Trump is claiming that the Justice Department came to him and recommended that Comey be fired. The letter firing Comey doesn't make sense. Mr. Rosenstein already appears to be compromised. What leverage does Sessions or Trump hold over him?
10
In the tawdry horror movie that is Trump's presidency, it is fascinating to watch how people of integrity respond when they are drawn into contact with the Donald and his entourage of pallid zombies. Some like Sally Yates pass the test of character and depart with their integrity intact. Others like Rosenstein sacrifice character for ambition and sink into the corruption that surrounds Trump. It is like a grade B slasher flick, where the characters each face a choice of whether or not to go down the stairs to the basement; only a bad outcome awaits them in the dark, but we can't help but watch.
58
Hear, hear.
10
I'm sorry that you're in this position, Mr. Rosenstein, but please, I urge you assign a special prosecutor to investigate how Russia may have compromised our democracy.
I agree with the author of this article and applaud your potential bravery.
I agree with the author of this article and applaud your potential bravery.
33
Yes, our mistrust is growing and we require answers.
This is reaching crisis.
Our federal checks and balances are at risk.
Completely agree with this editorial.
This is reaching crisis.
Our federal checks and balances are at risk.
Completely agree with this editorial.
25
Time to show what you're made of Mr. Rosenstein...
Partisan or Bi-Partisan?
Time to choose...
Partisan or Bi-Partisan?
Time to choose...
24
This could not be stated more clearly. I have been searching high and low for some shred of honest and ethical behavior among the horde that now infests our government. Now would be a perfect time for some to emerge.
26
Republicans better overthrow Captain Trump. The ship of state is sinking fast. Save yourselves or swim with the sharks. Your choice.
17
So Russia compromised our democracy how? People keep saying they did this by hacking the DNC and John Podesda's emails, both of which exposed corruption, deceit, lying, and fraud in the nominating campaign for the Democrats and publishing them in a public format. It led to the firing of the DNC Chair, Debbie Waserman-Shultz, and Donna Brazile for colluding with the Clinton campaign. Talk about undermining democracy. Well if it was the Russians, thank you and Wikileaks for exposing this vile corruption of our democratic process.
6
Thank-you NYT for your open letter, but more importantly, I want to thank you for your reportage on the current administration's connections to Russia beginning February 14th of this year.
I am assuming that most commenters here subscribe to the NYT, but given that currently the three major branches of the United States government have been gravely compromised, the fourth estate is our only hope in order for truth and justice to prevail, which means that financial contributions to independent, investigative journalism is more important than ever.
I have protested in marches and called our representatives in Congress. But in these troubled times, the only glimmer of hope I have left to bring down this vile and corrupt administration is a Woodward.Bernstein.Felt version2.
And so... I pay my monthly dues to NYT and WaPo as this is the only hope we have left to preserve the principles of modern democracy, those which this country was founded upon.
And, no, I am not a journalist and I do not work for either NYT or WaPo. :-) This is just a call to arms.
I am assuming that most commenters here subscribe to the NYT, but given that currently the three major branches of the United States government have been gravely compromised, the fourth estate is our only hope in order for truth and justice to prevail, which means that financial contributions to independent, investigative journalism is more important than ever.
I have protested in marches and called our representatives in Congress. But in these troubled times, the only glimmer of hope I have left to bring down this vile and corrupt administration is a Woodward.Bernstein.Felt version2.
And so... I pay my monthly dues to NYT and WaPo as this is the only hope we have left to preserve the principles of modern democracy, those which this country was founded upon.
And, no, I am not a journalist and I do not work for either NYT or WaPo. :-) This is just a call to arms.
67
Mr. Deputy AG, the decision here seems simple. If Trump is not colluding, he should not have a reason to object to an independent, or special, prosecutor. So appoint one, for your own interest, and the country 's. If he is telling the truth, Mr. Trump should not object to that; if, as he says, there is no "there" there, a special prosecutor would exonerate him. And that would be a win for Mr. Trump.
17
"will get to the bottom of whether and how Russia helped steal the presidency for Mr. Trump."
This seems to suggest that the NYT editorial board believes the election was stolen. While this may be possible, you should not make such a claim without evidence. I am used to better standards from NYT.
This seems to suggest that the NYT editorial board believes the election was stolen. While this may be possible, you should not make such a claim without evidence. I am used to better standards from NYT.
6
These comments by the Times are absolute boulder-dash! You have no moral integrity to judge anyone's motives. Your paper is a never-ending Trump-bashing feeding frenzy that serves no constructive purpose other than to tout your own subjective skewed opinions. You DISRESPECT the OFFICE of the presidency! No matter who resides in the Oval Office you are to treat them with dignity and respect..even ones you dislike..you have not done so with Trump! The job of journalism is to report the news without personal bias. When you write article like "How We Can Get Rid Of Trump". Your agenda is crystal clear. This kind of partisan reporting are of no benefit to the American public!
10
I could not disagree with you more. Mr. Trump has absolutely no respect for the rule of law. He is greatly interfering in an investigation which he should not tamper with. His actions are reminiscent of how he dealt with the investigation into trump university when he disparage the Hispanic judge and said that because he was Hispanic he could not be impartial in the case… Bottom line you must earn respect by your deeds and actions
39
C.L.R.,
Respect is not granted but earned. For every one noble "right" thing this "president in name only" has done I can provide numerous examples of non-presidential behavior.
Respect is not granted but earned. For every one noble "right" thing this "president in name only" has done I can provide numerous examples of non-presidential behavior.
21
Wake up and get real!
Respect is for someone who deserves it!
Not for someone who demands it like a five year old!
When he gives respect, he will get some back! Period!
Respect is for someone who deserves it!
Not for someone who demands it like a five year old!
When he gives respect, he will get some back! Period!
17
Our country really needs someone to believe, Pleasr
be that person,
be that person,
4
Rosenstein has already shown himself to be a gutless coward. Don't expect anything from him.
13
Why can't people stand on principle anymore? I've lost plenty of jobs and opportunities simply for speaking my mind and doing what I felt was right. America no longer respects the individual who will march into hell for a heavenly cause- and that is truly sad.
10
Simples: Do the right thing, Sir!
3
"...and some people have greatness thrust upon them."
Shakespeare
Shakespeare
15
Quoting Shakespeare.
2
I guess my question is this: Why would Mr. Rosenstein, who has such a sterling reputation for honesty and integrity, take the job of deputy attorney general for the most dishonest president in history?
29
Searingly to the point and beautifully written. Thank you NYT.
What I find truly astounding in all of this related to Deputy Attorney General Rosenstein's memo, both as reported in the print and cable news media, at least as I have seen, is the missing of his point. As I read it, he was concerned with the fact that the FBI, as related by Mr. Comey in his press conference and testimony, absolved Clinton of criminal wrongdoing rather than following the normal procedure of relating this conclusion to the prosecutors in the Justice Department and allowing that Department's prosecutors to concur with that conclusion. Obviously there were unusual circumstances at the time given the proximity of a presidential election and Comey's referral to a conflict with then Attorney General Lynch is acknowledged, but this seems to be mostly a legalistic argument related to usual practices between the agencies rather than a critique as to how Hillary Clinton was treated. That said, this whole thing smells rather fishy to me.
The man signed the letter. What about that did you not understand?
With each new week brings a new and bigger scandal. Just be patient. Eventually, the blinders will come off and the tide will turn.
With each new week brings a new and bigger scandal. Just be patient. Eventually, the blinders will come off and the tide will turn.
14
Why are Senate Dems being so timid? What is it with all this behind-the-scenes FBI investigations? Where are out Senators? You know, the ones who took an oath to support and uphold the Constitution?
I want a special prosecutor, I want a Senate Select Commitee and I want public, televised hearings, just like we had during Watergate. Stop pussyfooting around, people! Step up and defend your country!
I want a special prosecutor, I want a Senate Select Commitee and I want public, televised hearings, just like we had during Watergate. Stop pussyfooting around, people! Step up and defend your country!
45
America needs a hero. Someone with the power and integrity to stand up to Trump. It will have to be someone from within the administration. Is Rod Rosenstein that person? Seems unlikely since he wrote the memo giving Trump cover to fire Comey.
We've had 6 dismal months of Trump. He fired the only 2 people who didn't toe the party line (Yates and Comey). Only the courts have slowed Trump's destructive, autocratic agenda.
Maybe the hero will be an unknown figure in the FBI. This unprecedented attack on our democracy from the most powerful person in the world cannot be allowed to persist. Whoever that hero is, we need him or her to step forward before it's too late.
We've had 6 dismal months of Trump. He fired the only 2 people who didn't toe the party line (Yates and Comey). Only the courts have slowed Trump's destructive, autocratic agenda.
Maybe the hero will be an unknown figure in the FBI. This unprecedented attack on our democracy from the most powerful person in the world cannot be allowed to persist. Whoever that hero is, we need him or her to step forward before it's too late.
35
Well said NY Times. I agree wholeheartedly.
13
Perhaps Rosenstein could also set his phone on "record" in any/all meetings with Trump. We need evidence.
7
This editorial is perfection.
26
I agree. All day I have been trying to write a letter to Deputy AG Rosenstein to say exactly what this letter says but it says it more eloquently. As an attorney, I urge him to take the high road and appoint a special prosecutor.
12
He's going to start a war somewhere to take everyone's attention off this.
26
Dear Mr. Rosenstein: "Comey Tried to Shield
the F.B.I. From Politics. Then He Shaped an Election.
As the F.B.I. investigated Hillary Clinton and the Trump
campaign, James B. Comey tried to keep the bureau out
of politics but plunged it into the center of a bitter election.
By MATT APUZZO,
MICHAEL S. SCHMIDT,
ADAM GOLDMAN and
ERIC LICHTBLAU
APRIL 22, 2017"
Loyal NYtimes readers need to re read the article above so they can understand your actions. Unfortunately, most of them suffer from the lack of objectivity.
the F.B.I. From Politics. Then He Shaped an Election.
As the F.B.I. investigated Hillary Clinton and the Trump
campaign, James B. Comey tried to keep the bureau out
of politics but plunged it into the center of a bitter election.
By MATT APUZZO,
MICHAEL S. SCHMIDT,
ADAM GOLDMAN and
ERIC LICHTBLAU
APRIL 22, 2017"
Loyal NYtimes readers need to re read the article above so they can understand your actions. Unfortunately, most of them suffer from the lack of objectivity.
3
As soon as the Russians approve it, yes, Mr. Rosenstein will approve a Special Prosecutor.
13
This: “get to the bottom of whether and how Russia helped steal the presidency for Mr. Trump.”
Completely de-legitimizes the NYT.
Again.
Completely de-legitimizes the NYT.
Again.
7
Mr Rosenstein, do the right thing. What have you got to lose. He is going to dump you anyways.
Trump abandoned even his long time friend and mentor Cohn when he was dying of AIDs.
Trump abandoned even his long time friend and mentor Cohn when he was dying of AIDs.
20
This editorial nailed it. Only a truly independent special prosecutor can restore America's confidence in a fair and impartial investigation. Making that choice will be hard in the short run, but doing so would restore Rosenstein's reputation in the eyes of history.
19
“Cowardice asks the question, 'Is it safe?' Expediency asks the question, 'Is it politic?' Vanity asks the question, 'Is it popular?' But, conscience asks the question, 'Is it right?' And there comes a time when one must take a position that is neither safe, nor politic, nor popular, but one must take it because one's conscience tells one that it is right”
And the way Trump fired the committed servant was completely unethical and immoral!
And the way Trump fired the committed servant was completely unethical and immoral!
Why, thank you, EB for articulating what I felt a dwindling number of us are thinking and feeling, but can't express without being met with labels or in "proper" language!
With that said, I have noticed in, it is challenging today to find people of conviction, who are voluntarily willing to stand up and do the right thing without feeling pressured or weighing whether truth and the right thing is worth what they may lose vs gain.
As eloquent as this letter is, it has come after countless blurred moral lines and hope some of us clung on too already fleeting is nearly out, because sadly, we set our standards very low and became content with making excuses continuous bad behaviour by this Admin even that which is conspicuously unlawful and morally wrong.
So I am hoping this might trigger the right conscience and prompt quick action for a better state and we can chalk this up a lesson learned we dare NOT repeat!...Hopefully.
With that said, I have noticed in, it is challenging today to find people of conviction, who are voluntarily willing to stand up and do the right thing without feeling pressured or weighing whether truth and the right thing is worth what they may lose vs gain.
As eloquent as this letter is, it has come after countless blurred moral lines and hope some of us clung on too already fleeting is nearly out, because sadly, we set our standards very low and became content with making excuses continuous bad behaviour by this Admin even that which is conspicuously unlawful and morally wrong.
So I am hoping this might trigger the right conscience and prompt quick action for a better state and we can chalk this up a lesson learned we dare NOT repeat!...Hopefully.
10
I am in absolute agreement with the recommendation to Mr. Rosenstein by the editorial board. Having worked to support democracy and good governance in developing countries I know that strong democracies can only survive when the people trust their leaders. Trust and confidence is being eroded on daily basis by Trump and his actions. I believe Mr. Rosenstein is an honorable man who will understand the importance of having a special prosecutor named to launch an independent investigation.
27
The notion that the Russians stole the election for Mr. Trump is frankly unhinged. Russian meddling, yes (as usual). WikiRussia, maybe (the FBI declined to examine the DNC servers itself, and the private company that did has partisan ties and also ties to Ukrainian Oligarchs). But the idea that the election was stolen, stolen from Hillary, and with Trump or his campaign's knowing help, is at this stage a sign of serious mental illness, evidently the collective madness of a class of individuals who cannot come to terms with Hillary's defeat any more than can Hillary herself.
To promote this crazy obsession (secretly in the hope that, while it will never produce evidence it will nevertheless hamstring Trump for as long as he is in office) harms our institutions more than Mr. Trump. He may be impulsive and unpredictable but so far he has not come anywhere close to exceeding his constitutional authorities. Since losing, though, the Democrats have engaged in a steady assault on the legitimacy of our system and processes. Putin could not have hoped for more.
To promote this crazy obsession (secretly in the hope that, while it will never produce evidence it will nevertheless hamstring Trump for as long as he is in office) harms our institutions more than Mr. Trump. He may be impulsive and unpredictable but so far he has not come anywhere close to exceeding his constitutional authorities. Since losing, though, the Democrats have engaged in a steady assault on the legitimacy of our system and processes. Putin could not have hoped for more.
5
I'm sorry Stephen, but I absolutely disagree with you and at least on one statement that you have made I can tell you with certainty that you are wrong. Trump has already broken the law of our constitution by not selling off his business assets. In fact, he is profiting every time he goes to Mar-a-lago. Would you be happy with Hillary if she was making money off of Americans by staying at her own hotel? Would you be happy if Hillary spent more tax dollars in 100 days as the previous President spent in 8 years on travel? You would and if you say differently then you are a hypocrite.
The emoluments clause is quite clear and Trump has violated our constitution by not complying with it. Plain and simple.
The emoluments clause is quite clear and Trump has violated our constitution by not complying with it. Plain and simple.
What an editorial. The nation, history, and justice itself is calling, Mr. Rosenstein. You are going to be cast aside anyway by this 'President' the moment you stand up for something he does not like. Answer this clarion call, and be forever respected and admired as a great American.
23
For those of us who would like to encourage Mr Rosenstein to do the right thing, why not provide some contact information?
5
As we live the ongoing grade B horror movie that is Trump's presidency, one of the many fascinating things to watch is how people of integrity like Rosenstein are corrupted from contact with the Donald and the pallid zombies who surround him. It's like watching the hero in a slasher flick go down the stairs to the basement in the haunted house; you know nothing good will come of it, but you can't look away.
I hope this editorial reaches/moves Mr. Rosenstein ... he could be the one we remember. He'll be in the movie one way or another... I hope for a hero.
Related article:Trump Offers New Account of Firing ‘Showboat’ Comey, Peter Baker and Michael Shears, 2:44 pm, today: "President Trump offered on Thursday a new version of his decision to fire James B. Comey, the F.B.I. director, saying he would have dismissed him regardless of whether the attorney general and his deputy recommended it."
Now The Donald has thrown Mr. Rosenstein under the bus, casting doubt on his independence. He should have known better than to comply (or at least give the appearance of complicity) with Trump's directive in the first place. Mr Rosenstein has been hung out to dry, with no credibility left. If he does not hang tough and appoint a special prosecutor, his career has come to an ignominious end.
Now The Donald has thrown Mr. Rosenstein under the bus, casting doubt on his independence. He should have known better than to comply (or at least give the appearance of complicity) with Trump's directive in the first place. Mr Rosenstein has been hung out to dry, with no credibility left. If he does not hang tough and appoint a special prosecutor, his career has come to an ignominious end.
33
Totally agree! 100%! We can only hope that Mr. Rosenstein will read this editorial.
Mr Rosenstein's days are already numbered. The moment he stated that his memo was written at the request of the Whitehouse when the Whitehouse had said the reverse, he sealed his fate. Trump/Sessions set him up by saying the firing was because of a request by the FBI, and he has said publicly that he wrote the memo at the Whitehouse's request. Oops! Will they dare fire him too?PS: Sessions has not only violated his recusal on Russia, but also his recusal on the Clinton emails. But who is surprised? Sessions selected Trump as his conduit as long ago as 2013, long before Trump had any political credibility whatsoever. Can he control him?????
God Save America.
God Save America.
12
The time to act is now, Attorney General Rosenstein! You country is depending upon you!
"The only thing necessary for evil to triumph is for good men and women to do nothing."
Your failure to act will tell the American people where you stand...
"The only thing necessary for evil to triumph is for good men and women to do nothing."
Your failure to act will tell the American people where you stand...
19
This is an odious letter carrying the stench of partisanship. Brazile could have penned it and even Debbie Wasserman Schultz. Stop using your media to advance your particular brands. You never , barely, criticized the Clintonsi and their fraudulent foundation grabbing money from states all over the globe. Enough is enough.
5
Nice try.
7
Well done.
7
What if Trump never had any connection to the Russians our their influence in the election? I fear that your hatred of Trump has so clouded your thought processes that you can't accept that verdict. Who could convince you?
4
A special prosecutor.
24
If there is no "there" there, it would come out through an investigation.Why is the GOP afraid of the truth?
8
I'm embarrassed for America. First time in US history a proven ignoramus has been elected to the Presidency,
.
.
26
did you forget bush ?
7
It's not going to happen. Rosenstein has already committed. It is mostly only Democrats and Independents who are calling for a special investigation.
Firing Comey was outrageous and unethical but not illegal, like Watergate.
The Republicans are firmly in control. They have no honor, and don't care about Russia or Trumplings interacting with Russians. They just want to transfer wealth and limit liberty.
Democrats must concede that our position is weak, and Trump is popular enough to win midterms and win again. The economic costs will not hit people's pockets until 2020.
We'v got to fight like Hell, not assume advantage where there is none. Arrogance lost us this election.
Firing Comey was outrageous and unethical but not illegal, like Watergate.
The Republicans are firmly in control. They have no honor, and don't care about Russia or Trumplings interacting with Russians. They just want to transfer wealth and limit liberty.
Democrats must concede that our position is weak, and Trump is popular enough to win midterms and win again. The economic costs will not hit people's pockets until 2020.
We'v got to fight like Hell, not assume advantage where there is none. Arrogance lost us this election.
19
Agree with everything you wrote - except for your last sentence.
1
Confidence is a loaded word. If by it is meant the conditioning of a mental attitude, then it should be obvious that given the widespread disaffection with government policy and action, such a thing is a negatively foregone conclusion. Adding insult to injury by allowing the Justice Department, or whomever, to pursue a matter for which there is likely no evidence, accomplishes the fact of Mr. Rosenstein's stated status, that of being compromised. In which case the conclusion would be that the people will be handed a bogus investigation of a desired, even required, scapegoat, and that whatever is devised to supplant event-specific evidence will be yet another in the litany of lies and manipulations of truth which characterize the government's mien... under President Trump,or others of a political proclivity. As stated, the "dark cloud of suspicion... of the electoral process that put him in office." likely still occludes what occurred between the time that Cruz dropped out, and the time that the pivotal states supposedly went for Candidate Trump. How it could be that public opinion, as indicated in the polls, at any rate, could have experienced a bouleversement like that which ostensibly occurred defies reason. Cambridge Analytica, to which the Republican Campaign gave $15m. to try to effect the change in attitude of the voters, is a sham, perhaps a smokescreen, to obscure something more dire, which precluded the marginalization of the Republican Party, for the time being.
I agree with this editorial. As much as I am disturbed by this administration and much of the congressional leadership, I still trust in American institutions and the civil servants within them. Please Mr. Rosenstein, don't erode this trust, which is at the heart of our democracy.
8
As much as I'd like to believe Acting AG Rosenstein will do the right thing and appoint a Special Prosecutor, so far the history of a Trump appointee doing the Right thing without first being forced, kickng and screaming, into doing it ( like Rosenstein's boss, AG Sessions was over recusing himself from the Trump investigation) is slim to none.
From recent experience, I also seriously doubt that this particular iteration of the GOP Leadership will make the slightest attempt to avoid what is looking to be a full blown Constitutional and political crisis, which could result from the apparent White House cover-up of the extent of Trump's role in this debacle.
So yes, other than a replay of the 1960's where average citizens were forced to march in the streets and wholesale civil disobedience was common place, it appears that it will be left up to the Democrats in Congress to refuse to go along with this charade. And yes, I foresee a time when it may becomes necessary for the Democrats to attempt to prevent any type of legislative or procedural matters to continue in Congress until a credible investigative body is finally impaneled
From recent experience, I also seriously doubt that this particular iteration of the GOP Leadership will make the slightest attempt to avoid what is looking to be a full blown Constitutional and political crisis, which could result from the apparent White House cover-up of the extent of Trump's role in this debacle.
So yes, other than a replay of the 1960's where average citizens were forced to march in the streets and wholesale civil disobedience was common place, it appears that it will be left up to the Democrats in Congress to refuse to go along with this charade. And yes, I foresee a time when it may becomes necessary for the Democrats to attempt to prevent any type of legislative or procedural matters to continue in Congress until a credible investigative body is finally impaneled
6
Although I appreciate the sentiment, I don't follow the logic of this editorial. Either Rosenstein wrote the letter in response to Trump's request or it was his own unprompted assessment. The editorial seems to assume the former. In this case Rosenstein would have already chosen ambition over integrity, so this plea comes a bit late.
Is not the latter also plausible? Is it possible that Rosenstein had reservations about dedicating more resources to the investigation not because of the investigation's target (Trump) but because of its leader (Comey)? Given the unprecedented nature and gravity of the case, perhaps Rosenstein wanted confidence that the FBI director's judgment would keep him (or her) above the political fray. Is it a forgone conclusion that the FBI wouldn't be able to maintain independence and would lean towards the administration?
The Ken Starr years jaded me to "independent" counsels. Starr didn't seem independent. He seemed bent on finding any misdeed he could, but after 5 unrelenting years and untold millions all he came up with was sexual acts between consenting adults. In an ironic coda, Starr looked the other way as far worse transpired on his watch at his university. He chose to protect athletes at the expense of sexual assault victims and put many other students at risk. Not exactly the model of integrity.
A thorough investigation is needed. And integrity.
Is not the latter also plausible? Is it possible that Rosenstein had reservations about dedicating more resources to the investigation not because of the investigation's target (Trump) but because of its leader (Comey)? Given the unprecedented nature and gravity of the case, perhaps Rosenstein wanted confidence that the FBI director's judgment would keep him (or her) above the political fray. Is it a forgone conclusion that the FBI wouldn't be able to maintain independence and would lean towards the administration?
The Ken Starr years jaded me to "independent" counsels. Starr didn't seem independent. He seemed bent on finding any misdeed he could, but after 5 unrelenting years and untold millions all he came up with was sexual acts between consenting adults. In an ironic coda, Starr looked the other way as far worse transpired on his watch at his university. He chose to protect athletes at the expense of sexual assault victims and put many other students at risk. Not exactly the model of integrity.
A thorough investigation is needed. And integrity.
6
Beautifully written Open Letter by the Times Editorial Board! Indeed, Rosenstein now stands at a deeply critical moment to make history by showing the courage to follow his conscience.
Not just the American public, but the entire world would like to see a special counsel appointed.
Not just the American public, but the entire world would like to see a special counsel appointed.
11
"I'm looking hard and don't see whatever the editorial board sees in this guy..."
It's early.
His reputation in the US Attys. office, is as a Straight shooter.
Truly, what was asked of him, and what he delivered, to Sessions and Trump,
wasn't out of line.
It goes (and will go), To Intent.
I figure he has more suspicions, than you or I, and we have plenty.
If he is as good as his reputation, he can do more good "IN", than "OUT".
If Rod Rosenstein has gone over to the dark side, it will be clearer, shortly.
Comedian Hasan Minhaj, reminded us last week, we're just 100+ days
into 1460 days .
How long did Watergate, and Iran Contra take to conclude?
It's early.
His reputation in the US Attys. office, is as a Straight shooter.
Truly, what was asked of him, and what he delivered, to Sessions and Trump,
wasn't out of line.
It goes (and will go), To Intent.
I figure he has more suspicions, than you or I, and we have plenty.
If he is as good as his reputation, he can do more good "IN", than "OUT".
If Rod Rosenstein has gone over to the dark side, it will be clearer, shortly.
Comedian Hasan Minhaj, reminded us last week, we're just 100+ days
into 1460 days .
How long did Watergate, and Iran Contra take to conclude?
5
Amen! This editorial will be lambasted by Donald Trump because it is truthful and he, for the most part, echoes falsehoods. What a thing to say about our, so called, President; but it is the truth. And the truth shall keep this nation free.
5
What one needs to understand is that times of great stress and confusion often produce behaviors by people that are complete surprises to both them and those who have known them. Rosenstein in his unconscious mind is highly authoritarian and he is very easily convinced that he must act in accordance with the wishes of those in authority, even when logic and his knowledge of law and philosophy should lead him to refuse because they are contrary to the values of our form of government. This is who Rosenstein happens to be, a man who will do as instructed by those he sees to be his superiors. He is no different than Robert Bork when he complied with Nixon's orders to fire Archibald Cox.
6
t
Thank you for channeling the higher calling to the truth that this paper has stood for over decades. It is only continuing in this manner will the path out of the morass your nation finds itself in will become apparent and then followed. Let's hope the first person to take this to heart, is the gentleman you addressed the letter to.
Thank you for channeling the higher calling to the truth that this paper has stood for over decades. It is only continuing in this manner will the path out of the morass your nation finds itself in will become apparent and then followed. Let's hope the first person to take this to heart, is the gentleman you addressed the letter to.
5
When you sup with the Devil, take a longer spoon than you've been using. Better still, eat somewhere else.
8
This level of absolute journalistic excellence is why I have subscribed to the Times for most of my life and will always do so. Bravo!
21
Just thinking.......
Deputy Attorney General Rod Rosenstein is apparently a very intelligent, upstanding civil servant. Is it possible that when he was told to write the memo justifying the firing of James Comey by President Donald Trump and (recused) Attorney General Jeff Sessions, Rod Rosenstein focussed on Comey's ineptitude in dealing with Hillary Clinton's email server because he was aware that in using this argument for firing James Comey, Donald Trump would be displaying his amorality and stupidity.
Rod Rosenstein appears to have given Donald Trump the rope to hang himself.
Deputy Attorney General Rod Rosenstein is apparently a very intelligent, upstanding civil servant. Is it possible that when he was told to write the memo justifying the firing of James Comey by President Donald Trump and (recused) Attorney General Jeff Sessions, Rod Rosenstein focussed on Comey's ineptitude in dealing with Hillary Clinton's email server because he was aware that in using this argument for firing James Comey, Donald Trump would be displaying his amorality and stupidity.
Rod Rosenstein appears to have given Donald Trump the rope to hang himself.
20
I had the same thought myself.
2
The best show of honor and integrity for Mr. Rosenstein is to resign.
14
Aw, poor little Rod J. Rosenstein isn't happy that Trump seized upon his memo to justify his decision to fire Comey. He's even reported to have threatened to resign, though the White House can't "confirm" that. I agree, he should appoint a genuinely independent special prosecutor to investigate the Russia connection. That way, he'll give Trump a reason to fire him. More impact than just resigning.
10
Mr. Rosenstein finds himself at a juncture in history. No matter what he does, he will go down in hitory for his decision. For the sake of Freedon and Democracy in our country, we can only hope he makes the correct, patriotic and honorable decision. It could be that the future of the United States of America depends on it. Yes, I believe it is that important.
15
When Director Comey made his, "Nausea" remark,
I thought at the time he was expressing his concern, that his actions may have influenced the Election.
I did not think his context or tone, expressed a personal attack,
against Mr. Trump.
but to hear me tell it, I'm relatively sane,
and not Donald Trump.
People are saying, the President didn't take the comment, the same way I did.
I guess, it's not all about me, after all.
