Don't be ridiculous. Trump should/could have fired him right after the inauguration. He LOVED him then! Now that the investigation is closing in, Comey is gone. Talk about hypocrisy????!
2
Not very smart of any head of government to antagonize **both** the foreign and the domestic secret police forces: they can surely bite back!
11
Since the emergence of the Tea Party and the election of Barack Obama, officials of the Republican Party have been trying to subvert American democracy. Democracy require that people and groups with differing ideas negotiate with one another. After Obama's election, Mitch McConnell and the Republican party advocated total opposition to Obama. That is not the way of a democracy.
The Republicans (with few exceptions) have been marching in lockstep with Trump ever since his election. They and Trump pose the greatest threat to our Republic since the civil war. This is all so they can have totlal political power and to hell with the country, which brings us to Comey's ouster.
Although Trump's firing of Comey was legal, the reasons for his doing so are highly suspect. Trump knew that Comey and the FBI were investigating possible collusion between the Trump campaign to influence the election and undermine Clinton. It appears that Trump was (and is) trying to derail that investigation.
Well, Donald Trump, it appears that investigation will continue, although Comey no longer heads the FBI. Despite your authoritarian bent and the backing of the Republicans, we are still a democracy, albeit one in great danger.
It is time for the Republicans to put country ahead of political power.
The Republicans (with few exceptions) have been marching in lockstep with Trump ever since his election. They and Trump pose the greatest threat to our Republic since the civil war. This is all so they can have totlal political power and to hell with the country, which brings us to Comey's ouster.
Although Trump's firing of Comey was legal, the reasons for his doing so are highly suspect. Trump knew that Comey and the FBI were investigating possible collusion between the Trump campaign to influence the election and undermine Clinton. It appears that Trump was (and is) trying to derail that investigation.
Well, Donald Trump, it appears that investigation will continue, although Comey no longer heads the FBI. Despite your authoritarian bent and the backing of the Republicans, we are still a democracy, albeit one in great danger.
It is time for the Republicans to put country ahead of political power.
28
Trump is making it all but impossible for me to compose a comment the NYT will print.
The Republican legislative branch consists of cowards.
Sorry, but that's the best I can do at this moment.
The Republican legislative branch consists of cowards.
Sorry, but that's the best I can do at this moment.
34
I felt like putting in swear words, too.
Now it is quite clear that the democrats are worried.
Because their firewall against investigations into emails and wiretapping, has been breached.
They want to appoint someone who can stick a finger in the dyke, and keep from opening those investigations.
Because their firewall against investigations into emails and wiretapping, has been breached.
They want to appoint someone who can stick a finger in the dyke, and keep from opening those investigations.
"Now it is clear that the democrats are worried"......That is weird. Why would anyone care? Clinton is history; yesterdays news; and besides there never was any there, there.
5
Anyone foolish enough to work in the Trump Administration (minus civil service employees) should expect to be thrown under the proverbial garbage dumpster. They all deserve it. It is a beautiful thing to see his inner-circle (such as it is) fighting and stabbing each other in the back and Donald twisting the dagger. In the end, the only ones who matter are- Trump, Ivanka and Jared.
21
This just in:
Jared Kushner has been appointed to investigate his father-in-law's associations with Russia through his team.
He expects to report by tomorrow afternoon.
Jared Kushner has been appointed to investigate his father-in-law's associations with Russia through his team.
He expects to report by tomorrow afternoon.
21
The GOP has adopted it's official new fragrance, Complicit With Ivanka.
15
Trump was deposed by Lester Holt and that interview will be burned into American History. "I'm not under investigation" and everyone knows that Jim Comey is a "showboat" will be written on bathroom walls and history books.
19
Another wishful thinking article about how a few enlightened, patriotic republicans will - must! - soon stand up to the orange one. Not gonna happen. Not today, not ever.
12
If a compass is a few degrees off, it matters little if one goes ten feet, but go ten miles and you will find yourself resoundingly lost. This president has a compass that swings this way and that on the ship of fools he's cobbed together a so-called administration of, and he is dragging the world along toward the unknown. Batten down the hatches, because it'll be a rough ride.
14
Number one since trump mouthed off prior to and since being elected about EVERYTHING, he never mentioned anything about being negative concerning Comey's comments last July in his absolving Clinton-not a single word in 8 months from the chief big fat mouth. All of a sudden they are firing Comey and citing those comments from last July-this is manufactured and everyone knows the right reason-the Russian connection which must now not only deal with the campaign but with financial dealings with Russia and all other foreign countries.
5
Watergate was about the abuse of Presidential power wrongly exercised to place a helpful thumb on the scales of the 1972 President election.
L'affaire russe strikes at the heart of the American polity in a much more sinister way: a sitting President of the United States and his closest associates have sold out the interests of their country to an unfriendly foreign power, and they did it for money. We know Trump sold a house in Florida that he bought for $41 million in 2005 to Putin's pal Dmitry Rybolovlev for $100 million in 2008. Reuters reported in March that a group of 63 Russian billionaires have invested nearly $100 million in several Trump properties in Florida. Donald Trump Jr. himself famously said in 2008 that “Russians make up a pretty disproportionate cross-section of a lot of our assets. We see a lot of money pouring in from Russia.”
That's the core motive. As to means and opportunity, well, those should be obvious to even a turnip-head like the Chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee.
It is not going too far to say that the future of this great Nation now lies in the hands of a few Republican Senators who have the power to compel an honest, thorough investigation of this entire stinking, treasonous affair.
Stinking? As to the President himself, nothing comes to mind more clearly than the words of John Randolph, the Virginia aristocrat, who said of Henry Clay ''like a rotten mackerel in the moonlight, he both shines and stinks.''
Time to clear the stench.
L'affaire russe strikes at the heart of the American polity in a much more sinister way: a sitting President of the United States and his closest associates have sold out the interests of their country to an unfriendly foreign power, and they did it for money. We know Trump sold a house in Florida that he bought for $41 million in 2005 to Putin's pal Dmitry Rybolovlev for $100 million in 2008. Reuters reported in March that a group of 63 Russian billionaires have invested nearly $100 million in several Trump properties in Florida. Donald Trump Jr. himself famously said in 2008 that “Russians make up a pretty disproportionate cross-section of a lot of our assets. We see a lot of money pouring in from Russia.”
That's the core motive. As to means and opportunity, well, those should be obvious to even a turnip-head like the Chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee.
It is not going too far to say that the future of this great Nation now lies in the hands of a few Republican Senators who have the power to compel an honest, thorough investigation of this entire stinking, treasonous affair.
Stinking? As to the President himself, nothing comes to mind more clearly than the words of John Randolph, the Virginia aristocrat, who said of Henry Clay ''like a rotten mackerel in the moonlight, he both shines and stinks.''
Time to clear the stench.
24
Come on Republicans. Let's get pro- American instead of pro Republican.
7
Who'll carry big businesses bags?
Who in their right mind would agree to work for Trump? The walls (and FBI) are closing in fast. Would you really want your reputation soiled by Trump? Sean Spicer and Kellyanne Conway will have a hard time finding employment at a car wash after this is over.
5
"A little rebellion now and then is a good thing, and as necessary in the political world as storms in the physical." Thomas Jefferson.
Power to the People!
Power to the People!
7
No it is not, you progressives are projecting what you would have as a reason onto others. Try thinking, Comey made massive mistakes, and recently indicated that they were not mistakes. He does not know the difference between investigation and prosecution and thus needed to be fired. It has nothing to do with anything else, and if it actually did that would be a massive issue. The FBI needs a massive reorganization and to be focused on critical things like say gangs, terrorism, etc.
So why wait until he asks the Justice Departnent (Sessions) for more resources to investigate the Russian connection? And of course the FBI needs a massive reorginization if they want to continue to investigate the Russian connection. Duh.
6
Definitely. Collusion of sitting President with an enemy power(Russia) to gain the presidency should not be something we should be worrying about. /s
4
Well his 'massive mistake" concerning the over-hyping of Clinton's emails didnt bother Trump too much since he was the beneficiary of that action.
2
Several moves ahead the eventual President will be a Republican, Pence.
The game is intriguing.
The game is intriguing.
6
If we work hard and canvass, the House of Representatives will be in the hands of Democrats by the time this happened.
You can start with your own back yard.
You can start with your own back yard.
Andy called Senator Mitch McConnell a "toady."
Now why would the great state of Kentucky select such a Profile in Toadyness, who to my knowledge has not done one noble deed in his entire cotton picking life.
Maybe because Kentucky ranks 47th in education ; 45th in life expectancy; first in the number of adults who smoke; and 47th in average income.
Mitch slithered out of the bottom of the barrel.
Now Kentucky shares its lowliness with other Confederate states like Mississippi, Arkansas, West Virginia, Alabama, Louisiana, South and North Carolina and Tennessee.
So we, in better places, have got to make a choice. Either let them all go -- or bring them up to our standards.
Because unless they get smarter and healthier, these states and their trashy leaders, will remain an albatross around Uncle Sam's neck for yet another 150 years.
Now why would the great state of Kentucky select such a Profile in Toadyness, who to my knowledge has not done one noble deed in his entire cotton picking life.
Maybe because Kentucky ranks 47th in education ; 45th in life expectancy; first in the number of adults who smoke; and 47th in average income.
Mitch slithered out of the bottom of the barrel.
Now Kentucky shares its lowliness with other Confederate states like Mississippi, Arkansas, West Virginia, Alabama, Louisiana, South and North Carolina and Tennessee.
So we, in better places, have got to make a choice. Either let them all go -- or bring them up to our standards.
Because unless they get smarter and healthier, these states and their trashy leaders, will remain an albatross around Uncle Sam's neck for yet another 150 years.
19
West Va left Virginia and was a Yankee state
Washmd, my mistake, on West Virginia. I refuse to use anything but memory when writing posts. Now my unreliable impression is also that Hillary carried the democratic primaries in these confederate states, thus giving her the crucial delegates to wrap up the nomination over a man she should have at least had the good sense to make her Vice President, Bernie Sanders. And yet her victories were hollow because didn't Trump carry all of these depraved and broken places in the general election? If we could allow these states to secede, I do hope they take Texas with them. Texas was seeded by bitter rebels and greedy yankees. In it first developed that right wing cancer that has become the Republican Party. And it's draft-dodging LBJ and Vietnam-dodging W, doused in lone star machismo, led America into our expensive and brutalizing mistakes in Asia and the Middle East that has lowered the bar on politics, candidates and country.
1
i honestly dont think this country will survive the willfull ignorance of the republicans, its time for the wealthier, more learned and more socialist coasts to seceed the union and form a country which leaves the religious intolerance ignorance behind
Impeachment is in the air like cherry blossoms on the Capital Mall...both a season too late, but nonetheless forthcoming next annum.
4
If we are to take Trump at his word (a bizarre idea) then he fired Comey because "He's a showboat, he's a grandstander."
Translation: Comey was getting more publicity than me.
We take note that the untouchable Steve Bannon was just taken down several notches after he got more publicity than Trump himself.
"You shall have no other gods before me" is clearly the Trumpian Law. This fixation to be the sole object of attention is going beyond common narcissism and perhaps deserves a new category unto itself in the DSM-5 manual.
Translation: Comey was getting more publicity than me.
We take note that the untouchable Steve Bannon was just taken down several notches after he got more publicity than Trump himself.
"You shall have no other gods before me" is clearly the Trumpian Law. This fixation to be the sole object of attention is going beyond common narcissism and perhaps deserves a new category unto itself in the DSM-5 manual.
The president is a psychopath and not in a metaphorical sense but in the technical, medical sense of the word.
Contrary to popular understanding, psychopaths are rarely the criminal masterminds they are made out to be in popular literature. In real life they tend to get tripped up by their enfeebled understanding of other minds. They tell lies and commit crimes so obvious that they cannot help but get caught. Trump's firing of Comey and subsequent scramble to come up with a plausible excuse seems to be such an instance.
Psychopaths often coast along for a while on sheer chutzpah, but almost always they eventually crash and burn. Many of them wind up in jail. Will that be Trump's fate?
Contrary to popular understanding, psychopaths are rarely the criminal masterminds they are made out to be in popular literature. In real life they tend to get tripped up by their enfeebled understanding of other minds. They tell lies and commit crimes so obvious that they cannot help but get caught. Trump's firing of Comey and subsequent scramble to come up with a plausible excuse seems to be such an instance.
Psychopaths often coast along for a while on sheer chutzpah, but almost always they eventually crash and burn. Many of them wind up in jail. Will that be Trump's fate?
9
As always. Follow the money, as laundered as it may be.
1
My apologies for saying "no" support from Republicans. A few have been brave enough, or concerned enough, to stand up to Trump, including Jeff Flake and John McCain. (Go Arizona!)
3
It's time for Mitch McConnell and the other Republicans to find their backbones and accept that they're backing a loser and a criminal before they're tarred with the same brush that's coming for the lying Donald Trump. Impeach Trump.
3
We can only hope that Obama's administration did a good job in making sure the appropriate information was spread widely enough before Trump took over. The only way anything is going to come to light is if enough people don't feel they can perform the required cover-up duties while still sufficiently protecting their own backsides.
5
Trump has to be desperate to agree to the interview with Lester Holt, plus he's a dolt. To actually say that he had a conversation with Comey where they talked about Comey's job and the investigation. It needs to be over Republicans. You tried to normalize this guy so you could get what you want. It has not worked and he gets crazier every day. Enough.
7
The NYT published an editorial today addressed to Rod Rosenstein, suggesting that he appoint a person of unimpeachable integrity as independent prosecutor and then resign. I agree--and suggest Sally Yates as a candidate for the post. Her honesty, integrity, fearlessness and doggedness in pursuing the facts, shine through in every word and action. This appointment, along with a statement from Rosenstein telling the truth about his Comey letter, would do a great deal to rescue his reputation and his sense of his own integrity.
11
Is it possible that Rosenstein is smarter than he appears today? He followed orders, but look what he wrote. I admire those who defy Trump, but isn't it important that some who are not in his camp manage to keep their jobs?
2
I do not know if it is just coincidental, or my imagination, but it appears that the NYT is getting tougher on Trump and I am encouraged by that.
With no support coming from the Republicans, only the News agencies may be able to exert enough pressure to have an independent investigation regarding the involvement of Russia in last year's election.
With no support coming from the Republicans, only the News agencies may be able to exert enough pressure to have an independent investigation regarding the involvement of Russia in last year's election.
1
The DOJ, through its spokespeople, has in recent days made at least two emphatic statements that have been fairly comprehensively contradicted elsewhere. One was that it was "totally false" that Comey has requested additional resources to investigate Russian meddling. The second was that Rosenstein had threatened to quit. Can someone tell me if the DOJ was deliberately lying to the American people in either or both of these cases? And if so, why is it not being discussed anywhere that I can find?
4
Once members of Congress like Mitch McConnell, the darling of the donor class, realize they are immune from being "primaryed" and are entrenched in office they become callously blind to the needs of people and their allegiance is to their own hunger for power and to the people who stuff their pockets with donations. Maybe if the Democrats win the special election in Georgia and the shockwaves of the nefarious firing of Comey ripple into the duped minds of the forgotten, the Republicans in Congress will break ranks and rid us of the great imposter. I was in law school while Watergate dominated the news. This farcical affair, replete with a corrupt President, foreign interference in the election, and a compliant majority in Congress is even more a threat to our democracy.
7
I believe, very strongly, that Paul Ryan and Mitch Mcconnell are the most culpable in all this because they are enabling Trump's actions for the sake of their own political agenda.
4
Now now. Fair is fair. Trump deserves all of special consideration that Hillary received while she was being investigated. Surely America can turn a blind eye to some of Trump's infractions and violations of law.
1
This just stinks. One problem with Trump is that he has to cover not just one threat to his presidency but several. One under the cover of the "Russian" relationship, two, health care, and three his sanity. The first two are political, the third genetic. This man is unhinged but I cannot figure out whether he is affected by the Tweedledumb or Tweedledee syndrome. Need
I mention a complicient Republican party? Brave lot - not.