I thought at the time he was expressing his concern, that his actions may have influenced the Election.
I did not think his context or tone, expressed a personal attack,
against Mr. Trump.
but to hear me tell it, I'm relatively sane,
and not Donald Trump.
People are saying, the President didn't take the comment, the same way I did.
I guess, it's not all about me, after all.
12
Does that kind of patriot and hero even exist anymore? In the age of selfies and me-first politics, with Republicans so giddy with unexpectedly having the White House that they are willing to risk how history will judge them, I fear not. And every time I've seen the deputy DA since Comey got fired, he's had a loopy smile on his face, knowing all eyes are on him. This does not reassure. He's made a career out of laying low and being a survivor, not a hero; the immigration enforcement shows he already knuckled under to Trump. None of this reassures. But I AM reassured by the press. By the relentless digging that won't stop until we have a definitive answer on whether Trump colluded with the Russians. No wonder Trump hates the press.
12
There are three investigations underway, in addition to the numerous journalists who have been looking for any shred of evidence to implicate the president for collusion over the past 9 months. Numerous officials have testified under oath that's there's no evidence of any collusion. In fact, there's much more existing evidence already to the contrary.
How many times do we need to be told the exact same thing before we accept it? It's gotten to the point of irrationality. It reeks of unhinged partisanship.
How many times do we need to be told the exact same thing before we accept it? It's gotten to the point of irrationality. It reeks of unhinged partisanship.
5
What you wrote is not correct, there is one poorly staffed investigation of the Trump collusion with Russia, and there are numerous individuals who have stated publicly that there is evidence of the collision.
16
I don't understand how you can write this when the investigation(s) are not yet complete. Surely we have to wait to see?
4
Absolutely! REH
1
This event will take the presidency away from Trump, and may very well result in an uncovering of massive participation and collusion with Russians interests to whom he may be beholden.
When is the news media going to put the heat on congressional Republicans for their refusal to govern and their aversion to truth (telling and finding)? A sentence or two highlighting GOP subversion, buried in stories on Trump, hasn’t the same impact as a leading headline. Angry voters appearing in town halls have limited, local effect. We need a continually focused, widely-cast, intense spotlight that only editors and journalists can supply. That kind of targeted unmasking has been done in the past. (Ask Clinton if it works.) It can be done again. As other commenters attest, it needs to be done. NOW.
13
This a vital opinion from the NYT that points Mr. Rosenstein in the right direction. Appointing a special prosecutor would be the best way to get to the bottom of the many questions about the President's involvement in Russia's meddling in the 2016 election, I believe. These questions permeate news feeds and conversations daily and the American people deserve an antidote to the partition rancor and obfuscation from elected officials and pundits on this national security and justice issue. One might think based on reports that Mr. Mr. Rosenstein would have reason enough already to move toward a DOJ investigation as a basis to appoint a Special Prosecutor as outlined by sec. 600 of the Code of Federal Regulations. One might go further and suggest that, like Mr. Sessions, Mr. Rosenstein should recuse himself based on Trump's use of his recent letter to Justify the Comey firing. However, I think the misappropriation of that information might suggest that Mr. Rosenstein should take the advice of the NYT editorial Board and restore American's confidence in their government.
6
Why is the investigation compromised and requiring a special prosecutor? The editorial never answers that question, it only insinuates as much.
2
There's a significant difference from house and senate intelligence committee investigations, FBI counterintelligence investigations, and one conducted by a special counsel.
Because in our country, in case you're not American and are asking because you don't know how our legal system works, those being investigated don't pick who conducts the investigation and control how the investigation is handled (unless there is corruption of the system). Seems obvious, but maybe not.
3
Dear Mr. Rosenstein:
I am an atheist but I pray to whatever "higher power" might be up there that you act with integrity and appropriateness in this situation. I commend your many years of public service and expect that you will do the right thing - please....for the sake of my children and grandchildren.
Kathleen
I am an atheist but I pray to whatever "higher power" might be up there that you act with integrity and appropriateness in this situation. I commend your many years of public service and expect that you will do the right thing - please....for the sake of my children and grandchildren.
Kathleen
10
Brilliant! Let's hope he rises to the occasion.
9
There's always a way to bean-count your way out of doing the right thing, and I will be surprised and pleased if that's not what happens in the coming weeks.
3
Republicans strong suit have always been their strong stances on on national defense or constitutionalism, which they supposedly burnished during Obama's Presidency. Their enabling of Trump's obstruction of justice on the investigation of Russian hacking / collusion, so soon after Trump's election, has completely destroyed their identity as the "true" Americans.
11
C'mon. The minute Rosenstein acts to investigate Trump, his goose will be cooked and he'll be fired in days. Trump will install Guiliani as FBI Chief and then he will have total control. Wait and see.
5
This plea by the editorial board is commendable. However, tragically Mr. Rosenstein by his very letter has demonstrated that he is already compromised and has fallen in line with the rest of the cowardly Republicans who puts Party first before country. Sad, ugly, tragic, catastrophic, terrifying.
6
This is the best of many excellent editorials that I have read in the New York Times. Russia denies interfering in our election. Donald Trump denies that his henchmen collaborated with the Russian efforts to disrupt the election. Should we believe the FBI or should we believe "Lying Don" and his Russian blackmailers.
The crisis that we face is far more serious than Watergate. If we fail to investigate this crisis and punish those who are responsible, we will become a Russian satelite nation. The appointment of a special counsel is the only way out at this point.
The crisis that we face is far more serious than Watergate. If we fail to investigate this crisis and punish those who are responsible, we will become a Russian satelite nation. The appointment of a special counsel is the only way out at this point.
14
And your evidence that Trump is being blackmailed is what, exactly?
1
I fully agree with this editorial.
As a now retired attorney and supervisor employed for more than 30 years by a quasi-judicial independent agency of the federal government I realize, as surely does Mr. Rosenstein, that he cannot avoid the appearance of impropriety and a direct conflict of interest if he does not step aside from any participation in the Russia investigation. Nor can any other attorney in the Department of Justice avoid such an appearance of impropriety either. I just hope that Mr. Rosenstein acts to appoint a special counsel before our narcissistic and mad-hearted President decides the potential danger to his cover up plans is too great to retain Mr. Rosenstein him and fires him too before he can appoint a special counsel. If Mr. Rosenstein will not act to preserve our Republic and the integrity of the Department of Justice, who will have the guts, authority and integrity to do so after him?
As a now retired attorney and supervisor employed for more than 30 years by a quasi-judicial independent agency of the federal government I realize, as surely does Mr. Rosenstein, that he cannot avoid the appearance of impropriety and a direct conflict of interest if he does not step aside from any participation in the Russia investigation. Nor can any other attorney in the Department of Justice avoid such an appearance of impropriety either. I just hope that Mr. Rosenstein acts to appoint a special counsel before our narcissistic and mad-hearted President decides the potential danger to his cover up plans is too great to retain Mr. Rosenstein him and fires him too before he can appoint a special counsel. If Mr. Rosenstein will not act to preserve our Republic and the integrity of the Department of Justice, who will have the guts, authority and integrity to do so after him?
12
This is so powerful and so true. We can only hope that he listens.
6
Most of our politicians democrat or republican are speaking from both sides of their mouth. We know that the top democrats called for Comeys resignation right when Trump took office. Pelosi, Schmer, Bernie Sanders, Feinstein and etc...
What a seesaw the democrats want him out the republicans want him out and now that the president fired him the democrats are all up in arms.
I personally think that Comey was a good servant should not have been fired but the NY Times calling for an special prosecutor has the same weight as Pelosi. The NY times as Pelosi wants to bury President Trump j, this is politics as usual don't think it will happen.
What a seesaw the democrats want him out the republicans want him out and now that the president fired him the democrats are all up in arms.
I personally think that Comey was a good servant should not have been fired but the NY Times calling for an special prosecutor has the same weight as Pelosi. The NY times as Pelosi wants to bury President Trump j, this is politics as usual don't think it will happen.
2
Unfortunately Mr. Rosenstein has already sold his soul when he wrote that memo. A man of Mr. Rosenstein's caliber knew that Mr. Trump is interfering in investigation when he ordered him to write that memo. Instead of resigning he chose to write that memo. First failing of character is difficult, later failings gets easier. From now on, Mr. Rosenstein will be doing the opposite what Time's editorial is pleading. Mr. Trump is expert at how to use the people and take away their soul. White house is full of such people now.
6
Rosenstein appears to already be part of the program. The Germans called it Gleichschaltung, the measures taken from 1933-35 to bring political parties, military, the legal system, and civil society into conformance. Trump and Bannon seem to be on schedule with the government agencies, having installed heads whose objectives are to undermine and dismantle. So, it is not surprising that the FBI, the nation's law enforcer, requires a director who is allegiant to the Trump agenda, and not the citizens of the US.
9
Until we vote out the Republicans in 2018, which is becoming more and more probable, nothing will happen with this investigation. Trump will hinder it as much as he can and the totally amoral RNC with McConnell and Ryan will continue to put party and personal gain over the security of our nation.
This is about our number one enemy interfering in our elections in favor of Trump (Only Trump denies this.) and the possible collusion all the way to the president of our great nation.
It is sad that today we don't have Republicans with a moral compass like we did when Nixon tried to pull a Trump in his administration.
This is about our number one enemy interfering in our elections in favor of Trump (Only Trump denies this.) and the possible collusion all the way to the president of our great nation.
It is sad that today we don't have Republicans with a moral compass like we did when Nixon tried to pull a Trump in his administration.
2
I concur completely. Unless Mr. Rosenstein appoints a special counsel, both Mr. Trump's administration and Mr. Rosenstein personally will remain under a cloud of suspicion. We need a nonpartisan investigation into the serious allegations of Russian election interference, along with an airing of who, besides Mr. Flynn, was receiving payments from the Russians or was in any compromised by the Russians. This is not an partisan issue: it's an American issue and it must be resolved.
6
Dear Editorial Board,
Thank You for taking the gloves off, for being blunt, for calling it as it is. No sugar-coating, no couching.
Thank You!
Thank You for taking the gloves off, for being blunt, for calling it as it is. No sugar-coating, no couching.
Thank You!
12
Hear-hear! Be the man who brought us back from the brink.
I just don't know if anyone has the guts, integrity and power at this point.
I just don't know if anyone has the guts, integrity and power at this point.
3
Rosenstein is unlikely to assign a decent special prosecutor after aiding and abetting his dishonorable bosses, one of whom just dishonored his own recusal over all things Russian and the other engaging in a huge and growing number of impeachable offences.
3
I'm not worried. Rudy Giuliani will straighten it all out when takes over as Trump's next FBI director.
2
One only hopes this is sarcasm, but one fear it is not uttered in jest. Yes I do expect Giuliani will be next Directory. And him being such an apologist makes it imperative a special prosecutor is appointed.
1
Mr. Rosenstein, during confirmation hearings you confirmed your allegiance to, and do what is right for, America. Please proceed.
My first reaction to this was that Rosenstein should not just threaten to resign but actually resign. Then I thought about his immediate boss, not Trump but Sessions. Sessions is a worm. He is dishonest beyond belief--recuse himself from Clinton/Trump investigations? Hardly. He is a toady of the highest order and dangerous because of that. On second thought, maybe Rosenstein should stay so that he has the opportunity to run interference in the Justice Dept. and the FYI. Whether he will really take that opportunity is unclear.
6
Your advice comes too late. Trump now has way too much experience, backed by both houses of Congress and his weasel-wording mouth, that he will not get caught in that vise again. Trump won. The People lost. Yet, if the people can just hold on to a few threads of the Russian connection to the election, there may still be hope.
3
Mr. Rosenstein, I, like millions of other Americans, am praying you find the strength and courage to do what needs to be done and appoint a truly independent investigator who can follow the chain of evidence wherever it leads. The editorial writers suggest that by doing so you would join the ranks of Elliot Richardson and William Ruckelshaus. To me it is bigger than that. To me, you will join the ranks of Paul Revere, Benjamin Franklin, George Washington, Abraham Lincoln, Martin Luther King Jr., and the other great American patriots of the ages. Rarely does our country face grave peril. But when it does, we have always relied on heroes who rise up to meet the challenge. This is such a time, sir. We beseech you be our hero. God be with you.
4
To Mr. Rosenstein:
...Duty, Honor, Country: Those three hallowed words reverently dictate what you ought to be, what you can be, what you will be. They are your rallying points: to build courage when courage seems to fail; to regain faith when there seems to be little cause for faith; to create hope when hope becomes forlorn...
from General Douglas MacArthur
...Duty, Honor, Country: Those three hallowed words reverently dictate what you ought to be, what you can be, what you will be. They are your rallying points: to build courage when courage seems to fail; to regain faith when there seems to be little cause for faith; to create hope when hope becomes forlorn...
from General Douglas MacArthur
3
Another suckered victim of Trump- Mr. Rosenstein, do the right thing and pursue this investigation vigorously letting the evidence lead you where it will.
3
“I wish it need not have happened in my time," said Frodo.
"So do I," said Gandalf, "and so do all who live to see such times. But that is not for them to decide. All we have to decide is what to do with the time that is given us.”
"So do I," said Gandalf, "and so do all who live to see such times. But that is not for them to decide. All we have to decide is what to do with the time that is given us.”
22
I completely agree with the editorial as well and have a question for the Times and readers. If by some chance Mr. Rosenstein does the right thing and appoints a special counsel to investigate the Russian interference and the Trump campaign, I believe Trump would fire Rosenstein as well. What happens then?
12
You're thinking forward and logical again!
3
Preet Bharara would be a good candidate.
16
Patrick Fitzgerald would be an excellent candidate as well. Plus, he has a lot of experience investigating a dishonest administration.
2
If Rod doesn't toe the Trump/Sessions line, he will be fired. He can quit now or get fired later. Unless he sacrifices all his integrity to save his job.
20
He is a highly qualified pick for the job and I hope he keeps his integrity. This was a case of let the newbie have the rotten task of drawing up a list of excuses for which he will be blamed later. Clearly the directive came from Trump via Sessions. I hope Rod Rosenstein realizes that staying honest and risking being fired is so important and remembers the poem by Robert Frost: The Road Not Taken,
"I shall be telling this with a sigh
Somewhere ages and ages hence:
Two roads diverged in a wood, and I—
I took the one less traveled by,
And that has made all the difference."
"I shall be telling this with a sigh
Somewhere ages and ages hence:
Two roads diverged in a wood, and I—
I took the one less traveled by,
And that has made all the difference."
3
As I read this excellent letter to Mr. Rosenstein I wondered if he would even read it. I truly hope he does, as I think the editors have done a nice job highlighting Trumps actions that confirm he has nothing but contempt for the constitution and the rule of law. It is simply an obstruction to his will. As a man who is constructed almost entirely of Id, he cares only about self-getting his way. Right now he taking the biggest Ego trip since Caligula, at the expense of the most vulnerable Americans. Someone must stop this Narcissistic Bully before he does even more damage.
15
Are you kidding?
He was clearly hired with two directives. Fire Comey and obstruct the Russia investigation. One down.
He's completely dirty.
He was clearly hired with two directives. Fire Comey and obstruct the Russia investigation. One down.
He's completely dirty.
14
The problem is that by agreeing to take a position in this administration, Mr. Rosenstein demonstrated his willingness to sacrifice whatever integrity he had. No one with integrity is capable of accepting a job working for Donald Trump. Is it that simple? Yes.
19
Nothing is that simple and intelligent insiders often do much to blunt stupidity from the top.
3
Actually, it IS, because Mr. Rosenstein accepted the appointment. It is not as if he was simply an employee not requiring confirmation who simply stayed in his job.
Mr. Rosenstein:
Who do you want to play your part in the movie that will one day be made? If you're smart, you'll pick Tom Hanks.
Who do you want to play your part in the movie that will one day be made? If you're smart, you'll pick Tom Hanks.
15
Depends on the outcome. As it stands currently it'll be the dude that played Fredo in The GodFather.
2
I hope Rod reads this letter and takes it to heart.
9
Amen.
Now is truly the time for all Americans to show their love of country, and its Democracy, to value and put patriotism over partisan bickering, and stand up as one to the horrifying danger that is occupying the White House.
Make America safe again.
Now is truly the time for all Americans to show their love of country, and its Democracy, to value and put patriotism over partisan bickering, and stand up as one to the horrifying danger that is occupying the White House.
Make America safe again.
12
Mr. Rosenstein may yet do the right thing....but by doing the wrong thing, he sacrificed all of his formerly positive reputation, and stands as a stooge and delivery boy, not a man who is truly "of counsel."
Like John Yoo, the misguided attorney who authored the memo justifying the use of torture by U.S. personnel, he has abandoned any claim to ethical behavior and professional conduct.
When those at the heart of our most durable and vulnerable institution--the rule of law, and its service of moral human conduct--we are in deep trouble indeed. Mr. Rosenstein has failed us in our time of need.
Like John Yoo, the misguided attorney who authored the memo justifying the use of torture by U.S. personnel, he has abandoned any claim to ethical behavior and professional conduct.
When those at the heart of our most durable and vulnerable institution--the rule of law, and its service of moral human conduct--we are in deep trouble indeed. Mr. Rosenstein has failed us in our time of need.
10
We want the media to report the news, not attempt to influence it.
This is a clear and arguably outlandish attempt to bend a single government employee to the will of the partisan views of the editorial board. This goes beyond editorial opinion. It is actions like this that color the public's view of the media in unflattering ways.
Actions like this make you no better than other run of the mill DC lobbying firms. It jeopardizes whatever standing you have left as a fair arbiter of the news. It seems desperately partisan.
This is a clear and arguably outlandish attempt to bend a single government employee to the will of the partisan views of the editorial board. This goes beyond editorial opinion. It is actions like this that color the public's view of the media in unflattering ways.
Actions like this make you no better than other run of the mill DC lobbying firms. It jeopardizes whatever standing you have left as a fair arbiter of the news. It seems desperately partisan.
1
You clearly do not understand what an editorial page is supposed to do. It offers opinions, not news. That's the point. What is more, there is nothing "desperately partisan" about asking someone to do their job and abide by their oath of office.
4
And what is partisan about asking for an independent, non-partisan special prosecutor whof is free from political pressure to find the truth? Anyone who disagrees with that is unpatriotic and is blinded by the cult of personality and unquestionably loyalty demanded by Trump.
2
Mr. Rosenstein, do you really want to part in Trump's very real strategy to destroy the United States of America?
Remember:"Blessed is the man who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked or stand in the way of sinners or sit in the seat of mockers. But his delight is in the Torah of the LORD, and on his Torah he meditates day and night. He is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither. Whatever he does prospers." (Psalms 1:1-3)
Remember:"Blessed is the man who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked or stand in the way of sinners or sit in the seat of mockers. But his delight is in the Torah of the LORD, and on his Torah he meditates day and night. He is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither. Whatever he does prospers." (Psalms 1:1-3)
7
These days I often feel like a displaced stranger in my own country. In all my years ( I am nearly 60), I've never seen or recalled a time when my fellow citizens have been so completely polarized and its a sad sign of the times. While many are comparing recent times with Watergate, there is unfortunately one missing piece: today we have no moral Republican majority willing to put partisan politics aside and rise above for the good of our country. Every day I despise politicians like Paul Ryan and Mitch McConnell- they are selfish - self serving cowards. Who among their ranks will save us from this insanity?
28
Trump is now turning the FBI into the Gestapo, thanks to his having joined forces with Russia, which itself "progressed" from Communism into Gangster Fascism -- the American equivalent of which is Trump's Gangster Corporatism.
And I thought I was mortified on Election Night!
And I thought I was mortified on Election Night!
11
If someone were to stand up to Trump, he would go aside. The bully does not stand up to a challenger.
6
I think it would take Sally Yates under a minute to knock the chump Trump out cold.
3
Rosenstein doesn't matter.
What matters is this: One Republican after another coming to realize that subservience to Trump is probably more dangerous to his/her reelection than standing up to him.
It's starting to happen. Agonizingly slowly, but starting to happen.
What matters is this: One Republican after another coming to realize that subservience to Trump is probably more dangerous to his/her reelection than standing up to him.
It's starting to happen. Agonizingly slowly, but starting to happen.
13
Assuming it is in the public interest to rehash the 2016 Presidential election for the indefinite future (and why not?), what (and against whom) is the specific allegation in law that a “special counsel” would be attempting to prove in fact? Because it sounds like you’re advising a very broad and vague discovery process in order to come up with an allegation.
2
How much time do you have? But then again, your patriotism appears to be limited by your own party loyalties. This is not about relitigating the election. This is about investigating the ways that election laws--and others--were broken. I guess that that does not rise to your standard. What did you make of the Benghazi hearings?
2
It appears that Mr Trump has read your letter, and decided to change his story and say that he was already planning to fire Comey. He also decided he needed to get moving on that election fraud committee. Amazing.
6
As a grateful American citizen, I thank the New York Times for this editorial. You are a lighthouse on a stormy night.
I will go back to disagreeing with you and protesting you another time. Today you have my thanks.
I will go back to disagreeing with you and protesting you another time. Today you have my thanks.
13
If Trump and his cohorts are not guilty of collusion, a special prosecutor will exonerate them... If Trump and his cohorts are guilty of collusion, a special prosecutor will likely uncover it...
Question: Why would Trump oppose a special prosecutor?
Answer: See above.
Question: Why would Trump oppose a special prosecutor?
Answer: See above.
9
All this Progressive whining is as predictable as the sunrise. The various investigations are ongoing so it might be reasonable to see what they uncover. It is humorous, of course, that Rep. Waters and Sen. Schumer publicly stated during Hillary's email investigation that they had lost all confidence in Mr. Comey. Now he is a martyr at the hands of that evil Trump fellow.
3
Humorous? Yet I bet that you're not actually laughing, not one of us is laughing, we're just hating each other. Plus, I don't hear any progressive "whining", shouting is more like it, and shouting is not the same as whining. And, maybe you haven't noticed, but they have good reason to shout.
Not as if conservatives never whine, is it.
The email scandal doesn't rise to the level to dismiss the director of the FBI. It is, therefore an irrelevant distraction. That the FBI director may have known too much about the Russia connection is the obvious reason.
This is about patriotism. Comey is a patriot. Trump says he is and is not. We are at a crossroads, and partisan score-keeping is out-of-date.
The email scandal doesn't rise to the level to dismiss the director of the FBI. It is, therefore an irrelevant distraction. That the FBI director may have known too much about the Russia connection is the obvious reason.
This is about patriotism. Comey is a patriot. Trump says he is and is not. We are at a crossroads, and partisan score-keeping is out-of-date.
2
Context is everything.
With all due respect, Comey's dismissal as Director of the FBI and the Russian election tampering investigation are two entirely separate matters. To imagine that Comey was personally investigating Trump is naive. To imagine that even if Comey had been tragically struck dead that important ongoing FBI investigations would be compromised is equally absurd. Either the FBI as an organization has integrity that is above politics, or it doesn't. Comey is just one man. And, Comey deviated from established DOJ and FBI policies and protocols on multiple occasions. He should've been fired by Obama for his mishandling of the Clinton email investigation. And, he probably should've been fired by Trump sooner; but other than giving the Democrats the opportunity for some high theater melodrama at the expense of the public's real interests (think healthcare, tax reform, etc.), it make no difference whatsoever when Comey got fired, or for that matter why. The FBI Director serves at the sole discretion of the President...period.
2
Here's a fact: if Comey were investigating the supposed "wiretap" by Barack Obama (or investigating Obama for ANY reason,) he'd still be the FBI Director. Sadly, there seems to be folks that no matter how guilty Trump and his inner circle are, they'll make excuses for them.
Does Donald Trump literally have to dissect and eat a puppy on videotape for folks like this to admit just how incredibly dirty and dishonest this man is? What's it going to take?
Does Donald Trump literally have to dissect and eat a puppy on videotape for folks like this to admit just how incredibly dirty and dishonest this man is? What's it going to take?
3
You seem to miss the main point of the letter. Yes Trump is within his rights to fire Comey, but beside the horrible timing, right after Comey request for more resources to investigate, the ONLY fair and unbiased course is a special prosecutor who will follow facts to the truth. Anything less will cast a shadow on our free election process. Trump and supporters should welcome this opportunity to clear Trump's name.....unless they have something to hid.
I find it hard to believe that suddenly Republicans will stop supporting this obstruction of justice – this historic cover-up – and appoint an independent, non-partisan special counsel. It would clearly give Donald Trump and the complicit GOP the chance to bury any coherent investigation.
Democrats should demand that an individual like Sally Yates - someone whose qualifications and dedication to perform her job ethically, with consistency, and independently - are now well known to voters. They should act now and publicly proffer the names of qualified, non-partisan candidates for special counsel so that the GOP cannot take us down another rabbit hole, permitting Donald Trump and an ethically compromised Congress to continue to subvert our 230 year old Democracy.
Democrats should demand that an individual like Sally Yates - someone whose qualifications and dedication to perform her job ethically, with consistency, and independently - are now well known to voters. They should act now and publicly proffer the names of qualified, non-partisan candidates for special counsel so that the GOP cannot take us down another rabbit hole, permitting Donald Trump and an ethically compromised Congress to continue to subvert our 230 year old Democracy.
The American people deserve a fair and impartial investigation into possible Russian interference in the 2016 presidential election. This is the root of democracy and the most important issue and threat in decades. Everyone, congress and the average citizen alike: Speak up! Demand answers! Support our democratic process! Or cave in to what is looking more and more like a dictatorship.
9
If there is no evidence of wrongdoing by the Trump campaign, why delay investigation?
2
Only a truly independent special counsel, doing a completely independent investigation will be able to clear Trump in a way that satisfies the public and ends the innuendo and rumor of complicity with Russian involvement, of collusion, and even of Russia having blackmail material on Trump himself. Trump must at some level understand this - anyone he appoints who eventually renders a decision of innocence, a conclusion of no complicity or collusion - anyone's decision, no matter how much integrity that person may have brought to the investigation, will immediately be discounted by everyone but the Trump acolytes. Trump must know this - and my only conclusion then is that Trump won't call for or support an independent special counsel investigation because he is in fact guilty of complicity, collusion, treasonous conspiracy with Russian interests to influence and steal our election. Trump, a truly innocent Trump, would be demanding an independent special counsel investigation otherwise. There can be no other reasonable conclusion for the repeated obstructions, deflections, and dismissive attempts to minimize these accusations. Trump is behaving as guilty as anyone could behave. We must have a true independent special counsel to investigation this whole situation.
7
Don't kid yourselves... Obtaining justice was a tough slog in the days of Nixon, too, just as it will be now and going forward. Even afterward there will be diehards complaining how Trump was treated. But the truth has to be uncovered and will prevail.
4
Turning and turning in the widening gyre
The falcon cannot hear the falconer;
Things fall apart; the centre cannot hold;
Mere anarchy is loosed upon the world,
The blood-dimmed tide is loosed, and everywhere
The ceremony of innocence is drowned;
The best lack all conviction, while the worst
Are full of passionate intensity.
~ William Butler Yeats, "The Second Coming"
The falcon cannot hear the falconer;
Things fall apart; the centre cannot hold;
Mere anarchy is loosed upon the world,
The blood-dimmed tide is loosed, and everywhere
The ceremony of innocence is drowned;
The best lack all conviction, while the worst
Are full of passionate intensity.
~ William Butler Yeats, "The Second Coming"
7
Mr. Rosenstein, the nation, needs you to be a man of uncompromisable principles… Our very own Sir Thomas More to Trump’s Henry V111!
In these uncertain times, we hope that you will conduct yourself with such integrity that history will judge this to have been your “finest hour”!
In these uncertain times, we hope that you will conduct yourself with such integrity that history will judge this to have been your “finest hour”!
9
When I read yesterday's editorial, I thought "too late. Mr Rosenstein has already failed his ethic test. He should have refused to write the letter to Trump, or included in it the phrase "Written at Mr Trump's request"; either of which would have resulted in his termination, of course. That way Trump would have had to fire both Mr. Comey and Mr. Rosenstein, which would have been a worse scandal and more transparent evidence of the W.H. motivations.
6
Thank you, New York Times.
We must never accept the daily outrages as the new normal.
We must never accept the daily outrages as the new normal.
18
One of THE most powerful Op Ed pieces I have read to date. I fear for the safety of our country due to a deranged psychopath currently residing at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue. A petulant child who when he doesn't get his way takes matters into his own hands with abysmal results. A man who plays by his own rules and ignores the laws of the land. A sociopath who is completely out of his league in his current position as POTUS. A confirmed liar and braggart is leading this country down a slippery slope and no one doing a damned thing to reign this madman in. Isn't there any way this deranged man be removed from office? Now before it's too late.
40
Allow me to add my name to this letter to Mr. Rosenstein.
I always imagined that our democracy would be taken down by a cabal of powerful men inspired by a hero created by the right wing, who would have a well thought out plan to destroy US.
I never thought it would be because of 80,000 morons who couldn't read this so called man's intention as being completely about himself and voted to stick their fingers in the eye of the establishment.
I can't believe we bungled into this mess and that some evil genius wasn't to blame.
I always imagined that our democracy would be taken down by a cabal of powerful men inspired by a hero created by the right wing, who would have a well thought out plan to destroy US.
I never thought it would be because of 80,000 morons who couldn't read this so called man's intention as being completely about himself and voted to stick their fingers in the eye of the establishment.
I can't believe we bungled into this mess and that some evil genius wasn't to blame.
27
My opinion on the New York Times really has gone down over the course of last year's presidential election. I have long suspected that it was a mouthpiece of the Democratic party but the recent trash articles about President Donald Trump (legally elected by the American people) have really cemented this feeling. They refuse to publish anything bad about the Democrats ( I.e. Bengahzi, Hillary's illegal email scandal, etc.). Seriously if any ordinary citizen would have done anything close to this they would be locked up so fast they would have to catch their breath after the cell door closed. Wake up NYT and get back to real unbiased reporting.
3
So you're perfectly happy that this man plays by his own rules even makes them up as he see fit. Lies like he breathes? Employs his daughter and son-in-law? Refuses to release tax returns. Refuses to recuse himself of his businesses and put into a blind trust. Wow you must have pretty low standards. Oh and giving tax breaks to his brethren. Like I said pretty low standards. Clinton wasn't free from scandal but at least she knows how Washington works and has dealt with heads of state, doesn't use twitter to give an opinion and actually reads books and understands them too.
9
This is an editorial. Look it up.
Dear Reader:
We are in a very unsettling time. The hate-mongering, the casting of blame, the search of easy scapegoats, it has all been too much. It is the source of much disunity. None of us like it.
But you can be certain of this--never in the history of American politics have we seen a president behave as a despot. We cannot turn a blind eye this administrations machinations. There are just too many to ignore. The Times is only telling you about the latest machination. It's up to you to draw your own conclusions. I hope you conclude that the dangers facing this country are much greater than any opinion page or editorial.
Signed,
NYT subscribed reader
We are in a very unsettling time. The hate-mongering, the casting of blame, the search of easy scapegoats, it has all been too much. It is the source of much disunity. None of us like it.
But you can be certain of this--never in the history of American politics have we seen a president behave as a despot. We cannot turn a blind eye this administrations machinations. There are just too many to ignore. The Times is only telling you about the latest machination. It's up to you to draw your own conclusions. I hope you conclude that the dangers facing this country are much greater than any opinion page or editorial.
Signed,
NYT subscribed reader
4
It's time for a show of honesty and integrity in this administration but , given the improbability ..., its time for the GOP to demonstrate courage and determination fighting to mantain our democracy , otherwise it's treason !
20
Excellent letter, Editorial Board! My hat off to you!
23
The Democrats and the NYT are simply being political. If anything that
would hurt Trump himself was there, it would already have been found.
Modestly "appearance of impropriety" things were found for a couple
of people, and they were fired. The problem for the Democrats about that last part is that Comey was one of the fired.
Its time to investigate the NYT. YOU have done more than "impropriety" ...
YOU have published classified information. YOU have refused to name the names of leakers. THAT deserves a serious investigation.
would hurt Trump himself was there, it would already have been found.
Modestly "appearance of impropriety" things were found for a couple
of people, and they were fired. The problem for the Democrats about that last part is that Comey was one of the fired.
Its time to investigate the NYT. YOU have done more than "impropriety" ...
YOU have published classified information. YOU have refused to name the names of leakers. THAT deserves a serious investigation.
4
Given the NYT stance against Trump from day 1, they have no credibility on this. If the gray lady was objective it might be different, but as it is the total lack of objectivity leaves them no credibility.
4
If you're right, then just remember two wrongs don't make a right... Trump's ties to Russia still need to be vigorously pursued.
Only a fool believes that there's any such thing as objectivity. EVERYONE has a point of view. No subject (and that's all of us) can escape his/her subjectivity. If you don't like the NYT's point of view, go elsewhere.
1
Unfortunately, this poor guy has "chump" written across his forehead.
5
Will no one rid me of this troublesome priest?
7
Huh? I tried that a couple weeks ago and they wouldn't post it.
1
Rod Rosenstein wrote a coherent memo reflecting the thoughts of many citizens about the law and it's application by the parties involved. It was factual, appropriate and intelligent.
For the intelligent people in the middle, it hit home. Comey needed to be fired. The New York Times needs to be more impartial and more intelligent.
For the intelligent people in the middle, it hit home. Comey needed to be fired. The New York Times needs to be more impartial and more intelligent.
4
Rod Rosenstein's immortal failure was not that he wrote the memo, but that when he realized that Trump and Sessions were using the memo as an excuse to thwart the FBI's investigation into Trump's ties to the Russians, he "threatened to resign," but he didn't. A profile in cowardice.
5
The "Obama wire tapped me" lie was invented to protect by diversion, Sessions who had just been caught in two lies at his confirmation hearing. Those two lies funnily enough were also having to do with connections and interactions with Russians. It seems very likely that Sessions is himself a target of the FBI investigation.
Today your name is Mudd Mr Rosensteion, that letter put the lie to all the hard work you have done. If you'd like to wash it off and see what kind of stains are left behind by this incredibly foolish act of debasing yourself to a 70 year old manchild then appoint Preet Bharara as special prosecutor to investigate the Russian Interference and everything else the Ed Board has mentioned here.
Today your name is Mudd Mr Rosensteion, that letter put the lie to all the hard work you have done. If you'd like to wash it off and see what kind of stains are left behind by this incredibly foolish act of debasing yourself to a 70 year old manchild then appoint Preet Bharara as special prosecutor to investigate the Russian Interference and everything else the Ed Board has mentioned here.
20
Mr. Rosenstein, please consider appointing Preet Bharaha, former US attorney for the Southern District of NY as the Special Prosecutor. PLEASE.
15
I'll do you one better Bruce. Preet for POTUS. A true man of integrity and shows no bias towards any political party.
1
Seconded.
Got to love the NYT for it's consistent bias - first they praise Rosenstein for his integrity, then chastise him for being "ordered" to write that memo.
Sorry but if Rosenstein had even a single qualm about putting his concern in writing, They NYTs own admission of his level of integrity would have prevented him from complying.
Sorry but if Rosenstein had even a single qualm about putting his concern in writing, They NYTs own admission of his level of integrity would have prevented him from complying.
2
Thank you, Editorial Board, for saying what every nervous citizen wanted to say to D.A. Rosenstein.
We are waiting for this long national nightmare to be over, for justice to be done where justice is due, and for sanity and class to return to the White House.
We are waiting for this long national nightmare to be over, for justice to be done where justice is due, and for sanity and class to return to the White House.
17
The editorial speaks well as to the substance of integrity. I totally agree. However, it misdirects the responsibility towards Rosenstein as if he is primarily responsible for not appointing a special prosecutor.
No, that responsibility is fully vested by the President. A deputy attorney general does not have primary authority to appoint officers under Art.II. of the Constitution. Just as he made a recommendation to fire FBI Director Comey, he should have recommended to the president to also appoint a special prosecutor or commission to lead the Russian investigation concern with the firing.
The fact that he did not make the recommendation does not in any way relieve, excuse, nor prevent the President from doing so. Whether Comey deserved to be fired is not the issue because the President has and should have the power to remove an officer of the executive branch. The fact I disagree with the decision is irrelevant.
What is at issue is, since the President fired Comey, he should have simultaneously taken measures to mitigate any consequences from the action. Mr. Rosenstein had a culpable role and has shared responsibility, as did AG Sessions but the ultimate responsibility rests with the President.
No, that responsibility is fully vested by the President. A deputy attorney general does not have primary authority to appoint officers under Art.II. of the Constitution. Just as he made a recommendation to fire FBI Director Comey, he should have recommended to the president to also appoint a special prosecutor or commission to lead the Russian investigation concern with the firing.
The fact that he did not make the recommendation does not in any way relieve, excuse, nor prevent the President from doing so. Whether Comey deserved to be fired is not the issue because the President has and should have the power to remove an officer of the executive branch. The fact I disagree with the decision is irrelevant.
What is at issue is, since the President fired Comey, he should have simultaneously taken measures to mitigate any consequences from the action. Mr. Rosenstein had a culpable role and has shared responsibility, as did AG Sessions but the ultimate responsibility rests with the President.
3
Thank you for your open letter to Rod Rosenstein calling for him to do the right thing. These are upsetting and trying times when we need the news media more than ever! I am shocked and angered by the petty need of some elected officials to promote a long wished for agenda at the expense of the security and well-being our nation!
7
The call for a special prosecutor reveals the true partisanship of the Times editorial staff since the Times made no such suggestion during the election to investigate the Hilary email scandal. There was plenty of evidence that both Obama and Loretta Lynch were compromised or at best not indifferent to the outcome.
Yes we need to understand the Russian intrigue and whether there was any collusion by Trump or his campaign with the Russians. And we need that done in a way that has legal integrity. But to suggest that the special prosecutor could fill such a void ignores the history of such investigations which are too dependent on one person and their biases and are almost as politically suspect as any investigation the FBI might undergo (absent a finding completely detrimental to the Trump Administration).
I believe a commission, made up of respected (and moderate) liberals and conservatives (such as Robert Gates or Mark Warner) with FBI investigators assigned to them would get to the truth and actually minmize, as much as possible, any politics. By involving both sides of the political spectrum, it would be subject to rational behavior (I hope)> And since the concern is how the election is influenced, it should include the Obama Justice Dept. and State Dept. decisions to be passive on the email exchange, which is a blatant attempt to minimize damage to their preferred candidate.
Yes we need to understand the Russian intrigue and whether there was any collusion by Trump or his campaign with the Russians. And we need that done in a way that has legal integrity. But to suggest that the special prosecutor could fill such a void ignores the history of such investigations which are too dependent on one person and their biases and are almost as politically suspect as any investigation the FBI might undergo (absent a finding completely detrimental to the Trump Administration).
I believe a commission, made up of respected (and moderate) liberals and conservatives (such as Robert Gates or Mark Warner) with FBI investigators assigned to them would get to the truth and actually minmize, as much as possible, any politics. By involving both sides of the political spectrum, it would be subject to rational behavior (I hope)> And since the concern is how the election is influenced, it should include the Obama Justice Dept. and State Dept. decisions to be passive on the email exchange, which is a blatant attempt to minimize damage to their preferred candidate.
Please safeguard our American democracy!
2
Never mind the soft soap. By writing this memo, which will likely go down with the "torture memo" as invidious abuses of public office, you have effectively destroyed your career and reputation. Hope it was worth it for the short time that you will be Deputy AG. But don't worry, you've seen how Trump takes care of his people, right? Oh, you're not related by blood or marriage? Hmm, I'd start polishing that resume now. There are right leaning law firms in DC that would love to have you. Is Alberto Gonzales around? Oh, that's right, he can't get employment outside of Texas. You'll do fine. Flynn lasted 28 days -- that's the mark to beat!
2
I have been a NYT subscriber for over 1/2 a century and had decided long ago that I would take their occasional rhetorical flights of fancy with a Lucretian grain of salt- I urge the editors to revisit the Meditations of Marcus Aurelius an see again what restraint is all about and why it should be practiced- yes an independent counsel must be appointed, but the heaping on of logical fallacies will not provoke DAG RR to act, but rather give him more of a reason to do nothing- Elaine Dundy it is my age that urges calm- but public "tsk-tsking" using the brass knuckles in the velvet glove rarely worked even in the Bronx-
2
During past administrations, America has been loved.
During past administrations, America has been hated.
But never, never before has America been ridiculed.
Mr. Rosenstein, it is your heroic duty to appoint an independent counsel to investigate this unstable, despotic administration.
During past administrations, America has been hated.
But never, never before has America been ridiculed.
Mr. Rosenstein, it is your heroic duty to appoint an independent counsel to investigate this unstable, despotic administration.
7
Watergate actually had a criminal action underlying President Nixon's later criminal misbehavior. Which made it a legitimate target for an investigation. In that event, Nixon fired the investigator of his own cover-up crimes, which rightly resulted in outrage.
Here, after many months, many captured conversations of Trump team (with many readers of same in the Obama administration--who also freely leak to NYT), no one has offered any evidence of collusion between the Trump campaign and Russians. Senior intelligence officials have said the same thing publicly.
Right now, it's a scandal in search of a crime.
Special prosecutors are not trotted out because some have a hunch that there was a crime. A feeling. Neither should they be trotted out because the NYT/Left hope to find something to help Democrats in the next elections as a result of an investigation.
Watergate was a scandal that unfolded over many months, as reporters and investigators dug very, very hard to find and corroborate facts. Maybe that would have been a more fruitful path for NYT to follow.
Here, after many months, many captured conversations of Trump team (with many readers of same in the Obama administration--who also freely leak to NYT), no one has offered any evidence of collusion between the Trump campaign and Russians. Senior intelligence officials have said the same thing publicly.
Right now, it's a scandal in search of a crime.
Special prosecutors are not trotted out because some have a hunch that there was a crime. A feeling. Neither should they be trotted out because the NYT/Left hope to find something to help Democrats in the next elections as a result of an investigation.
Watergate was a scandal that unfolded over many months, as reporters and investigators dug very, very hard to find and corroborate facts. Maybe that would have been a more fruitful path for NYT to follow.
2
Kudos to the NYT Editorial Board for writing this. Thanks for framing the facts and the consequences that face Rosenstein. I hope Rosenstein will pause and seriously consider what’s at stake here. I’ve got fingers crossed he will unexpectedly do the right thing.
Everything this week has been like bad Reality TV, except it’s real. Perhaps the Celebrity Apprentice’s real ambition is to build the world’s largest Reality TV Show. Where every headline, tweetstorm, and TV rant is about him. Trump seems bound and determined to whip this media frenzy into fulfilling that dream. I’m sure they’re gloating over at Fox about Comey being his 2nd big “You’re Fired!”
Everything this week has been like bad Reality TV, except it’s real. Perhaps the Celebrity Apprentice’s real ambition is to build the world’s largest Reality TV Show. Where every headline, tweetstorm, and TV rant is about him. Trump seems bound and determined to whip this media frenzy into fulfilling that dream. I’m sure they’re gloating over at Fox about Comey being his 2nd big “You’re Fired!”
4
Where area the moderating princelings in this travesty? Princess Ivanka and Prince Jared?
Rod Rosenstein left his integrity at the door when he willingly agreed to be Trump's pawn.
4
Wikpedia defines Sin Eater as:
A sin-eater is a person who consumes a ritual meal in order to magically take on the sins of a person or household. Traditionally, the food was believed to absorb the sins of a recently deceased person, thus absolving that person's soul.
Mr. Rosenstein joins the cadre of sin eaters at the disposal of Donald Trump. Trump will dispose of him when he is no longer useful. Goodbye Mr. Rosenstein and good riddance.
A sin-eater is a person who consumes a ritual meal in order to magically take on the sins of a person or household. Traditionally, the food was believed to absorb the sins of a recently deceased person, thus absolving that person's soul.
Mr. Rosenstein joins the cadre of sin eaters at the disposal of Donald Trump. Trump will dispose of him when he is no longer useful. Goodbye Mr. Rosenstein and good riddance.
4
Let's hope he do the right thing.
1
As crazy as Donald Trump’s campaign and presidency have been, he seemed too cagey to risk his chance to ‘show’ those he feels have condescended to him. This latest flare-up of Trumpian grandiosity suggests otherwise.
Why arrange to meet with representatives of Russia yesterday (and to have the meeting reported only by Tass) after firing Director Comey the night before, if not to thumb his nose at investigators? Can’t he take serious things seriously?
Why say this in his letter firing Comey: "While I greatly appreciate you informing me, on three separate occasions, that I am not under investigation, I nevertheless concur with the judgment of the Department of Justice that you are not able to effectively lead the Bureau.” The AG recommends firing Director Comey based on his Deputy’s memo about Comey’s handling of the Clinton email server investigation. That memo doesn’t recommend Comey’s removal, doesn’t disagree with the Comey's conclusion about the email server, and doesn’t say anything about Comey’s leadership of the F.B.I.'s Russia investigation. Trump signals the actual reason he’s firing Comey--the Russia investigation—even though it means openly contradicting the ostensible reason for the firing. The façade of executive competence continues to unravel.
Why arrange to meet with representatives of Russia yesterday (and to have the meeting reported only by Tass) after firing Director Comey the night before, if not to thumb his nose at investigators? Can’t he take serious things seriously?
Why say this in his letter firing Comey: "While I greatly appreciate you informing me, on three separate occasions, that I am not under investigation, I nevertheless concur with the judgment of the Department of Justice that you are not able to effectively lead the Bureau.” The AG recommends firing Director Comey based on his Deputy’s memo about Comey’s handling of the Clinton email server investigation. That memo doesn’t recommend Comey’s removal, doesn’t disagree with the Comey's conclusion about the email server, and doesn’t say anything about Comey’s leadership of the F.B.I.'s Russia investigation. Trump signals the actual reason he’s firing Comey--the Russia investigation—even though it means openly contradicting the ostensible reason for the firing. The façade of executive competence continues to unravel.
8
Loaded language, NYTimes. While I wholeheartedly condemn the Comey firing, if you are enlisting an ally in Rosenstein, your language in this editorial did not advance your cause. Language such as "spending down your credibility as selfishly as he spent other people's money . . ." And (the memo) "has compromised your ability to oversee any investigations into Russian meddling." And "get to the bottom of whether and how Russia helped steal the presidency for Trump."
The more likely action from this letter is not that Mr. Rosenstein will appoint a special prosecutor, but that he, himself, will quit.
That said, you're on the money with your facts and conclusions.
The more likely action from this letter is not that Mr. Rosenstein will appoint a special prosecutor, but that he, himself, will quit.
That said, you're on the money with your facts and conclusions.
Stick to the point, NYT.
The editorial board--again--dilutes the power of its argument by delving into Clinton winning the popular vote and nonsense over wiretapping and sundry other matters that have little or nothing to do with the issue at hand. And so this "open letter" can be easily dismissed as the whinings of knee-jerk liberals and anti-Trumpists who use this latest development as a springboard to trash everything Trump.
Of course he's unfit to be president, but that's not the point. The point is to accomplish change, and if I were Rosenstein, I wouldn't even finish reading this "open letter." It is, quite obviously, the work of an editorial board that has an agenda, an editorial board that can't get out of an echo chamber, instead of an editorial board that has undertaken a serious discussion about what's happened and taken a wise approach to making things better.
The editorial board--again--dilutes the power of its argument by delving into Clinton winning the popular vote and nonsense over wiretapping and sundry other matters that have little or nothing to do with the issue at hand. And so this "open letter" can be easily dismissed as the whinings of knee-jerk liberals and anti-Trumpists who use this latest development as a springboard to trash everything Trump.
Of course he's unfit to be president, but that's not the point. The point is to accomplish change, and if I were Rosenstein, I wouldn't even finish reading this "open letter." It is, quite obviously, the work of an editorial board that has an agenda, an editorial board that can't get out of an echo chamber, instead of an editorial board that has undertaken a serious discussion about what's happened and taken a wise approach to making things better.
3
It's *possible* that many of us have gotten Rosenstein all wrong.
Given his reputation, I found myself wondering why he would have either 1) colluded with the administration without taking a stand or resigning, or 2) written his memo on his own initiative knowing the likely result and the firestorm it would create.
What if Rosenstein is a brilliant strategist and has played the administration? Given Sessions' recusal, Rosenstein has the unreviewable authority to appoint a special prosecutor. Whether he was asked to write the memo or initiated it himself, what if he saw an opportunity to create the perfect conditions and political pressure to give himself cover to appoint one?
Trump and his inner circle may not have foreseen the backlash, but I bet Mr. Rosenstein did. He may have counted on it.
Given his reputation, I found myself wondering why he would have either 1) colluded with the administration without taking a stand or resigning, or 2) written his memo on his own initiative knowing the likely result and the firestorm it would create.
What if Rosenstein is a brilliant strategist and has played the administration? Given Sessions' recusal, Rosenstein has the unreviewable authority to appoint a special prosecutor. Whether he was asked to write the memo or initiated it himself, what if he saw an opportunity to create the perfect conditions and political pressure to give himself cover to appoint one?
Trump and his inner circle may not have foreseen the backlash, but I bet Mr. Rosenstein did. He may have counted on it.
5
I certainly agree with this editorial, but I think it is naive to think that Mr. Rosenstein will suddenly relocate his morality.
By writing the memo that he wrote, Mr. Rosenstein publicly announced that he had signed a deal with what I will call the Double Devii... that would be none other than Trump & Sessions.
Rosenstein sold out. He has crossed the line, and shame on us if we think he will voluntarily cross back over... he will continue to be under enormous pressure to continue to do dark deeds, willfully or not. There is no chance of an Independent Special Investigator being appointed by Rosenstein.
Woe be unto us. We don't yet understand that the only way we will get an Independent Investigator is if we ourselves make such strong, loud, and persistent demands (demonstrate, email, phone, vote) that we strike the fear of losing their jobs into the hearts of the Republican dynasty. Normal rules and ways of doing things no longer apply.
Do something today to let someone in the Administration know what you want, because our Democracy is in our own hands, not Mr. Rosenstein's.
By writing the memo that he wrote, Mr. Rosenstein publicly announced that he had signed a deal with what I will call the Double Devii... that would be none other than Trump & Sessions.
Rosenstein sold out. He has crossed the line, and shame on us if we think he will voluntarily cross back over... he will continue to be under enormous pressure to continue to do dark deeds, willfully or not. There is no chance of an Independent Special Investigator being appointed by Rosenstein.
Woe be unto us. We don't yet understand that the only way we will get an Independent Investigator is if we ourselves make such strong, loud, and persistent demands (demonstrate, email, phone, vote) that we strike the fear of losing their jobs into the hearts of the Republican dynasty. Normal rules and ways of doing things no longer apply.
Do something today to let someone in the Administration know what you want, because our Democracy is in our own hands, not Mr. Rosenstein's.
2
Many have suggested that the modern GOP is more interested in power (and tax cuts for billionaires, but I digress) than they are about Nation. This is their chance to prove those critics wrong.
Excuse me if I don't hold my breath.
Excuse me if I don't hold my breath.
2
Congratulations on this clear, tactful and respectful letter. It addresses the issues while affirming Mr. Rosenstein's professional integrity and acknowledging the difficult situation in which he finds himself today. It points to a clear way out of the moral morass in which Mr. Rosenstein now stands. Thank you for attempting to call forth the best in him; our country now depends on heroic, patriotic action.
4
I hope Mr. Rosenstein reads the editors' level-headed case for an independent special prosecutor. And I hope he reads this comment, because I would ask, Mr. Rosenstein, why would you NOT appoint a special prosecutor?
And I would know the answer. An independent prosecutor would not be under Trump's influence, and therefore not under his control. That would increase the risk of exposing Trump's criminal culpability, if any. That's a risk that Trump will not take.
No other answer makes sense if Trump and company are not guilty. There will be no harm done, no downside risk, if independent counsel gets involved. In fact, there will be no stronger vindication than an objective judgment of innocence by a unquestionably trusted, independent expert.
Mr. Rosenstein, your actions will speak louder than any words you come up with. The nation is watching.
And I would know the answer. An independent prosecutor would not be under Trump's influence, and therefore not under his control. That would increase the risk of exposing Trump's criminal culpability, if any. That's a risk that Trump will not take.
No other answer makes sense if Trump and company are not guilty. There will be no harm done, no downside risk, if independent counsel gets involved. In fact, there will be no stronger vindication than an objective judgment of innocence by a unquestionably trusted, independent expert.
Mr. Rosenstein, your actions will speak louder than any words you come up with. The nation is watching.
3
From Day 1 of this embarrassing and unstable administration, every ethical norm has effortlessly and brazenly been shattered. This has happened only because the odious enabler, Mitch McConnell and his "mini me" Paul Ryan, provided cover for the lying betrayer and common crook, Donald Trump. This is no small matter when there is chronic ethical indifference, political chaos and the lack of a mechanism or statesman who can step into the breach and right the ship of state and the great power it holds.
In watching and listening to Sally Yates, James Comey, James Clapper etc., as opposed to Sean Spicer, Kellyanne Conway and of course Donald Trump, it is some consolation that there are able, honorable and effective professionals that routinely put the nation and the American people first to offset, the intoxicated, corrupted and less than competent acolytes of the least of American presidents. Unfortunately, the Democrats, with a few exceptions, have not shown the will, the skill and the determination to become the winning opposition against the cunning Trump and the wily and clever McConnell in the same way McConnell stymied the Obama Administration These Republicans rolled over the Democrats in the House, the Senate, the State Houses and the State Legislatures. Our Democratic Republic may be in serious peril unless the American people, the Democratic Party, Independents and moderate Republicans come to the realization it is time to act and to win.
In watching and listening to Sally Yates, James Comey, James Clapper etc., as opposed to Sean Spicer, Kellyanne Conway and of course Donald Trump, it is some consolation that there are able, honorable and effective professionals that routinely put the nation and the American people first to offset, the intoxicated, corrupted and less than competent acolytes of the least of American presidents. Unfortunately, the Democrats, with a few exceptions, have not shown the will, the skill and the determination to become the winning opposition against the cunning Trump and the wily and clever McConnell in the same way McConnell stymied the Obama Administration These Republicans rolled over the Democrats in the House, the Senate, the State Houses and the State Legislatures. Our Democratic Republic may be in serious peril unless the American people, the Democratic Party, Independents and moderate Republicans come to the realization it is time to act and to win.
4
Given the self-serving behavior of the entire coterie of Trump sycophants, be it the Republican leadership or Trump's ill-chosen appointees, there is no reason to have any confidence that Mr. Rosenstein has the desire to serve his country first.
2
I wholeheartedly support and agree with the editorial. I don't believe Rod Rosenstein will appoint a special prosecutor. He has no allegiance to the American people and his country. He will never go against Trump and Sessions. He has no conscience. In fact, do any Republican members of Congress have a conscience?
1
Americans do not treat the two top political parties equally.
There is just no way that Congress would have done zero as they have for Trump, if the President that is in love with Putin was a Democrat. NO WAY!
So why such little fuss about it all? Why do we allow Congress to take sides and not be 100% angered by the Russian affair? Now and then we say something is bi-partisan when only 2 or 3 Republicans join the Dems. Why are the rest of the Republicans not expected to save our country from foreign ridicule?
It is a shame. It is sad. it is embarrasing.
There is just no way that Congress would have done zero as they have for Trump, if the President that is in love with Putin was a Democrat. NO WAY!
So why such little fuss about it all? Why do we allow Congress to take sides and not be 100% angered by the Russian affair? Now and then we say something is bi-partisan when only 2 or 3 Republicans join the Dems. Why are the rest of the Republicans not expected to save our country from foreign ridicule?
It is a shame. It is sad. it is embarrasing.
3
Well written and thought out letter. I hope he heeds the advice.
3
Just once, I would like members of this administration as well as the Republican members of Congress to do what is right, not what is politically advantageous. Just once...prove me wrong.
5
Obviously every word of this letter is true, yet acknowledging even a single part of it would risk shaking up the trumpian house of cards. They can't let that happen and will expend all their political capital to avoid it.
1
I hope Deputy Attorney General Rosenstein does what this open letter calls upon him to do. He will be saving our precious Democracy. As a citizen, I feel hopeless and helpless as I see this wacko of a so-called-president and his minions take the wrecking ball to our institutions day by day. I am no fan of Comey's, but I object to his firing. All thinking people know it was another obstruction to finding the truth of Trump's involvement with the Russians. Mr. Rosenstein, please heed this open letter.
2
"You must also know that in ordering you to write the memo, Mr. Trump exploited the integrity you have earned over nearly three decades in public service, spending down your credibility as selfishly as he has spent other people’s money throughout his business career. "
Mr. Rosenstein should look no further than Colin Powell as a cautionary tale as to what happen when otherwise decent men allow themselves to be used by charlatans. Bush/Cheney shamelessly leveraged Powell's honor to peddle the WMD myth which...well, you know the rest. Powell left office with his reputation and public regard severely dimmed. I imagine if he could undo one decision is his career, that would be it. Imagine if he had stood up at that moment instead of carrying Bush/Cheney's water? Mr. Rosenstein, will you choose differently?
Mr. Rosenstein should look no further than Colin Powell as a cautionary tale as to what happen when otherwise decent men allow themselves to be used by charlatans. Bush/Cheney shamelessly leveraged Powell's honor to peddle the WMD myth which...well, you know the rest. Powell left office with his reputation and public regard severely dimmed. I imagine if he could undo one decision is his career, that would be it. Imagine if he had stood up at that moment instead of carrying Bush/Cheney's water? Mr. Rosenstein, will you choose differently?
6
" ... restore American's confidence in their government."
Alas, sadly that horse has long left the barn.