The need to see his tax returns is increasing as these events unfold although this has been throughly blurred from public view. Who can help us? Congress? I'm beginning to doubt that.
I mention a complicient Republican party? Brave lot - not.
The need to see his tax returns is increasing as these events unfold although this has been throughly blurred from public view. Who can help us? Congress? I'm beginning to doubt that.
1
"Trump’s firing of James Comey as F.B.I. director seems at this early stage like a huge abuse of executive power"
But he has the power and beyond an orchestrated attempt to get him the tale will continue to go on. This is nothing more than a "Witch Hunt" and further actions to try and derail the fact that he won the presidency and there is no evidence that anyone voted because they were swayed by some underground Russian urging.
So live with it........
But he has the power and beyond an orchestrated attempt to get him the tale will continue to go on. This is nothing more than a "Witch Hunt" and further actions to try and derail the fact that he won the presidency and there is no evidence that anyone voted because they were swayed by some underground Russian urging.
So live with it........
1
I honestly think Trump, in his ever petulant and impulsive manner, fumed over Comey's comment about feeling "mildly nauseous" about his actions affecting the election. That is ALL it took for Trump's narcissistic injury to fire Comey. Period.
2
As has been said many times but continuously needs repeating, if there is nothing to hide, let all investigations proceed, unobstructed, and move on to the business of governing.
Just not going to happen with this (cringe) president, he is ill, and if his sycophants, McConnell, Ryan, et al don't wake up, he will take them down too.
Just not going to happen with this (cringe) president, he is ill, and if his sycophants, McConnell, Ryan, et al don't wake up, he will take them down too.
4
The parallels with Watergate continue. Nixon fired Cox after he requested the tapes and Trump fired Comey after he requested more resources for his Russia investigation.
4
Mr. Rosenthal, please keep the media pressure turned up to high! Trump keeps making error after error. We need his inability to sleep, an unceasing media assault, his preoccupation with his (tarnished) image, and his obvious mental illness, to push him towards the catastrophic mistake that takes him down. God knows we can't count on Republicans to step up and save our nation.
3
Trump's problem is he has a lack of respect for his own constitutional duties, which require careful and reasoned decisions. Apparently he thinks he is above that.
1
What we are seeing is dissembling on a massive scale. Either this "president" knows exactly what he's saying and does so to cause confusion and chaos in an effort to misdirect, or he just says what enters his mind at the moment without remembering what was said previously. A compulsive liar always gets tripped up because he cannot keep all the stories straight.
One day he praises James Comey, a short time later he fires him. One day he says it's because Comey bungled an investigation, then he says it's because FBI agents don't like the guy. Then the acting FBI Director disputes that. One day he cites a "report" recommending Comey's firing from a deputy director barely 20 minutes on the job yet we find out Trump wanted this guy to find some reason to justify the firing.
He can't keep his stories straight. And the firing comes the day before Trump meets with the very Russians his campaign is accused of colluding with. Did they order him to do this to hinder the investigation? It would make sense if the stories are true that Russia has spent years grooming this guy. They're trying to protect their investment. And no one should doubt for a second that the lifting of sanctions on Russia is in the works. Perhaps the rumors that lifting the sanctions will net Putin billions and as payoff Trump gets hundreds of millions.
One day he praises James Comey, a short time later he fires him. One day he says it's because Comey bungled an investigation, then he says it's because FBI agents don't like the guy. Then the acting FBI Director disputes that. One day he cites a "report" recommending Comey's firing from a deputy director barely 20 minutes on the job yet we find out Trump wanted this guy to find some reason to justify the firing.
He can't keep his stories straight. And the firing comes the day before Trump meets with the very Russians his campaign is accused of colluding with. Did they order him to do this to hinder the investigation? It would make sense if the stories are true that Russia has spent years grooming this guy. They're trying to protect their investment. And no one should doubt for a second that the lifting of sanctions on Russia is in the works. Perhaps the rumors that lifting the sanctions will net Putin billions and as payoff Trump gets hundreds of millions.
3
The Russian connection may still be active. Trump met this week with the Russian Ambassador and Foreign Minister. The public has not been informed of the subject matter to any depth. Trump is seeing his approval rating dropping from the low 40s to the high 30s heading back for his low point in response to the Comey firing. Recall that the ratings immediately increased from that low point to the low 40s in response to his bombing of Syria and Afghanistan. Given his desperate need for higher approval ratings, and the presence of his Russian visitors, who knows what may have been cooked up to divert attention away from the FBI investigation. He needs the diversion to happen quickly. Look for something dramatic, possibly in Syria again, but without a Russian military response in return. This is likely to be followed by a bump in the approval ratings and some praise from his current detractors. Although Trump hopes that a diversion like this will relieve him of the Comey firestorm, lets hope that no diversion occurs or that if one does, it does alter the uproar about the Comey affair.
2
Could swear I read something about Trump sending troops back into Afghanistan just last week. Am I mistaken?
The Republicans in Congress will stick with Trump not out of loyalty to him but in hopes they can pass the AHCA with its near-trillion-dollar tax cut for the well-to-do plus the second, follow-on trillion dollar tax cut made possible by lowering federal spending on health by nine hundred million. They will start to desert him if it becomes clear the tax cuts aren't going to happen. At that point, Trump will be an electoral liability in 2018 with no counterbalancing benefit.
For that reason, they will help Trump stonewall for the time being. Don't count on shame. We haven't seen that in a while.
For that reason, they will help Trump stonewall for the time being. Don't count on shame. We haven't seen that in a while.
3
In Mr Rosenstein's defense, any half-way competent lawyer could have written a much better memorandum justifying the firing of Mr Comey. The fact that his memorandum lacked any legal reasoning and cited as grounds for termination actions that trump had previously praised suggests to me that Mr Rosenstein was purposely trying to undercut trump's action. That the President and his other advisors did not see that reinforces their already obvious incompetence.
2
If Trump truly has nothing to hide, he would have already released his tax returns - and - he would be appointing an independent prosecutor to dig as deep as possible providing proof positive that he and his comrades are innocent.
The absence of such actions speak volumes.
The absence of such actions speak volumes.
3
According to our system of justice, you do not have to prove you are innocent.
2
So, if I'm not mistaken, has Sessions put himself in a position that requires disciplinary action, if not impeachment for violating his recusal from any and all aspects of the Russian collusion investigation? It seems the list of parties in the government open to indictment is growing by leaps and bounds. Who or where, may I ask, has/is the legal oversight here? Is anybody in the government on the side of the people and the Constitution?
3
If Rosenstein had any integrity, he would have refused to write the Comey memo, especially since Sessions (who had promised to recuse himself from ANY AND ALL matters relating to Russian involvement in Trump's campaign) was indeed involved. At this point, anything Rosenstein says or does is tainted and highly suspect.
The GOP Congress is unwilling to seriously pursue the issue, Rosenstein is comprised, and there is no effective FBI director in the foreseeable future. All this in spite of the clear possibility - even probability - that a hostile foreign power influenced a Presidential election. This nightmare gets worse by the day and it's hard to imagine how much governmental dysfunction and destruction of public trust lie ahead. Comey exceeded his authority and acted disgracefully but, compared to Trump, he was a saint.
The GOP Congress is unwilling to seriously pursue the issue, Rosenstein is comprised, and there is no effective FBI director in the foreseeable future. All this in spite of the clear possibility - even probability - that a hostile foreign power influenced a Presidential election. This nightmare gets worse by the day and it's hard to imagine how much governmental dysfunction and destruction of public trust lie ahead. Comey exceeded his authority and acted disgracefully but, compared to Trump, he was a saint.
3
I don't mind the notion that getting rid of trump by any means necessary is a worthy one. Certainly his firing of Comey reveals a tone-deafness which he would not accept in others. I find myself playing devil's advocate here, though. Comey has a proven talent for damaging people when he can't find evidence against them; witness the sequence of events in the matter of the Clinton emails. When he asked for more funds to expand his investigation of the Russian connection, it seemed to be the same pattern of responding to not finding evidence by implying there was still evidence to find, and doing so in a manner which would have been certain to damage this administration whatever the result might have been. I am, of course, happy to see this administration getting itself into more trouble, but I can't ignore the evidence that there is, indeed, something troubling in Comey's character.
@Louisa. You're correct about the legality of Comey's firing with one caveat. If Trump intended to obstruct justice by short circuiting an FBI investigation, then that's illegal. It's currently hard to prove, but seems increasingly more likely as the days pass and evidence mounts.
It's also odd that several Trump surrogates were saying the Russia investigation was a waste of money while simultaneously babbling incoherently about the supposed reason for the firing.
I highly doubt Trump's toadies were freelancing when some almost certainly colluded with the Russians to aid his campaign. That's not Trump's style. He enjoys being down and dirty in every sense. And I doubt any of them besides Roger Stone would take a metaphorical bullet for Trump once under oath.
That's why Trump would be desperate enough to risk obstructing justice and the firing of Comey would be illegal.
It's also odd that several Trump surrogates were saying the Russia investigation was a waste of money while simultaneously babbling incoherently about the supposed reason for the firing.
I highly doubt Trump's toadies were freelancing when some almost certainly colluded with the Russians to aid his campaign. That's not Trump's style. He enjoys being down and dirty in every sense. And I doubt any of them besides Roger Stone would take a metaphorical bullet for Trump once under oath.
That's why Trump would be desperate enough to risk obstructing justice and the firing of Comey would be illegal.
3
Michael, thanks for that clarification. It is certainly an important difference.
2
The most troublesome aspect of this administration and the Republicans in congress is their gross negligence. Trump's troubles stem from his lack of ability to understand complexity, sound reasoning, rationale thought. The congressional Republicans fail in the same way and even fail to read the documents they propose as law. This is incomprehensible but explains why our country is now in a crisis. As any teacher knows, a student can't draw conclusions when the subject matter has not been read, studied, and understood. In an academic course, they would get an F. In a corporation, they would be fired. In government, they need to be voted out by the action of every thoughtful citizen. The administration and it supporters is an illness weakening the confidence in this great country but is also the fodder for the reformation inspired by Mr. Sanders and other rationalists driven by science. As strongly as the Republicans would like, the dark ages will not be repeated and ethics will reemerge as a central idea is government.
1
An innocent man would, long ago, have released his tax returns and made sure any investigation was bi-partisan and unhindered. Trump is not an innocent man; we just don't know what he's guilty of. Yet.
4
Even if he knew he was culpable, I cannot conceive that any President of the United States would even consider something as egregious as firing, much less fire, the Director of the FBI and career FBI employee, shortly after Mr. Comey testified that the FBI was continuing its investigation into possible collusion by members of the Trump campaign and possibly others, acting on his behalf, with Russians meddling in the election, actions intended to undermine our Democracy, and who, within the last few days, may have requested or sought additional resources for this investigation and in a manner that should be reserved only for serious wrongdoing.
The rationalizations proffered by the President for this action contradict, directly, multiple statements of support he has made for Mr. Tomey.
Therefore, I agree that, an experienced, trusted, capable, respected and independent counsel must be appointed and funded to continue this investigation.
With respect to the question of whether the President should remain in office, the only reasonable explanation for and therefore the presumption must be that Mr. Comey was fired in a desperate attempt by the President to protect himself and others by interfering with, underfunding and intimidating those still conducting this investigation. The burden of rebutting this presumption must fall on the President.
Failure to do so must result in Impeachment.
The rationalizations proffered by the President for this action contradict, directly, multiple statements of support he has made for Mr. Tomey.
Therefore, I agree that, an experienced, trusted, capable, respected and independent counsel must be appointed and funded to continue this investigation.
With respect to the question of whether the President should remain in office, the only reasonable explanation for and therefore the presumption must be that Mr. Comey was fired in a desperate attempt by the President to protect himself and others by interfering with, underfunding and intimidating those still conducting this investigation. The burden of rebutting this presumption must fall on the President.
Failure to do so must result in Impeachment.
5
How can we effectively parse the statements and actions of a pathological liar? We cannot. We can only look at the actions and consider the character of the individual. When you look a the firing that way, you can only conclude that this is a cover up and an abuse of power.
3
About two percent of congressional republicans have expressed even mild concern about the Comey firing. Time to get used to the idea that nothing, absolutely nothing will shake this partisan majority. And there is nothing anyone on the other side of the aisle or in the press can do about it. There are no profiles in courage out there. None. We all know where this is headed. The fall will not be Trump's alone. It will be the fall of America as we know it.
4
When Trump was warned and given information about Flynn, he was not fired until it was leaked to media. Those days of knowing seem to me to be in collusion with the Russians. To attempt to protect a known collaboration with the Russians of one of Trump's top security officials is evidence enough for me.
1
Senator McConnell seems to be feeling lucky after winning his huge throw of the dice on Merrick Garland. Perhaps if he stonewalls against an independent commission to investigate Trump, he will win again. Or perhaps the American people will take away his majority in 2018. Either way, Mitch McConnell doesn't look much like an American patriot to me.
3
The only reason why Trump fired Comey is to stop the investigation. And Sarah Sanders has confirmed this.
12
She did??? And if it does not stop will you admit that it probably was not a factor? I bet not, you are assuming and projecting. Assuming the investigation is going to find anything, and projecting your motives onto others.
Yes, and in the interview with Holt, Trump first re-made the claim that the whole Russia things was made up by the Dems because they are sore losers, bragged about how hard it is for a Republican to win the Electoral College like he did, then claimed that he wanted the investigation to go on because it's important to know if someone like Russia interfered in our election. One thing's for sure - it's impossible for anyone to know what Trump really thinks - it seems moment to moment that even he doesn't.
20
Trump think? Isn't that an oxymoron?
He doesn't "think" in the conventional use of the word ... no introspection, reflection, assimilation, learning, "thoughtfulness", etc ... it is mostly primitive, reflexive, very unstructured, emotional brain stuff ...
If this so-called presidency runs its course, the prospect of four years of corrupt WH rule (and I do mean rule, not governance) is extremely depressing. And it's not just the WH, because Congress is the willing enabler.
Let's hope that plenty of wings are clipped in the mid-terms.
Let's hope that plenty of wings are clipped in the mid-terms.
42
In editing my comment, I left out an important qualifying phrase. I had meant to write "rule by temper tantrum".
3
You compare Rosenstein's memo to previous documents used to justify "other illegal activity."
But there was nothing illegal about Trump firing Comey.
I happen to like and respect Comey. I think the whole Loretta Lynch-Bill Clinton tarmac meet was a set up tp protect Lynch and put Comey in the crosshairs. But that's just me.
Regardless of what you or I or anyone else believes regarding collusion of various types, Trump did nothing illegal in firing Comey. Bad optics, sure. But illegal, no.
But there was nothing illegal about Trump firing Comey.
I happen to like and respect Comey. I think the whole Loretta Lynch-Bill Clinton tarmac meet was a set up tp protect Lynch and put Comey in the crosshairs. But that's just me.
Regardless of what you or I or anyone else believes regarding collusion of various types, Trump did nothing illegal in firing Comey. Bad optics, sure. But illegal, no.
7
Yes, illegal. In asking Comey 3 times whether he's under investigation.
12
It is illegal to obstruct an investigation. That is what Trump may have done against the advice of others.
I don't think Trump was directly involved in Russia's meddling. However, Russia placed individuals in the campaign machinery that Trump considers loyal & wants to protect them. He may feel that he is the target, due to ego, but I doubt the Russians would want to deal directly with him. They do know how easily he can be influenced & how uninformed he is about the basics of governing & foreign affairs.
I don't think Trump was directly involved in Russia's meddling. However, Russia placed individuals in the campaign machinery that Trump considers loyal & wants to protect them. He may feel that he is the target, due to ego, but I doubt the Russians would want to deal directly with him. They do know how easily he can be influenced & how uninformed he is about the basics of governing & foreign affairs.
Nobody contests that the firing as such was illegal. Nixon firing Cox wasn't illegal either. But it was very questionable due to the investigation into Russian interference and possible collusion of the Trump campaign with the Russians, that might have uncovered illegal actions. Quite a bit more serious than mere "bad optics". And in Nixon's case - well, we know how that ended.