Alas, sadly that horse has long left the barn.
2
Agree with your editorial, and outrageously, I think it falls on deaf ears and a giant ego. There seems to be no one to check Trump the despot. The checks and balances are failing the American people as this incompetent and greedy person with no moral compass rides roughshod over the constitution and our laws. And turtl McConnell just lets it happen. So he can keep his donors happy ants get his tax cuts and redistribute more wealth to himself and his donors. There is no hero here, the American people have to do this themselves.
3
I read Rosenstein's memorandum. He's 100 percent right. Comey deserved to be fired. The FBI director will need to investigate whether Russia interfered with the election at the behest of Trump's campaign staff.
1
Rosenstein's memo focuses firstly on Comey's usurping authority to not prosecute Hillary Clinton. His speaking out publicly on the matter only compounds that error, according to Rosenstein.
So continuing to prosecute Hillary Clinton is justified by the memo and gives Trump both a distraction and a deal to make: drop the Russia investigation and I'll stop prosecuting Hillary.
So continuing to prosecute Hillary Clinton is justified by the memo and gives Trump both a distraction and a deal to make: drop the Russia investigation and I'll stop prosecuting Hillary.
1
"fair brief" I think not. No discussion of the ongoing investigation by the Inspector General into Comey's handling of the Clinton e-mails that began at the end of President Obama's term. the use of quotes from op-eds and television appearances that are as old as six months. The "brief" dated the day of the firing does not include any contemporary insights from inside the F.B.I and has been contradicted by Mr. McCabe in his testimony this morning. Trying ti sweet talk Mr Rosenstein is fine, but do not give him credit when no credit is due.
4
Dear Editorial Board,
Thank you for this reasoned and heartfelt letter.
Thank you for having this creative and pragmatic idea to make such a direct and personal plea.
Thank you for reminding every American about the importance of character, courage and Constitution at this most perilous time.
Aaron Best
Thank you for this reasoned and heartfelt letter.
Thank you for having this creative and pragmatic idea to make such a direct and personal plea.
Thank you for reminding every American about the importance of character, courage and Constitution at this most perilous time.
Aaron Best
6
We are lost at sea on a misguided ship of state. Our purpose and direction at the mercy of a madman, a monster who has usurped the powers of the Presidency for his own unethical ends. The time for talk of mutiny is dwindling. America the once great beacon of hope is on a collision course on the rocks of a failed experiment. The time for action is now.
5
The big assumption here is that Rosenstein was "ordered" to write the memo a certain way, and that he didn't actually believe what he wrote. If true, then Rosenstein isn't really as credible as the NYT is saying he is, and thus he would be discrediting himself by ordering a special counsel - and no one would believe anything he says anyway. (Except perhaps for the NYT, they would believe him)
The Russian interference in US election and the likely collusion of Trump and his campaign are so much bigger than the Watergate break-in of Democratic HQ to gain some inside info. Trump stole the White House and his foreign and domestic policies reflect closer alliance with Putin than with Americans. I don’t understand how anyone can be “casual” and not absolutely outraged. Possibly because it is so outrageous, and we are all inured by movies and novels which are tame compared to this reality. Nixon resigned under threat of impeachment because of obstruction of justice over this two-bit burglary. Trump’s offense begins with stealing an election and then abusing power, obstructing justice to cover it up. Trump should be impeached, but his entire cabinet, including VP Pence, should be removed. Hillary Clinton campaigned, stood for election and won the popular vote. Absent Russian interference, the Comey letter, voter suppression in Wisconsin alone (200,000 kept from voting), she would have won Electoral College as well and should replace Trump and his entire corrupt cabinet - as they say on "Law & Order": fruit of a poison tree.
4
Whether or not Mr. Rosenstein does the recommended "politically correct" thing to do.... and appoint a special prosecutor and then fall on his sword, the truth will out regardless.
Methinks all the underground garages will fill up with multiple "Deep Throats" in search of reporters from any rags that pay attention. Even sports page writers are welcome as they were once before.
Good luck with that "wait and see" attitude , Rod. As the NYT editorial board stated... this falls in your lap as an "improbable" circumstance. Play the hand you've been dealt and good luck to you, Sir.
Methinks all the underground garages will fill up with multiple "Deep Throats" in search of reporters from any rags that pay attention. Even sports page writers are welcome as they were once before.
Good luck with that "wait and see" attitude , Rod. As the NYT editorial board stated... this falls in your lap as an "improbable" circumstance. Play the hand you've been dealt and good luck to you, Sir.
3
I am having trouble understanding how Mr. Rosenstein could save his reputation at this point. He was confirmed on April 25 affording him plenty of time to observe the Trump administration and see the corruption thereby declining the position. He also observed that his new boss, Jeff Sessions lied under oath, yet he continued to pursue this powerful position. Finally, Mr. Rosenstein agreed to put himself in a compromised position by writing this letter. I am only seeing another man determined to gain power at the expense of his own integrity, and unfortunately, his fellow citizens.
4
Comey's firing is such a nothing burger just like the phony Russian collision story - Please if Hillary was elected she would have fired him immediately - progressives are such hypocrites in their handling of this.
It has become very clear that the left will do and say anything to disrupt this administration and try to take Trump down.
They should put as much effort into cleaning their own house and presenting a viable alternative policy instead of mere opposition and destruction.
But then we all know progressives are ONLY concerned with their own power and control over the rest of us.
It has become very clear that the left will do and say anything to disrupt this administration and try to take Trump down.
They should put as much effort into cleaning their own house and presenting a viable alternative policy instead of mere opposition and destruction.
But then we all know progressives are ONLY concerned with their own power and control over the rest of us.
5
Progressives don't need to take Trump down. He and his sycophants are doing just fine on their own.
2
Sir kitman3 I am an independent who often votes Republican and I don't consider myself a "progressive" in the sense you seem to mean, but more than that I want to trust my country is one ruled by law, not personalities. It's not the case that "progressives" think Comey is a saint who didn't deserve to be fired--it's the timing of the firing and the ridiculous excuse we've been told to believe is the reason for the firing. Comey is the third figure known to be investigating or to have knowledge of Trump's connections with Russia that the president has fired. Sorry, it doesn't add up. And by the way, it's spelled "collusion," not "collision."
2
I cannot get past being disturbed that Rosenstein wrote the brief when, regardless of what he was told when Trump's people made the request, he had to be aware that there were nefarious motives.
13
Sort of calls into question his entire "reputation" and his judgment at the same time doesn't it. I gotta think there is a lot of constant reinforcing of loyalty and pledges of loyalty going on in this admin all day every day among the staff.
They have the look of those dazed by constant repetition of inanities.
Of course the subject of this post will be Trumps excuse to fire him if or when he chooses to stiffen his spine.
They have the look of those dazed by constant repetition of inanities.
Of course the subject of this post will be Trumps excuse to fire him if or when he chooses to stiffen his spine.
In the final analysis, this isn't even a tough decision. Nothing inspires a man's moral fiber like knowing that he's been given the unique honor of standing for righteousness during a pivotal moment in history.
Mr. Rosenstein, I am a son of the American Revolution, with a family that goes back to 1617 on this continent, and I envy that you have the honor of committing your mind and power in defense of this great country. Your kids and grandkids will remember and speak about what you do in the next two weeks.
Mr. Rosenstein, I am a son of the American Revolution, with a family that goes back to 1617 on this continent, and I envy that you have the honor of committing your mind and power in defense of this great country. Your kids and grandkids will remember and speak about what you do in the next two weeks.
16
"Your kids and grandkids will remember and speak about what you do in the next two weeks." Only if he does the right thing. I'm not sure that Benedict Arnold's progeny or Jefferson Davis's, if any, do much bragging.
We won't know which way the wind is blowing until Rod Rosenstein makes a statement, any statement. Mr. Rosenstein, say something.
4
An interesting phrase:
"...will get to the bottom of whether and how Russia helped steal the presidency for Mr. Trump."
While I personally feel that Rusian interference in our electoral processes did in fact improve Mr. Trump's position when all was said and done, it is precisely this form of rhetoric that drives the wedge of polarization ever deeper into the American electorate. Would it not have been sufficient to simply say that we might: "get to the bottom of the issue of how Russia may have interfered with our electoral process?" A potentially less damning version of the argument to be sure, but one that invites a larger audience to the table to view the outcome of an investigation, as opposed to amplifying the blood lust of one camp at the expense of pre-emptive dismissal by the other.
In addition to relentless pursuit of the truth, is it not also (ever) incumbent on the press to try and unify rather than divide and polarize? Are we not a better nation when we are drawn together by common purpose? It is surely not an editorial obligation, but could it not be a journalistic desire?
"...will get to the bottom of whether and how Russia helped steal the presidency for Mr. Trump."
While I personally feel that Rusian interference in our electoral processes did in fact improve Mr. Trump's position when all was said and done, it is precisely this form of rhetoric that drives the wedge of polarization ever deeper into the American electorate. Would it not have been sufficient to simply say that we might: "get to the bottom of the issue of how Russia may have interfered with our electoral process?" A potentially less damning version of the argument to be sure, but one that invites a larger audience to the table to view the outcome of an investigation, as opposed to amplifying the blood lust of one camp at the expense of pre-emptive dismissal by the other.
In addition to relentless pursuit of the truth, is it not also (ever) incumbent on the press to try and unify rather than divide and polarize? Are we not a better nation when we are drawn together by common purpose? It is surely not an editorial obligation, but could it not be a journalistic desire?
4
The Donald only plays by his rules, and his rules constantly change. Likely he does not even know what his rules are. Who knows if the man has any intelligence? I suppose he has some; most bullies do. And it is almost too kind to call The Donald a bully. A thug is a more apt description. The Jeff is also a bully, a racist and likely akin to a thug.
Like all good bullies The Donald and The Jeff got Rosenstein to write a memo on the failures of Comey during the past presidential campaign. Most probably it was impossible for Comey to please anyone on the Clinton computer matter. Rosenstein’s memo just allowed The Donald to fire Comey.
If Rosenstein has any integrity, he will resign after communicating to The Jeff and The Donald in writing that he knows he was used inappropriately by them. Rosenstein should also release that memo to the press.
The Mitch and the Ryan fellow should also resign promptly. They have played racist politics long enough.
Rosenstein will never be allowed to appoint a “special independent counsel”. The Jeff will veto such an appointment and so will The Donald.
Like all good bullies The Donald and The Jeff got Rosenstein to write a memo on the failures of Comey during the past presidential campaign. Most probably it was impossible for Comey to please anyone on the Clinton computer matter. Rosenstein’s memo just allowed The Donald to fire Comey.
If Rosenstein has any integrity, he will resign after communicating to The Jeff and The Donald in writing that he knows he was used inappropriately by them. Rosenstein should also release that memo to the press.
The Mitch and the Ryan fellow should also resign promptly. They have played racist politics long enough.
Rosenstein will never be allowed to appoint a “special independent counsel”. The Jeff will veto such an appointment and so will The Donald.
1
Dear Deputy A G Rosentein,
As this investigative matter of Russian interference & collusion and the Trump campaign/administration unfolds, you need to wisely ask yourself this question :
On what side of U.S. history do you wish to find yourself ?
Truly, a binary choice --
1) A man of steadfast principle and integrity ?
Or,
2) A useful & complicit tool for a hugely self-involved opportunist who's quite possibly, a compromised traitor for a foreign government ?
Choose carefully. No one will have your back in this administration. And history will not be kind.
As this investigative matter of Russian interference & collusion and the Trump campaign/administration unfolds, you need to wisely ask yourself this question :
On what side of U.S. history do you wish to find yourself ?
Truly, a binary choice --
1) A man of steadfast principle and integrity ?
Or,
2) A useful & complicit tool for a hugely self-involved opportunist who's quite possibly, a compromised traitor for a foreign government ?
Choose carefully. No one will have your back in this administration. And history will not be kind.
13
This is our most desperate hour. Help me, Obi-Wan Kenobi. You're my only hope.
3
I believe that James Comey is currently available for the position of Special Prosecutor, should Deputy Attorney General Rosenstein be looking for one...
8
I'm glad to see the NYTimes get behind the one likely way an independent counsel can me named. The editorial would have been improved by sticking to the point and not going on long tangents about Mr Trump's character and history. The case for an independent counsel has to be made based on law and past precedent -- both to convince Mr Rosenstein that one is needed and to be part of his filing to name such a counsel.
"Given your own reputation for probity, you must be troubled as well by the broader pattern of this president’s behavior, including his contempt for ethical standards of past presidents. He has ..."
"Given your own reputation for probity, you must be troubled as well by the broader pattern of this president’s behavior, including his contempt for ethical standards of past presidents. He has ..."
2
I add my voice of agreement to this editorial.
Mr. Rosenstein, please demonstrate that the depth and breath of our checks and balances will prevent the blatant abuse of power we've seen from our new president. In my long life, I've never seen anything as dangerous to our nation.
We're counting on you to be honest, energetic, objective.
Mr. Rosenstein, please demonstrate that the depth and breath of our checks and balances will prevent the blatant abuse of power we've seen from our new president. In my long life, I've never seen anything as dangerous to our nation.
We're counting on you to be honest, energetic, objective.
8
Whether Mr. Rosenstein or someone else in the Justice Department appoints a special counsel or Congress does it or convenes a select committee, an independent investigation with subpoena power is necessary now.
The senate investigation has been serious and nonsense-free so far, unlike the circus in the House (was it only a month ago that Devin Nunes stepped down from his ridiculously compromised leadership of that investigation?). And this wrecking-ball of an Administration is clearly committed to throttling official attempts to get to the truth, for example: inviting Nunes over for a secret visit, Sessions' failed "recusal" from all campaign-related investigations (NOT only those pertaining to Russian involvement: https://www.nytimes.com/2017/03/02/us/politics/jeff-sessions-russia-trum..., to, of course, firing James Comey. So yes: I am another American raising my hand for a special counsel and an independent investigation.
See the White House petition site:
https://petitions.whitehouse.gov/petition/we-demand-congress-appoint-spe...
Not that this White House gives a rip about what the majority of Americans think; after all, the majority of Americans who voted did not vote for this occupant of the White House. But at least this petition is an official, public place to make our raised hands add up.
The senate investigation has been serious and nonsense-free so far, unlike the circus in the House (was it only a month ago that Devin Nunes stepped down from his ridiculously compromised leadership of that investigation?). And this wrecking-ball of an Administration is clearly committed to throttling official attempts to get to the truth, for example: inviting Nunes over for a secret visit, Sessions' failed "recusal" from all campaign-related investigations (NOT only those pertaining to Russian involvement: https://www.nytimes.com/2017/03/02/us/politics/jeff-sessions-russia-trum..., to, of course, firing James Comey. So yes: I am another American raising my hand for a special counsel and an independent investigation.
See the White House petition site:
https://petitions.whitehouse.gov/petition/we-demand-congress-appoint-spe...
Not that this White House gives a rip about what the majority of Americans think; after all, the majority of Americans who voted did not vote for this occupant of the White House. But at least this petition is an official, public place to make our raised hands add up.
4
Trump stumbled his way into the WH with the help of the Russians, he is acting like a gangster and he has found a mercenary in Rod Rosenstein, and all the republican enablers defending him.
4
Whatever Rod Rosensrein had as a title or reputation has changed. From here on out, he wears the Brand of a Trump Stooge. He has disgraced the Department of Justice and should resign himself.
From this day forward, ALL individuals lending cover to the Russian intrusion into our election should eventually feel the same length and weight of the legal system as Edward Snowden. Nothing less.
From this day forward, ALL individuals lending cover to the Russian intrusion into our election should eventually feel the same length and weight of the legal system as Edward Snowden. Nothing less.
2
Mr. Rosenstein:
The choice is not really that difficult: Uphold the rule of law, or pledge allegiance to the most corrupt and deceitful man who ever held the office of President.
The choice is not really that difficult: Uphold the rule of law, or pledge allegiance to the most corrupt and deceitful man who ever held the office of President.
9
Its clear that this President who holds up in awe dictators, murderers and strongmen such as Duerte, Putin, Kim, Erdogen and puts down members of our own Intelligence Services and others who dare to challenge him is clearly an enemy of the state, our state our America. Falsehoods expressed over Twitter and thru his hacks like Conway and Spicer, attacks upon the Free Press, total disrespect to the American public for not showing us his tax returns, his pitiful display of ignorance and ineptitude on how to properly govern the most powerful nation on earth, his disrespect to leaders in Europe and Asia our allies from which we need them to cover our backs in those parts of the world are now wondering if we are going to cover theirs; In just 100 days this hateful and despicable man is ruining what so many others before him built into a beacon of light, a country of safe haven from those strongmen listed above, for my ancestors, his ancestors. Standup and be counted! and do the right thing. The ship is listing!!
3
If Rod Rosenstein had any integrity to begin with, he would never have signed on as part of this administration. Instead, he sold his soul in order to move up the bureaucratic ladder. Any decent, clear-thinking person can see trump, Sessions, et. al. for the low-life thugs they are. If Rosenstein has some kind of late awakening, I'll be glad to give him a reprieve. Until such time, I will judge him by the company he keeps.
3
"Sleep with dogs and you'll get fleas."
1
Russian meddling in the election and the possible collusion of Team Trump is far more egregious than the Watergate break in. Rosenstein must appoint a special counsel if wants to ensure his integrity.
5
An open letter to the Propaganda Department NYT/DNC from an "actual" American.
If you fellows wrap yourselves any tighter in "safeguarding American Democracy" there's a distinct possibility that an entire group of patriotic citizens could very well cut off the air supply and choke themselves to death. Unlike the partisan political pontificators of the NYT EB we in the heartland don't need a weatherman to know which way the wind blows, especially considering the track record of commentary by this utterly biased group of "gossip mongering" hypocrites during the recent election and its' aftermath.Your open letter is a farce, as genuine as your "concern" for Democracy and reasonable political discourse. The real addressee is the mob of gullible fools that hang on your every word and still read this North Korea of newspapers, the "intelligent" liberal lemmings ready to riot when they don't get their way and lose an election. Mr. Rosenstein is going to ignore your subversive witch hunt and do his job which is to rid the Justice Department of the political chicanery installed there by Saint Obama, Loretta Lynch and Eric Holder. The NYT ginned up hue and cry for a "special prosecutor" ignores the fact that Mr. Rosenstein is one. He will not be influenced by a promoted mob mentality that seeks to pay lip service to Democracy for show while underhandedly attempting to subvert the will of the people by suggesting the election of Donald Trump was fraudulent. Bray on anonymous donkeys
If you fellows wrap yourselves any tighter in "safeguarding American Democracy" there's a distinct possibility that an entire group of patriotic citizens could very well cut off the air supply and choke themselves to death. Unlike the partisan political pontificators of the NYT EB we in the heartland don't need a weatherman to know which way the wind blows, especially considering the track record of commentary by this utterly biased group of "gossip mongering" hypocrites during the recent election and its' aftermath.Your open letter is a farce, as genuine as your "concern" for Democracy and reasonable political discourse. The real addressee is the mob of gullible fools that hang on your every word and still read this North Korea of newspapers, the "intelligent" liberal lemmings ready to riot when they don't get their way and lose an election. Mr. Rosenstein is going to ignore your subversive witch hunt and do his job which is to rid the Justice Department of the political chicanery installed there by Saint Obama, Loretta Lynch and Eric Holder. The NYT ginned up hue and cry for a "special prosecutor" ignores the fact that Mr. Rosenstein is one. He will not be influenced by a promoted mob mentality that seeks to pay lip service to Democracy for show while underhandedly attempting to subvert the will of the people by suggesting the election of Donald Trump was fraudulent. Bray on anonymous donkeys
1
Brilliant! Thank your for your clarity and reasonable request of this public servant, Rod Rosenstein. I think we all hope he follows your sage advice.
2
It's not easy to find a high level sinecure in the Justice Department. Mr. Rosenstein has done it. He provided supposedly self-disqualified Attorney General Sessions with the "facts" that supported ending the government career of FBI Director Comey. No disgrace in that. Comey disqualified himself by his preening self-righteous condemnation of Hillary Clinton"s e-mail fiasco even as he concluded that Hillary had not committed any indictable offense. She wasn't going to be "locked up" but neither was she going to win her bid for the presidency. Now we can expect that the FBI investigation of Russian interference in the election will plod along for months, with much the same conclusion that Comey rendered about Hillary: Bad stuff happened, but not bad enough to undercut President Trump or his team. So Rosenstein is well on his way to a fat government pension followed by years with a major law firm earning multi-millions by lobbying on behalf of our well-meaning friends in Russia and China. In the end, it's all about the money. There is no one in Washington who will stand up to Trump and tell the truth.
1
Good article.
Wonderful NYT Picks.
I am jealous of Mr. Rosenstein!
He may have made a poor first step. BUT he is the only citizen in America to be a real patriot.
Who else is in a position to get to the bottom of the mischief of Trump? Russia quagmire? If he is impeded? He can resign and achieve the same goal as though he HAD completed the investigation.
If he resigns because of Trump/Sessions...he will have a wealth of job offers.
He really is in a WIN - WIN position....
...unless he consciously decides to 'go along to get along'..He then loses.
Which will it be?
Wonderful NYT Picks.
I am jealous of Mr. Rosenstein!
He may have made a poor first step. BUT he is the only citizen in America to be a real patriot.
Who else is in a position to get to the bottom of the mischief of Trump? Russia quagmire? If he is impeded? He can resign and achieve the same goal as though he HAD completed the investigation.
If he resigns because of Trump/Sessions...he will have a wealth of job offers.
He really is in a WIN - WIN position....
...unless he consciously decides to 'go along to get along'..He then loses.
Which will it be?
1
You mean kinda like your way or the highway?
It's unfortunate, to say the least, that it took Donald Trump less than two weeks to shred the record of public service and integrity that it took Rod Rosenstein his entire lifetime to develop.
The facts laid out in the letter that Mr. Rosenstein chose to write may be legitimate, but the reason that Rosenstein was directed to write it most assuredly was NOT legitimate -- and Rosenstein most assuredly knows it. And when he agreed to replace Sally Yates, he knew that he would be working on behalf of a moral degenerate with nothing but contempt for the rule of law and for America's democratic institutions and directly for a white nationalist attorney-general who perjured himself over his connections to a hostile government.
Mr. Rosenstein stands himself at a crossroads in history -- he can accelerate the push by an autocrat in waiting and his cronies to cause government of the people, by the people, and for the people to perish from this part of the earth. Or he can attempt to mitigate the damage already done, by appointing a special counsel.
Like generations of Americans in government service, Mr. Rosenstein swore, "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.”
The facts laid out in the letter that Mr. Rosenstein chose to write may be legitimate, but the reason that Rosenstein was directed to write it most assuredly was NOT legitimate -- and Rosenstein most assuredly knows it. And when he agreed to replace Sally Yates, he knew that he would be working on behalf of a moral degenerate with nothing but contempt for the rule of law and for America's democratic institutions and directly for a white nationalist attorney-general who perjured himself over his connections to a hostile government.
Mr. Rosenstein stands himself at a crossroads in history -- he can accelerate the push by an autocrat in waiting and his cronies to cause government of the people, by the people, and for the people to perish from this part of the earth. Or he can attempt to mitigate the damage already done, by appointing a special counsel.
Like generations of Americans in government service, Mr. Rosenstein swore, "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.”
2
Not a chance. He already committed himself to disgrace when he took the job.
5
he committed himself to disgrace when he shook trumps hand
being in the same room as trump
is a degrading experience
3
NYT you said a mouthful. BRAVO!
2
The reason for Comey's firing is clear: the Russia investigation. In addition, the letter to Rosenstein is correct; he needs to take action to clear his reputation and especially to ensure an impartial investigation so that the people will know the truth, no matter what the truth is.
That said, I wonder. If Rosenstein does as suggested, will he not then be fired and the special prosecutor also fired by Sessions? I understand such actions will result in more chaos and distrust, but it is not beyond the realm of possibility. Our so-called president knows no bounds...
That said, I wonder. If Rosenstein does as suggested, will he not then be fired and the special prosecutor also fired by Sessions? I understand such actions will result in more chaos and distrust, but it is not beyond the realm of possibility. Our so-called president knows no bounds...
Mr. Rosenstein, the ball is in your court.
1
Rosenstein isnt going to join the likes of Richardson and Ruckelshaus. He had his chance and he chose his course already. He chose Trump. For those who say Rosenstein has an impeccable record, the integrity of 3 decades in public service, people can change, especially in the company of Donald Trump. With criminals in the white house, and the spineless and the complicit in congress, it is time to stop whining and take action. Do what we did when our government collectively lost their minds during the Vietnam war. Take to the streets. Shut down the government. Dont permit the criminals from carrying out business as usual. Time to show Trump and the republicans what they are up against.
3
If this White House continues to govern us, this will be an entirely lawless country. We're been saying, "Well, at least they can't do this, they can't do that." But they can do anything they want to as they come closer and closer to recognizing no law but their own. As soon as they get another member on the Supreme Court, the last possibility of legal redress may be removed. Surely this is the Fourth Reich we're living under. marthastephens.wordpress.com
One doesn't join the Trump Team if one has honor. Rod Rosenstein was hired to be a loyal Trump servant and has proved his worth. Waiting for him to do 'the right think' is like Waiting for Godot.
2
Well said. The balls in your court Mr. Deputy Attorney General. History will judge you based on what you do next. I hope you rise to the occasion as your country needs you as the elected leaders in our country have failed us already. Our country is in a very grave state and you can help stabilize our very damaged democracy.
I hope you make the right choice.
I hope you make the right choice.
The choice seems stark. Align with Trump and risks the fate that awaits McConnell, Ryan, Cornyn, Nunes, Sessions and the rest or do something that seeks only the truth. A big decision, but not really so hard if you are ethical. Even if you're not, he has seen already what happens when you associate with Trump.
The Kremlin must be very happy with the chaos and the self inflicting wounds this administration is delivering. This situation is beyond their dreams come true. The power of the U.S. internationally does not come from its military might alone. The most important aspects of U.S. power and the ability to use it come from the credibility of its institutions and its leaders. This administration is delivering to the Kremlin what is has been seeking to do for decades. The threat is serious and the other branches of government must act now, immediately, before our institutions are further eroded.
3
The integrity of its institutions and its leaders? Surely you joke - after the federal government conspired with savage dictators in South America overthrew elected governments in Africa, started unending wars in the Middle East after continued stealing natural resources / oil following on The U.K.? After the exploits of Reagan, Bush/Cheny/Rumsfeld? The us has no integrity left.
This editorial is outstanding and the argument it puts forward totally compelling.
I am Canadian so do not normally weigh in on issues of this type. But the reality is that the entire world cares about the strength of America's democracy.
Even the strongest democracies can be vulnerable. Thank you for making this cogent plea. Let's hope it moves Mr. Rosenstein as much as it has so many of your readers.
I am Canadian so do not normally weigh in on issues of this type. But the reality is that the entire world cares about the strength of America's democracy.
Even the strongest democracies can be vulnerable. Thank you for making this cogent plea. Let's hope it moves Mr. Rosenstein as much as it has so many of your readers.
2
The White House spokesperson said the White House spoke to many in the FBI about low moral. The acting FBI Director just contradicted that assertion and also suggested there in no communication between the FBI and White house.
So, who did the White House talk to in the FBI to formulate their opinion?
So, who did the White House talk to in the FBI to formulate their opinion?
2
I agree completely with this letter. As we struggle to understand what was in Trump's mind when he made the decision to fire Director Comey, one possibility really resonated with me. A White House reporter said that Trump was "furious" with Comey's statement that he was "mildly nauseated" at the thought that his actions may have affected the outcome of the election. I have no doubt at all that the Narcissist in Chief took this as a personal affront, and that it could well have been the real reason for the firing. Second point: if any previous president had excluded the US press from a meeting with Russian officials, while allowing in the Russian press, there would have been an outcry from every corner of Congress. But Trump's craziness has become so normalized that not much is being said. We need to get this character out of office ASAP!
2
An independent prosecutor has to be appointed and soon. We are getting close to spontaneous combustion out here in the hinterlands of what is left of our democratic process. How the current GOP leadership can sit back and let 45 run rough-shod over the govt is the question of the day. We will have massive protests in DC if the Trump continues down the path of fascism.
2
Spot on.
1
Is it not apparent that, with a tiny handful of exceptions, anyone serving and supporting the Trump administration has compromised his/her present and future reputation?
1
Donald Trump is an unethical man, literally without shame, who has consistently shown a pattern of lying, attacking others preemptively and spreading false charges as a smokescreen. No honest person would need to do so. Documents on public record show that he received hundreds of millions of dollars in his real estate investments from Russian oligarchs close to Putin and mafia figures. Allied intelligence services have confirmed the close links between advisers on the Trump campaign and Russian officials. Indeed, Sergei Lavrov, whom Trump received in the White House yesterday, was identified as in charge for some time of the hacking campaign. The difference between now and the Nixon years is that forty years ago the Democrats had a majority in Congress and the Senate. Unfortunately, and shamefully, Republicans support Trump no matter what suspicions his actions raise. The FBI investigation is critical to getting to the truth of the serious blow inflicted on America by a hostile power. Whether it will be permitted to proceed by a ruthless president advised by extremists such as Bannon and Sessions, and by Republicans in Congress and the Senate, is another matter. Whether the Democrats can protect themselves before the 2018 mid-term elections from more Russian black ops, perhaps aided by the current administration, is also a matter for grave concern. May the American republic of laws prevail!
3
Terrific letter.
2
We will probably never know the name of the man who stood alone infant of that tank in Tiananmen Square. But we do know your name Mr. Rosenstein, and we always will, one way or another. You have had greatness thrust upon you and I do not pretend to understand the weight of your personal burden, but if your title means anything then you must honor it, yourself, and your country, and do the right thing. Help us Obi Rod, you are our only hope!
I have read and appreciated NYT editorials for decades; this may be the most well-written, persuasive, indeed compelling editorial I have ever read. Everything 45 does and says is disturbing, and this latest example by an unhinged person can rightly be described as an atrocity. It is no less an attack on our democracy than the Russian involvement in our election, and the tragic outcome from that involvement. We do indeed need some heroes right now, as integrity seems to be in very short supply.
4
Mr. Rosenstein has built a long and admirable record of integrity. Unfortunately, he is a political naif where the sordid politics of Washington are concerned. He is in over his head, as evidenced by the letter he was forced to write that placed his reputation in peril. I can only hope that he will eventually refuse to be dishonored by this president.
1
We will probably never know the name of the man that stood in front of the tank at Tiananmen Square. But we know your name, and we always will, one way or the other. Help us Obi Rod, you are our only hope!
2
This is a attempted coup by the deep state of government, law enforcement and entertainment media to destroy President Trump and its personal. Democrats are confabulating a narrative towards a Watergate-like effort to destroy President Trump without a shred of evidence that Russia colluded with the Trump campaign.
The Democrats did the same thing to President Nixon then took control of the Congress in 1974 which is exactly the plan with this President.
The Democrats did the same thing to President Nixon then took control of the Congress in 1974 which is exactly the plan with this President.
3
I invite everyone to read an article published October 31, 2016 (note the date: after Comey sent a letter to Congress about “new” emails, but before the election) titled “Everyone is Angry at James Comey Now.” You’ll have to Google it; I can’t seem to copy a hyperlink.
Comey found himself between a rock and hard place regarding the email investigation. The Clinton email issue was clouded by partisanship from day one. It became almost untenable for the FBI Director after AG Loretta Lynch and former president Bill Clinton had their famous “tarmac summit” a year ago. The AG then stated that she would abide by the FBI’s conclusions regarding the investigation. I thought that was very interesting, because now the whole mess, present responsibility and all future culpability, would be on his head. I could almost read “scapegoat” across his brow. It was only a matter of time before someone would use Comey’s missteps for political advantage.
The memo from Rosenstein to AG Sessions, which the Times calls “a solid brief,” is a disgrace. Its sole purpose is to portray Comey as incompetent. The more it drones on and on the more it reads like a nasty, spiteful, attempt to discredit him. It displays the classic “I must win, but you must also lose” mentality. Let’s see now, who does that remind us of?
The more I read about the firing of Director Comey, the more respect I have for him. He is the rare thing: an honest man.
Comey found himself between a rock and hard place regarding the email investigation. The Clinton email issue was clouded by partisanship from day one. It became almost untenable for the FBI Director after AG Loretta Lynch and former president Bill Clinton had their famous “tarmac summit” a year ago. The AG then stated that she would abide by the FBI’s conclusions regarding the investigation. I thought that was very interesting, because now the whole mess, present responsibility and all future culpability, would be on his head. I could almost read “scapegoat” across his brow. It was only a matter of time before someone would use Comey’s missteps for political advantage.
The memo from Rosenstein to AG Sessions, which the Times calls “a solid brief,” is a disgrace. Its sole purpose is to portray Comey as incompetent. The more it drones on and on the more it reads like a nasty, spiteful, attempt to discredit him. It displays the classic “I must win, but you must also lose” mentality. Let’s see now, who does that remind us of?
The more I read about the firing of Director Comey, the more respect I have for him. He is the rare thing: an honest man.
2
Thank you, NY Times, for a rational, articulate letter to perhaps one of the few adults left in Washington. My friends and I are copying it and sending it - via USPS - to Mr. Rosenstein.
Let's all hope his spine remains strong.
Let's all hope his spine remains strong.
5
Dude done let his self be so thoroughly used by Commander Chaos. Rookie mistake? Hope so.
3
While Mr. Rosenstein may rightly fear for his career and livelihood in doing the right thing, it's worth noting that senior government officials can always fall back on a lucrative career as a TV news personality, pundit, speech maker, etc.
1
Perhaps, one day, Mr. Rosenstein will offer an explanation of why he agreed to write this memorandum (which he knew would struggle to survive an "honesty test") rather than resign. This explanation may prove instructive for any person confronted with such a difficult choice in the future. He is not the first to be in this precarious position, nor was he unaware of the potential consequences for his decision.
A bright and accomplished public servant with over 25 years of unquestioned contributions appears to have thrown it all away - I, for one, would be very interested in examining the path of his decision-making process.
A bright and accomplished public servant with over 25 years of unquestioned contributions appears to have thrown it all away - I, for one, would be very interested in examining the path of his decision-making process.
8
1. In the Spring of 2016 the FBI, CIA, Justice Department, National Security Agency, the Office of the Director of National Intelligence and the Treasury Department opened an investigation into Russian efforts to influence our election.
2. No one has reported there is any evidence of collusion, collaboration, or coordination between the Russians and the Trump campaign. NONE
3. Everyone already knows about the e-mail hacks, and no one reasonably thinks anything released cost H. Clinton the election, and besides, no one said any of the e-mails were fabricated. Disclosure of truth should not be considered interference in an election we want to stop. (Hacking - n.g.)
3. James Comey was in the Democratic cross hairs for dismissal after the election eve letter that probably cost H. Clinton the election.
4. James Comey has continued beating the Russia drum, and said he was slightly nauseous if he caused Trump to be elected. He probably did not mean it that way, but it could be heard that way by his boss.
5. Comey asks for more money to beat the Russia drum and is fired.
When the top cop asks for money to investigate the Russians on a matter that, after a year, has not shown any collusion, collaboration or coordination with the Trump campaign, should such a request insulate him from termination? Does it grant him job security?
Is the NY Times witlessly doing the Russian's bidding by seeking to delegitimize this president and destabilize our government?
2. No one has reported there is any evidence of collusion, collaboration, or coordination between the Russians and the Trump campaign. NONE
3. Everyone already knows about the e-mail hacks, and no one reasonably thinks anything released cost H. Clinton the election, and besides, no one said any of the e-mails were fabricated. Disclosure of truth should not be considered interference in an election we want to stop. (Hacking - n.g.)
3. James Comey was in the Democratic cross hairs for dismissal after the election eve letter that probably cost H. Clinton the election.
4. James Comey has continued beating the Russia drum, and said he was slightly nauseous if he caused Trump to be elected. He probably did not mean it that way, but it could be heard that way by his boss.
5. Comey asks for more money to beat the Russia drum and is fired.
When the top cop asks for money to investigate the Russians on a matter that, after a year, has not shown any collusion, collaboration or coordination with the Trump campaign, should such a request insulate him from termination? Does it grant him job security?
Is the NY Times witlessly doing the Russian's bidding by seeking to delegitimize this president and destabilize our government?
4
Tom
#2 is wrong, I stopped reading the rest at that point.
Politico and several large news outlets began reporting on known and documented ties between Russians and members of the trump campaign in February 2017.
In addition there were international non US news sources reporting trump campaign members meeting with Russian intelligence operatives overseas.
Last week under oath James Clapper acknowledged that there were multiple counter intelligence investigations into the trump Russia connections. Those comments were based classified information and most likely not based on the news reports listed above but actual collected intel.
To say there is no there there is simply not true. Proving who knew what when is what is being worked now.
But there is documented evidence that trump campaign operatives had contacts with Russian operators during the campaign. It's been public for months!!!
#2 is wrong, I stopped reading the rest at that point.
Politico and several large news outlets began reporting on known and documented ties between Russians and members of the trump campaign in February 2017.
In addition there were international non US news sources reporting trump campaign members meeting with Russian intelligence operatives overseas.
Last week under oath James Clapper acknowledged that there were multiple counter intelligence investigations into the trump Russia connections. Those comments were based classified information and most likely not based on the news reports listed above but actual collected intel.
To say there is no there there is simply not true. Proving who knew what when is what is being worked now.
But there is documented evidence that trump campaign operatives had contacts with Russian operators during the campaign. It's been public for months!!!
the president delegitimizes himself everytime he opens his mouth or twitter account to communicate inaccurately or falsely any pertinent information that Americans have a right to know...
1
"A right to know" what? Trump is the product two corrupt parties, and an American public that is tired of both. He is a symptom of the problem. Not the cause.
Maybe the discussion should be how to deal with 20 Trillion debt we are leaving to the next generation.
Maybe we should ask why children should pay for parents' Social Security, pay for their parents' healthcare, and the enormous debt too. It is a fine mess, and neither the Russians nor Trump had anything to do with it. It is a generational thing...
Maybe the discussion should be how to deal with 20 Trillion debt we are leaving to the next generation.
Maybe we should ask why children should pay for parents' Social Security, pay for their parents' healthcare, and the enormous debt too. It is a fine mess, and neither the Russians nor Trump had anything to do with it. It is a generational thing...
Is the NYT editorial board off in some dreamland? Mr. Rosenstein is not only implicated in the firing of FBI Dir. Comey, he is implicated in obstructing an investigation into possible collusion between Trump and the Russians to rig the 2016 election. It is impossible for him to "do the right thing" now.
His vaunted reputation notwithstanding, he is nothing more than a shill for a pathological liar, and a party to a possible cover-up of a crime of immense proportion - treason.
His vaunted reputation notwithstanding, he is nothing more than a shill for a pathological liar, and a party to a possible cover-up of a crime of immense proportion - treason.
6
You make great points on the merits of this abominable episode, but did you really need to use that worn out news cliché "shocking?" It's bad enough when coiffed TV anchors breathlessly use it. It is definitely beneath the Times' editorial board.
Well done.
I got a push alert from the NYT on my phone saying that I should read this letter. The problem is that the NYT Editorial Board is just as full of itself as the President is of himself. Even Comey said that he has always believed that the President has the right to fire the FBI director for any reason. I hope that the hysteria generated on this page from everything Trump does dies down and returns to a solid, fact-based opinion forum. Enough of the holier-than-thou act.
2
The president having the authority to fire the FBI director "for any reason" and actually doing it to obstruct justice are two entirely different things. I have, according to law, the right to use corporal punishment with my child (actually now grown, but the legal authority existed when she was a child). That doesn't mean that to do so would have been the right thing to do.
3
Hear, hear!
1
There has always been one choice: Appoint a special prosecutor. That's been clear since Election Day.
Get cracking.
Get cracking.
6
Rosenstein has already shown his true colors, why give him another chance. His credibility is zero.
The only answer is to have a nationwide protest to appoint an independent investigator. This president cannot appoint his own people to investigate him. There is now no doubt he is guilty of collusion and the facts have to be ascertained and the sooner the better. Please help Rep. Swalwell push his independent investigator bill through the house so we can get going on this. We definitely have an authoritarian on our hands and it can only get worse.
The only answer is to have a nationwide protest to appoint an independent investigator. This president cannot appoint his own people to investigate him. There is now no doubt he is guilty of collusion and the facts have to be ascertained and the sooner the better. Please help Rep. Swalwell push his independent investigator bill through the house so we can get going on this. We definitely have an authoritarian on our hands and it can only get worse.
2
Well, there is no doubt that he is guilty of obstruction of justice. Collusion with the Russians? His obstruction is strong evidence, a bit more than a smoking gun, but is not proof positive. Bring in the special prosecutor, which should have been done already. Will it happen? Not until early 2019, after a Democratic congress takes the reins.
1
Had I the talent this is precisely the editorial I would have written. Thank you!
3
Such drama. I could hear violins in the background. You don't control all the American people. Half the country is not as gullible as you wish they were. Government corruption must be excised and Comey had to go to start the process. That the NYT acts as an enabler of that corruption instead of a watchdog is THE overarching problem of The West. Hopefully, the sunlight of the new alternative media will push through the dark cloud of yellow journalism you've created and save the country before it is too late!
2
You mean that Comey had to go to stop an investigation into whether or not treason has occurred. If you think a newspaper that editorializes against actions by a corrupt administration "is the overarching problem of The West," then you really need psychiatric help.
1
Special Prosecutor Preet Bharara...yeah, that sounds about right.
5
Hear! Hear!
2
Mr. Rosenstein agreed to write the memo, at the request of Mr. Trump.
In doing so, he failed the test of integrity.
In doing so, he put himself and Trump before country.
He has already failed us.
In doing so, he failed the test of integrity.
In doing so, he put himself and Trump before country.
He has already failed us.
4
Emigrating to the USA in 1972 and having cut my teeth during Sam Ervin's Watergate hearings, I grew up to appreciate the remarkable workings of the American constitution, depth and strength of American Institutions (Office of Special Prosecutor; Congress as a check on Executive power and abuse of power; power of Senate Hearings etc) - and would always boast about something called the Rule of Law in America with nothing close in comparison in Third World societies.
Today, I wonder what has happened after only 5-months of Trump rule. Shouldn't the wonders of our remarkable constitution and tradition of rule of law stand as a bulwark against the oldest democracy in the world?
It is shameful to watch how every leader in the Congress (Mitch McConnell; Speaker Ryan), the Attorney-General, deputy AG - all have sold out. Reminds me of what happened in Germany under Hitler.
Would America slide into Banana Republicanism - or would good, decent men and women stand up to right the Ship of State?
Today, I wonder what has happened after only 5-months of Trump rule. Shouldn't the wonders of our remarkable constitution and tradition of rule of law stand as a bulwark against the oldest democracy in the world?
It is shameful to watch how every leader in the Congress (Mitch McConnell; Speaker Ryan), the Attorney-General, deputy AG - all have sold out. Reminds me of what happened in Germany under Hitler.
Would America slide into Banana Republicanism - or would good, decent men and women stand up to right the Ship of State?
7
Excellent letter. However, it makes the mistake of thinking it knows Rod Rosenstein. A reputable resume is not the same as reputable character. No one knows the unexpressed mind of another person.
What we do know is:
Mr. Rosenstein took the job of Deputy Attorney General when trump and his Administration's flaws had been exposed for all to see;
Mr. Rosenstein took the job with Sessions, a less than honorable professional, as his superior;
Mr. Rosenstein participated in the Comey firing with Sessions despite the fact that Sessions had been recused from the investigation;
Mr. Rosenstein knew along with everyone else that Sessions lied about his contact with Russians during the time period covered by the investigation;
Mr. Rosenstein signed his name to a memorandum that he had to know would be taken as a sham and a lie.
Do not mistake a reputable resume with reputable character. People placed in high office become subject to forces and persuasions they have not yet experienced. Who is Rod Rosenstein?
We are going to find out.
What we do know is:
Mr. Rosenstein took the job of Deputy Attorney General when trump and his Administration's flaws had been exposed for all to see;
Mr. Rosenstein took the job with Sessions, a less than honorable professional, as his superior;
Mr. Rosenstein participated in the Comey firing with Sessions despite the fact that Sessions had been recused from the investigation;
Mr. Rosenstein knew along with everyone else that Sessions lied about his contact with Russians during the time period covered by the investigation;
Mr. Rosenstein signed his name to a memorandum that he had to know would be taken as a sham and a lie.
Do not mistake a reputable resume with reputable character. People placed in high office become subject to forces and persuasions they have not yet experienced. Who is Rod Rosenstein?
We are going to find out.
5
Here , here...
Somewhere below, Robert Bork is smiling.
3
The Times of Israel reports that the Deputy AG has been a member of the Reform congregation in Bethesda. Our tradition holds up many examples of what courage under pressure looks like - what it means to do the right thing regardless of personal harm. Risking her life, Esther stood up for her community when it was under threat. Abraham confronted the ultimate power - God - when he felt God was wrong to destroy innocents among the wicked. The prophets relentlessly challenged the powerful to act righteously and justly.
This is your moment to ensure that our Constitution and founding principles prevail over corrupting self- interest, by appointing a special counsel, legally protected from political pressure, who can help settle once and for all whether the president and/or his men colluded with a foreign power to disrupt a fair and democratic election and then sought to obstruct justice. Your moment: will you use the power you have to do the right thing?
This is your moment to ensure that our Constitution and founding principles prevail over corrupting self- interest, by appointing a special counsel, legally protected from political pressure, who can help settle once and for all whether the president and/or his men colluded with a foreign power to disrupt a fair and democratic election and then sought to obstruct justice. Your moment: will you use the power you have to do the right thing?
2
Once again the Times is sending out mixed messages. In today's Editorial the Times' editorial board is all but begging Rod Rosenstein to appoint a special prosecutor to investigate why Donald Trump fired James Comey so abruptly. Yet, in the very same OP ED section, columnist David Leonhardt wrote a column entitled Rod Rosenstein Fails His Ethics Test. Why would the Times Editors ask someone who's "ethically challenged" to appoint a special prosecutor to handle such a delicate investigation with the fate of America in the balance??
I also can't believe that the Times also believes that the popular vote is the yardstick for winning the presidency. Not true. In a presidential election it's the Electoral College total that determines who moves into 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue. Hillary Clinton joins Al Gore on that dubious list of also-rans who won the popular vote but didn't win the all important Electoral College.
I also can't believe that the Times also believes that the popular vote is the yardstick for winning the presidency. Not true. In a presidential election it's the Electoral College total that determines who moves into 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue. Hillary Clinton joins Al Gore on that dubious list of also-rans who won the popular vote but didn't win the all important Electoral College.
1
The old adage that you are either 'part of the problem or part of the solution' confronts everyone who interacts with Trump, from Republicans on the Hill to functionaries throughout Government.
As children asked their fathers and grandfathers decades ago, where were you in the War? So will the next generation ask people who now are at the crossroads in the Trump era and choosing between 'Country or Career'? In a world filled with 'reality TV shows' and Twitter feeds, it may be hard to recognize this choice when it is upon us.
But it is upon us now.
This is not the latest 'Breaking News' headline on CNN or MSNBC. This is a character and soul defining moment for Sean Spicer, Rod Rosenstein, Mitch McConnell, Paul Ryan and the media punditry. There is no 'balance' to search for. This is not partisan. This is a Black and White choice.
So, ask not what your Country can do for you. Ask what you can do for your Country.... right now !
As children asked their fathers and grandfathers decades ago, where were you in the War? So will the next generation ask people who now are at the crossroads in the Trump era and choosing between 'Country or Career'? In a world filled with 'reality TV shows' and Twitter feeds, it may be hard to recognize this choice when it is upon us.
But it is upon us now.
This is not the latest 'Breaking News' headline on CNN or MSNBC. This is a character and soul defining moment for Sean Spicer, Rod Rosenstein, Mitch McConnell, Paul Ryan and the media punditry. There is no 'balance' to search for. This is not partisan. This is a Black and White choice.
So, ask not what your Country can do for you. Ask what you can do for your Country.... right now !
2
The only ones who can restore our confidence in our government are the Republican majorities in House and Senate. Good luck with that.
Mr. Rosenstein, you are going to be fired sooner or later so please choose the ethical and courageous path now rather than have regrets later. Your current boss has no moral center and shows no inclination to abide by the oath he took when he was sworn in to office. You need to uphold the oath you took; after the lessons we have learnt from the past century you will not be able to duck responsibility for shirking your duty by simply saying that you were following orders.
Their words make it obvious the editorial board has already decided this issue. Saying "..will get to the bottom of ... how Russia helped steal the presidency" pretty much forecloses any possibility of the answer to "whether" being no doesn't it?
If you have proof a crime was committed, publish it. Absent such proof, please allow all members of the Trump administration/team the same presumption of innocence you demand for a drug dealer on 57th Street.
One other thing -- you wrote "...rare that any single person has to bear..." How about married or partnered people, Editors??
If you have proof a crime was committed, publish it. Absent such proof, please allow all members of the Trump administration/team the same presumption of innocence you demand for a drug dealer on 57th Street.
One other thing -- you wrote "...rare that any single person has to bear..." How about married or partnered people, Editors??
1
Mr. Rosenstein, you could appoint Mr. Comey as Special Prosecutor. I believe he might be available.
(He would only concentrate on the Russian investigation, not the Clinton emails, nor the management and morale of the entire FBI, which you were concerned about.)
(He would only concentrate on the Russian investigation, not the Clinton emails, nor the management and morale of the entire FBI, which you were concerned about.)
Thank you New York Times!
2
A very astute piece of journalism, Times.
Than you.
Than you.
2
This spectacle is almost biblical: a self-intoxicated demagogue and slanderer up against the integrity of a sole and isolated servant. Who would want to share Mr. Rosenstein's predicament? And yet how can America avoid the need to confront a reckless megalomaniac?
2
In this open letter the NY Times seeks to take on the role of the last White Knight, mounting an offensive against the government corruption it had a very big hand in creating, during the last five decades, trying to convince the American people, who now know better, that it has their back.
Along with several other mainstream media representatives of our corporate owned government, this once venerated free press has been front and center, in the vanguard of these corporate masters of mankind, wielding with avaricious abandon the power of the pen in a devious perception management campaign, designed by our corporate masters to create a wholly believable false reality, a reality which successfully caused the death of our democracy.
This newspaper is trying to undo the Presidency it helped foist on us, through its liberal bias, and now seeks to replace it with the group of neoliberal rulers it supports, the group which lost so abysmally to the the current Dictator In-Chief.
"We the far too long supine People" need to finally stand up, unite, and do as our Constitution demands, which is kick out this current government, and install a true representative government, of, by, and for the people.
Otherwise it's game over, and we are the losers.
Along with several other mainstream media representatives of our corporate owned government, this once venerated free press has been front and center, in the vanguard of these corporate masters of mankind, wielding with avaricious abandon the power of the pen in a devious perception management campaign, designed by our corporate masters to create a wholly believable false reality, a reality which successfully caused the death of our democracy.
This newspaper is trying to undo the Presidency it helped foist on us, through its liberal bias, and now seeks to replace it with the group of neoliberal rulers it supports, the group which lost so abysmally to the the current Dictator In-Chief.
"We the far too long supine People" need to finally stand up, unite, and do as our Constitution demands, which is kick out this current government, and install a true representative government, of, by, and for the people.
Otherwise it's game over, and we are the losers.
1
Thank you NYT Editorial Board.
2
More partisan drivel from the EB.
The consequence of your whining is the opposite of what you intend. You are driving Republicans with a skeptical view of Trump into his arms. We ain't going to give you what you want - defeating a conservative government. Crying wolf now is a poor choice.
You used all of your might to defeat Trump last year and it failed. Move on. What on earth could the Russians have done to help Trump? Assist him in debate preparation? Send thousands of passionate folks to his rallies? Cause the spiking of Obamacare premiums? Arrange for Hilary Clinton to be the Democrat's nominee?
Come out here to Chicago where hundreds get murdered each year and do some real reporting.
The consequence of your whining is the opposite of what you intend. You are driving Republicans with a skeptical view of Trump into his arms. We ain't going to give you what you want - defeating a conservative government. Crying wolf now is a poor choice.
You used all of your might to defeat Trump last year and it failed. Move on. What on earth could the Russians have done to help Trump? Assist him in debate preparation? Send thousands of passionate folks to his rallies? Cause the spiking of Obamacare premiums? Arrange for Hilary Clinton to be the Democrat's nominee?
Come out here to Chicago where hundreds get murdered each year and do some real reporting.
1
I think you miss the point. Of course Russia did not decide the election. But, if members of Trump's team spoke with and coordinated with Russian intelligence to time leaks so as to help Trump's campaign, that's not only wrong, it's illegal. Remember, no one thought Nixon won in 1972 because of his team's illegal actions.
Agreed: "It was a solid brief; Mr. Comey’s misjudgments in his handling of the F.B.I. investigation of Hillary Clinton’s private email server were indeed serious."
Not certain: "Yet you must know that these fair criticisms were mere pretext for Mr. Trump... ."--NYT
Mr. Comey's misjudgments and recent misstatements (e.g. hundreds and thousands) were in the process of being examined. Mr. Rosenstein may have expected his brief to be part of that process.
Messrs. Sessions and Trump are of a sort not easy to read after a mere two weeks on the job. Deputy Attorney Rod Rosenstein still appears heads above. I don't think he will be played.
Not certain: "Yet you must know that these fair criticisms were mere pretext for Mr. Trump... ."--NYT
Mr. Comey's misjudgments and recent misstatements (e.g. hundreds and thousands) were in the process of being examined. Mr. Rosenstein may have expected his brief to be part of that process.
Messrs. Sessions and Trump are of a sort not easy to read after a mere two weeks on the job. Deputy Attorney Rod Rosenstein still appears heads above. I don't think he will be played.
To the editorial board:
I agree and support your truthful and much needed editorial.
Mr.Rosenstein has served our country well according to those who know him and His passed decisions.Now regardless of Trumps power to fire him I and most of our nation call on him to appoint a Special council to dig out and expose every political act ,every business connection,and any other underhanded money laundering transaction,perpetuated on our country by this
Criminal and his minions.Do it today,and thank you for your integrity.
I agree and support your truthful and much needed editorial.
Mr.Rosenstein has served our country well according to those who know him and His passed decisions.Now regardless of Trumps power to fire him I and most of our nation call on him to appoint a Special council to dig out and expose every political act ,every business connection,and any other underhanded money laundering transaction,perpetuated on our country by this
Criminal and his minions.Do it today,and thank you for your integrity.
1
I don't even believe the Panthers, MLK, the Clan, or even the Kennedys lied on the FBI like this administration is doing,..and they had more personal reason(s) to do so.
I applied for FBI no arrest certification in 2015 December, FBI turned that application to a Hillary Clinton advertisement.
The Times states that Rosenstein has had an exemplary career as a lifelong civil servant. He went to the finest schools, yadda,yadda, yadda.
Yet he agrees to write a memo (which a high school student could have created in an afternoon, cribbing quotes from public sources, selectivley quoting public officials out of context) which he had to know would be used by Trump to fire Comey.
I see no "man of integrity" here. I see a career bureaucrat, blinded by the bright lights and big desks of power, a man who has lost his way in the labyrinths of the Government.
The Washington Post says he "threatened to resign" over Trump's use of his memo. Threatening to resign is not a sign of integrity, it is a sign of cowardice - it is not action, it is inaction.
Rosenstein has a decision to make: resign now, or appoint a special prosecutor. Failing to do either proves he is not - and has never been - a man of integrity.
Yet he agrees to write a memo (which a high school student could have created in an afternoon, cribbing quotes from public sources, selectivley quoting public officials out of context) which he had to know would be used by Trump to fire Comey.
I see no "man of integrity" here. I see a career bureaucrat, blinded by the bright lights and big desks of power, a man who has lost his way in the labyrinths of the Government.
The Washington Post says he "threatened to resign" over Trump's use of his memo. Threatening to resign is not a sign of integrity, it is a sign of cowardice - it is not action, it is inaction.
Rosenstein has a decision to make: resign now, or appoint a special prosecutor. Failing to do either proves he is not - and has never been - a man of integrity.
1
Rod, I suspect you're just another frightened stooge. If not, you'll certainly take the advice of the NYT Editorial Board and step up, as a Patriot and an American.
Do this now, or go down in history as just another Trump Regime Conman Loser, that the Orangeman stepped on to save his own narcissistic skin. Don't be...sad.
Do this now, or go down in history as just another Trump Regime Conman Loser, that the Orangeman stepped on to save his own narcissistic skin. Don't be...sad.
1
As a 100% combat disabled Marine veteran awarded the Silver. Star, Vietnamese Cross of Gallantry, Purple Heart and sharing 3 Presidential Unit Citations with the thirteen lost comrades I have mourned for nearly 50 years now, I am sickened and disheartened by what this narcissistic sociopath is doing to our nation. Have you no shame Donald Trump? To see the Russian oligarchs clowning with you in the White House is beyond belief and is an insult to our service and sacrifice. Bravo New York Times
5
Mr. Rosenstein, are you on Team America or Team Trump?
3
Dear Editorial Board.
You clearly do not have a clue as to what the authority of the President might be in the matter of terms of service of appointees of the Executive Branch that are subject to Senate confirmation.
You do an incredible disservice to The People by your failure to recognize that which the Constitution, our laws, and the Courts of our nation have held regarding the subject.
Perhaps if you were better informed, you would not be such an embarrassment to your newspaper.