1
I can't help but think this all has something to do with the 600 million dollar loan Trump had to get from Russia. No American bank would loan to 4-tiime bankrupt Trump, so he had to go somewhere else. Then the real estate bubble burst and Trump was left owing Russians almost a billion dollars. They made sure he got to be president, he promised something, and the loans are taken care of.
There is something very fishy in Trump's fear of an investigation. All the more reason to investigate.
There is something very fishy in Trump's fear of an investigation. All the more reason to investigate.
225
Obstruction of justice is illegal, whether it's committed by the attorney general or even the president.
1
You could be on to something.....there is so much wrong doing in this administration that it's hard to keep track, if one is trying to follow and connect the dots. I'm glad to read that many of the commentors here are very concerned for the good of the country.
Exactly. We need to see Trump's tax returns.
So you get your special prosector, ending your, "We must have a special prosecutor!" shtick. And they, find nothing much (you should realize that is a clear possibility) for you to carry on your flailing over, certainly nothing up your gold standard of impeachment. What do you do then? Let me guess, you deny the special prosecutor was good enough, right?
Certainly something might come up on Trump's team & Russia, but most likely it will be legal dealings however shady. This is why your hyperbolic flailing is counter-productive to the liberal cause (I am a Liberal). The intelligent course is to remain calm and have your rapture after you win, not before.
Certainly something might come up on Trump's team & Russia, but most likely it will be legal dealings however shady. This is why your hyperbolic flailing is counter-productive to the liberal cause (I am a Liberal). The intelligent course is to remain calm and have your rapture after you win, not before.
12
If he has nothing to hide, why is he acting like it. He won't do things he demanded of other people. He could put this all to rest by releasing his taxes and cooperating with the investigation. He's done none of that. If he was smart he'd do that, but sadly he is anything but smart. He's big on how he is seen by others. He doesn't look good.
2
People are on the streets of Venezuela, didn't they lose the election? Would you deny protest in Russia? I know Putin would. Would you let chaos run wild waiting for the next election? Nobody got much in Bush's way and real people died, thousands of them. While trillions were shuffled out of the treasury and into the hands of who exactly?
You are ahead of yourself.
Have the investigation. Period.
Surely the GOP is interested in clean elections.
Have the investigation. Period.
Surely the GOP is interested in clean elections.
2
Larger than Watergate since this is collusion with a hostile power. Yet the day after Trump fired Comey, there he and Tillerson are in the White House laughing it up with Russians as seen in a Russian photograph since American photographers were barred. And Trump will meet with Putin in July according to the Russian press.
Trump is Putin's puppet, whether it is due to blackmail, financial entanglements or shared authoritarianism brotherhood.
This president is a disgrace to America and possibly a traitor. The Russian investigation is being obstructed and Trump, Sessions and others would rather dance with Russians than actually bother with caring about any American beyond the 1% and the small base. No wonder 36% is his (once again historically low) approval level, and the first words that spring to mind about Trump according to Quinnipiac are idiot, incompetent and liar.
I truly hope that if the Russian investigation is stalled or perverted by the Republicans that FBI agents, intelligence agents, those who can get Trump's taxes, and others follow their consciences and get the information to a news source for sunshine into the black abyss of corruption surrounding Trump. The country will be everlastingly grateful.
Trump is Putin's puppet, whether it is due to blackmail, financial entanglements or shared authoritarianism brotherhood.
This president is a disgrace to America and possibly a traitor. The Russian investigation is being obstructed and Trump, Sessions and others would rather dance with Russians than actually bother with caring about any American beyond the 1% and the small base. No wonder 36% is his (once again historically low) approval level, and the first words that spring to mind about Trump according to Quinnipiac are idiot, incompetent and liar.
I truly hope that if the Russian investigation is stalled or perverted by the Republicans that FBI agents, intelligence agents, those who can get Trump's taxes, and others follow their consciences and get the information to a news source for sunshine into the black abyss of corruption surrounding Trump. The country will be everlastingly grateful.
143
Do you have any evidence? I bet NO!!!
1
Putin's stooge is more like it.
I've got it!! Trump, Sessions, Rosenstein, McConnell and Ryan should all appoint Yury Chaika as the impartial third party special prosecutor.
He's perfect! He's a top prosecutor. He's not part of the Washington swamp or elite. He knows the rule of law. And knows who gives the orders!!
Who knows, maybe that's what Don and Sergey were discussing yesterday afternoon in the Oval Kremlin?
He's perfect! He's a top prosecutor. He's not part of the Washington swamp or elite. He knows the rule of law. And knows who gives the orders!!
Who knows, maybe that's what Don and Sergey were discussing yesterday afternoon in the Oval Kremlin?
11
Yury should have Chan Byung Kyu on the team as his primary deputy.
Way beyond Russia? First let the American public be reassured that we don't have a traitor in the White House. That is no light problem. If he did indeed network with Putin to subvert the legal elections of the US, will not all other considerations of problems become rather moot? His feverish denials are raising the hairs on the neck of the body politic.
19
Trump's move to fire Comey reeks to high heaven as obstruction of justice and demands the appointment of an untainted special prosecutor. The firing alone, if it was a response to Comey's request for more FBI investigative resources, is a felony! The question of the Trump campaign colluding with Russia to influence the election is treason! America needs answers to this constitutional crisis.
34
Special prosecutors are appropriate only for criminal type cases not this sort. Projecting can be a mental illness.
Nothing new Trump is an untrustworthy incompetent. Not something which wasn't evident many years ago.
Just remember it and move him as soon as possible. He has surrounded himself with a part team of incompetents who if the had guts would vote with their feet. The whole Republican congress is a gang of lame brained toadies with no respect for their task or the American nation. They are only saved by limp opposition.
Just remember it and move him as soon as possible. He has surrounded himself with a part team of incompetents who if the had guts would vote with their feet. The whole Republican congress is a gang of lame brained toadies with no respect for their task or the American nation. They are only saved by limp opposition.
14
I just read your article and its attached comments from "my fellow Americans".
The prevailing theme is that we are all worried about America under Trump. He is flagrantly abusing his power. He is making a mockery of our democracy, and what makes America great. He is destroying it. He believes as President that he is untouchable and above the law, yet worries a bit since the rest of us don't.
Being an American is a sacred trust. Being the President of the United States means you have to be like Caesar's wife, and "above suspicion." He cannot put his personal interests aside to govern fairly and equally. He has temporarily stopped channeling Joseph Goebbels and PT Barnum and is now channeling Julius Caesar. "I came, I saw, and I conquered."
Well, you have not conquered us yet, Mr. Trump.
The prevailing theme is that we are all worried about America under Trump. He is flagrantly abusing his power. He is making a mockery of our democracy, and what makes America great. He is destroying it. He believes as President that he is untouchable and above the law, yet worries a bit since the rest of us don't.
Being an American is a sacred trust. Being the President of the United States means you have to be like Caesar's wife, and "above suspicion." He cannot put his personal interests aside to govern fairly and equally. He has temporarily stopped channeling Joseph Goebbels and PT Barnum and is now channeling Julius Caesar. "I came, I saw, and I conquered."
Well, you have not conquered us yet, Mr. Trump.
17
He is the president, we control both houses and the majority of the states , look at thw electoral college map.We came we saw we conquered ,denial isn't just a river in Egypt. Maga!
Any investigation of the Russian involvement in the election will shake the Trump " tree " inexorably and all kinds of unethical and probably illegal acts will reign down on Trump and , by association , the republicans . In my and many other's opinions Trump is one of the biggest " snake oil " salesmen and charlatans in american history . How that is not apparent to all is the question of the ages !!! I will be shocked if any thing is done . This is how it has always been and shall always be !
2
If there is so much evidence why has none come to light yet? Is the FBI incompetent? How long do your propose to investigate? It probably has been too long already unless they have some objective evidence.
Trump had to fire Comey in order to save face when he met his Russian masters.
...Comey's request for more resources..."
This assertion has been clearly refuted by the acting FBI director and the DOJ Deputy AG. No such request was made.
The NY Times should stop perpetuating this falsehood, unless they can offer proof that it is true.
This assertion has been clearly refuted by the acting FBI director and the DOJ Deputy AG. No such request was made.
The NY Times should stop perpetuating this falsehood, unless they can offer proof that it is true.
5
This from Reuters 8 hrs ago: "A congressional source with knowledge of the matter said Comey told lawmakers within the past few days he had asked the Justice Department to make additional resources available - mainly more staffing - for the Russia probe." Comey apparently did not make the request to DAG Rod Rosenstein personally but to the DOJ, but he did request more resources.
1
Oh, you're being sarcastic, right?
1
No, that assertion has not been refuted by McCabe. He dodged the question. And the Deputy AG himself has not refuted it, only the DoJ spokespeople. John, twisting the facts does not advance the debate.
You must consider that Trump is and has never been a smart man.
He's the bully, who when punched square in the nose, swings wildly, blind in his rage. His whole life is a testament to that.
Let's ask ourselves, what does Trump fear most? What is inner phantom chasing him? Maybe he knows what he actually looks like when the weave shakes out and he's standing in his boxers, before a mirror, just knowing the whole truth.
Let's not forget that the Trump family is very insular. Who are his closest confidants? His children. I have little reason to believe that during the campaign, Ivanka and the boys were not privy to inside information, in the room when plans were hatched and information from Russia exchanged and incorporated into campaign strategy. Let's put all the stooges in a room together. Rudy sure had a lot to say, for a long time. He certainly rambled on and on, in interview after interview. A skilled journalist might want to go over the countless hours of his blathering, glasses askew, as if he'd been sitting on them in the car ride over to the studio. Match televised phrases with the transfer of intelligence from Russia to Page and Manafort. Make a timeline.
Trump walks the empty prison cell of the White House, surrounded by people, but entirely alone. He rages at the television and lashes out like a child, because he knows not only he will be ruined by the mess he's made, but perhaps he mired his children in this.
You pick what you plant, I guess.
He's the bully, who when punched square in the nose, swings wildly, blind in his rage. His whole life is a testament to that.
Let's ask ourselves, what does Trump fear most? What is inner phantom chasing him? Maybe he knows what he actually looks like when the weave shakes out and he's standing in his boxers, before a mirror, just knowing the whole truth.
Let's not forget that the Trump family is very insular. Who are his closest confidants? His children. I have little reason to believe that during the campaign, Ivanka and the boys were not privy to inside information, in the room when plans were hatched and information from Russia exchanged and incorporated into campaign strategy. Let's put all the stooges in a room together. Rudy sure had a lot to say, for a long time. He certainly rambled on and on, in interview after interview. A skilled journalist might want to go over the countless hours of his blathering, glasses askew, as if he'd been sitting on them in the car ride over to the studio. Match televised phrases with the transfer of intelligence from Russia to Page and Manafort. Make a timeline.
Trump walks the empty prison cell of the White House, surrounded by people, but entirely alone. He rages at the television and lashes out like a child, because he knows not only he will be ruined by the mess he's made, but perhaps he mired his children in this.
You pick what you plant, I guess.
29
This would all be laughable, if it were not so tragic.
An administration that is assuming the craven stupidity of its leader.
An administration that is assuming the craven stupidity of its leader.
12
It is now totally obvious that our so-called President is working for the Kremlin.
16
So you actually think someone working for them would attack their client state? Rake them over the coals at the UN? Etc.???
Do you remember the enormous scandal when Bill Clinton went on Loretta Lynch's plane? The impropriety of looking like he was asking about his wife's investigation.
Now you have a president who claims to have asked the head of the FBI in a job interview about the investigation into himself. Where is the outcry?
Now you have a president who claims to have asked the head of the FBI in a job interview about the investigation into himself. Where is the outcry?
28
Why should there be any outcry except perhaps for the person who should have declined to answer?
The MSM, and especially the NYT, who are significantly responsible for Trump's election because of their lopsided reporting and cheerleading for Hillary, now need to step up and try to make amends by reporting incessantly on all the Trump machinations. He, and the Republicans, are counting on the media, and the people, being desensitized by the sheer number of transgressions, and simply, finally, giving in. That cannot be allowed to happen! Shine an unflinching, and unyielding light on all the nefarious actions issued from, and on behalf of, Trump. Stir the populace up to the level of outrage this scandal demands. Do not rest until justice has been served. Our democracy and freedom are at stake.
8
Comey handled Hillary emails poorly. His only comment to the Press should have been either that she would be prosecuted or wouldn't be prosecuted.
This is not the issue here. The issue has to do with the reving up of the investigation of trump. Money and personnel was being requested.
The investigation was continuing full force. trump was trying to derail that investigation.....Trump's sudden concern for Clinton's treatment by Comey is
laughable and insulting to the intelligence of the American people.....Anyone buying that line needs constant supervision and protection from the vagaries of life.
BTW, Why no thank you note from trump to Comey for getting him into the White House in the first place?....Of course that was then and this was now.....
Too late. Too lame.
Who will be "Deep Throat 2"?......The line forms to the right
This is not the issue here. The issue has to do with the reving up of the investigation of trump. Money and personnel was being requested.
The investigation was continuing full force. trump was trying to derail that investigation.....Trump's sudden concern for Clinton's treatment by Comey is
laughable and insulting to the intelligence of the American people.....Anyone buying that line needs constant supervision and protection from the vagaries of life.
BTW, Why no thank you note from trump to Comey for getting him into the White House in the first place?....Of course that was then and this was now.....
Too late. Too lame.
Who will be "Deep Throat 2"?......The line forms to the right
7
No he should have investigated and sent the results to a grand jury since the rest of the Justice department was polluted by their leaders and a meeting.
The Russian connection is a myth, hastily cooked during the final days of the Obama administration, and with ingredients supplied by the losing Hillary camp.
Has Mr. Rosenthal even read the amateurish report put out by the CIA days pre-Trump? The only page worthy of mention is the one intentionally left blank. Otherwise, it's a big zero, bull, tripe, non-facts and leaps of conclusion written by disgruntled Clancy wannabes. And everything since, has been same old, same old, repeatedly recycled and served with the usual indignation.
How would Mr. Rosenthal feel if he ordered pizza and got served with only toppings, burnt to a crisp, toppings he never ordered? And how would he feel if it was served again and again, no pizza, just burnt toppings? That's what this so-called scandal is, a never-cooked pizza served repeatedly with roasted toppings never ordered.
Which is why an independent investigation is wishful thinking. Thank goodness we have Mitch McConnell to politely but firmly rule it out. He's seen it all before, the thunder and the fury, the indignation, the climbing of moral high ground where none exists, the cries to voters ever ready to don their noise-canceling headphones as they've done so often before.
As they probably say in Kentucky, we've heard this MP3 before. Next up: a spanking new FBI director, heavy-duty shredder to trash old Clinton files, dumping of Russian fiction, and a reinvigorated president back at work on MAGA. Nice weekend.
Has Mr. Rosenthal even read the amateurish report put out by the CIA days pre-Trump? The only page worthy of mention is the one intentionally left blank. Otherwise, it's a big zero, bull, tripe, non-facts and leaps of conclusion written by disgruntled Clancy wannabes. And everything since, has been same old, same old, repeatedly recycled and served with the usual indignation.
How would Mr. Rosenthal feel if he ordered pizza and got served with only toppings, burnt to a crisp, toppings he never ordered? And how would he feel if it was served again and again, no pizza, just burnt toppings? That's what this so-called scandal is, a never-cooked pizza served repeatedly with roasted toppings never ordered.
Which is why an independent investigation is wishful thinking. Thank goodness we have Mitch McConnell to politely but firmly rule it out. He's seen it all before, the thunder and the fury, the indignation, the climbing of moral high ground where none exists, the cries to voters ever ready to don their noise-canceling headphones as they've done so often before.
As they probably say in Kentucky, we've heard this MP3 before. Next up: a spanking new FBI director, heavy-duty shredder to trash old Clinton files, dumping of Russian fiction, and a reinvigorated president back at work on MAGA. Nice weekend.
5
It's hard being that Silly, but you succeeded superbly, now bounce off the padded walls.
thank goodness we have Mitch McConnell???????
you can't be serious
you can't be serious
1
Yada, yada, yada... If Donald Trump is innocent and being transparently honest, as only Donald Trump knows how to be, let him release his taxes, let him get in the real Game of Presidents or resign. He's playing a loser's hand. Appoint the Special Prosecutor. Impeach Trump. Welcome to the second 100 days.
1
How's this for a theory:
Sunday Macron wins in France. Possible Russian hacking not effective.
Monday Bad press for Putin even at home. Russian meddling not producing results, too visible, bad press internationally. Call Trump. Russia will be going in a new direction, please get rid of bad press in US re Russian hacking
Tuesday Trump all worked up has to get rid of Russian investigation as asked by Putin. OK I'll fire Comey works for me too. Find reason to do the job. Fire Comey.
Wednesday Lavrov and Kislyak visit Trump. No American press. Well done Comrade! Photos for Putin's memory book.
Thursday White House staff and Trump confused about how to explain it all. GOP sycophants will take care of any 'misunderstandings'. Mission accomplished.
Sunday Macron wins in France. Possible Russian hacking not effective.
Monday Bad press for Putin even at home. Russian meddling not producing results, too visible, bad press internationally. Call Trump. Russia will be going in a new direction, please get rid of bad press in US re Russian hacking
Tuesday Trump all worked up has to get rid of Russian investigation as asked by Putin. OK I'll fire Comey works for me too. Find reason to do the job. Fire Comey.
Wednesday Lavrov and Kislyak visit Trump. No American press. Well done Comrade! Photos for Putin's memory book.
Thursday White House staff and Trump confused about how to explain it all. GOP sycophants will take care of any 'misunderstandings'. Mission accomplished.
US Senate oath of office: I do solemnly swear that I will support and defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies, foreign and domestic; that I will bear true faith and allegiance to the same; that I take this obligation freely, without any mental reservation or purpose of evasion; and that I will well and faithfully discharge the duties of the office on which I am about to enter. So help me God.[
36
Yes same as many federal employees including the president and VP.
McConnell and his bunch are going to need God's help because it's apparent they are unwilling to do it on their own.
1
so how do we go about prosecuting the majority party for perjury?
Rules going forward:
Rule # 1: Republican legislators are traitors.
Rule # 2: Refer to Rule #1.
Rule # 1: Republican legislators are traitors.
Rule # 2: Refer to Rule #1.
24
The reality is that America has a demented, unhinged person at the helm who is posing a serious danger to our country and world relations. What it will take for Republicans to have the courage to admit this is the question. I fear they will take too long to take their blinders off and face this ghastly reality.
9
Rosenstein has ruined a lifetime of building up a reputation. But when you lay down with dogs, you get up with fleas.
7
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 no 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? What Russia and Putin desperately need is money. 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.
What has caused most of the oil price spikes? 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? What Russia and Putin desperately need is money. 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.
What has caused most of the oil price spikes? That has been wars in the Middle East..”
http://seekingalpha.com/article/4034048
6
On November 9, I thought Trump would be an unmitigated disaster with an unlimited capacity for befouling the House of Lincoln, Roosevelt, Kennedy and Obama. He has already exceeded those "limits."
2
I really wish folks would stop comparing Trump to Nixon. True Nixon was a crook, abut he was otherwise a competent President. No comparison.
5
I will be very curious to see polling. I want to get a read on the American public’s reaction to Trump’s firing of Comey. Does it track with the outrage and/or concern expressed on these pages and elsewhere?
I ask because election 2016 was the election of great disconnects. We didn’t always see or hear what people really cared about, the weighting of issues in day-to-day life.
Here’s the key questions, stripped of politics:
Would it trouble you to learn that the President of the United States fired the director of the FBI in the middle of an ongoing FBI investigation into the President's campaign and possible ties to Russia? If yes, how would you weight this issue.
All else aside, this is the heart of the matter (at least right now).
The public's response will have implications, including 2018.
I know it troubles me.
I ask because election 2016 was the election of great disconnects. We didn’t always see or hear what people really cared about, the weighting of issues in day-to-day life.
Here’s the key questions, stripped of politics:
Would it trouble you to learn that the President of the United States fired the director of the FBI in the middle of an ongoing FBI investigation into the President's campaign and possible ties to Russia? If yes, how would you weight this issue.
All else aside, this is the heart of the matter (at least right now).
The public's response will have implications, including 2018.
I know it troubles me.
4
This whole Comey affair will take Trump down. The GOP cannot duck the need to investigate Trump and the Russians with due diligence. Trump is becoming a cooked goose between his constitutional errors, ethical missteps and his collusion with the Russians.
10
What good would it do to have Sessions testify under oath about this latest set of abuses? He showed in his confirmation hearings that he is fine with lying under oath about his own contacts with Russia, and, so far, he has gotten away with it. Why would anyone expect him or any of 45's other minions to start telling the truth now?
3
I don't have a transcript of the NBC interview...but do I understand correctly that Trump and Comey had a "very nice dinner" together - at Comey's request because he wanted to stay on as FBI Director - and during this dinner Trump asked Comey is he (Trump) is the subject of an FBI investigation?
Am I understanding this correctly? Am I missing something here or does this not break multiple rules, laws, etc?
Am I understanding this correctly? Am I missing something here or does this not break multiple rules, laws, etc?
8
Sen. Warner and Sen Burr, Senate Intelligence Committee heads asked FBI director James Comey to expedite or expand the investigation into Russian meddling in the 2016 election and the role of the Trump campaign. Director Comey went to his boss the Deputy Attorney General for additonal resources for the investigation. The next day or shortly there after, Comey was fired for being a showboater.
Isn't this obstruction of justice? An FBI director has never been fired for cause in the Bureau's history except for Clintons firing of William Sessions because he was taking personal benefits from his position.
More importantly why don't the Republicans care? What is their agenda and who is it for?
Isn't this obstruction of justice? An FBI director has never been fired for cause in the Bureau's history except for Clintons firing of William Sessions because he was taking personal benefits from his position.
More importantly why don't the Republicans care? What is their agenda and who is it for?
7
As angry as I am with Trump and his team of deplorables, I am downright ENRAGED at Paul Ryan and Mitch McConnell.
Simply put: THEY KNOW BETTER.
....and that makes their treasonous activities all the more galling.
Simply put: THEY KNOW BETTER.
....and that makes their treasonous activities all the more galling.
Isn't this tactically brilliant?
Link everything (Comey, the Russian allegations, Flynn, and God knows what else), leave no-one untainted -not on the GOP's side anyway- and the waters get murkier by the day.
It becomes a matter of hearsay, partisan issues, vague paper trails, half-heard conversations, casual remarks, a fall guy here a patsy there, loyalty and betrayal, tweets (lets not forget the tweets!)...
And all that against the backdrop of a bare-bones Administration and a White House that hasn't got around to managing anything.
It's renders an investigation and the appointment of, Dear Lord, an Independent Counsel nigh on impossible!
Because for an investigation to clarify matters, it really does need physical evidence, documents, reliable transcripts, all duly notarized and actionable.
And that isn't the strong suit of Donald the Magnificent's style of management, not as a businessman and not as Leader of the Free, but getting more expensive by the day, World.
So, even if this Congress finds the courage to defy POTUS -in itself a doubtful proposition- and if someone can be found who fits the criteria to be an effective and unbiased investigator, how big is the chance that it will really deliver clarity and not fizzle out in a welter of recriminations?
If it had been scripted in a meeting room in the SVR's Moscow Headquarters it couldn't be more harmful to the image and the position of the US in the world or to the esteem for the Office of President.
Link everything (Comey, the Russian allegations, Flynn, and God knows what else), leave no-one untainted -not on the GOP's side anyway- and the waters get murkier by the day.
It becomes a matter of hearsay, partisan issues, vague paper trails, half-heard conversations, casual remarks, a fall guy here a patsy there, loyalty and betrayal, tweets (lets not forget the tweets!)...
And all that against the backdrop of a bare-bones Administration and a White House that hasn't got around to managing anything.
It's renders an investigation and the appointment of, Dear Lord, an Independent Counsel nigh on impossible!
Because for an investigation to clarify matters, it really does need physical evidence, documents, reliable transcripts, all duly notarized and actionable.
And that isn't the strong suit of Donald the Magnificent's style of management, not as a businessman and not as Leader of the Free, but getting more expensive by the day, World.
So, even if this Congress finds the courage to defy POTUS -in itself a doubtful proposition- and if someone can be found who fits the criteria to be an effective and unbiased investigator, how big is the chance that it will really deliver clarity and not fizzle out in a welter of recriminations?
If it had been scripted in a meeting room in the SVR's Moscow Headquarters it couldn't be more harmful to the image and the position of the US in the world or to the esteem for the Office of President.
1
In a way, for the way it's turning out for our country, because of the election of Donald Trump as president, I almost feel sorry for the people that elected Donald Trump. How could they have been so gullible and easily manipulated by him?
You would think for the ones that voted for him and who have any sense, they must be on one big guilt trip.
You would think for the ones that voted for him and who have any sense, they must be on one big guilt trip.
3
To me, the really eerie photo from trump’s Tuesday Afternoon Massacre was him sitting with Henry Kissinger. Talk about a blast from the past.
https://www.nytimes.com/2017/05/10/us/politics/trump-comey-firing.html
Then and now, the firings were the moves of very desperate men. Nixon was forced out of office less than a year later. I hope for a similar timeline now, if not sooner. I hope we don’t have to wait for a 2019 Dem majority in the House. I don’t think we can take much more of this current Long National Nightmare.
https://www.nytimes.com/2017/05/10/us/politics/trump-comey-firing.html
Then and now, the firings were the moves of very desperate men. Nixon was forced out of office less than a year later. I hope for a similar timeline now, if not sooner. I hope we don’t have to wait for a 2019 Dem majority in the House. I don’t think we can take much more of this current Long National Nightmare.
4
How will any of this matter if the GOP won't move forward with a special prosecutor? I feel we are watching the collapse of our institutions in real time, while so many of our elected and appointed officials just....Do nothing. The GOP is moving forward lethargically, in a pro-forma manner. They have no interest in the Republic, ethics, tradition or seeking truth.
Had a Democrat been at the center of this scandal, there would be a special prosecutor assigned, months ago.
Had a Democrat been at the center of this scandal, there would be a special prosecutor assigned, months ago.
1
This is horrible, disgusting, corrupt behavior. The entire administration-- from President to Attorney general to spokesman-- is spewing out lie after lie. The firing was unprofessional and suspect. The president's tweets are vicious, embarrassing and inappropriate. The majority of congressional republicans are flirting with treason. And this is not to even mention the whole corrupt business with Russia which we are only beginning to untangle. The world is watching, and we look like a terrible joke. Our country deserves better than this!
4
This is bigger than Watergate. It has morphed into an octopus of international intrigue and domestic corruption. The number of naïve politicians who are involved and stuck in the web is too large. The administration is the subject of ongoing ridicule on a world wide scale. The administration is only capable of limping along until the president causes another crisis with another angry outburst or unfortunate bragging gaffe. The public has become way too impatient for justice. In 41 AD as Caligula's action became more outrageous, the people of Rome began to hate him. He stated that he would leave Rome for Egypt where he would be seen as a living God. He was killed shortly after. The people of this country will kill the Presidency of Donald Trump by never letting go of this scandal. The only question now is how long it will take.
2
This country can either have the GOP, or it can have the rule of law. There isn't room enough for both. One must die so that the other may live. There's no room in a democracy for a party like the Republicans.
8
McConnell: I bet the Democrats are going to use this as yet another reason why there should be an independent investigation...
You sure nailed it on the head there Mitch, because yeah, this sure looks like yet another reason where there should be an independent investigation.
You sure nailed it on the head there Mitch, because yeah, this sure looks like yet another reason where there should be an independent investigation.
6
Finally a reporter calls McConnell like most intelligent americans see him -- a loyal Toady to Trump.
Can't risk his wife's cabinet posiition after all. Conflict of interest with no repercussions, thy name is GOP.
Can't risk his wife's cabinet posiition after all. Conflict of interest with no repercussions, thy name is GOP.
8
The level of misinformation within this administration is beyond the pale. This week just re-affirms what was already true. We, the American public, are counting on the work of investigative journalists to uncover the truth behind this "deplorable" administration. The firing of Comey seems, to me at least, alongside the quotes from Sanders today that we will not have any semblance of integrity from the dept of justice. I'm begging the NYT and all journalists to remain diligent and protect the American people.
1
Who would have thought that FBI Director Comey, bane of the Clinton candidacy, would prove the keystone, which once removed, will likely lead to the undoing of a Trump Presidency!
My advice to intransigent Republicans is simply to get on the "right side" of this NOW. We are tired of Kellyanne spin and the willing blindness of the "Party First" Republicans. Your deal with the Devil has produced bitter fruit... just spit it out!
My advice to intransigent Republicans is simply to get on the "right side" of this NOW. We are tired of Kellyanne spin and the willing blindness of the "Party First" Republicans. Your deal with the Devil has produced bitter fruit... just spit it out!
3
Like a Chinese finger trap, the more Trump struggles to extricate himself from his predicaments, the more trapped he becomes.
3
The GOP seems to have evolved into as party that governs only by exercise of power while the democrats are still obsessed with governing by process and policy. Its a totally mismatched game.
2
Watching the "highlights" from Trump's interview with Lester Holt which will be aired this evening.
Trump is asked if he asked Comey if he was under investigation: "I asked him..."
And at another point Trump says again Comey told him three times that he wasn't under investigation and "I've heard that from others." So, who are these "others" that have told Trump he is not under investigation?
Personally, I think this statement just confirms that Trump is lying about the "three times" because it is totally in line with how he works: recall, when finally, during a press conference, he was confronted with the truth/numbers about his claim of the "biggest electoral win"....he said, well, I've seen that, people told me that.
Is it conceivable that trump's advisors told him that firing Comey at this time will raise the spectre of obstruction of justice/shutting down the investigation and trump is too stupid or too arrogant to have heeded their advice.
John Dean said last evening, giving on-air advice to White House Counsel, which includes Don McGann and 26 guns hired from Washington firms, that the job of the White House Counsel is to protect and serve the Office of the Presidency and not the person of the president. Thus far, they appear to be failing, badly, in their duties.
Trump is asked if he asked Comey if he was under investigation: "I asked him..."
And at another point Trump says again Comey told him three times that he wasn't under investigation and "I've heard that from others." So, who are these "others" that have told Trump he is not under investigation?
Personally, I think this statement just confirms that Trump is lying about the "three times" because it is totally in line with how he works: recall, when finally, during a press conference, he was confronted with the truth/numbers about his claim of the "biggest electoral win"....he said, well, I've seen that, people told me that.
Is it conceivable that trump's advisors told him that firing Comey at this time will raise the spectre of obstruction of justice/shutting down the investigation and trump is too stupid or too arrogant to have heeded their advice.
John Dean said last evening, giving on-air advice to White House Counsel, which includes Don McGann and 26 guns hired from Washington firms, that the job of the White House Counsel is to protect and serve the Office of the Presidency and not the person of the president. Thus far, they appear to be failing, badly, in their duties.
3
Funny how the GOP is such a big fan of special prosecutors when Democrats are the subject of even the slightest possible wrongdoing in the distant past (think Whitewater), but when facing a scandal of epic proportion affecting the very foundations of our country's Constitutional democracy, the Republicans balk.
One would think that if Trump and company were truly concerned with voter fraud, the insertion of Russia in the elections of 2016 would be a paramount concern. Instead, Trump seems bent on wrangling over whether he earned more popular votes than Mrs. Clinton, something that just will not happen and makes no difference except to his monumental, narcissistic ego.
To say the Trump administration is an ethical and Constitutional disaster is to state the problem mildly. An independent prosecutor, appointed by a senior career official in the Justice Department, should be appointed post haste.
One would think that if Trump and company were truly concerned with voter fraud, the insertion of Russia in the elections of 2016 would be a paramount concern. Instead, Trump seems bent on wrangling over whether he earned more popular votes than Mrs. Clinton, something that just will not happen and makes no difference except to his monumental, narcissistic ego.
To say the Trump administration is an ethical and Constitutional disaster is to state the problem mildly. An independent prosecutor, appointed by a senior career official in the Justice Department, should be appointed post haste.