You clearly do not have a clue as to what the authority of the President might be in the matter of terms of service of appointees of the Executive Branch that are subject to Senate confirmation.
You do an incredible disservice to The People by your failure to recognize that which the Constitution, our laws, and the Courts of our nation have held regarding the subject.
Perhaps if you were better informed, you would not be such an embarrassment to your newspaper.
3
We should not for one second buy into the canard that the DAG did not recommend Comey's termination. For some reason, the NYT gives the DAG the benefit of the doubt by stating: "We can only hope that your lack of an explicit recommendation to fire Mr. Comey reflects your own refusal to go as far as the president wanted you to." In fact, the DAG left no doubt about his own view that that Comey had to go. The DAG wrote: "Although the President has the power to remove an FBI director, the decision should not be taken lightly. I agree with the nearly unanimous opinions of former Department officials. The way the Director handled the conclusion of the email investigation was wrong. As a result, the FBI is unlikely to regain public and congressional trust until it has a Director who understands the gravity of the mistakes and pledges never to repeat them. Having refused to admit his errors, the Director cannot be expected to implement the necessary corrective actions." The DAG specially sought a new Director: "a Director who understands the gravity of the mistakes and pledges never to repeat them." Let's be real and not find some way to whitewash the actions of the DAG, in the hope that, maybe, he will do the right thing and appoint a special counsel.
There is one major difference between Nixon times and The Con Don and his Robber Baron hostile takeover of OUR governments. They now also own OUR United States Supreme Court.
The Con Don made it the first order of business to get a Robber Baron democracy destroyer appointed and Mitch McConnell used his "power" to change the rules to make it so.
We did not have an election. We had a hostile financial takeover by the Robber Barons. That is treason - I don't care what the Robber Baron supreme court said while Scalia was alive.
WE THE PEOPLE must demand that the election be considered "illegal" under OUR moral/ethical code and thrown them all out. All of them. At every level of OUR governments.
NOW IS THE TIME!
The Con Don made it the first order of business to get a Robber Baron democracy destroyer appointed and Mitch McConnell used his "power" to change the rules to make it so.
We did not have an election. We had a hostile financial takeover by the Robber Barons. That is treason - I don't care what the Robber Baron supreme court said while Scalia was alive.
WE THE PEOPLE must demand that the election be considered "illegal" under OUR moral/ethical code and thrown them all out. All of them. At every level of OUR governments.
NOW IS THE TIME!
2
Your editorial is a day late and a dollar short! Mr Rosenstein already had his chance to restore confidence in our government--instead, after 2 weeks in the job showed his true colors be being an active participant in the firing crafting the excuses for the dismissal. Now he says that he considered resigning because of White House statements. What a giant of a man!! No profile of courage is he.
3
Well said. DAG Rosenstein should immediately recommend an independent counsel. It's painfully obvious the administration and it's cronies in the cabinet and congress do not have the spines to seek out the relevant truths of the Trump's Russian connections.
1
There is a certain pattern that causes the collapse of an Empire. Please don't take my word on this. If you're a History buff, then you already know what is happening and has happened in the past that has lead to the destruction of a city, a state, or a country. If you're NOT a History Buff, then let me call your attention to a fairly recent collapse of two countries: Japan & Germany. Read how Hitler was able to change people's ideas about Jews and other undesirables in less than 12 years. Remember that Hitler was a nobody after WW1. Germany was in terrible shape after the war. It only took someone like Hitler with his hatred of the Jews to stir up a populace that needed someone or something to believe in. Again, study the tactics that Hitler used and now superimpose Donald Trump and his loyal band of uninformed supporters and what do you get? Think this is too far out? It's happening right now in our country. The solution? Speak out. You have Representatives from BOTH parties that need to hear your voices. That's the only way to stop this madness. We are Americans First; Not Democrats or Republicans.
1
From your lips to Gods' ears, but, I believe our current generation of deaf, dumb, blind, ignorant, and bigoted, so called citizens, being all of the foregoing, will not realize we are falling into the abyss, until they are splattered on the rocks below.
the Old Gray Lady finally comes out of her restraints and talks turkey.
the nytimes is as "deeply implicated" in the rise of Trump as the rest of the bought media in the skillfully divided & conquered States.
Rosenstein can either work in the belly of this Rough Beast as a representative of "The People", or he can repudiate further complicity with its criminal abuses by resigning before he is fired.
"We the People" will not take it to the streets. Did demonstrations prevent Bush & his war profiteering cronies from going to war in Iraq.
We'll be here at our computers, fighting the good fight, as though the pen were mightier than the nuclear winter we have placed within reach of a soulless & vindictive invalid. Invalid in every sense of the word.
I hope there will be an independent council, because when I tear myself away from the internet, I am not liking the look of the street: jackbooted militarized police, arresting my journalists, shooting black teenagers at close range - dogs of the System, protecting the profits of Mammon.
the nytimes is as "deeply implicated" in the rise of Trump as the rest of the bought media in the skillfully divided & conquered States.
Rosenstein can either work in the belly of this Rough Beast as a representative of "The People", or he can repudiate further complicity with its criminal abuses by resigning before he is fired.
"We the People" will not take it to the streets. Did demonstrations prevent Bush & his war profiteering cronies from going to war in Iraq.
We'll be here at our computers, fighting the good fight, as though the pen were mightier than the nuclear winter we have placed within reach of a soulless & vindictive invalid. Invalid in every sense of the word.
I hope there will be an independent council, because when I tear myself away from the internet, I am not liking the look of the street: jackbooted militarized police, arresting my journalists, shooting black teenagers at close range - dogs of the System, protecting the profits of Mammon.
1
No one ever stands up to Trump. Someone, anyone has to do so now! Someone in the press room has to tell Sean and Sarah to stop lying.
3
I am disappointed a little.
I didn't expect POTUS to hide behind the skirt of an AG that isn't wearing one.
Seems he calculates that skirt is better than contradicting himself so easily and quickly on previous statements he said in support of Comey.
I didn't expect POTUS to hide behind the skirt of an AG that isn't wearing one.
Seems he calculates that skirt is better than contradicting himself so easily and quickly on previous statements he said in support of Comey.
1
The Times wants war with Russia and Hillary in the White House, so the hypocrisy of this letter is sickening.
1
Well, Trump is at war with the USA it seems...
3
In a democracy, the entire fate of the nation always rides on the premise that honest people of integrity are what make government work.
For decades, attacks on the integrity and ability of government workers has been a cornerstone of conservative efforts to "shrink government to a size we can drown it in a bathtub."
Mr. Rosenstein, you have a great weight to bear upon your shoulders. You are not alone, but you alone are in the best position to preserve, protect and defend the Constitution of the United States.
We await your actions.
For decades, attacks on the integrity and ability of government workers has been a cornerstone of conservative efforts to "shrink government to a size we can drown it in a bathtub."
Mr. Rosenstein, you have a great weight to bear upon your shoulders. You are not alone, but you alone are in the best position to preserve, protect and defend the Constitution of the United States.
We await your actions.
1
"You must also know that in ordering you to write the memo, Mr. Trump exploited the integrity you have earned over nearly three decades in public service, spending down your credibility as selfishly as he has spent other people’s money throughout his business career."
"Given your own reputation for probity, you must be troubled as well by the broader pattern of this president’s behavior, including his contempt for ethical standards of past presidents. He has mixed his business interests with his public responsibilities. He has boasted that conflict-of-interest laws do not apply to him as president. And from the moment he took office, Mr. Trump has shown a despot’s willingness to invent his own version of the truth and to weaponize the federal government to confirm that version, to serve his ego and to pursue vendettas large and small."
Deputy Attorney General Rosenstein, PLEASE DO THE RIGHT THING!
"Given your own reputation for probity, you must be troubled as well by the broader pattern of this president’s behavior, including his contempt for ethical standards of past presidents. He has mixed his business interests with his public responsibilities. He has boasted that conflict-of-interest laws do not apply to him as president. And from the moment he took office, Mr. Trump has shown a despot’s willingness to invent his own version of the truth and to weaponize the federal government to confirm that version, to serve his ego and to pursue vendettas large and small."
Deputy Attorney General Rosenstein, PLEASE DO THE RIGHT THING!
2
After an apparently honorable career at the Justice Department Mr. Rosenstein has chosen to dishonor himself at the bequest of a mad swine of a President.
They just aren't making them like William Ruckleshaus any more.
They just aren't making them like William Ruckleshaus any more.
2
"Welcome aboard the Trump train headed to Hades, Rod. As your first act of loyalty to HRH, the president demands that you fire Comey. We know you're new, so we've taken the liberty of typing up the charges. Now be a good boy and do what we tell you. You don't want the president tweeting about your religion, physical features, family members, personal integrity, party affiliation, mannerisms or voice, do you?"
2
It's difficult to believe that there is a shed of decency or patriotism in anyone involved with this WH. We can only hope that Mr. Rosenstein will prove to be an exception. If the Republican Senate does not speak up they will burn in history!
2
We are moving along a dangerous precipice, getting closer and closer to the edge, dragged their by this illegitimate-President.
He might be the legal, rational, president, but only a president who has won BOTH the popular vote AND the Electoral College has both rational and traditional authority to be the legitimate leader of this nation.
Anyone who denies that sentence fails to understand how authority works (and needs to, at the very least, re-read Weber) and to not grasp the history of this country.
The mad-POTUS--not so much insane as criminally narcissistic and unethical--seems determined to imitate his idols (Putin, Assad, Un) and secure his hold on the throne. To that end he is practicing his Machiavelli.
As for his refutation of Putin, who believes it?
As for his refutation of Assad, he has already shown that his reflexive hypocrisy protects him from such self-refutation.
As for Un, "honored" to meet with him? What?
A monster, might kill other monsters, but that doesn't make it less of a monster.
Trump is a fool, a lazy and stupid fool, but he is not lazy or stupid enough to be not dangerous or not succeed. He is not the sort of driven evil of a Putin, but the lazy, stupid evil throwback from the time when America WAS great for white men.
The good news of the Comey firing. That there is almost certainly a there there, a fire to be found behind all of this smoke.
An idiot can be also diabolically dangerous.
He might be the legal, rational, president, but only a president who has won BOTH the popular vote AND the Electoral College has both rational and traditional authority to be the legitimate leader of this nation.
Anyone who denies that sentence fails to understand how authority works (and needs to, at the very least, re-read Weber) and to not grasp the history of this country.
The mad-POTUS--not so much insane as criminally narcissistic and unethical--seems determined to imitate his idols (Putin, Assad, Un) and secure his hold on the throne. To that end he is practicing his Machiavelli.
As for his refutation of Putin, who believes it?
As for his refutation of Assad, he has already shown that his reflexive hypocrisy protects him from such self-refutation.
As for Un, "honored" to meet with him? What?
A monster, might kill other monsters, but that doesn't make it less of a monster.
Trump is a fool, a lazy and stupid fool, but he is not lazy or stupid enough to be not dangerous or not succeed. He is not the sort of driven evil of a Putin, but the lazy, stupid evil throwback from the time when America WAS great for white men.
The good news of the Comey firing. That there is almost certainly a there there, a fire to be found behind all of this smoke.
An idiot can be also diabolically dangerous.
Should have stopped after the first two paragraphs. I was actually starting to believe the Times had come to its senses. Essentially the Times is saying Mr Rosenstein is the epitome of integrity but can't be trusted to lead the Russia investigatiom.
It would be difficult for a government employee to do the right thing because of the oath they take. It is more than just loosing his job. Doing the right thing is never popular even after the deed is done. He would sacrifice his family's security and financial security as well. It is best to understand that government workers do want to do their duty but they are also human. We need to help him gain the strength to make the right call but also let him know we will be there for him when the guillotine falls.
thanks for this. please find out more. rosenstein reportedly threatened to resign after two weeks in office when the white house started to spin that comey's ouster was rosenstein's idea.
the memo is his.
what happened that so honest a public servant was compromised in a mere two weeks? did he tell the recused sessions to step back? by playing along with the most corrupt president and AG since watergate, is he maneuvering to appoint an indie counsel?
anyway, thanks for a good insta read of the situation and for speaking truth to the only sane person in the room. who seriously has compromised himself.
the memo is his.
what happened that so honest a public servant was compromised in a mere two weeks? did he tell the recused sessions to step back? by playing along with the most corrupt president and AG since watergate, is he maneuvering to appoint an indie counsel?
anyway, thanks for a good insta read of the situation and for speaking truth to the only sane person in the room. who seriously has compromised himself.
Oh, plueeeze.
Does anyone outside of the Capital Beltway, and the chattering newsrooms really care about one puffy white guy firing another (very tall) puffy white guy?
What is the worse possible crime Trump could have committed? Did he ask Putin to dig up all the dirt he could on Clinton? You betcha. Just as Clinton sought to dig up grab-them-by-the...comments from Trump.
Tell me Trump paid the Russians to hack the voting machines and steal the election when Ohio, Michigan, Wisconsin and Pennsylvania actually voted for her and I will read that story with great interest.
You and I both wish those unwashed masses were smart enough to vote differently, but vote they did and all your babble about Nixon and Watergate will not change that.
Until you have real news, spare me this "news."
Does anyone outside of the Capital Beltway, and the chattering newsrooms really care about one puffy white guy firing another (very tall) puffy white guy?
What is the worse possible crime Trump could have committed? Did he ask Putin to dig up all the dirt he could on Clinton? You betcha. Just as Clinton sought to dig up grab-them-by-the...comments from Trump.
Tell me Trump paid the Russians to hack the voting machines and steal the election when Ohio, Michigan, Wisconsin and Pennsylvania actually voted for her and I will read that story with great interest.
You and I both wish those unwashed masses were smart enough to vote differently, but vote they did and all your babble about Nixon and Watergate will not change that.
Until you have real news, spare me this "news."
I know little about Rosenstein but he must be part of the "swamp" Trump says he is going to drain and will be fired sooner or later. Rosenstein is being used by Trump to take the blame for Comey's firing.
I agree with this editorial but no one should bet the farm on Mr. Rosenstein doing the right thing. I recall, vaguely, something once said about Caesar when he was asked by someone why he didn't promote on the basis of seniority. Caesar pointed to a donkey and said the animal had been with him for 20 years too. Anyway, A 27 year career in the DOJ is not, by itself, a basis for a sterling reputation or a predictor for sterling deeds to be done. In fact, Mr. Rosenstein may be earnestly praying that Giuliani is selected by Trump as the new chief of the new FIB.
1
Thank You NYTs... You have laid out the difficult, but clear, choice between heroism and villainy for Mr Rosenstein. If he has an ounce of honor, common sense, or even self respect remaining, he will pay heed to your sound advice and do what is right for his country. After all, he must see the daily pattern by now - that Trump is an ethically and intellectually challenged pathological lying sociopath who is heading for more trouble of his own careless, thoughtless, creation... And he doesn't care a lick that he is dragging Mr Rosenstein and the rest of us down with him.
1
The editorial board should also have called for the resignation of Sessions, a toad and a tool for the tRump administration and its corruption., a petty, vindictive soulless man with no respect for people or those not born to privilege.
1
For all our sake I hope the Times is successful in their Diaogenes-like quest for an honest man.
1
I will not hold my breath for Mr. Rosenstein. When he wrote the justification letter for Comey, he climbed into bed with partisanship, with corruption, and with filthy Donald J. Trump. Now he has the audacity to pretend he surprised that Trump has used his (previously) good reputation and work to justify firing Comey? What did he think the letter about Comey was for? His excuse doesn't hold water, and we will not see any special efforts from this man. It is also likely the stench of Trump will be with him for the rest of his career, and life.
Please, Rod Rosenstein, do the right thing.
1
With the shady shenanigans of the Justice Department in the last administration (Fast & Furious, Lynch meeting Clinton in secret) still unresolved, we do need an indication of integrity. I'd say Rosenstein appoint a special counsel, with a very limited mandate. This will allow the matter to be investigated, without the over-reach we saw in the Whitewater debacle. That will get us past this matter and on to working for the US people.
Good letter. It is so sad that a man, with some integrity, has placed himself in t-rumps inner circle. What is he thinking? Life will not be easy and he will not be remembered kindly. Sad.
2
Forget Rosenstein, that horse has left the barn. This was a Bannon op., best be checking to see who they've co-opted at the senior pentagon level. Nixon arguably floated the idea. Bannon's useful idiot would go there at the drop of a hat.
Just a few months ago, we should be mindful, it was also unthinkable the Pesident of the United States and the most powerful man on the planet would be a grinning grifter with the mind of a sixth grader.
Just a few months ago, we should be mindful, it was also unthinkable the Pesident of the United States and the most powerful man on the planet would be a grinning grifter with the mind of a sixth grader.
Can the only thing that drives our economy (money) step up to flex their substantial power. Apple, Microsoft, Amazon, Facebook, Netflix, Comcast, Tesla, Google, and others have made vast fortunes in America. Normal taxpayers contributed immensely to aid their success. They laid the cable, loaded and unloaded your shipments, rush around to get things out in record time, they fix your roads, they cut your grass and mostly they buy your stuff.
We are getting royally screwed by this entire administration. Please think of your customers. Our representatives will not do anything for the benefit of their citizens, so maybe a younger, brilliant, forward thinking group of business can make something happen. We truly have nowhere to turn. This country that allowed you so much success is turning into a banana republic.
We are getting royally screwed by this entire administration. Please think of your customers. Our representatives will not do anything for the benefit of their citizens, so maybe a younger, brilliant, forward thinking group of business can make something happen. We truly have nowhere to turn. This country that allowed you so much success is turning into a banana republic.
1
Mr. Rosenstein suffers from a common and forgivable bit of self-delusion: he believes that he can lie down with dogs and not get up with fleas. As the editorial notes, the case that Comey screwed up last year is strong. Comey should have acknowledged in his recent testimony, at the very least, that he regrets characterizing the behavior of someone (HRC) he was not referring for prosecution. But these are not really firing offenses, and Mr. Rosenstein has to ask himself what purpose his memo served if not to be a pretext for a firing that he was not recommending.
Indeed Rosenstein's error is precisely Comey's: he criticized someone publicly (as his memo was sure to become public) whom he was not going to take action against. His own at once memo rejects such behavior and instantiates it. He's been played, and he should quit, not because he's a bad or incompetent man, but because his boss's slime is already dripping on him. Instead, we read that he "threatened" to quit over the characterization of his role in Comey's dismissal, but we don't see any fruit of the threat. He has made Comey's Clinton mistake of speaking without acting and, apparently, followed it up by making Obama's Syria mistake of threatening without acting.
He must do more, and naming a special prosecutor is not it. He has to quit in disgust.
Indeed Rosenstein's error is precisely Comey's: he criticized someone publicly (as his memo was sure to become public) whom he was not going to take action against. His own at once memo rejects such behavior and instantiates it. He's been played, and he should quit, not because he's a bad or incompetent man, but because his boss's slime is already dripping on him. Instead, we read that he "threatened" to quit over the characterization of his role in Comey's dismissal, but we don't see any fruit of the threat. He has made Comey's Clinton mistake of speaking without acting and, apparently, followed it up by making Obama's Syria mistake of threatening without acting.
He must do more, and naming a special prosecutor is not it. He has to quit in disgust.
1
“THESE are the times that try men's souls. The summer soldier and the sunshine patriot will, in this crisis, shrink from the service of their country; but he that stands by it now, deserves the love and thanks of man and woman. Tyranny, like hell, is not easily conquered; yet we have this consolation with us, that the harder the conflict, the more glorious the triumph...." Thomas Paine
Especially fitting these days...more so to this editorial. I hope Mr. Rosenstein lives up to his previous reputation.
Especially fitting these days...more so to this editorial. I hope Mr. Rosenstein lives up to his previous reputation.
The Times' Editorial Board is right — even courageous — to implore Deputy Attorney General Rosenstein to appoint a special counsel to probe Trump's sometimes clandestine, often overt, machinations with the Russians that led to his Electoral College victory in November. While the Board cites the ever-growing litany of Trump's despotic maneuvering and gross malfeasance since taking office, it's hardly necessary to raise the maelstrom of misdeeds that Trump has committed as president; his dismissal of Mr. Comey and blatant attempt to shift attention from his role in orchestrating Russian interference and beyond more than suffice in warranting deep scrutiny and, ultimately, Trump's impeachment.
1
Gratitude is the most productive response I can summon. So I subscribed today. At least the true work of journalism, and moral clarity, still have a chance. And if these survive, maybe our democracy can.
3
This editorial isn't about whether Comey's actions warranted his dismissal. It's about where American democracy goes from here. It represents the American press at its best.
2
I'm not sure such open letters do much good, even with a devoted public servant such as Mr. Rosenstein is reputed to be. They tend to add pressure rather than give the addressee room to do the right thing. The Deputy AG cannot fail to appreciate the gravity of his situation. The EB's letter only states the obvious. Please save your powder for the very difficult days ahead as the coutry continues to struggle with a President whose actions seem increasingly divorced from reality and a ruling party that seems all too willing to gain the whole world and lose its soul.
Whether it is ethics rules governing self-enrichment at public expense, immigration laws governing public safety, commercial laws governing fraudulent advertising, or rules governing executive appointments, this administration thinks they are being clever when they try to circumvent the spirit and intent of these measures by narrowly applying the letter of the law.
We, the people, allow them to get away with these shenanigans at our own peril.
We, the people, allow them to get away with these shenanigans at our own peril.
Regardless of the righteousness of the indignation over the Comey firing, the critics overlook it's glaring fatal flaw. If Trump wanted to fire Comey nased upon an independent evaluation, he shoukd have requested a thorough review and evaluation of his performance as FBI Chief. By limiting the review to Comey's commemts about the Clinton investigation (that is, focusing solely on a matter Comey may have mishandled), Trump clearly sought to ignore Comey's strengths wjich a comprehensive review would no doubt reveal.
Trump lied to the press when he said that he fired Comey because he wqs not doing a good job. Trump never asked about Comey's overall performance . He was not interested in finding out about that fact.
Trump lied to the press when he said that he fired Comey because he wqs not doing a good job. Trump never asked about Comey's overall performance . He was not interested in finding out about that fact.
1
While I share the opinion that this matter requires the unbiased efforts of a special prosecutor, I agree with Senator Feinstein, who said today that “This issue should be handled by the most senior career attorney at the Justice Department,” and not by Mr. Rosenstein, who's objectivity is questionable at this point.
Intervention into our election process by a hostile foreign government without question must be investigated to the fullest, no stone left unturned. Absolutely EVERYONE must be on board. This is a critical matter of national security. We have men and women in uniform who will give their lives in defense of our country. And yet so many in Congress and the Senate can't even speak up in our defense? Obstruction of this investigation in any way, even in the form inaction of should be considered an act of treason.
I proudly voted for Hillary Clinton. In light of revelations since the election, I find it hard to believe that the Russians invested millions of dollars and hundreds of hours of contact with the Trump campaign without knowing for a fact that they had secured the outcome they desired. Is a usurper sitting in the White House while the duly elected President lives in exile? If true, an investigation that takes years to complete only compounds this travesty. Americans' faith that the will of the people is expressed through voting is in great jeopardy, and time is of the essence.
2
Thank you! Keep pressing, keep digging. It feels like all we have left to defend our democracy.
2
Although I agree that Mr. Comey should have been fired a long time ago, the very tainted morality of the person who fired him makes for an even more dangerous assault on our democracy. To clear this up, an independent Special Prosecutor and a bi-partisan committee is vital to finally resolve the issue whether there was or not a Russian interference in our election.
What a well-written letter! The NYT at its best. Thank you!
4
Where do people get the idea that Russia "meddled" with the US elections. Those sources should be investigated.
1
The thought of a independent investigation of our present day dictatorship is laughable. Freedom of the press, election integrity, and the soon to be dissolved legal system have driven our former democracy over the cliff.
A fine open letter, this nevertheless appears to overestimate Mr. Rosenstein's leverage.
The Russian investigation will gather real, legitimate steam if sources, likely leaks, put enough pressure on Congress to concede the point that a special prosecutor is needed. Otherwise, the GOP will simply claim that such calls are partisan. But if the Republicans, namely those in the Senate, face overwhelming evidence that Comey's ouster was about Russia, they will have no choice but to distance themselves from the President.
Another possible avenue that will lead to a special prosecutor would be the continued drop in support for Mr. Trump. Once the GOP sees him as a threat to their agenda or electoral prospects, they will dump him, and the most obvious way we will see that is their allowing a legitimate investigation to develop.
Rosenstein may be beyond reproach as a career DOJ employee, but he is a relatively small fish, certainly one neither Trump nor his supporters will regard were he to break publically with the President. Pointing out, as this piece does, that Trump manipulated Rosenstein takes little insight nor guts. Much bigger fish need to break with Trump for much of anything to happen. Short of that, the GOP will just slow walk investigations, hoping to run out the clock long enough for them to get their agenda across the goal line.
The Russian investigation will gather real, legitimate steam if sources, likely leaks, put enough pressure on Congress to concede the point that a special prosecutor is needed. Otherwise, the GOP will simply claim that such calls are partisan. But if the Republicans, namely those in the Senate, face overwhelming evidence that Comey's ouster was about Russia, they will have no choice but to distance themselves from the President.
Another possible avenue that will lead to a special prosecutor would be the continued drop in support for Mr. Trump. Once the GOP sees him as a threat to their agenda or electoral prospects, they will dump him, and the most obvious way we will see that is their allowing a legitimate investigation to develop.
Rosenstein may be beyond reproach as a career DOJ employee, but he is a relatively small fish, certainly one neither Trump nor his supporters will regard were he to break publically with the President. Pointing out, as this piece does, that Trump manipulated Rosenstein takes little insight nor guts. Much bigger fish need to break with Trump for much of anything to happen. Short of that, the GOP will just slow walk investigations, hoping to run out the clock long enough for them to get their agenda across the goal line.
1
Or... here's a guy working for 27 years for the government without much pay or recognition and suddenly, he's sitting with the president and the AG, who are pressuring him to take a little step onto the national stage.
That spotlight ruined better known people: John McCain turned arch-right when he ran for president. Grassley and Hatch have all but fallen off the reactionary edge. McConnell has cast off the honorable mantle of the institution he serves in favor of partisan gain. But others, like Harry Truman, rose to the occasion.
Do what would make your parents proud. Then go home and sleep well.
That spotlight ruined better known people: John McCain turned arch-right when he ran for president. Grassley and Hatch have all but fallen off the reactionary edge. McConnell has cast off the honorable mantle of the institution he serves in favor of partisan gain. But others, like Harry Truman, rose to the occasion.
Do what would make your parents proud. Then go home and sleep well.
3
I almost never disagree with a NYT editorial but in this case I not only disagree but i VEHEMENTLY disagree. Rosenstein completely squandered his reputation and his credibility with his participation in the firing process and no longer has the moral authority to lead anything.
1
We, the people, have a Russian agent sitting in the Oval Office. Protecting the relationship with the Russians is his first priority.
Protecting our democracy must be the first priority of the Republican-lead Congress - pleeeeze!
Protecting our democracy must be the first priority of the Republican-lead Congress - pleeeeze!
I never cease to be amazed at the hubris and hypocrisy of the NYT editorial board in it's attempt to push narratives. Very few if any people based their voting decisions on information provided by wikileaks, at most the information provided (true by the way) further justified decisions. We all know the editorial board would have no qualms had there been a different outcome.
1
Rosenstein: appoint that special independent prosecutor now, before you are fired, because we all know it's the only possible path to the truth. And, based on your weakly worded letter re: Comey, your firing is inevitable given the history of this claque of Trump's.
Thank you for using the powers of your legacy and position for the good of our country.
We all stand on the shoulders of the good we have inherited in America, whether we are aware, or not.
Personal anguish, public regard; they count for little at this pivotal point in our American history. To preserve the very tenets of our foundation as a democracy, personal sacrifice is always required, and when we comply together, is always enough.
I have no doubt that, as Mr. Rosenstein faces this day, he will step up to the responsibility of Truth.
I wish him the courage of his convictions.
I am deeply regretful that he is surrounded by so many cowards.
We all stand on the shoulders of the good we have inherited in America, whether we are aware, or not.
Personal anguish, public regard; they count for little at this pivotal point in our American history. To preserve the very tenets of our foundation as a democracy, personal sacrifice is always required, and when we comply together, is always enough.
I have no doubt that, as Mr. Rosenstein faces this day, he will step up to the responsibility of Truth.
I wish him the courage of his convictions.
I am deeply regretful that he is surrounded by so many cowards.
Thank you Board,
Totally agree with this editorial. Hands down, one of your best....
Totally agree with this editorial. Hands down, one of your best....
1
"You must also know that in ordering you to write the memo, Mr. Trump exploited the integrity you have earned ... "
That's quite an assumption, that he was "ordered" to write the memo.
Fact: AG Sessions and Deputy AG Rosenstein wrote the memos, providing many names of other attorneys who also share the same recommendations, and the President followed their recommendation on the very same day he received the memos.
Read the memos, people.
That's quite an assumption, that he was "ordered" to write the memo.
Fact: AG Sessions and Deputy AG Rosenstein wrote the memos, providing many names of other attorneys who also share the same recommendations, and the President followed their recommendation on the very same day he received the memos.
Read the memos, people.
I pray for our country.
This editorial is why I support The New York Times with my last dollar. I concur with every word.
The first thing I said to my husband when the firing was announced---before any media organization had commented---is that I feared I was witnessing the fall of democracy in the United States. I never thought I would live to see the day that the world would question whether our country was still a democracy, or that a president would truly believe he is above the law, can hire and place family in places of power and remuneration with impunity, and jail or fire people who provide the checks and balances on power.
This is without a doubt Nixon redux. Watching the people around the president refuse to make him ethical and honest. We saw where that led us.
I pray that the country's citizens---in addition to Mr. Rosenstein---will read your editorial and ask ourselves, what are we willing to do as individuals to curtail the actions of a president who chooses to act like a king?
Mr. Madison and Mr. Washington must be turning over in their graves.
The first thing I said to my husband when the firing was announced---before any media organization had commented---is that I feared I was witnessing the fall of democracy in the United States. I never thought I would live to see the day that the world would question whether our country was still a democracy, or that a president would truly believe he is above the law, can hire and place family in places of power and remuneration with impunity, and jail or fire people who provide the checks and balances on power.
This is without a doubt Nixon redux. Watching the people around the president refuse to make him ethical and honest. We saw where that led us.
I pray that the country's citizens---in addition to Mr. Rosenstein---will read your editorial and ask ourselves, what are we willing to do as individuals to curtail the actions of a president who chooses to act like a king?
Mr. Madison and Mr. Washington must be turning over in their graves.
We owe the Editorial Board of the NYT a debt of gratitude for shining a the light of conscience on a path that leads to Honor and Greatness. We pray that Mr. Rosenstein will step away from the tawdry road littered with lies, double talk, greed, hypocrisy, and promises that are falsehoods.
AG
Canada
AG
Canada
When Sam Erwin and Barbara Jordan spoke against Tricky Dick Nixon, a hushed silence would fall in the two houses of Congress and across the country. One radio host went to the extent of saying about Ms. Jordan that when he was listening to her, he felt as if God was speaking to the nation. Many echoed that awe. Today, at another moment of political and constitutional crisis, we have such so-called leaders as Mich McConnell and Paul Ryan, as puny and as craven as any in our history. They hold the reins of political power but zero moral authority. What a disgrace!
What suspected crimes will the special prosecutor investigate? Hacking an E-mail account of a Clinton campaign worker and making the contents public? Putting "fake news" into the social media stream to make Clinton look bad? That's all there is?
1
I am a Republican who -- as long a Comey was controlling the FBI and the Senate and House Intelligence committees were diligently pursuing the investigation into the relationship between the Trump Campaign and Russia -- was opposed to the appointment of a special prosecutor. I opposed the effort by many Democrats to make the investigation into a show trial. But with Comey's firing right after Comey asked for the resources necessary to properly support such an investigation I now firmly support an effort to place the scope and funding of such an investigation beyond Trump's ability to opposite it.
Republicans need to understand just how damaging Trump is to what our party should stand for -- which is personal responsibility, honesty, realism, fairness, and patriotism. Trump is one of the most extreme examples possible of someone who embodies the exact opposite of those important values.
Republicans need to understand just how damaging Trump is to what our party should stand for -- which is personal responsibility, honesty, realism, fairness, and patriotism. Trump is one of the most extreme examples possible of someone who embodies the exact opposite of those important values.
20
I am puzzled by the report that Rosenstein had threatened to resign rather than become the fall-guy in Comey's sacking, and then doing essentially that by writing a memo that accomplished that very thing. Does he really think that since his damning memo didn't explicitly call for Comey to be fired, it somehow preserves his much hyped integrity and independence? Well, if he's content with that rationalization, then he shouldn't be a Deputy Attorney General. Special Investigator, please!
6
If Rosentstein doesn't step up, he deserves the same post-government employment prospects that Alberto Gonzales encountered.
3
The Republicans have what they've always wanted: a president of diminished mental capacities and a government in chaos. They can now begin to repeal taxes on their wealthy donors to their hearts content while cutting services like a blind man wielding a machete. The leadership in both houses are drooling over the feast they are about to make out of healthcare while the rest of us focus on the Russian fiasco and the mad man in the White House.
9
What actually sealed his fate, other than investigating POTUS and the Kremlin Connect,
When he initially shook his hand and stated, "Wow, they really are small."
When he initially shook his hand and stated, "Wow, they really are small."
5
He will have to resign as opposed to taking anymore direction from the White House. There can be no other way to extricate himself from an impossible situation. His ultimate boss is a sociopath.
1
Mr. Rosenstein do what your conscience tells you is right, the best for the country......Rise above the politics, above both the obsessive and obscene political loyalties that plague the politics of today......I doubt you need examples of the foregoing but just in case here are two of the worst of the political bad apples in today's politics - Jeff Sessions and Mitch McConnell......the placing of political party above the country's best interests is impossible to accept much less understand
3
It is striking to read David Leonhardt's comment after reading this editorial. He writes, "Now Rosenstein’s reputation is permanently damaged, as it deserves to be. In that damage is a lesson for other subordinates and allies of Trump."
Mr. Rosenstein took a 30-year career and flushed it, along with his integrity, down the toilet. There were reports last night that he has threatened to quit over the way he was used. If Mr. Rosenstein feels so dirty, there is one solution. Before resigning, appoint a special prosecutor. Some suggestions: James Comey, Barack Obama, Joe Biden, Sally Yates, Eric Holder.
Mr. Rosenstein took a 30-year career and flushed it, along with his integrity, down the toilet. There were reports last night that he has threatened to quit over the way he was used. If Mr. Rosenstein feels so dirty, there is one solution. Before resigning, appoint a special prosecutor. Some suggestions: James Comey, Barack Obama, Joe Biden, Sally Yates, Eric Holder.
7
Mr. Rosenstein:
“Few public servants have found themselves with a choice as weighty as yours, between following their conscience and obeying a leader trying to evade scrutiny — Elliot Richardson and William Ruckelshaus, who behaved nobly in Watergate, come to mind. You can add your name to this short, heroic list. Yes, it might cost you your job. But it would save your honor, and so much more besides.”
If you still believe you have integrity, show it loud and clear!
“Few public servants have found themselves with a choice as weighty as yours, between following their conscience and obeying a leader trying to evade scrutiny — Elliot Richardson and William Ruckelshaus, who behaved nobly in Watergate, come to mind. You can add your name to this short, heroic list. Yes, it might cost you your job. But it would save your honor, and so much more besides.”
If you still believe you have integrity, show it loud and clear!
3
There seems to be agreement on the prima facie case against Mr. Comey in Rosenstein's memo. But the more serious charges against Rosenstein stem from the larger context of his act, not from the case he documented against Comey, principally the impact on the Russian controversy.
In the NYT comments, an important assumption is that the Intelligence Committee's investigation cannot succeed, so an Independent Counsel is needed, but this has not been much discussed or demonstrated.
My Virginia Senator is a smart, decent, and persistent man. I don't doubt that he will deliver a fair hearing or raise hell if he is prevented from doing so.
In the NYT comments, an important assumption is that the Intelligence Committee's investigation cannot succeed, so an Independent Counsel is needed, but this has not been much discussed or demonstrated.
My Virginia Senator is a smart, decent, and persistent man. I don't doubt that he will deliver a fair hearing or raise hell if he is prevented from doing so.
1
Restore our faith in the Department of Justice and the FBI. Do what is required of you. Stand up and be an honorable man. Or resign.
4
Mr. Rosenstein,
Given such spectacular failure on your recent ethics term paper, professors on the Ethics Board couldn't have been kinder or more forgiving. They are offering you a make up, one more chance to secure your future. Your feet better not fail you now!
Given such spectacular failure on your recent ethics term paper, professors on the Ethics Board couldn't have been kinder or more forgiving. They are offering you a make up, one more chance to secure your future. Your feet better not fail you now!
2
I do not understand why the Times would sympathize with the Deputy Attorney General. To me, he seems to be a gutless and spineless creature we have the misfortune of having at the helm of the Justice Department at this moment of crisis.
If Sally Yates had the spine to refuse to go along with the Trump's craziness, and had the gall to tell him so, why not him? Why this double standard and the sympathy? In him we have yet another Republican in office who puts party over country. Call it out.
If Sally Yates had the spine to refuse to go along with the Trump's craziness, and had the gall to tell him so, why not him? Why this double standard and the sympathy? In him we have yet another Republican in office who puts party over country. Call it out.
4
In other words, Mr. Rosenstein, resign your office. Any other decision will simply further ensnare you in the web of deceit of the Trump Administration.
4
Thank you Times for printing the accurate, authentic news. We are surrounded in this neo-Nixon zeitgeist with fake news, alternative news, tweets & reality TV=-based opinion making. On a day when Dwayne Johnson who is starring a "Baywatch" remake film announces his potential Presidential run we need sanity. The news has become an uncomfortable fusion of Mata Hari & From Russia With Love. We need Nancy Drew, Miss Marple & the Hardy Boys to solve this mayhem.
I would not suspect much here -- there's a reason Mr. Rosenstein was selected by Mr. Sessions and Mr. Trump for this position -- obviously, he's a pliable -- let me do whatever the boss says -- type of guy. That's precisely the "swamp" type of people that maneuver in Washington. The swamp that Mr. Trump pretends (like everything else) that he wants to get rid of. Never have I seen a group of pariahs from the President to Mr. McConnell to all the other Republicans to and especially Fox (FAKE) News' Sean Hannity who pushed that this is all a conspiracy by tin foil wearing liberals -- slither around on their bellies relishing the destruction of people's careers and the destruction of their country. And, for what, power. Well, they've got power alright. And while, I hope that Mr. Rosenstein will do the right thing -- I suspect he's not as ethical or capable as so many misguided Congressional people think and even if he is, the very unethical Mr. Trump will spin it to his favor -- after all, as he reminded us at the disgusting AHCA celebration -- "I'm the President, can you believe it" -- to that I say a resounding NO!
3
Didn't Comey makes his request for more funds for the Trump-Russian investigation through Rosenstein first?
1
The lies that are being told by the administration! This all is very scary, unnerving!
3
Chill, comrades. This Russian hysteria will lead nowhere. It didn't work for Joe McCarthy and it won't work for Democrats.
1
Mr. Rosenstein, by handling a memo ordered by our shameless cheater-in-chief, so to evade judgement of his Russian connections in assaulting the presidency, is deeply compromised...if not complicit in this 'fait accompli', the firing of Comey while investigating Trump's malfeasance. Let's recall Colombia's drug mafia, that used to kill the judges in charge of investigating them, so their case would effectively be dismissed. Let us hope that justice prevails in the U.S., and this unscrupulous thug at the helm does not get away with 'murder' (dismissal). We have never ever had such a vulgar bully (a coward in disguise) be so vile in abusing the power of the presidency. To top it off, a complicit republican congress, that lost all its marbles, is 'looking the other way'. Democracy, for all its virtues, is fragile, a flickering light trying not to be extinguished by a tyrant's purposeful obscuring of the facts, ignoring reality, and lying at will to fool us into complacency. The press, more than ever, has the grave responsibility to expose this despicable fraudster for what he is, a demagogue ready and willing to say and do anything to enhance his ego...and enrich himself at our expense. This failed businessman, expert in 'creating' bankruptcies to benefit him personally, seems on a sure tract to bankrupt the country. Rosenstein must recuse himself now, appoint a truly independent, impartial, immune to Trump's firing, committee to reveal the truth, and impart justice.
1
Speaking of a Special Prosecutor, I have heard that Preet Bharara is available, does Mr Rosenstein have his number?
5
Comey should have been fired by President Obama.
While appealing to Rosentstein's better nature (let's face it, a wolverine has a better nature than Trump) is nice, he is still in the employ of the dear leader, and may not be able or willing to do what's right in this critical moment.
but do you know why Trump hates leakers so much, and the press as well. Because they leak the truth, and he can't control the truth escaping. Name one leak so far regarding this administration that turned out to be untrue; I challenge you to do that. While Trump would like to be Darth Vader at the helm of a real black hole of a Deathstar, the fact is that this administration's gravity, even packed as densely as it is with liars and sycophants, can not contain all light and matter from escaping as a real black hole does.
To me, the most urgent job on earth right now is that personnel at the FBI and other involved investigative agencies realize that they just became the keepers of the flame. They must make sure that facts regarding the Trump/Russian collusion investigation reach the public, and quickly.
It only takes a flick of the finger against the bottom card to bring down a house of cards. Please, patriots, step forward the commence flicking.
but do you know why Trump hates leakers so much, and the press as well. Because they leak the truth, and he can't control the truth escaping. Name one leak so far regarding this administration that turned out to be untrue; I challenge you to do that. While Trump would like to be Darth Vader at the helm of a real black hole of a Deathstar, the fact is that this administration's gravity, even packed as densely as it is with liars and sycophants, can not contain all light and matter from escaping as a real black hole does.
To me, the most urgent job on earth right now is that personnel at the FBI and other involved investigative agencies realize that they just became the keepers of the flame. They must make sure that facts regarding the Trump/Russian collusion investigation reach the public, and quickly.
It only takes a flick of the finger against the bottom card to bring down a house of cards. Please, patriots, step forward the commence flicking.
1
Mr. Rosenstein has three choices here: 1)He can turn into, or rather remain stooge--"the useful idiot"--for this president who clearly has sought to use him that way. 2)He can appoint a special prosecutor to oversea a bipartisan uninhibited appropriately funded investigation into the Russia mess. 3) He could resign his position . . . before he is fired.
Surely if he does not goose step along with Sessions (who by virtue of his recusal from anything related to the Russia investigation should have nothing to say on the matter) and Trump. he will be fired regardless. Why not go down acting with courage and integrity?
This is an excellent editorial It is full of advice that Mr. Rosenstein should heed. Yes, unwittingly he has been put in the position of upholder of our increasingly fragile democracy. One question remains: will he prove himself up to the task?
Surely if he does not goose step along with Sessions (who by virtue of his recusal from anything related to the Russia investigation should have nothing to say on the matter) and Trump. he will be fired regardless. Why not go down acting with courage and integrity?
This is an excellent editorial It is full of advice that Mr. Rosenstein should heed. Yes, unwittingly he has been put in the position of upholder of our increasingly fragile democracy. One question remains: will he prove himself up to the task?
1
No one serving this wannabe dictator has any honor.
1
Mr. Rosenstein is the last man standing who has the authority to do the right thing and appoint a Special Prosecutor to get to the bottom of the Trump Cancer. Does he have the will to do it?
I am not a US citizen, yet join a growing number across the world who have disconcertedly watched a mockery made of the world's most robust democracy since the election process kicked over a year ago. This is NOT the America that I have visited on scores of occasions for business and tourism in the past 30 years and made friends for a lifetime. The USofA, I and millions knew was the land of opportunity where strangers smiled at you for no apparent reason, addressed you with respect and went out of the way to help. This is the leader of the world that not just preached BUT practised democracy, fairness in behavior & actions, in short everything that Truth Equality and Liberty stood for; Alas! no more. It pains me to realize what you really are, just human like the rest of us!!!
2
You are mistaken; we are less than human.
This nations' corporate owned government operates in a wholly heartless manner, bereft of any concern for its citizens, and devoid of empathy, with government at the state, and local levels behaving in the same manner.
The intent is to fully disenfranchise the poor, and the middle-class, subjugate them, and reduce them to economic slavery and penury, in an effort to gain full ownership of all of the nation's wealth.
Further, this way of being is being exported all over the planet, evidenced by other western nations following suit.
It's nearly too late to stop them.
This nations' corporate owned government operates in a wholly heartless manner, bereft of any concern for its citizens, and devoid of empathy, with government at the state, and local levels behaving in the same manner.
The intent is to fully disenfranchise the poor, and the middle-class, subjugate them, and reduce them to economic slavery and penury, in an effort to gain full ownership of all of the nation's wealth.
Further, this way of being is being exported all over the planet, evidenced by other western nations following suit.
It's nearly too late to stop them.
Who knew just 2weeks on the job you're telling a Bully what to do?
2
Elaborate fairy tales can be made with this material, starting with the inspired Trump-Russia connection and ending with a trashing of emails on a Clinton server. Bedtime stories while the house burns.
Great editorial, and I am in total agreement with it.
Mr. Rosenstein has a sterling reputation, and unless he takes control of this investigation and brings in an independent prosecutor, he is another person who will be forever tainted by his administration. I hope he has the courage and integrity to stand up to scrotus and do what is right for the country. Not what scrotus thinks is right, not what the GOP congress thinks is right, but what is best for the country.
Mr. Rosenstein has a sterling reputation, and unless he takes control of this investigation and brings in an independent prosecutor, he is another person who will be forever tainted by his administration. I hope he has the courage and integrity to stand up to scrotus and do what is right for the country. Not what scrotus thinks is right, not what the GOP congress thinks is right, but what is best for the country.
I'm tired of whiney sore loser Democrats.
U talk about being a public servant and being a servant of the public. Wow. He should of been fired and he was.
Are your democrats doing there due diligence and there part?
No they are more worried about trying to impeach Trump. I don't see them helping to make our country better. Get to work and quit the Drama. There are no Grammys or Oscars awarded in politics. You are the ones who forgot about being a servant of the public.
I apologize if I have offended anyone but this has become rediculous.
U talk about being a public servant and being a servant of the public. Wow. He should of been fired and he was.
Are your democrats doing there due diligence and there part?
No they are more worried about trying to impeach Trump. I don't see them helping to make our country better. Get to work and quit the Drama. There are no Grammys or Oscars awarded in politics. You are the ones who forgot about being a servant of the public.
I apologize if I have offended anyone but this has become rediculous.
1
Can you imagine having the integrity of the democracy in the palm of your hand?
1
It'll slip through quickly and easily if you're cursed with unusually small hands. Maybe even willingly.
Thank you New York Times for continuing to be a prime voice standing up for democracy and a free press.
1
Now is the time for Rosenstein to act like a Mench Not a Mouse! . "Now is the time for all good men to come to the aid of their country!"
2
You lefties are going to get dizzy from doing about-faces on Comey and his value to your political agenda.
Comey was fired for mishandling the Clinton investigation. Period. Virtually everyone agreed that was an abominable performance in which Comey not only didn't apply the law evenly, he usurped the powers of the leaders of the Department of Justice to essentially exonerate a culpable candidate for President.
Why did he do it? The timing of that announcement tells us all we need to know. On July 5th of last year both Clinton and Trump were their parties' presumptive nominees. If Comey had referred Clinton for prosecution to the people actually tasked with making that decision, Clinton's chances of winning would have been greatly diminished. Comey came in like the white knight of the political establishment on both sides of the aisle and rescued her campaign, even though anyone else who had been as reckless as Clinton with top secret national security documents would have been indicted. Comey thought he'd be a hero in Washington for doing that, but there were still people there who understood that he had done something he was neither tasked with or that served justice. He unequally applied the law and made a decision that was not his to make.
Rosenstein's case against Comey chews him up and spits him out. As for a special prosecutor, can we see some evidence of a serious crime first? Contacts with Russians? How about Podesta's brother?
Comey was fired for mishandling the Clinton investigation. Period. Virtually everyone agreed that was an abominable performance in which Comey not only didn't apply the law evenly, he usurped the powers of the leaders of the Department of Justice to essentially exonerate a culpable candidate for President.
Why did he do it? The timing of that announcement tells us all we need to know. On July 5th of last year both Clinton and Trump were their parties' presumptive nominees. If Comey had referred Clinton for prosecution to the people actually tasked with making that decision, Clinton's chances of winning would have been greatly diminished. Comey came in like the white knight of the political establishment on both sides of the aisle and rescued her campaign, even though anyone else who had been as reckless as Clinton with top secret national security documents would have been indicted. Comey thought he'd be a hero in Washington for doing that, but there were still people there who understood that he had done something he was neither tasked with or that served justice. He unequally applied the law and made a decision that was not his to make.
Rosenstein's case against Comey chews him up and spits him out. As for a special prosecutor, can we see some evidence of a serious crime first? Contacts with Russians? How about Podesta's brother?
2
We all share a responsibility for restoring confidence and that includes the NY Times. Many of these articles are baseless
2
Act I: Sessions gets sidelined from the Trump-Russia corruption investigation.
Act II: The investigator gets sidelined by Sessions & Deputy.
Act III: The people and the NYT cry foul -- and cry, cry, cry.
Act IV: The GOP charade of non-governance continues unchallenged.
Exeunt the Statue of Liberty and her pal Democracy.
Act II: The investigator gets sidelined by Sessions & Deputy.
Act III: The people and the NYT cry foul -- and cry, cry, cry.
Act IV: The GOP charade of non-governance continues unchallenged.
Exeunt the Statue of Liberty and her pal Democracy.
Shame and discust on the Republicans in Congress! You have no character, no integrity and you are big cowards. You buckled to the demands of a bully who brought you down to your knees. Mr. Trump is a consumed and uncurable narcissist.His children and immediate entourage have also been broken down with money. All are spineless people.
No one can operate with a clear mind in an atmosphere of paranoia and doubt which is what his administration is stuck in right now.
Please Mr. Deputy Attorney General Rod Rosenstein save yourself and the people who are waiting for you to be saved from a lunatic on the loose.
The American people are very debonair, they couldn't envision the magnitude of the malice and greed Mr. Trump has brought into our government. They couldn't anticipate the catastrophic judgment he displayed because it is not part of their psyche, especially that of the new generation.
Mr. James Comey is also a victim of Trumps' unpredictability. He is the most knowledgeable on matters of intelligence. He has become his biggest nemesis.
If anyone can bring Trumps presidency to an end, Mr. Comay is the man who will do it. I confidently believe that it will happen.
I voted for neither Trump nor Clinton because of the chaotic immigration issue. I am for legal immigration and totally againt illegal aliens who have broken our laws. Mr. Trump has handled the illegal immigration forcefully and boldly. He failed in everything else.
No one can operate with a clear mind in an atmosphere of paranoia and doubt which is what his administration is stuck in right now.
Please Mr. Deputy Attorney General Rod Rosenstein save yourself and the people who are waiting for you to be saved from a lunatic on the loose.
The American people are very debonair, they couldn't envision the magnitude of the malice and greed Mr. Trump has brought into our government. They couldn't anticipate the catastrophic judgment he displayed because it is not part of their psyche, especially that of the new generation.
Mr. James Comey is also a victim of Trumps' unpredictability. He is the most knowledgeable on matters of intelligence. He has become his biggest nemesis.
If anyone can bring Trumps presidency to an end, Mr. Comay is the man who will do it. I confidently believe that it will happen.
I voted for neither Trump nor Clinton because of the chaotic immigration issue. I am for legal immigration and totally againt illegal aliens who have broken our laws. Mr. Trump has handled the illegal immigration forcefully and boldly. He failed in everything else.
Rod Rosenstein is no Sally Yates.
Yes he's been active for 27 years. Ms Yates found her desk and was fired because she was an Obama loyalist political appointment.
This is a joke, right? A man of integrity like Rosenstein responding to an open letter filled with falsehoods, untruths, and politically motivated exaggerations?
The Times knows for a fact that Trump made Rosenstein write this letter? Really? Privy to some new surveillance and Susan Rice unmasking I suppose? "Whether and how the Russians won the election for Trump"? Not much emphasis on the "whether" there. Interesting seeing as the investigation so far has shown not a shred of evidence that anything Russia did actually changed the results. Gee I thought last week Hillary told us it was Comey's fault that she lost! But now that he's fired our Democracy is in crisis? Funny how the leadership of the Democratic Party is up in arms but the followers can't even understand this one, the liberal crowd at Colbert's show cheered when they heard the news that Comey was fired. They've been told he was "bad". They didn't yet understand why firing him was "bad". So laughable. The Times editorial page has become nothing but an official mouthpiece for Trump derangement syndrome. I'm sure Mr Rosenstein, a man of great integrity will do what is right, the investigation of Russian influence will go on at the FBI and the two congressional committees that are working on it, and this imaginary "crisis" that the Democrats are manufacturing will be shown to be just as nonexistent as the actual evidence for Trump colluding with the Russians.
The Times knows for a fact that Trump made Rosenstein write this letter? Really? Privy to some new surveillance and Susan Rice unmasking I suppose? "Whether and how the Russians won the election for Trump"? Not much emphasis on the "whether" there. Interesting seeing as the investigation so far has shown not a shred of evidence that anything Russia did actually changed the results. Gee I thought last week Hillary told us it was Comey's fault that she lost! But now that he's fired our Democracy is in crisis? Funny how the leadership of the Democratic Party is up in arms but the followers can't even understand this one, the liberal crowd at Colbert's show cheered when they heard the news that Comey was fired. They've been told he was "bad". They didn't yet understand why firing him was "bad". So laughable. The Times editorial page has become nothing but an official mouthpiece for Trump derangement syndrome. I'm sure Mr Rosenstein, a man of great integrity will do what is right, the investigation of Russian influence will go on at the FBI and the two congressional committees that are working on it, and this imaginary "crisis" that the Democrats are manufacturing will be shown to be just as nonexistent as the actual evidence for Trump colluding with the Russians.
1
It seems that there are major flaws in the US constitution, allowing a rogue POTUS to fire anyone he does't like, at will. Rosenstein will be no exception.
The Congress is the only check, but today's cult-like Republicans will do nothing. Very sad!!
The Congress is the only check, but today's cult-like Republicans will do nothing. Very sad!!
Rosenstein obviously was forced to write that letter and dream up some triple-contradictory reasoning without first briefing Comey, the FBI, and Senate. Then two top Russians entered the White House but no US pictures allowed (only Russian pictures), our Secretary of State is nowhere to be found, and On-and-on-and-on. America has fallen into a massive pothole from Sea-to-Shining-Sea.
1
Nice of the Board to so publicly remind someone what a naive fool they are. They really do know how to endear themselves to people, don't they?
Dear DAG Rod
You may serve at the pleasure, but your oath is to the Constitution. America is in doubt: its reputation, its people, the whole experiment. It falls to you, an agent of our Law, to give America pride again. You must choose: when the flag is raised, will it be the Stars and Stripes or just the plain white of submission.
You may serve at the pleasure, but your oath is to the Constitution. America is in doubt: its reputation, its people, the whole experiment. It falls to you, an agent of our Law, to give America pride again. You must choose: when the flag is raised, will it be the Stars and Stripes or just the plain white of submission.
2
It's too late for Rosenstein, and for the country.
1
Ok sir, let's see what you're made of. Do you support and defend the Constitution or do you obey Trump? We are waiting. Let's hope you make the right decision, for all our sakes.
1
I agree with this editorial.
1
From the article: 'You must also know that in ordering you to write the memo, Mr. Trump exploited the integrity you have earned over nearly three decades in public service, spending down your credibility as selfishly as he has spent other people’s money throughout his business career. '
45 has attacked and punished yet another American. When will this nation get sick and tired enough of this adolescent behavior and get rid of this mentally aberrated man.
45 has attacked and punished yet another American. When will this nation get sick and tired enough of this adolescent behavior and get rid of this mentally aberrated man.
Restore US credibility Deputy Rosenstein in the best way you can!
Mr. Rosentein,
What does "pledge of allegiance" mean to you at this point? Does it mean pledging allegiance to a vengeful tyrant? Or does it mean, hopefully, that you pledge your allegiance to the ideals of this nation....and follow that with courageous action, according to your office and your personal ethics?
What does "pledge of allegiance" mean to you at this point? Does it mean pledging allegiance to a vengeful tyrant? Or does it mean, hopefully, that you pledge your allegiance to the ideals of this nation....and follow that with courageous action, according to your office and your personal ethics?
1
Who knows what embarrassing piece of personal indiscretion has flipped Mr. Rosenstein? But he's been flipped.
Thanks NYT, for now making it impossible for the Deputy AG to do any of the things you have suggested.
1
We haven't got time for these niceties. The so-called President hasn't earned the respect that these big words infer. This is the same whackadoodle who boasted he could shoot someone in public and not lose any votes, who submitted a ridiculous document of physical fitness for the job he aspired to (almost completely ignored by the MSM because he was such great clickbait and great for ratings) and now he's proven he has a simpleton's mind combined with a psychopath's behaviors.
Just declare him unfit already and get done with it. The republic is swirling the drain.
Just declare him unfit already and get done with it. The republic is swirling the drain.
Well done NYT - speaking truth to power.
1
And when the government still fails to do the right thing, then the only thing between a despot and the American People is unbiased investigative journalism. Thank you, NY Times, for all the work of your crack staff - it's not like Congress has unearthed anything so far!