1
There are, no doubt, a number of Republican Congresspersons wondering how they get rid of Trump without irreparably losing his constituency. Without that constituency, they may be done as a party.
Their best option is to try to convince him to resign, and to do so soon. He won't--he cares about no one but himself--but it's worth a try.
Their best option is to try to convince him to resign, and to do so soon. He won't--he cares about no one but himself--but it's worth a try.
There may not be a fire where the Russian connection is concerned. But is certainly more than smoke. I think we are actually seeing some sparks. One is bound to ignite.
The noose tightens, but the egomaniacal Trump is not going to go quietly if it ever actually gets to that point. Like Iraqis setting oil wells on fire while being driven out of Kuwait, he will vindictively burn as much down as he can on his way out. This is getting uglier all the time.
7
Notwithstanding "toady" McConnell's and other Republicans resistance, once a real, non-partisan investigation gets going, would anyone, such as an independent prosecutor have the power to look at Trumps' taxes and financials? It's got to show he's been pumping Russian money into his businesses for a long time and could reveal a lot as we march along the impeachment trail.
It's pipe dream to think that anything will from Comey's firing or the Russia investigation(s). It will be quietly sidelined until it's forgotten. The Republicans could see a video of Trump accepting a billion dollars from Putin played on every TV network the same day Trump says he wants to repeal sanctions and you know what would happen? Nothing. Nothing at all.
If it isn't already obvious to everyone on planet Earth, the Republicans care nothing for the Republic or the Constitution or any of the other stuff they pretend to hold so close to their hearts.
Trump's Presidency will go the full four years barring some miracle, it might last 8 or 12 or 16 because does anyone really seriously think that once a strongman gets in control he'll just leave when his time is up?
If it isn't already obvious to everyone on planet Earth, the Republicans care nothing for the Republic or the Constitution or any of the other stuff they pretend to hold so close to their hearts.
Trump's Presidency will go the full four years barring some miracle, it might last 8 or 12 or 16 because does anyone really seriously think that once a strongman gets in control he'll just leave when his time is up?
2
I am so far removed from information that I don't know if Russia influenced the election or not. News reports are not favorable, but I listened to the news yesterday and I could have been on another planet and it was not Fox. So I don't know. Trump may not actually know himself. But anything that may make Trump look illegitimate is an existential threat to his ego and so he must fight back, in advance. If there were no illegal votes, or if the crowd wasn't as large as Obama or if there is an investigation that may make Trump look small or illegitimate, he must preempt the possible outcome and keep himself on top. This is, I believe, the core issue.
Well, we know what is wrong with the president, but what is wrong with the Republican Party? I've never had a great opinion of the right wing, but I never thought they were that bad either. I always thought we all -- whether liberal or conservative -- fundamentally believed in the American system of government. After all, Republicans claim to cherish democracy and the constitution so deeply. But now I am terrified. I am no longer convinced that Republicans and about half our country really care at all about the basic principles upon which our country was founded. I feel like people who care about justice, fairness and basic democratic values are adrift at sea. We have to fight -- but how? I've called my representative a dozen times over the past few months, but he's an ardent Trumpist and doesn't care. What can we do?
1
It seems that we need the equivalent of Deep Throat, Woodward & Bernstein to get to the bottom of this fiasco of GOP controlled government with a clearly incompetent POTUS. Patriotic leakers and courageous investigative reporters may be our only hope.
It could be even worse. Democrats controlled congress in 1972 and provided the traditional check on presidential power. Sam Ervin and others were exemplary public servants and maintained a focus on justice. Even Nixon, scoundrel and mountebank that he was, was an experienced public official and understood to a point what he could and could not get away with. That doesn't excuse anything of course. He was a fundamentally dishonest man, though a smart one.
This crowd has no such grounding. There are no checks, McConnell is no Sam Ervin, and the president is oblivious to concepts of public service, accountability, or justice. His supporters are the same. It's a monolith.
This crowd has no such grounding. There are no checks, McConnell is no Sam Ervin, and the president is oblivious to concepts of public service, accountability, or justice. His supporters are the same. It's a monolith.
2
Yes, indeed. What happened to James B. Comey's request for more resources to step up his investigation of the Russian/Trump campaign? Has the request been granted even though Mr. Comey was fired. Supposedly the investigation is continuing full force. As Mr. Rosenthal asks, did President Trump find out about the request? Did Deputy Attorney General Rod Rosenstein or AG Sessions tell Trump about it? I'd really like to know.
I wonder if the Comey firing was timed to be done after the House passed the anti-Obamacare vote last week, otherwise, the outcry would have sidelined that legislation. Looks like they are just "taking care of business", to barricade the walls with "yes-men" in all: Congressional branches, Secretaries, departments, agencies, etc. The problem is, this Russia meddling thing won't go away I think, especially now.
The only good thing about this travesty is that it may bring Trump down, and that would be a good thing for the country. Trump is incompetent and arrogant, a deadly combination for a President of the U.S. Shame on the Republicans who are standing with Trump. An independent investigation must begin. Sadly we are all in this together. This dangerous man is President of our country, but as each day passes it becomes clearer and clearer that he must be relieved of his office as quickly as possible so the nation can recover and heal from this exhausting chaos of turmoil and disorder.
2
The Orwellian nightmare continues. Each day, I wake up wondering if the country's leadership can be any more inept and unethical and each day, I am (unfortunately) not disappointed. Watergate will pale in comparison to the final results of this scandal. I just wish it were past history instead of our collective present and future.
3
An excellent article. I agree fully with the author that the Democrats in the Congress should keep up the pressure - but we know that the Republicans will resist (modulo a noble exception here and there). If democracy is to be salvaged, it is the media - or at least the serious one such as the NYT and WP - that should not let go of this blatant disrespect for law.
Rather than their relationship to Nixon and the Saturday night massacre, the latest actions of the current administration feel more like the lead-up to the Army-McCarthy hearings, perhaps no surprise given that Roy Cohen was a Trump mentor. McCarthey nurtured and, for a while, thrived on a movement based on stoking fear and demonizing his opponents. His house of cards depended on his manufacturing ever increasingly dramatic conflicts; however, at a certain point, the insanity of his claims became obvious to his foes and most friends alike. His fall was meteoric. Strange as it may seem, perhaps the FBI has become the new Army.
Trump is going to be undone by his statement that Comey told him three times, including at a dinner at the White House, that he was not under investigation (although the fact that the WH is no longer making visitor logs available is very worrying). Comey should be subpoenaed by the Senate committee investigating RussiaGate and asked whether Trump's statements are true. When he states under oath that it isn't true, Trump is going to be caught in the biggest bald-faced lie of all, and that should hopefully break the investigation logjams in Congress and bring the Trump "administration" down.
1
According to experts quoted in Jennifer Rubin's Washington Post column of today, there appears to be a strong case to be made that the attorney general of the United States, by participating in the firing of the director of the F.B.I., has committed a felony, i.e., obstruction of justice. Further, by reneging on his promise to recuse himself in the matters of Hillary Clinton's emails and the Trump campaign connections to Russia, Mr. Sessions has apparently violated legal ethics, making him subject to disbarment.
When these issues are added to the fact that he perjured himself during his confirmation hearing by denying he had any contact with Russian government officials or operatives during the campaign or transition, it should become clear that Mr. Sessions is unfit to serve as attorney general of the United States.
When these issues are added to the fact that he perjured himself during his confirmation hearing by denying he had any contact with Russian government officials or operatives during the campaign or transition, it should become clear that Mr. Sessions is unfit to serve as attorney general of the United States.
2
It took a long, long time to get to the bottom of Watergate, and took independent news men to carry the weight of the "prosecution". Looking at our Congressional leadership today, I think outside pressure is going to be the only way Trump will be forced to pay for his sins.
Seeing Kissinger at the white House brought back those long days and nights watching Nixon dissolve into a puddle of self pity and retribution. His aides were jailed; his reputation ruined, but he held on to the bitter end.
I hope we don't have to see those days again, but I am willing to live through it if Trump is forced to tell the truth, and his treacherous behavior finally uncovered. Keep up the good reporting. all of you in the "mainstream media". The truth will out!
Seeing Kissinger at the white House brought back those long days and nights watching Nixon dissolve into a puddle of self pity and retribution. His aides were jailed; his reputation ruined, but he held on to the bitter end.
I hope we don't have to see those days again, but I am willing to live through it if Trump is forced to tell the truth, and his treacherous behavior finally uncovered. Keep up the good reporting. all of you in the "mainstream media". The truth will out!
1
Yes, trump has troubles. But with the power that comes with "owning" the Dept. of Justice, the House, Senate, and the right wing press (oops, propaganda arm), it's going to take a bulldozer to root him out. But root him out we must... he will destroy our Democracy if he lasts past the 2018 elections.
There are two ways to succeed at this: 1) have the Investigation find evidence of an impeachable offense, or 2) take back control on the House and Senate in 2018.
As for #1, Rosenstein sold out. The investigation is severely hindered now that the FBI is "owned" by trump. The House and Senate Investigative leaders will delay forever, calling witnesses in a carefully scripted dance that appears to be on course, but in reality is bobbing and weaving around the truth, never getting too close.
As for #2, it will be a difficult job winning enough House and Senate seats to make a difference in 2018. Why? First, because the far-right is enormously well funded, and second, the far-right media keeps the base loyal by feeding them constant spin and propaganda. It's hard to change the mind of a right-wing republican.
How to succeed? We will make such a strong push-back (demonstrate, email, phone, vote) that the Republican officials will fear losing their jobs. They must come to believe that the Investigation will help them, that trump is bad. We must fill Republican voters' minds with doubt. We will use the most powerful political force of all, the will of the people.
There are two ways to succeed at this: 1) have the Investigation find evidence of an impeachable offense, or 2) take back control on the House and Senate in 2018.
As for #1, Rosenstein sold out. The investigation is severely hindered now that the FBI is "owned" by trump. The House and Senate Investigative leaders will delay forever, calling witnesses in a carefully scripted dance that appears to be on course, but in reality is bobbing and weaving around the truth, never getting too close.
As for #2, it will be a difficult job winning enough House and Senate seats to make a difference in 2018. Why? First, because the far-right is enormously well funded, and second, the far-right media keeps the base loyal by feeding them constant spin and propaganda. It's hard to change the mind of a right-wing republican.
How to succeed? We will make such a strong push-back (demonstrate, email, phone, vote) that the Republican officials will fear losing their jobs. They must come to believe that the Investigation will help them, that trump is bad. We must fill Republican voters' minds with doubt. We will use the most powerful political force of all, the will of the people.
I think all of this will turn on the truth of Trump's claim that Comey told him three times that Trump was not being investigated as part of the FBI's Russia probe. If that claim turns out to be false, we may be on the road to impeachment.
I don't think it can go on forever without a revolution. Remember there are far more independent and Democratic voters than there are Trump supporters. Outrage on outrage is lessening the power of that word.
For a while I actually thought Trump might get away with all of this, but now I don't think so. He has made too many critical mistakes, and he is so thin skinned he is bound to make more. The press will keep up the heat, and the more egregious trump's behavior becomes the more Republicans will jump on board if nothing else to save their seats.
I'm not trying to say that great damage has not been done to our democracy, because it has. We really can't stay one nation if we have two diametrically opposed versions of the truth floating around TV, print media, and online social media.
That kind of polarization may take years to overcome. But I just don't think Donald Trump himself is going to survive the numerous overlapping investigations and complaints over his behavior in office.
For a while I actually thought Trump might get away with all of this, but now I don't think so. He has made too many critical mistakes, and he is so thin skinned he is bound to make more. The press will keep up the heat, and the more egregious trump's behavior becomes the more Republicans will jump on board if nothing else to save their seats.
I'm not trying to say that great damage has not been done to our democracy, because it has. We really can't stay one nation if we have two diametrically opposed versions of the truth floating around TV, print media, and online social media.
That kind of polarization may take years to overcome. But I just don't think Donald Trump himself is going to survive the numerous overlapping investigations and complaints over his behavior in office.
13
You're pretty smart, Christine. I sure hope you're right on this one.
1
And what about Sarah Huckabee Sanders saying that the Administration hopes that the firing of Comey will bring an end to the Russia investigation? That is basically what this is about, no matter what Trump or anyone else says to the contrary. But as McCabe said in his testimony, that is not going to happen under his watch. But, unfortunately, he won't be around too much longer. And in his place will be someone who promises Trump that the investigation will be derailed.
17
I couldn't believe she said that, but it's true. She said the firing of Comey was meant to end the investigation into Russia/Trump.
Trump's NBC interview makes matters infinitely worse for Comey and Trump.
If Trump's version is true ( a big If), Trump has dinner with Comey and two phone calls, at a time when Comey is seeking re-nomination as FBI director. (Never mind the fact that the FBI Director is appointed for a 10 year term and re-nomination is not required and that Trump displays woeful ignorance of that.)
According to Trump, he asks Comey is he is under investigation. Could Trump reasonably be seen as signaling to Comey that the job is his as long as Trump is not investigated?
And that Trump fired Comey because Trump was under investigation, thereby breaching of their arrangement?
But I would be surprised if any of Trump's story is true.
If Trump's version is true ( a big If), Trump has dinner with Comey and two phone calls, at a time when Comey is seeking re-nomination as FBI director. (Never mind the fact that the FBI Director is appointed for a 10 year term and re-nomination is not required and that Trump displays woeful ignorance of that.)
According to Trump, he asks Comey is he is under investigation. Could Trump reasonably be seen as signaling to Comey that the job is his as long as Trump is not investigated?
And that Trump fired Comey because Trump was under investigation, thereby breaching of their arrangement?
But I would be surprised if any of Trump's story is true.
43
It cannot be true because Crooked Donnie made a yuge mistake. He said that James Comey called him and asked for a dinner meeting of just the two of them so that Comey could plead for his job with the new administration.
Did you get that? A man who is serving a 10 year term has no need to beg the incoming president NOT to "let him go". Trump's lie showed that, once again, he has no idea how the government works.
Did you get that? A man who is serving a 10 year term has no need to beg the incoming president NOT to "let him go". Trump's lie showed that, once again, he has no idea how the government works.
""Rosenstein was either a witness to or a participant in the decision to fire Comey and cover up the true reason with the laughable claim that Comey was being dismissed because of his handling of Hillary Clinton’s emails".
Even Rosenstein cannot believe that explanation. Whether Rosenstein was a witness or a participant in the plot it does not matter. In a CNN interview with Anderson Cooper on Tuesday night, Kellyanne Conway herself suggested that
the Clinton material was mere pretext. “This has nothing to do with the campaign from six months ago,” “This has everything to do with the performance of the FBI director since the president has been in the White House" So what did the FBI director do in the last few months for his performance to get worse?
Even Rosenstein cannot believe that explanation. Whether Rosenstein was a witness or a participant in the plot it does not matter. In a CNN interview with Anderson Cooper on Tuesday night, Kellyanne Conway herself suggested that
the Clinton material was mere pretext. “This has nothing to do with the campaign from six months ago,” “This has everything to do with the performance of the FBI director since the president has been in the White House" So what did the FBI director do in the last few months for his performance to get worse?
52
This entire Presidency reminds me of something my dad used to tell me: Don't lie, and you will never have to struggle to remember what you said in the past. Nobody in this administration can keep a consistent story for 24 hours, because the lies are coming so fast and furiously. This is truly a fake Presidency.
474
James, easily put "Liars have to have good memories." Per my husband to our kids.
MIMA
MIMA
1
"Nobody in this administration can keep a consistent story for 24 hours".
Indeed, but it seems that they can't even do that for a mere couple of hours.
Indeed, but it seems that they can't even do that for a mere couple of hours.
You pay now or your pay later, but at some point Trump will pay...not now, with a Republican controlled House/Senate, but when those tables turn, as they will, I would predict the Democrats will make Benghazi look like picnic in the park compared to what they will unleash.
50
I certainly hope so. They'd better not wuss out on this.
1
There are now too many people implicated in illegal, unethical, dishonest, criminal, or unconstitutional behavior. There are too many lies, cover ups and conflicting stories on record. Someone is going to get indicted, subpoenaed or called to testify before Congress and they are going to roll over on this whole stinking pile of incompetent criminals.
Drain the swamp indeed.
Drain the swamp indeed.
165
Doug Drake Idaho - I study the Constitution, I'd love to be able to name one thing here that is unconstitutional. So please name it. And keep in mind that just because you dislike a thing does not make it unconstitutional!
I certainly won't be holding my breath. We're under an autocracy and its head is Mitch McConnell
Sure are! and I hope John Roberts and that super-Roberts Gorsuch will be among them.
I think Trump wants to discredit anyone who has information about how he won the election. Trump is a dishonest person even people in his party say this. He did not win the election fairly. We need to impeach him. We the American people deserve better than Trump.He was always in the news when he lived in NY City.....all bad. The American people need to to get together and impeach him. It is time to stop being stupid and see this man for who he really is.
63
The optics of Trump standing in the Oval Office with two Russian diplomats, grinning giddily, the day after the Comey firing, is unmistakable. Putin fired Comey because the investigation was getting too close.
948
And did you see the portrait of George Washington on the wall above them all? Trump is disgusting.
1
Maybe he'll switch from Twitter to Snapchat.
1
Putin, recognizing that he could not simply kill Comey (yet), like back home, and also knowing that firing him would look bad, would not have asked Trump to fire Comey. Instead, get an obscure judge running an obscure trial somewhere in, say, Montana, to rule on a case showing Comey took bribes to drop some matter. All evidence forged or perjured, but never mind. Then, that judge, and all those (Trump appointees or staunch Republicans all) would agree with the case. This was Putin's way in Russia (and still is, most of the time).
Then, removing Comey would be the obvious thing for Trump to do--because, after all, you can't have the head of the FBI taking bribes.
Trump is neither bright nor careful enough to do what Putin might have requested of him--probably to Putin's frustration. I guess those of us who do not wish to live in a right-wing, nationalist dictatorship determined to make this country (and the planet) a hell-hole for anyone not very wealthy should feel lucky.
Then, removing Comey would be the obvious thing for Trump to do--because, after all, you can't have the head of the FBI taking bribes.
Trump is neither bright nor careful enough to do what Putin might have requested of him--probably to Putin's frustration. I guess those of us who do not wish to live in a right-wing, nationalist dictatorship determined to make this country (and the planet) a hell-hole for anyone not very wealthy should feel lucky.
1
When I consider the behavior of the Republicans in Congress who are defending Trump and ruling out an independent investigation, one word comes immediately to my mind: treason.
324
Another word comes to my mind: complicity.
1
McConnell's wife just got a nice job from trump. He doesn't want her fired so he will block an investigation.
1
It continues to amazes me that Trump’s team — that is, the WH staff, hand-picked officials, and Republican legislators in Congress — continue to support him to the extent they do. Don’t they know that everyone who nears Tump’s (toxic) airspace suffers? Now would be a good time for them to stake their distance.
36
Congress needs a lesson in logic.
Whatever you feel about Mr. Comey's "conceal or speak" argument in his Congressional testimony, it seems inarguable that he is a patriotic man who had a very difficult job. He did not seem frightened of speaking out to Congress nor to the President, and he apparently was greatly respected by his colleagues in the FBI. He did quickly determine that there was no need to pursue a case against Mrs. Clinton in November 2016, but he had not yet reached that decision on the Russian-Trump campaign scandal in May 2017.
Unless one is convinced that the Russian investigations now being undertaken in Congress are merely a witch hunt, it is hard to argue against an independent commission in the case. If legislators do think that this is all nothing more than a witch hunt, then Congress should immediately end their investigations!
If Mr. Trump can stop an investigation, its findings can simply not be trusted. Is this not obvious?
Whatever you feel about Mr. Comey's "conceal or speak" argument in his Congressional testimony, it seems inarguable that he is a patriotic man who had a very difficult job. He did not seem frightened of speaking out to Congress nor to the President, and he apparently was greatly respected by his colleagues in the FBI. He did quickly determine that there was no need to pursue a case against Mrs. Clinton in November 2016, but he had not yet reached that decision on the Russian-Trump campaign scandal in May 2017.
Unless one is convinced that the Russian investigations now being undertaken in Congress are merely a witch hunt, it is hard to argue against an independent commission in the case. If legislators do think that this is all nothing more than a witch hunt, then Congress should immediately end their investigations!
If Mr. Trump can stop an investigation, its findings can simply not be trusted. Is this not obvious?
11
Oh the tangled web we weave...
It is getting more difficult for the Trumpster tribe to keep the threads in line. Perhaps consultation with Putin would help. He has done very well keeping Trump spinning.
It is getting more difficult for the Trumpster tribe to keep the threads in line. Perhaps consultation with Putin would help. He has done very well keeping Trump spinning.
13
Every day, Trump adds a straw to the camel's back.
Mitch McConnell may think his party is represented by an elephant. No, it is a camel.
Mitch McConnell may think his party is represented by an elephant. No, it is a camel.
17
Trump's administration has proved itself to be a disaster and is on a trajectory to severely damage the country. The evidence is mounting for impeachment of Trump. The three articles of impeachment in the Nixon presidency were Obstruction of Justice, Conduct Abusing the Rights of Citizens, and Refuseal to Produce Papers in Response to Subpoenas. For Trump, there are grounds for impeachment articles similar to Nixon's Obstruction of Justice and Abusing the Rights of Citizens. If Congress subpoenas his tax returns, there will probably be grounds for a third article of impeachment. In Nixon's case, the cover up was what did him in, not the Watergate break-in itself. Although we do not know with certainty what prevailed between Trump's campaign and Russia, the evidence of a coverup may reach a point where it is sufficient to go forward without a special prosecutor, and it can be based on the precedent of the Nixon impeachment proceedings. Trump's firing of Comey who may be investigating him, his proven lies, and his unfounded tweets provide much evidence of a coverup. As Republican Congressional leaders come to understand that Trump is a danger to the country, to their party, and to their own careers, a bipartisan majority should seek Trump's impeachment based on the rapidly mounting set of facts that establish the grounds for impeachment. The Republicans need to wake up and act before the damage becomes irreversible.
28
Trump's answer to revolving chaos is to create more chaos as a diversion. We've had the 59 Tomahawk solution, the nuclear Armageddon talking point, and now the Inflammation of Comey. His worldview begins and ends with a war on the daily news cycle. When this latest conflagration does not "calm down" as he hoped, what high crimes would he be incapable of?
17
Now that Comey is a civilian again it should be his patriotic duty to tell the public everything he knows, and promptly.
45
I totally agree. The stakes are too high for this country. The damage done to our democracy will be permanent if Trump is allowed to underfund, and thus undercut the investigation!
Rosenstein let himself be used, as opposed to acting honorably.
31
This situation is way worse than Watergate. Somebody has to remind Jeff Sessions and his ilk that the Civil War is over, and that that they lost, or I'm afraid we're on our way to fighting it all over again.
29
The probability of an independent prosecutor at this stage of the process is zero. Therefore, the pressure should be on the Democrats sitting on the Senate Intelligence Committee. They need the resources, assistance and attention necessary to steer the investigation and dominate the news. They are the best hope of keeping the investigation honest and truthful. The media and the Democratic congressional members should shine a bright light on that Committee and report every move and failure to move. Only horse at the gate.
11
Yesterday Glenn Greenwald was interviewed by Amy Goodman on Democracy Now. Greenwald quoted Edward Snowden as saying that for years now the FBI had sought to jail him-- and despite that, he, Snowden, was appalled by Comey's firing.
Never in my wildest dreams did I think I'd feel a patriotic lump in my throat for the FBI. May the agency persevere and "do the right thing."
Never in my wildest dreams did I think I'd feel a patriotic lump in my throat for the FBI. May the agency persevere and "do the right thing."
25
What an embarrassment our country has become.
40
The Senate Republicans should read "Profiles in Courage", and hopefully, a few of them will take advantage of this incredible historic opportunity to be an American hero! Here's hoping they stand up with courage and integrity!
15
This is a discussion that has no ending. Only a beginning and middle. The media are mired in the mud, no ending in sight. I'm awaiting the chance that maybe the media would veer a little off course and start speculating on McConnell's and Ryan's role in this drama. I call them abettors.
Until someone comes forth and starts the ball rolling for issuing a subpoena to have Trumps income taxes released there will never be enough material to write a mini series for TV.
I like to see an investigation as to how far back this presidency may have been formulated. Lastly, I always felt that Lester Holt was on of the weak interviewers. His tendency is to back off at the drop of a hat. I'm sure Trump sees him as a nice guy.
Until someone comes forth and starts the ball rolling for issuing a subpoena to have Trumps income taxes released there will never be enough material to write a mini series for TV.
I like to see an investigation as to how far back this presidency may have been formulated. Lastly, I always felt that Lester Holt was on of the weak interviewers. His tendency is to back off at the drop of a hat. I'm sure Trump sees him as a nice guy.
4
The Republican officials have put our Republic in its greatest peril since the great challenge of fascist domination in 1940. Who will rise to defend our constitution and liberties? Are there any genuinely-honest patriots left in the GOP? Or only Yellow Dog Republicans who wrap themselves in the flag while spitting on the Constitution. I am not optimistic that the curent bunch of plutocrats and their enabling synchophants can place their allegience to the USA above their self-interests. I pray that I am mistaken.
73
Yes, most Republicans and most prominently Sen Mc Connell, are clinging to a self destructive President in the delusional hope that he will be a ticket to their legislative agenda. It can only be a matter of time before they realize what a false hope that is and move to replace him with the equally compliant but thoroughly banal Pence. For the rest of us, out of the frying pan and into the fire. Which do we prefer, dangerous incompetence or a ruthless ideologue?
244
Right on target there, sir!
Pence would probably be neutered if the Democrats take back the House. Also, his constant dissembling and loyal defense of Trump evaporates any moral authority he thinks he has. And enough of the public would know this.
He would be less popular than Ted Cruz.
He would be less popular than Ted Cruz.
2
Pence must be impeached with Trump, because he was on the ticket with Trump. The treasonous act that put Trump in power, also installed Pence.
1
So much has been said and written about the outrageous conduct of the president; his firing of Comey and numerous other arrogant actions. In my opinion, he will continue on this tact unless and until enough members of the GOP make the political calculation that his vile actions will imperil their chance of re-election; or, not allow their party to maintain majority control of the houses of Congress; or simply prohibit any of the GOP agenda from being enacted. Our fights are won and lost at the ballot box and national policy is made at the political level. For those of us who are aghast at this president, as am I, we can only hope that his approval ratings continue to decline, and for good reason.
53
His approval rate last week was 36%--and that was before the firing of Comey. Imagine that. Only Trump himself has ever had a lower rating as a president (he once dipped to 35%). I imagine he'll be shooting downwards rapidly. There is literally no there there in his mind, his actions, his conscience...
Although I strongly thought FBI Director Comey's publicizing Hillary Clinton's hacked and Wikileaked emails was highly inappropriate, especially as Mr. Comey was also simultaneously engaged in investigating the Trump-Russia connection, and refused to comment upon that investigation. But he since appeared to me to have learned that the leaked Clinton emails were in fact deliberately hacked by agents of the Russian government with the explicit intent of undermining her election as President. When he realized that this could very well implicate a substantial number of members of the Trump campaign, many of which have extensive business relations with Russian organizations, he appeared to me to have finally come to realize the truth: That Trump and his associates were most likely the party that acted inappropriately (and possibly with deliberate behavior that might be a form of treason), and that Hillary's only deficiency was that she used a private email server. Comey thus turned into a hero, and a Special Prosecutor to investigate the Trump-Russia connection is ABSOLUTELY NECESSARY, as both the House and Senate Intelligence Committees are headed by a member of the same political party as is the main person under investigation, and hence possibly subject to intimidation and coercion by others of the same political party. This appears to be much worse than Watergate, which didn't involve a foreign power usually considered to be an enemy!
41
"Oh, what a tangled web we weave, when first we practice to deceive!" This is like witnessing the Boa Constrictor of Justice squeeze its prey to a slow but certain death. Go get 'em, G-Men.
28
And this is the man 60 million Americans elected to be president?
If this administration was competent, Donald Trump would be our king already.
Absent of this moronic cheeto blowing up his own stories and making repeated blunders, I highly doubt he would be facing any justice.
We have a complicit GOP, a few of its members seemingly intertwined with the Russia scandal itself.
Our system is failing and if we survive this Presidency we will need major legislation regarding nepotism and self-enrichment for the executive branch. (and it needs to be legislation that is judicially enforced and not something that McConnell et al. decides upon).
We need adults in Congress, we need adults in the WH, and above all we need to restore etiquette to our politics. Continue on this path and we are doomed.
Absent of this moronic cheeto blowing up his own stories and making repeated blunders, I highly doubt he would be facing any justice.
We have a complicit GOP, a few of its members seemingly intertwined with the Russia scandal itself.
Our system is failing and if we survive this Presidency we will need major legislation regarding nepotism and self-enrichment for the executive branch. (and it needs to be legislation that is judicially enforced and not something that McConnell et al. decides upon).
We need adults in Congress, we need adults in the WH, and above all we need to restore etiquette to our politics. Continue on this path and we are doomed.
105
It is indeed what's needed but not sure if failing partisan system will allow it to happen.
What we need are adults who are not greedy and venal. The shocker is that congress is made up of adults who should know better; the smell of money is too powerful for them to ignore.
Republicans have graduated from the party of obstruction to the one of complete denial of reality. Who can listen to Trump talking to Holt and believe a word that Trump says?
46
When Rosenstein was confirmed, based upon his impeccable history as a career federal prosecutor, I was relieved and pleased that trump chose him.
Were those of us who felt the same deceived? Or.did trump magically turn him into a toadie who is now one of the most important persons in Washington that separates us from an impotent investigation into possible treason at the highest levels of our government or energizes our justice system by the appointment
of an independent prosecutor. If he doesn't do the
Were those of us who felt the same deceived? Or.did trump magically turn him into a toadie who is now one of the most important persons in Washington that separates us from an impotent investigation into possible treason at the highest levels of our government or energizes our justice system by the appointment
of an independent prosecutor. If he doesn't do the
Several of my friends and I are terrified that Trump will do something horrible--such as attacking North Korea or declaring a national emergency--as a means of deflecting attention from the investigations into collusion with Russia during his campaign and since the election. Is there anyone who can assure us that Trump will not be permitted to take such terrifying steps?
43
I'm worried about that too. Martial law and President for life. I don't see how it could be prevented with the Republicans who seem to love power more than country.
1
There's no reason to believe anything the administration says about Russia or the related investigations. Comey's firing is part of an ever expanding spill of toxic corruption that is approaching the point where it will spontaneously combust. I have no sympathy for anyone who finds themselves caught in the explosion.
47
I am just fine with the FBI continuing its investigation into Trump and his campaign. The President's attempts to disrupt the investigation first with claims Obama wiretapped Trump Tower, then with complaints of illegal release of Flynn's unmasked contacts with Russia to discuss of Obama sanctions on Russian, then by claiming that "showboating and grandstanding" Comey told him he was not under investigation (not once but 3 times!) and then with Comey's firing only heighten FBI agent resolve to get this Trump investigation resolved. We already have a deep throat in the White House giving the Press info on White House discussions and deliberations and infighting. We will soon have a deep throat in the FBI and in the CIA filling us in on campaign misdeeds and possibly treasonous collusion with Russia. Trump like Nixon is covering up. But like Nixon, Trump will pay an awful price.
33
The "third rate burglary" is the Russian collaboration. The Nixon/Haldeman coverup is being orchestrated by Trump/Sessions. Cox is Comey. Deep Throat is being developed and might be plural. Obstruction of justice will be the result. But the Republicans will not impeach. And Sessions will not bring the charge, Now Rod will have a moral decision to make. He will sell his soul to Trump.
12
The litany of lies and arrogant behavior perpetrated by all connected to this White House -- the President, Vice President, communication and senior staff, and the Attorney General -- continues to grow each day. It's become evident that the Vice President was never lied to by General Flynn because, as head of the Transition, the VP already knew about Flynn's contacts with the Russians. Why would the WH get upset about what they knew for a long time? That explains the 18-day lag time before Flynn was canned. Now, the new Deputy Attorney General has been drawn into this viper's nest. What's next? What shoe will next drop? We have to put our faith in the FBI doing its job to the full extent of the law. I don't know if a Special Prosecutor, Independent Counsel, or Indepent Commission would help move things along but I believe, at the very least, more resources need to be provided to the Congressional committees investigating because this whole mess is now a lot bigger than Flynn, the Russians, and hacking. Our democracy is being attacked from within our institutions. The unwillingness of the Congressional leadership to stand for something shining and clean is stunning and one can only hope they will pay the price of losing their seats. But, then they will be enriched on K Street. And so America goes.
74
Unless the Congress steps up to the plate now regarding Trump and Sessions maneuvers to stop the Russian investigation by the FBI, nothing will be done and our government will be in real crisis. The executive and judicial branches Have been compromised and have no credibility in their current state.
If Trump and Sessions appoint the new Director or have anything to do with it then the FBI will join the list of governmental agencies who have succumbed to the Trump coup.
Congress gave up all pretense of wanting or being able to do anything remotely resembling support for the laws of our country long ago. The maintenance of power of the GOP is the prime directive which has and will supersede all other considerations. What obstruction of justice? What violation of the emoluments law?
Trump by sheer virtue of being Trump does make the job of Congress to ignore much more difficult but so far they have managed nicely. Fake news and whiny Democrats can be blamed anew every day, it never gets tired for the true believers.
America is being raped by Trump and the GOP. Blame the victim works every time. If only the Democrats hadn't ........
If Trump and Sessions appoint the new Director or have anything to do with it then the FBI will join the list of governmental agencies who have succumbed to the Trump coup.
Congress gave up all pretense of wanting or being able to do anything remotely resembling support for the laws of our country long ago. The maintenance of power of the GOP is the prime directive which has and will supersede all other considerations. What obstruction of justice? What violation of the emoluments law?
Trump by sheer virtue of being Trump does make the job of Congress to ignore much more difficult but so far they have managed nicely. Fake news and whiny Democrats can be blamed anew every day, it never gets tired for the true believers.
America is being raped by Trump and the GOP. Blame the victim works every time. If only the Democrats hadn't ........
10
We the People are going to have to take to the streets. En masse. It's coming.
3
They didn't even bother to come up with an excuse for the firing that made sense. The reason is their supporters don't care, the Congressional Republicans are complicit and the news media has been balkanized to the point of being neutered. A Trump supporter told me today that what Trump did "took guts". It would only take guts if he was standing up to a formidable foe. His backers consider themselves patriots, Christians and journalists, but he can get away with all this because they're all faux.
29
Perhaps this week's photo op with the Russian ambassador and Trump says it all. The firm handshake between two old men makes a strong contrast with Trump's awkward refusal to shake the hand of Angela Merkel.
64
The totality of Mitch McConnell's behavior surrounding Russian interference in our elections suggests that he is implicated in Trump & Co's Putin/Russia scandal.
In September, 2016, President Obama wanted to make a bi-partisan announcement to the public about the Russian interference. Instead of joining the envisioned bi-partisan effort to protect our country from the machinations of a hostile dictatorial foreign power, McConnell threatened Obama by saying that if Obama made any announcement about the Russian interference, he, McConnell would publicly accuse Obama of making the announcement for "partisan" reasons.
McConnell's threat there implies that he understood that Putin/Russia was working on Trump's side. There appears to have been a quid-pro-quo, with Trump rewarding McConnell by nominating McConnell's wife as Secretary of Transportation -- which is quite the thing when you know that McConnell's wife's family owns a shipping company. The bulk of McConnell's wealth came through his marriage to Elaine Chao.
That shipping company is headquartered in New York, but its ships are flagged in places like Nigeria and thus don't have to pay U.S. taxes.
Mitch McConnell's slavish devotion to, and abject enabling of Trump does not pass the smell test.
In September, 2016, President Obama wanted to make a bi-partisan announcement to the public about the Russian interference. Instead of joining the envisioned bi-partisan effort to protect our country from the machinations of a hostile dictatorial foreign power, McConnell threatened Obama by saying that if Obama made any announcement about the Russian interference, he, McConnell would publicly accuse Obama of making the announcement for "partisan" reasons.
McConnell's threat there implies that he understood that Putin/Russia was working on Trump's side. There appears to have been a quid-pro-quo, with Trump rewarding McConnell by nominating McConnell's wife as Secretary of Transportation -- which is quite the thing when you know that McConnell's wife's family owns a shipping company. The bulk of McConnell's wealth came through his marriage to Elaine Chao.
That shipping company is headquartered in New York, but its ships are flagged in places like Nigeria and thus don't have to pay U.S. taxes.
Mitch McConnell's slavish devotion to, and abject enabling of Trump does not pass the smell test.
536
McConnell's name smells nothing like what your name implies. He stinks from head to toe and certainly is a prime example of GREED UNCHAINED.
We, as a country, should be ashamed of the likes of him.
We, as a country, should be ashamed of the likes of him.
1
McConnell himself doesn't pass the smell test.
How can any reasonable person accept Mr. Trump's version of Director Comey's firing? In less than 48 hours, we have had multiple contradicting versions of the timeline involving the firing and even who initiated the action. Trump surrogates Spicer, Sanders, Conway, and VP Pence told different versions over the course of the last two days. The current version from Mr. Trump himself is that he had decided, before the Sessions'/Rosenstein correspondence, that Comey needed to be fired. Can any of them be believed? The sad reality is that the current inhabitant of the Oval Office is the least credible of any of them. The more he claims the Trump/Russia Collusion story is fake news, the more he sounds like Richard Nixon in denial of any cover-up. He has made a huge miscalculation in dismissing James Comey. Americans are now more focused on the malfeasance emanating from this White House.
20
All of this is true, but I can't help feeling that Trump's latest outrage was intended to distract everyone from the one thing that might turn his followers against him, which is the health care bill that's now being debated in the Senate and has largely disappeared from the headlines. I don't believe the press obsessing about the various scandals, terrible as they are, will make any difference, as this just makes Trump look like a victim to the people who voted for him. What I hope still may bring him down is his policies and the awful effects they have on people. Meanwhile, I can't help worrying that his new henchman/FBI director will start purging the bureau if anyone who doesn't think Trump is God, creating a law enforcement bureau that come after any of us for the same reason.
14
"I can't help feeling that Trump's latest outrage was intended to distract everyone from the one thing that might turn his followers against him, which is the health care bill that's now being debated in the Senate"
Or his in-laws, the Kushners, selling U.S. citizenship to Chinese millionaires. Trump has nothing against rich immigrants, only poor ones.
Or his in-laws, the Kushners, selling U.S. citizenship to Chinese millionaires. Trump has nothing against rich immigrants, only poor ones.
13
if it looks like a duck, and waddles like a duck and quacks like a duck -- it is usually a duck -- please how blind do they think we are >
15
"President Trump’s unconscionable decision to fire the director of the F.B.I"
the only thing unconscionable, is the monomania of Trump Dementia, nd no Trump is not Nixon, not even close.
the only thing unconscionable, is the monomania of Trump Dementia, nd no Trump is not Nixon, not even close.
2
Some people go so far as to erect fortresses to protect them from unpleasant facts.
5
No Nixon was an intelligent man, flawed but not stupid. And you are right Trump is nothing like that.
8
Bigger than Watergate.
15
The best comment so far is from John McCain, who said that this thing is a centipede. That's how many more shoes are going to drop. We only need to wait a bit. Hopefully this is the beginning of the end of America's brief experiment with totalitarian demagoguery, plus simple incompetence.
50
Hah! A centipede. Bravissimo, Senator McCain. Perhaps you will restore your honor from the debacle of Sarah Palin.
3
After a lifetime of inspiring American history classes in elementary school, stirring films about the American Revolution, the heroism of the Founding Fathers, the tragedy of Gettysburg and our decisive victory in World War Two, the moon landings, our first Black president ... the list goes on for miles ... after a lifetime of all of us growing up in this amazing, diverse country, are we really going to watch it taken down by a feckless, lying, ignorant sexual predator who quite possibly suffers from mental illness? Where are the Nathan Hales and Patrick Henrys when we need them? Will the Congress of the United States please remember where they came from, and dispense with this man?
258
Hey Jeff G,
You make me cry for our country's loss of integrity
You make me cry for our country's loss of integrity
Has a date been scheduled yet for presidential impeachment hearings?
16
Trump must be going nuts to be so wreckless re the Comey firing. Fortunately for us it all starts tumbling down.
11
He's not "going" nuts. He's been nuts for a long time.
3
For quite a time now, I have been conveying the idea of a possible collusion between the Justice Department/F.B.I. and four former federal prosecutors; Comey, Giuliani, Christie and Sessions, to get Trump elected.
Former Mayor Giuliani, New Jersey Governor Christie, former Senator Sessions, and former New York area prosecutor Comey were all instrumental in aiding Trump's ascension to power. The coincidence of all those former prosecutors working together leaves no other conclusion except that they may have elected Trump.
F.B.I. Director Comey made some pretty damaging public on camera national appearances that to me, tilted the election. We all know how he damned Hillary Clinton.
It now make sense that Trump would have fired Comey to destroy any appearance of a conspiracy to elect Trump.
The idea of looking for voting fraud is nothing compared to the men's use of the Television cameras to sway public opinion against Clinton and for Trump just days ahead of voting and in the lead up to the election.
Former Mayor Giuliani, New Jersey Governor Christie, former Senator Sessions, and former New York area prosecutor Comey were all instrumental in aiding Trump's ascension to power. The coincidence of all those former prosecutors working together leaves no other conclusion except that they may have elected Trump.
F.B.I. Director Comey made some pretty damaging public on camera national appearances that to me, tilted the election. We all know how he damned Hillary Clinton.
It now make sense that Trump would have fired Comey to destroy any appearance of a conspiracy to elect Trump.
The idea of looking for voting fraud is nothing compared to the men's use of the Television cameras to sway public opinion against Clinton and for Trump just days ahead of voting and in the lead up to the election.
9
Motive; police empire reacting to the social upheavals and investigations of police abuses by electing the man who ran on a promise of "Law and Order".
The Television industry is good buddies with the cops and feds. Think about it.
The Television industry is good buddies with the cops and feds. Think about it.
I have been troubled all day about a report on Rachel Maddow's broadcast last night. Maddow reported that acting AG Andrew McCabe had told Rance Priebus that a February report by the Times detailing intelligence information implicating Trump campaign leaders in Russian collusion was "bull---." She then pointed out that many other news organizations had confirmed the original Times report.
The reason I'm troubled is because McCabe testified today that he had never had any conversations with White House officials about the FBI's investigation of Russian intrusion into American politics.
I've not heard any other media outlet even mentioning the Maddow report. But it is still posted on MSNBC's website.
Can the Times staff address this all-important matter?
The reason I'm troubled is because McCabe testified today that he had never had any conversations with White House officials about the FBI's investigation of Russian intrusion into American politics.
I've not heard any other media outlet even mentioning the Maddow report. But it is still posted on MSNBC's website.
Can the Times staff address this all-important matter?
224
Interesting. You can see the problem: so many lies; so little column space...
Party and Oligarchy First- Country Last
Grand Old Putinistas
GOP 2017
Welcome to Republistan, the latest successful land grab by Mother Russia.
Grand Old Putinistas
GOP 2017
Welcome to Republistan, the latest successful land grab by Mother Russia.
256
O Socrates, I love you.
2
The events of the past few days have caused me to reflect back to something President Truman said, "Selfishness and greed, individual or national, cause most of our troubles.”
One of the great ironies of Mr. Trump's "Make American Great Again" is that it is folks like Mr. Trump who are most responsible for the destruction of the exceptionalism that, indeed, made America great.
The Marshall Plan. The Truman Doctrine. Adherence to the rule of law. The peaceful transition of power. Foreign aid. Bipartisanship. Civil rights. Human rights.
Many times in our national interests? Absolutely. Although not always solely in our national interests, but to support freedom and democracy around the world.
We stood for something. We stood on something. Principles.
Foreigners came here because they felt welcome and safe. Foreigners invested here because of political stability, economic stability, and the strength of our rule of law.
We are standing at the precipice of abandoning the principles of American exceptionalism that made us a light on the hill for those living in darkness where dictators and totalitarian regimes ignored the rule of law and lined their pockets and those of their family members and cronies with all they could steal from their people.
"Selfishness and greed, individual or national, cause most of our troubles.”
It was true when Harry "The Buck Stops Here" Truman was our President and it is true when Donald "Pass the Buck" Trump is our President now.
One of the great ironies of Mr. Trump's "Make American Great Again" is that it is folks like Mr. Trump who are most responsible for the destruction of the exceptionalism that, indeed, made America great.
The Marshall Plan. The Truman Doctrine. Adherence to the rule of law. The peaceful transition of power. Foreign aid. Bipartisanship. Civil rights. Human rights.
Many times in our national interests? Absolutely. Although not always solely in our national interests, but to support freedom and democracy around the world.
We stood for something. We stood on something. Principles.
Foreigners came here because they felt welcome and safe. Foreigners invested here because of political stability, economic stability, and the strength of our rule of law.
We are standing at the precipice of abandoning the principles of American exceptionalism that made us a light on the hill for those living in darkness where dictators and totalitarian regimes ignored the rule of law and lined their pockets and those of their family members and cronies with all they could steal from their people.
"Selfishness and greed, individual or national, cause most of our troubles.”
It was true when Harry "The Buck Stops Here" Truman was our President and it is true when Donald "Pass the Buck" Trump is our President now.
735
I don't think you can point to a time, other than maybe right before 9/11 when foreigners, broadly defined, felt safe here. Hopeful? Maybe. Like there were opportunities? Sure. But this has never been an especially safe place for foreigners.
It is indeed pass-the-buck Trump unless, of course, it is an actual dollar. Then it stops at his desk.
1
Well said.
All we can hope for is someone willing to leak information that will lead to an independent investigation into this stinking mess. We are in huge trouble and we cant wait until 2018 to elect a congress that will do what is needed to be done here.
339
I think there will be a lot of leaking, because Trump has made an awful lot of enemies, especially among the FBI.
7
YES Jora, Congress is a failed institution and should be subject to Term Limits so as to churn the OLD out and bring in some NEW.
McConnell is turning out to be a truly dangerous man. But I keep holding out hope that the true patriots of all political stripes will find one another and take the steps necessary to reserve our government.
415
While McConnell is not up for re-election in 2018 the only place patriots need to find is the ballot box in 2018. Flipping the House and the Senate will, one, neuter Republican legislative efforts to kill us in the short term, and two, ensure that agent orange either dies from self induced rage, quits (my guess) or is impeached.
A few more credible voices (pick any cyber security/national defense expert you want) articulating the fact that we are and have been in a cyber war with Russia and China for sometime and even the brain dead can do the math.
The rump called on our adversary to attack us in war. They did exactly as he said. He has aided and abetted them including that laugh fest in our face yesterday. Treason.
Resist.
Vote for the democrat,the life and democracy you save may be your own.
No reconciliation without Truth!
A few more credible voices (pick any cyber security/national defense expert you want) articulating the fact that we are and have been in a cyber war with Russia and China for sometime and even the brain dead can do the math.
The rump called on our adversary to attack us in war. They did exactly as he said. He has aided and abetted them including that laugh fest in our face yesterday. Treason.
Resist.
Vote for the democrat,the life and democracy you save may be your own.
No reconciliation without Truth!
8
You keep holding out hope that the true patriots of all political stripes will come together and deal with Trump. Your hope is admirable, but doomed to failure. As the "moderate wing" of the GOP has abundantly shown in the last several months, its political stripe is all yellow.
9
This presidency has often been compared to the Titanic. McConnell will be one of the first to jump into a lifeboat once the ship starts to sink.
3
Trump will wish he had been satisfied with his previous life of corrupt business dealings and practices. In his mind nothing has changed, business as usual, except there is still a free press, a independent judiciary, and somewhat, a independent congress. Let's hope there is enough integrity left in our institutions to withstand this power grab and assault on our republic.
214
A lot of marching by we the people should also have a postive effect in getting rid of Trump and hopefully, everybody who stuck with him. I mean you, McConnell.
8
' ... a independent judiciary, and somewhat, a independent congress ... '
George, the Supreme Court has become politicized and Congress is a failed institution governed by the GOP.
How can you say independent ?
George, the Supreme Court has become politicized and Congress is a failed institution governed by the GOP.
How can you say independent ?
I did say "Let's hope there is enough integrity left in our institutions". People need to get out in the square and demand it.
We all need to know the ties between Russia and the Trump team. We should have been alerted before the election. Hilary's few new discovered emails? Who cares. Treason is something a lot more. I'd also like to know if financial backers to Trump's enterprises are Russian and for how much money. If Flynn could be co-opted for financial reasons, then so could our president. Publish your taxes now.
87
Shakespeare’s plays are classified
as Tragedy, Comedy, or Historical.
Until knowing anything about Trump’s WH,
it would be presumed that Will’s play about
Donald’ presidency would be historical.
After knowing anything about Trump,
the play would be a comedy, of course,
but describing a tragedy of everlasting
historical embarrassment to Americans.
as Tragedy, Comedy, or Historical.
Until knowing anything about Trump’s WH,
it would be presumed that Will’s play about
Donald’ presidency would be historical.
After knowing anything about Trump,
the play would be a comedy, of course,
but describing a tragedy of everlasting
historical embarrassment to Americans.
12
In an interview with Lester Holt, President Trump directly contradicted his own "White House’s claim that Trump acted only after Rosenstein came up with idea of firing the F.B.I. director all by himself." (View it here: http://www.nbcnews.com/news/us-news/trump-reveals-he-asked-comey-whether...
Our national governance has become surreal. The number of Executive Office narratives justifying FBI Director Comey's dismissal is blossoming like pungent-smelling toxic green algae along the seashore at Mar-a-Lago.
All of this is concerning from the viewpoint of viable national governance, but the most worrisome thing is that the White House now seems like the fun-house of mirrors at a circus midway. The nation is laid bare by terminal administrative dysfunction.
Anyone who is not scared silly by this corrosive carnival of executive debilitation is either lobotomized or highly sedated.
Our national governance has become surreal. The number of Executive Office narratives justifying FBI Director Comey's dismissal is blossoming like pungent-smelling toxic green algae along the seashore at Mar-a-Lago.
All of this is concerning from the viewpoint of viable national governance, but the most worrisome thing is that the White House now seems like the fun-house of mirrors at a circus midway. The nation is laid bare by terminal administrative dysfunction.
Anyone who is not scared silly by this corrosive carnival of executive debilitation is either lobotomized or highly sedated.
178
@John LeBaron: Or stands to benefit. The chaos and confusion still leave space for Congress to pass laws selling off our public lands at bargain prices, restricting the franchise, and otherwise undoing everything good at the federal level since that renegade Republican Theodore Roosevelt (who was forced out of his party when he tried to run again to protect his good deeds).
2
Just the other day I was asking myself why Comey isn't responding to all the stories being told about him. I was wishing to hear from him directly. Now, I think it's just beautiful how he is keeping quiet and letting the White House make a fool of itself with all it's explanations and reasons for firing him. Let him wait a little more and see what can be squeezed out of this frantic President. Then, come out of seclusion and tell his story. Depending on what he says, it might be the straw to break the camel's back.
2
McConnell's relentless pursuit of H. Clinton's empty emails put beside his refusal to follow up on what both the CIA and FBI have determined to the Trump campaign's working with Russians makes him part of the coverup. Lock him up.
314
The Department of Justice can no long carry out the Russia investigation because members of the Department, including the Attorney General, now need to be included within the investigation. The argument for an independent investigation is really that simple.
66
With each passing day there is more evidence that Trump is an unhinged narcissist surrounded by cowardly opportunistic enablers -- who can't control him.
How many different stories have been told about why Comey was fired? The letter said Sessions recommended it. Huckabee Sanders said Rosenstein did. Now Trump says it was him. The story keeps changing on how long Trump thought about it. Huckabee Sanders says Comey was unpopular and the acting Director swore otherwise in his Congressional testimony.
So this whole operation is incapable about getting the story remotely straight about their cover-up.
You know who I blame for this? The people who voted for Trump. Electing a habitually lying, Racketeering fraudster, racist, xenophobic, misogynist with a history of multiple bankruptcies, who brags about sexually assaulting women, and describes his major creepy thoughts about his daughter -- He's a perverted revolting train wreck of humanity, and this nightmare was 100% foreseeable.
How many different stories have been told about why Comey was fired? The letter said Sessions recommended it. Huckabee Sanders said Rosenstein did. Now Trump says it was him. The story keeps changing on how long Trump thought about it. Huckabee Sanders says Comey was unpopular and the acting Director swore otherwise in his Congressional testimony.
So this whole operation is incapable about getting the story remotely straight about their cover-up.
You know who I blame for this? The people who voted for Trump. Electing a habitually lying, Racketeering fraudster, racist, xenophobic, misogynist with a history of multiple bankruptcies, who brags about sexually assaulting women, and describes his major creepy thoughts about his daughter -- He's a perverted revolting train wreck of humanity, and this nightmare was 100% foreseeable.
1086
The people who voted for Trump are truly frightening, and numerous. 40% of us. That's a lot of people. Rupert Murdoch and Roger Ailes, the Kochs, the Mercers, the Heritage Foundation have done their work well. They planted their anti-American government seeds in the fertile soil of American racism, bigotry, sexism, and xenophobia, watered liberally with money and propaganda. All that's left is another Picket's Charge.
14
Ann, you state my thoughts and feelings exactly. Trump never really hid what he was, it wasn't as if he played like he was Joe Kennedy and took off a mask. He was always a lying, rich know nothing with a staff of people to stroke his ego. The real destroyers of America are the people who inexplicably and stupidly voted for him.
Also, the people who thought it would work out fine if they didn't vote, voted for Jill Stein or wrote in Bernie Sanders. They will learn their lesson the hard way now, and it's a shame those of us who knew better have to suffer right along with them.
Great comment, Ann!
Also, the people who thought it would work out fine if they didn't vote, voted for Jill Stein or wrote in Bernie Sanders. They will learn their lesson the hard way now, and it's a shame those of us who knew better have to suffer right along with them.
Great comment, Ann!
9
Ann,
Exactly right. Very well said.
Exactly right. Very well said.
4
Entire situation is ludicrous. Hard to believe this Presidency will survive 4 years! Comey is not perfect and has had several missteps, however did not deserve the disrespectful 'firing' by Trump. The Presidents behavior is embarrassing for our country. Current dysfunction in our political system is distressing and causes unnecessary anxiety. Seems Trump is totally unprepared for the job. Too many self inflicted problems ...will never accomplish his goal...maybe that is not such a bad thing?
22
Did I hear correctly? In the Holt interview, Donald Trump states that. during a dinner with Comey where the agenda was Comey's desire to "stay on" in the job, Trump asked Comey whether he (Trump) was under investigation. Hasn't he just admitted to obstruction or certainly some form of coercion?
215
Trump is lying. Comey would never answer that question. At the time, Comey was conducting an investigation into Russia tipping the scales in Donald's favor and the Donald was/is a party in interest. A potential target of the investigation: the very bull's eye in my opinion.
Note that since the disgraceful firing, Comey has apparently only addressed a farewell to the troops, but has said nothing about the veracity of the self-serving exoneration reference in Trump's termination letter.
Good prosecutors do not show their hands to anyone until they have reviewed all the facts and come to a conclusion. The only way we will ever know whether Trump is lying is by subpoenaing Comey to testify somewhere.
I believe Comey's handling of the email issues to be very questionable. His actions made no sense to me at the time. However, he is known as a very good ethical lawyer. He stood up to George Bush's in house lawyers when they were trying to get Ashcroft, in the hospital with a hideously painful case of pancreatitis, to approve some sort of nefarious warrantless wire tapping.
Maybe Trump ditched Comey because Comey refused to give Trump status reports on the progress of the investigation into Russia's meddling.
Note that since the disgraceful firing, Comey has apparently only addressed a farewell to the troops, but has said nothing about the veracity of the self-serving exoneration reference in Trump's termination letter.
Good prosecutors do not show their hands to anyone until they have reviewed all the facts and come to a conclusion. The only way we will ever know whether Trump is lying is by subpoenaing Comey to testify somewhere.
I believe Comey's handling of the email issues to be very questionable. His actions made no sense to me at the time. However, he is known as a very good ethical lawyer. He stood up to George Bush's in house lawyers when they were trying to get Ashcroft, in the hospital with a hideously painful case of pancreatitis, to approve some sort of nefarious warrantless wire tapping.
Maybe Trump ditched Comey because Comey refused to give Trump status reports on the progress of the investigation into Russia's meddling.
3
Yes. And Trump responded "We'll see. We'll see what happens."
Quid Pro Quo, Tit-for-Tat, Abuse of Power
The Executive is simply a tool for marketing the laughable, chaotic Trump brand. Clearly Session can't be an independent Judiciary. Congress cares only about being in power as Republican-In-Name-Only.
Lord! The history that will be written about these dying days of our democracy.
Quid Pro Quo, Tit-for-Tat, Abuse of Power
The Executive is simply a tool for marketing the laughable, chaotic Trump brand. Clearly Session can't be an independent Judiciary. Congress cares only about being in power as Republican-In-Name-Only.
Lord! The history that will be written about these dying days of our democracy.
4
Not okay? The appearance of Bill Clinton asking Loretta Lynch about investigation of his wife, presidential candidate Hillary Clinton.
Okay? President meeting with Director of the FBI and questioning him about ongoing investigation and his own possible (or probable) culpability.
What's wrong with this picture?
Okay? President meeting with Director of the FBI and questioning him about ongoing investigation and his own possible (or probable) culpability.
What's wrong with this picture?
2
Trump appears to have no ability to project forward, only deal with emotional here-and-now. He has dug himself into a very deep hole and taken both Sessions and Rosenstein with him. Rosenstein will face legal ethics issues. Sessions may face serious legal issues and Trump will face continued scrutiny on multiple fronts, from Russia, to Comey, to Business Conflicts of interest.
These actions, particularly given the news that he had been upset and stewing until it boiled over may be an even more frightening behavior. What happens when this President does not get his way in dealing with an enemy, he stews on it and then allows that situation to blow over?
This investigation needs to continue to expand to others who have potentially violated the law or the ethics of governance; post haste.
These actions, particularly given the news that he had been upset and stewing until it boiled over may be an even more frightening behavior. What happens when this President does not get his way in dealing with an enemy, he stews on it and then allows that situation to blow over?
This investigation needs to continue to expand to others who have potentially violated the law or the ethics of governance; post haste.
37
It is very troubling that the Majority Leader in the Senate has a wife working for Trump and is by that nature inherently compromised on these issues.
Unfortunately, our system does not seem to address this type of circumstance where we have a clear issue of potentially illegal actions related to the President, but there is no recourse to even effectively and independently investigate the issue. We don't even know whether Sessions is actively working to have documents destroyed as he is also tainted and probably would have lost his job in previous administrations.
I do not ever recall this kind of a scandal at the beginning of a Presidency and my greatest fear as we (the US people) will become so used to this level of institutionalized corruption like a banana republic, we stop recognizing it. It is hard to roll back these expectations for our elected officials, which is sad since the US has generally been viewed here and abroad as relatively free of such corruption.
Unfortunately, our system does not seem to address this type of circumstance where we have a clear issue of potentially illegal actions related to the President, but there is no recourse to even effectively and independently investigate the issue. We don't even know whether Sessions is actively working to have documents destroyed as he is also tainted and probably would have lost his job in previous administrations.
I do not ever recall this kind of a scandal at the beginning of a Presidency and my greatest fear as we (the US people) will become so used to this level of institutionalized corruption like a banana republic, we stop recognizing it. It is hard to roll back these expectations for our elected officials, which is sad since the US has generally been viewed here and abroad as relatively free of such corruption.
308
"It is very troubling that the Majority Leader in the Senate has a wife working for Trump and is by that nature inherently compromised on these issues."
You're absolutely right, but remember IOKIYAR: "It's OK if you're a Republican." You may remember that during the contested 2000 election, two Supreme Court justices had family members beholden to the Republicans. The wife of Clarence Thomas was intimately involved in the Bush campaign, even drawing up lists of appointees. And, of course, the son of Antonin Scalia was working for the law firm that Bush hired to argue his case before the Supreme Court. Those two "justices" never even thought of recusing themselves. Had they done so, Al Gore would have been President instead of W.
It's just how Republicans work. They don't care about being fair; they want to win at all costs. (Of course, when they do win, it's always a disaster for the country, because they don't know how to govern.)
You're absolutely right, but remember IOKIYAR: "It's OK if you're a Republican." You may remember that during the contested 2000 election, two Supreme Court justices had family members beholden to the Republicans. The wife of Clarence Thomas was intimately involved in the Bush campaign, even drawing up lists of appointees. And, of course, the son of Antonin Scalia was working for the law firm that Bush hired to argue his case before the Supreme Court. Those two "justices" never even thought of recusing themselves. Had they done so, Al Gore would have been President instead of W.
It's just how Republicans work. They don't care about being fair; they want to win at all costs. (Of course, when they do win, it's always a disaster for the country, because they don't know how to govern.)
11
I'm a 73 y/o retired physician, so no expert, but the rampant institutional and political corruption shared amongst the White House, Congress, and Wall Street remind me more of a nationalized Hong Kong, or post-Soviet Union Russia, than a banana republic--how about an "oligarchic plutocracy" ?
1
The other Senators need to threaten to censure McConnell for not recusing himself on this . The Trump tentacles run very deep. I bet he has dirt ,perhaps provided to him by the Russians, on all of the top Republicans to try to keep them in line. Who will be brave and patriotic enough to break out of line?
Trumps tweets this morning show how he is becoming more unhinged as each day passes.
Trumps tweets this morning show how he is becoming more unhinged as each day passes.
"Senator Mitch McConnell, has ruled out an independent investigation of the Russia connection . . . "
In the "basket of delporables," Sen. McConnell has risen to the top, just below his president.
In the "basket of delporables," Sen. McConnell has risen to the top, just below his president.
859
It wasn't a long way up for him. He was already in ascension.
12
The uncompromising Republican Majority Leader of the Senate, Sen. Mitch McConnell, seems to have been selected by his Republican colleagues to be their leader 'for life', and as such he operates as some sort of a dictator. He is feared by his colleagues and runs a tight ship, and God forbid that a colleague crosses him or disagrees with him. But in reality he is nothing but a Trump sympathizer and apologist. He is certainly no Bob Dole, one of the most respected Senate leader of the recent past. Remember him?
5
I'm willing to bet that the reason he's obstructing an independent investigation into Russiagate is because he's up to his eyeballs in it himself. The first question, of course, is what does he have to hide? Louise Mensch's sources indicate that there is a recording of McConnell and Ryan discussing how to hide millions in Russian contributions to their campaigns in their PACs. If that turns out to be factual, this is going to blow up far beyond Trump and his enablers.
18
And Russia is just the tip of the present iceberg. Conflicts of interest between Trump, his family, his associates, and his cabinet and their various business empires. The emoluments clause of the Constitution. A special prosecutor should not just have Russia in his scopes but the whole of Trump & Co.'s nefarious dealings. On many fronts, Trump is unfit to serve.
Until this these independent investigations yield evidence such as Trump's tax returns, no tax reform that surely will be designed to benefit the superwealthy.
Until this these independent investigations yield evidence such as Trump's tax returns, no tax reform that surely will be designed to benefit the superwealthy.
505
I'm afraid we have a serious problem:
Our president's sanity is missing.
Our president's sanity is missing.
283
His sanity disappeared along with his ethics and his soul. He is an ignorant, dangerous grifter who needs to go.
17
25th the 45th!
4
Hey Kevin,
His sanity and along with that curious word, integrity.
His sanity and along with that curious word, integrity.