1
https://www.nytimes.com/2016/10/19/us/politics/obama-donald-trump-electi...
https://www.nytimes.com/2016/10/20/us/politics/presidential-debate.html
These two NYTIMES articles from last October prove that Times or Obama or Clinton did not think that Russians had any reasonable way to thwart democracy in America. Obama laughed at it. Clinton could not believe that Trump would not accept her eventual victory. NyTimes thought the same way too.
The only thing changed is that we had an actual election (instead of twisted opinion polls) and the American people voted. Your candidate lost. Trump won. You, and the democrats have such a hard time to accept it. Now you refer to "the very integrity of the electoral process that put him in office". Let us assume, you are right and the Trump campaign and the Russian leakers colluded to publish some information to the media. While that is not commendable, it is not any different than NBC and Hillary Clinton campaign colluding to release the Hollywood access tapes. That is called dirty campaign and that is what both sides did. Your notion that the american public is stupid and dumb enough to believe Russians and voted for Trump is an insult to all of us. Why are you then not concerned with French election. Russians tried there too. The only difference is that your candidate lost in the US and you can't believe it or accept it. In France your candidate won, so everything about Russian meddling is fine as per you
https://www.nytimes.com/2016/10/20/us/politics/presidential-debate.html
These two NYTIMES articles from last October prove that Times or Obama or Clinton did not think that Russians had any reasonable way to thwart democracy in America. Obama laughed at it. Clinton could not believe that Trump would not accept her eventual victory. NyTimes thought the same way too.
The only thing changed is that we had an actual election (instead of twisted opinion polls) and the American people voted. Your candidate lost. Trump won. You, and the democrats have such a hard time to accept it. Now you refer to "the very integrity of the electoral process that put him in office". Let us assume, you are right and the Trump campaign and the Russian leakers colluded to publish some information to the media. While that is not commendable, it is not any different than NBC and Hillary Clinton campaign colluding to release the Hollywood access tapes. That is called dirty campaign and that is what both sides did. Your notion that the american public is stupid and dumb enough to believe Russians and voted for Trump is an insult to all of us. Why are you then not concerned with French election. Russians tried there too. The only difference is that your candidate lost in the US and you can't believe it or accept it. In France your candidate won, so everything about Russian meddling is fine as per you
There is no honor amongst Trump's thieves.
I assume Mr. Rosenstein will learn how to brush his teeth without looking in the mirror.
I assume Mr. Rosenstein will learn how to brush his teeth without looking in the mirror.
1
Rod Rosenstein MUST be asked by the Senate Intelligence Committee : if
he was asked by Donald Trump to write a memo to Trump giving a reason or
reasons for firing FBI Director James Comey. So simple question: Did Trump
direct /ask/or demand that DAG Rosenstein write this memo which gave
Trump a reason or reasons for firing Comey....Yes or No ???
he was asked by Donald Trump to write a memo to Trump giving a reason or
reasons for firing FBI Director James Comey. So simple question: Did Trump
direct /ask/or demand that DAG Rosenstein write this memo which gave
Trump a reason or reasons for firing Comey....Yes or No ???
Finally.
An editorial from a respected news outlet that that contains no euphemisms (ex: 'misleading'; 'unusually aggressive'; engages in hyperbole')
Trump is at last called what he is and what he has always been - a liar and a con.
(you forgot malignant narcissistic sociopath)
The gloves are off. At last.
Here here.
An editorial from a respected news outlet that that contains no euphemisms (ex: 'misleading'; 'unusually aggressive'; engages in hyperbole')
Trump is at last called what he is and what he has always been - a liar and a con.
(you forgot malignant narcissistic sociopath)
The gloves are off. At last.
Here here.
From a related NYT lead article: "On Capitol Hill, at least a half-dozen Republicans broke with their leadership to express concern or dismay about the firing of James B. Comey..."
Wow, a little over 2% of Republicans showing some integrity, that is up isn't it?
Wow, a little over 2% of Republicans showing some integrity, that is up isn't it?
1
Trump inviting the Russians into our Oval Office and smiling ear to ear in photos with them is now burned into my mind along with Trump's imitation of the New York Times reporter. Please, Mr, Rosenstein, you know what you need to do to save our country from Trump. Please.
1
Yes, Rosenstein has some ability to save us from going off a cliff; from ruining the generations of hard work that made America what it is today. But the real savior would be the first GOP member of Congress to grow a spine, break the logjam and call for a Special Prosecutor. McCain? Sasse? What more do they need before they act? (And, oh yeah, the NYT has a big roll in saving us, too. Keep up the good work).
Don't bet the farm.
1
Preet Bharara seems like a great choice.
3
2017 is not 1972.
The Republicans, funded by the corporate elites and following their agenda, have worked tirelessly for decades via right-wing propagandists to delude and bamboozle the citizens of this nation. Besides that, they have gerrymandered Congressional districts to their own advantage.
Those efforts have borne fruit in their control of both chambers of Congress, the election of Donald Trump, and Mr. Trump's extremist right-wing appointments.
This situation is not the end point; it is the beginning of the end unless we can pull out of this dive of democracy. That pull out will take far more than the noble efforts of a single individual, Mr. Rosenstein, to make this right. It will take the cooperative efforts of the very people who have crafted the disaster in the first place: the Republicans.
I have very little hope at this moment we can save our Democracy unless those Republicans can escape the thrall of their own self-interests, appoint and support a special prosecuter, and bring this Presidency to a swift close.
The Republicans, funded by the corporate elites and following their agenda, have worked tirelessly for decades via right-wing propagandists to delude and bamboozle the citizens of this nation. Besides that, they have gerrymandered Congressional districts to their own advantage.
Those efforts have borne fruit in their control of both chambers of Congress, the election of Donald Trump, and Mr. Trump's extremist right-wing appointments.
This situation is not the end point; it is the beginning of the end unless we can pull out of this dive of democracy. That pull out will take far more than the noble efforts of a single individual, Mr. Rosenstein, to make this right. It will take the cooperative efforts of the very people who have crafted the disaster in the first place: the Republicans.
I have very little hope at this moment we can save our Democracy unless those Republicans can escape the thrall of their own self-interests, appoint and support a special prosecuter, and bring this Presidency to a swift close.
13
As much as I'd like to believe Mr. Rosenstein will do the right thing, I have my doubts. As far as I can tell he was forced by Sessions, or Trump, or both, to manufacture reasons to fire Comey. This doesn't speak well to his integrity. I hope he's able to put party and personal ambition aside and choose country, but only time will tell.
10
It is a bit harsh to put all of the responsibility on Mr. Rosenstein, a career prosecutor who has been on the job for less than a month, for the actions of President Trump. The appointment of a Special Prosecutor should be considered with great caution, especially where no concrete evidence of wrong-doing has yet been revealed.
A Special Prosecutor is not limited to investigating and prosecuting just the matters revealed at the time of his initial appointment. Recent history tells us that such a prosecutor has great leeway in deciding who to indict and for what crimes they should be indicted. It becomes more & more evident that this appointment will continue the process of criminalizing the politics of this divided nation.
A Special Prosecutor is not limited to investigating and prosecuting just the matters revealed at the time of his initial appointment. Recent history tells us that such a prosecutor has great leeway in deciding who to indict and for what crimes they should be indicted. It becomes more & more evident that this appointment will continue the process of criminalizing the politics of this divided nation.
3
Mr. Rosenstein put himself in this position by caving to pressure from the AG and WH. In so doing, he has already demonstrated that his 'integrity' is subjective. In broader terms, the fact he willingly took a role in this WH indicates at least some level of moral compromise.
It has to be a record for DAG tenure to go from confirmation to implication in possible obstruction/cover-up in two short weeks, but this is on Mr. Rosenstein. There is no possible way he could have missed the intent of the AG and the president as he drafted his hit piece memo with the absurd premise of concern for Mrs. Clinton as the predicate excuse for Comey's firing. If he did miss it, then he is too stupid to be anywhere near the DoJ. Either way, he is not deserving of sympathy.
It has to be a record for DAG tenure to go from confirmation to implication in possible obstruction/cover-up in two short weeks, but this is on Mr. Rosenstein. There is no possible way he could have missed the intent of the AG and the president as he drafted his hit piece memo with the absurd premise of concern for Mrs. Clinton as the predicate excuse for Comey's firing. If he did miss it, then he is too stupid to be anywhere near the DoJ. Either way, he is not deserving of sympathy.
It is truly sad and terrifying that the very fate of our democracy, given Republican obstruction by Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, lies in the hands of Deputy Attorney General, Rod Rosenstein. Your elegant plea for justice brought tears to my eyes. It is sign of just how perilous our Constitutional system is that in a little over 100 days only one man is now left standing who can save it. It is a true "profile in courage" moment for Mr. Rosenstein, the nation, and the world. I hope he is listening and acts to appoints an independent special counsel before he, too, is fired.
Let's face it. This is one more step in the US's slide to dictatorship. Republicans of the Nixon era believed In the basic principles that are at the core of what made the United States a beacon of enlightenment in the world. Their actions against the abuses of a Republican president were in defense of these principles over any partisan consideration. This party has been taken over by a tribal group whose primary concern is the imposition of its worldview on the nation. For them, democracy as we know it is a threat to their intent on consolidating power and fashioning a political system that ensures the permanence of their worldview. It is a road followed by many other countries with catastrophic consequences for their nations and the world. Given the tepid responses of the handful of remaining Republican patriots, it may already be too late to reverse the slide. With the most powerful country on earth, both economically and militarily under dictorial rule, it is only a matter of time before the world again experiences its greatest catastrophe. The writing is on the wall.
15
We always acknowledge the courage and sacrifice of the men and women in uniform. There are times when courage and the potential sacrifice of a job are required by people in power. This is one of these moments for Mr. Rosenstein. The integrity of our democracy is a stake -- nothing less. Given his past record of integrity and professionals, there should be an excellent chance that he will make the right choice for the country.
5
Can't the president fire a special prosecutor? If so, it appears that, ultimately, there is a fundamental weakness in our political system. As long as the republicans put party over country, we are doomed to see the dismantling of our democracy.
6
To answer your question:
The president can fire a special prosecutor for cause.
The president can fire a special prosecutor for cause.
1
I agree completely except for:
"Given the sterling reputation you brought into this post — including a 27-year career in the Justice Department under five administrations, "
I know nothing of the man, nor do I doubt that the quote is representative of his public reputation. But if that's the case, why would he dive into the a quicksand pit the size of Lake Superior. Having dealt with the shady side for all those years, I would think fighting rather than joining would be his instinct.
Surely Trump and Sessions vetted him for loyalty, loyalty, loyalty.
"Given the sterling reputation you brought into this post — including a 27-year career in the Justice Department under five administrations, "
I know nothing of the man, nor do I doubt that the quote is representative of his public reputation. But if that's the case, why would he dive into the a quicksand pit the size of Lake Superior. Having dealt with the shady side for all those years, I would think fighting rather than joining would be his instinct.
Surely Trump and Sessions vetted him for loyalty, loyalty, loyalty.
8
maybe joining is his way of fighting. It's always good to have someone on the inside.
I, too -- someone who has often voted GOP -- agree totally with this op-ed piece.
As an aside, which hopefully brings a touch of lightness to this ongoing terror for democracy, about a year after Elliot Richardson had stood up for principle, and while he was seeing himself as "presidential material" and awaiting the call, his wife was quoted: "I married Elliott for better or worse but not for lunch. He's got to get a job!"
As an aside, which hopefully brings a touch of lightness to this ongoing terror for democracy, about a year after Elliot Richardson had stood up for principle, and while he was seeing himself as "presidential material" and awaiting the call, his wife was quoted: "I married Elliott for better or worse but not for lunch. He's got to get a job!"
4
It’s not only the integrity of Deputy Attorney General Rosenstein that is at stake, but also the reputation of the United States as the beacon of justice and democracy in the world.
The DAG needs to appoint a special prosecutor post-haste to find out the truth about Trump and his dealings with Russia. The timing of Comey’s firing is uncanny – was he closing on some culpable evidence of collusion between the Trump campaign and Russia?
Quite simply, if this president’s impulsive actions are not reined in before it’s too late, the world could witness a catastrophe? A president who is more interested in protecting his own image than the nation’s interests can be a real danger – we cannot afford the risk.
The DAG needs to appoint a special prosecutor post-haste to find out the truth about Trump and his dealings with Russia. The timing of Comey’s firing is uncanny – was he closing on some culpable evidence of collusion between the Trump campaign and Russia?
Quite simply, if this president’s impulsive actions are not reined in before it’s too late, the world could witness a catastrophe? A president who is more interested in protecting his own image than the nation’s interests can be a real danger – we cannot afford the risk.
3
Watching another scandal that compares to Watergate play out is such a sad statement of our Republic. Even though we are the ones paying for another drama in our nation's history, we deserve to know the truth. Let's hope that the truth is revealed as quickly as possible so that we can get on with the important matters of life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.
3
Dear Deputy Attorney General Rod Rosenstein:
Wrong is wrong, and who is president and which political party is in office should have nothing to do with your decision.
Russia's role in our elections needs to be thoroughly investigated by independent people with integrity. Some believe that President Trump's efforts to stonewall the investigation only heighten suspicions that he is directly involved and that his links to Russia are more damaging than we know.
Perhaps President Trump is innocent, as he maintains, but only a credible investigation can clear the air and restore confidence in this government's commitment to justice, truth, and accountability.
Wrong is wrong, and who is president and which political party is in office should have nothing to do with your decision.
Russia's role in our elections needs to be thoroughly investigated by independent people with integrity. Some believe that President Trump's efforts to stonewall the investigation only heighten suspicions that he is directly involved and that his links to Russia are more damaging than we know.
Perhaps President Trump is innocent, as he maintains, but only a credible investigation can clear the air and restore confidence in this government's commitment to justice, truth, and accountability.
6
Mitch McConnell clings to the levers of power, shouting at us to pay no attention to the man behind the curtain. His mendacity is beyond contemptible. Mr. Rosenstein can stand with Trump/McConnell & Co. but not as a patriot, not as an American. He surly knows what is at stake here, nothing less than the integrity of our nation. Diogenes argued that instead of being troubled about the true nature of evil, people merely rely on customary interpretations. We hope that Mr. Rosenstein will become the "one honest man" sought by the old philosopher
10
This letter is not the end all, it is a step, a sign, a call to order and sanity and action. Don't rely on this letter and this one person to take us down a path towards integrity and principled behavior. Use it as inspiration to reflect on this problem and figure other ways to solve it. It is, most times, difficult to recognize when "History" - events significant in history - is taking place in front of our eyes. These 100 plus days of Donald Trump are that "History". The enormity is beginning to sink in. The signs are there and are starting to be acknowledged more widely. Republicans must not let Rosenstein give them cover, they must feel the responsibility to act as well. Democrats and Independents also must not give up their responsibility to one person or group. It is about more than security of their job. This letter, its content, must be absorbed and then not forgotten in the next news cycle. America is on the clock. We won't be saved by a special prosecutor. We need more. We need it now. We have a Rogue president who is threatening the job of everyone who will not support him. This is not what Trump voters wanted and it is not what America needs. We must do more that acknowledge this letter as a clarion call. It could and should be an inspiration for greater action.
6
When will the egregious lies and serious misdeeds of then candidate Trump and now president Trump ever stick to him as they continue to do so among his fervent supporters? Will the spineless Republicans continue to turn a blind eye as our democracy erodes under this bullying despot? Shame on these so-called patriots.
5
"Text me back or I'm really done this time." mandates the emotionally distraught Editorial Board. As if every iota of Mr. Rosenstein's extensive reputation is without value unless he follows the command prescribed by the divine. Taking issue with Trump is one thing, but teeing up public backlash of a man who has served his country for years is another.
Instead, why not encourage your clandestine source to come forward and be a face to the basis of your claim that Mr. Comey was requesting additional resources for the Russia investigation. Would they not, as you claim of Mr. Rosenstein, "save [their] honor, and so much more" in their sacrifice?
I am undoubtedly supportive of an independent investigation, but this is certainly the wrong way to go about petitioning for one.
Instead, why not encourage your clandestine source to come forward and be a face to the basis of your claim that Mr. Comey was requesting additional resources for the Russia investigation. Would they not, as you claim of Mr. Rosenstein, "save [their] honor, and so much more" in their sacrifice?
I am undoubtedly supportive of an independent investigation, but this is certainly the wrong way to go about petitioning for one.
1
This is an excellent editorial; fulling exploiting the role of the press. It appeals not only to the reputation of the man but also to his responsibility to the American people and finally to his own conscience.
It asks a man to stand up to another man whose own reputation is sullied, seems to have no sense of responsibility to the American people—who elected him—and so far has acted in spite of conscience but also has the total backing of a Republican Senate, House of Representatives and now, possibly, the Supreme Court.
That’s an awful lot to ask of one man; yet American has had a history of one man standing and he (and she) has won.
It asks a man to stand up to another man whose own reputation is sullied, seems to have no sense of responsibility to the American people—who elected him—and so far has acted in spite of conscience but also has the total backing of a Republican Senate, House of Representatives and now, possibly, the Supreme Court.
That’s an awful lot to ask of one man; yet American has had a history of one man standing and he (and she) has won.
3
Thank- you for this clear letter about Mr Rosenstein and the predicament he is in. I encourage him to take heed to your clear words to step up,to the plate of truth, honesty, and the right path of integrity of the meaning of one's self that is
" to thine own self be true". If not and Mr. Rosenstein's choice in picking a person that will kiss the ring of this administration, we will all be covered with untruths. In life we all must make difficult choices involving our doing the right thing or a cover- up decision. Let's hope Me Rosenstein will remember his parents and grandparents hard choices that shaped him.
" to thine own self be true". If not and Mr. Rosenstein's choice in picking a person that will kiss the ring of this administration, we will all be covered with untruths. In life we all must make difficult choices involving our doing the right thing or a cover- up decision. Let's hope Me Rosenstein will remember his parents and grandparents hard choices that shaped him.
1
Very well written editorial. Mr. Rosenstein will surely read it and one can only hope that he takes it to heart. A special prosecutor will need a high level of assistance from FBI agents to compile evidence relevant to this investigation. Given that a potential target of that investigation, the President, now gets to name the leader of the organization that will have to do the investigating, I am not sure the FBI can or will pursue it with the vigor that Mr. Comey would have brought to the matter. When the Watergate scandal unfolded, it was the news media that played the pivotal role in revealing secrets and lies, bringing public opinion to bear on the Congress, which eventually impeached the President. I implore the news media to stop wasting time talking about the President's PR problem with his explanation for the firing. It cannot be explained because it is a lie, a mere pretext for an action he took because he wants the Russia investigation buried. NYT, you and your colleague in the school of "real news" must push, dig, cajole, and do whatever is necessary to prevent those in power from burying the truth. If Russia really did collude with the Trump campaign to swing an election, every American should be gravely concerned.
2
An independent investigation is the only way. That does NOT mean that the current investigation should stop but continue until the special prosecutor is in place
DJT has destroyed any instance of credibility in the current administration. No other prosecutor that had been appointed or has ties to the current administration will suffice.
As many, many NYT readers have suggested even before Comey's firing, an independent investigation is the only way to see this through. Finally something that Dems and republicans can agree on!
DJT has destroyed any instance of credibility in the current administration. No other prosecutor that had been appointed or has ties to the current administration will suffice.
As many, many NYT readers have suggested even before Comey's firing, an independent investigation is the only way to see this through. Finally something that Dems and republicans can agree on!
It is absolutely necessary to appoint an independent prosecutor to investigate the level of Russia's intermission in our democracy. We, the American people have the right to know exactly what happened to restore people's confidence in our democratic process. This is not about the individual interests of the person in the White House or other people in government, this is about people trusting and regaining confidence in their elected officials.
1
Mr. Eisenstein, the longer this sordid affair continues the more successful Mr. Putin becomes as the strongest actor on the stage of this Trumpian drama. Our precious democracy has already shown signs of unraveling as witnessed by extreme divisiveness, corruption, and loss of faith in governance. The world is watching with incredulous eyes.
4
So true as exhibited by the smiling faces of Putin, his Minister of Foreign Affairs and his Russian Ambassador yesterday. They seem to revel in their goals of weakening America's social, economic, military, and democratic fiber while allies around the world struggle to understand this chaotic government and its inept leader with very obvious dismay and concern. Mr. Bannon surely continues to influence his unwitting and ignorant boss with goal of dismantling the world order as he lurks behind closed
I'd be the last to accuse The Times of being disingenuous but your appeal to Mr. Rosenstein to stand up at the risk of his job can only have the opposite effect. There's no way he will either appoint a special prosecutor OR resign after a public appeal from America's leading progressive daily.
Of course I agree with today's opinion, but I fear we lack true Statesmen governing this Nation at the present time.
In short, I do hope this Administration will not dismantle the United States Government.
In short, I do hope this Administration will not dismantle the United States Government.
1
Mr Rosenstein, through your long years of distinguished service, you have shown yourself to be a man of integrity - a good man. I add my voice to those seeking an honest investigation of Russian involvement in our election process and possible collusion by Trump campaign operatives.
The quote "All that is necessary for evil to triumph is for good men to do nothing" is particularly apt in your consideration to name an independent investigator who would be beyond Trump's attempts to hinder the truth from coming out.
The quote "All that is necessary for evil to triumph is for good men to do nothing" is particularly apt in your consideration to name an independent investigator who would be beyond Trump's attempts to hinder the truth from coming out.
3
I am sad to say, I doubt anyone who decided to work for Trump under such a dark cloud has a nanosecond of integrity. Rosenstein may have served for decades under multiple presidents, but he made a ' deal with devil.' What that deal was, we may never know. I loved the threat to quit--a nice touch. His next move should have been, "I'm appointing a special prosecutor and independent commission."
An amazing letter. I hope that Mr. Rosenstein chooses his country before his president. I hope that he is as honourable as he is said to be.
2
The states elected the patriarch of a family business, someone who owned the business and was not accountable to a Board of Directors or shareholders but only to himself. So, we have as head of our government someone who answers only to himself, or so he thinks. He demands unwavering loyalty. If someone crosses him or gets too big for their britches, then he fires or demotes them. But, wait, in the US we, the people, have some say, don't we? Our elected representatives should be our mouthpieces. Instead, we have a bunch of toadies? How many more people need to be fired because Trump doesn't like them? How many more ethical violations do we tolerate before we say enough is enough?
I lived through the Watergate years. It took 2 years of drips and drabs of leaks, of investigations - aborted or not - to rid us of the canker of Nixon and his belief that he knew best. I fear we will all be glued to our media for news which will surely come about the next transgression or near transgression from this White House for the next few years. I only hope some Republican will have the integrity to lead the impeachment effort. Only a Republican can do this.
I lived through the Watergate years. It took 2 years of drips and drabs of leaks, of investigations - aborted or not - to rid us of the canker of Nixon and his belief that he knew best. I fear we will all be glued to our media for news which will surely come about the next transgression or near transgression from this White House for the next few years. I only hope some Republican will have the integrity to lead the impeachment effort. Only a Republican can do this.
1
Very well said. I hope Mr. Rosenstein does the right thing.
2
The GOP will not call for a special prosecutor because their agenda has not been satisfied. They will continue to hold their collective noses and turn their collective eyes away, no matter how Trump's crimes, lies, and ties harm this democracy.
Once their odious bills get passed, then and only then, will they ride in and appear to save the day by impeaching Trump... right before the 2018 elections. It's the entire reason for all this hurried, poorly written and transparent litigation. It's also why they are doing it with impunity. The Russian investigation stall tactics are as much in their favor as in Trump's.
Let's stop pretending any of them (Trump, his White House partners in crime, and the GOP) care about the "optics," their fellow citizens, or our democratic process because they see no crisis here. It won't become a crisis for them until after they satisfy the Republican agenda. It's been the plan all along.
Our only hope for the expediency of the truth are brave civil servants and continued investigative journalism. Seriously. It's that simple.
Once their odious bills get passed, then and only then, will they ride in and appear to save the day by impeaching Trump... right before the 2018 elections. It's the entire reason for all this hurried, poorly written and transparent litigation. It's also why they are doing it with impunity. The Russian investigation stall tactics are as much in their favor as in Trump's.
Let's stop pretending any of them (Trump, his White House partners in crime, and the GOP) care about the "optics," their fellow citizens, or our democratic process because they see no crisis here. It won't become a crisis for them until after they satisfy the Republican agenda. It's been the plan all along.
Our only hope for the expediency of the truth are brave civil servants and continued investigative journalism. Seriously. It's that simple.
1
Your assessment is exactly the same as mine. The best protection Trump has against impeachment is to waffle and delay on signing the massive tax cut the Republicans are preparing. The GOP would see Trump declare himself emperor and suspend habeus corpus before they'd give up the opportunity to reward their donors with a massive wealth transfer.
This is still a democracy. Our voices matter. The people are the ultimate boss in a democracy, and though we are all weary of toxic politics, we must stand up and demand accountability. We don't have to agree on the polarizing policies of the era like health insurance and tax policy to agree that our leaders must prioritize the nation's sanctity above all else. American citizens are demanding a qualified independent special prosecutor be assigned to investigate all levels of the Trump administration's ties to Russia during the 2016 presidential election. We are Democrats, Republicans, independents and moderates, but above all, we are AMERICANS that are alarmed to see that the checks and balances built into the fabric of our democracy are being undermined. We will not abide anything short of the immediate installation of a full investigation by a qualified, independent prosecutor.
https://www.change.org/p/mitch-mcconnell-american-citizens-request-for-s...
https://www.change.org/p/mitch-mcconnell-american-citizens-request-for-s...
1
Whether or not a special prosecutor is appointed is problematic at this point. The surest way to see this sorry debacle of corruption to a swift end is for all Americans to champion their only real voice in a society where the rule of law and true patriotism are under attack by the dark specter of neo-fascism. In the end it will be the fourth estate and a vigorous and unrelenting free press that will best protect us; essentially all the headway in this investigation has been achieved by the press. I do not appeal to the DAG or any other senior government official to protect me. I appeal to all the bedrock dedicated professionals behind the scenes who know or will know the truths in this scandal in the domestic law enforcement and intelligence communities and throughout the bureaucracy, to look to their own hearts when they see the truth being smothered by this authoritarian administration and its congressional stooges. They are the anonymous champions of truth , freedom, and liberty who will defend us by shepherding the truth to the light of day and public review by a free press, despite the poisoned atmosphere of threat and intimidation that they face in their day to day working lives. In the sun-lit world of liberty and right , truth and good, championing the truth is never a crime, regardless of the rage it engenders in a government that has been poisoned by the stench of corruption.
To Editorial Board: If Mr. Rosenstein had any integrity, he would never have accepted a nomination to Deputy Attorney General in the first place. Further, he would never have obeyed a request by Trump for a high school type excuse note. Yes, it is indeed disheartening that someone who once had integrity and professional pride is now just another Trump lackey. His reward for his scurrilous contribution to Trump's rule may well be promotion to head the F.B.I.
No one "liked" Comey. All sides had their objections to him. But I have to respect that he was trying to conduct an investigation as objectively as possible in an atmosphere that is morally & ethically barren. The NY Times' call for Mr. Rosenstein to do the right thing with the power he's been given is a chance for the U.S. to find a moral compass. How can anyone who is morally and ethically balanced find a reason NOT to support having an independent investigator discover the truth? (Unless one is afraid of the truth...)
I sincerely hope that Mr. Rosenstein is reading this letter and taking its request seriously. I, for one, believe that President Trump will continue to ignore norms and laws until Justice stops him. Please help us, Mr. Rosenstein.
This is in many ways an excellent letter, especially coming from the NYT, and especially the view Rosenstein must have known that Trump was exploiting the integrity of Mr. Rosenstein to justify firing Comey. But I'm afraid that's quite true: he did know. And that means he was knowingly complicit in firing Comey. Trump and his administration have years of improprieties behind them. What principled person would join and serve this administration that's already up to its eyebrows in scandals? Rosenstein is so deeply troubled about Comey's improprieties — and yet he is not troubled at all about the long line of improprieties trailing behind Trump, including the wrong means he used to gain office? Rosenstein will get no hero's award from me.
Mr. Rosenstein knew that he was being asked to create a smokescreen to justify Dir. Comey's firing. In complying with this devious and deceitful mandate from a deceitful bully, he forfeited his integrity and his reputation in order to hold on to his job. Two days later, he found out that the bully could be defied.
Too late.
Too late.
1
I'm not saying with certainty (about POTUS/Administration) "They don't know what they're doing".
But I am certain if they do, they're the best I've ever seen at concealing that ability.
But I am certain if they do, they're the best I've ever seen at concealing that ability.
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 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 (appointed by the AG) 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.
see: http://seekingalpha.com/article/4034048
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 (appointed by the AG) 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.
see: http://seekingalpha.com/article/4034048
2
From the letter: "You must also know that in ordering you to write the memo, Mr. Trump exploited the integrity you have earned over nearly three decades in public service, spending down your credibility as selfishly as he has spent other people’s money throughout his business career."
Exactly what the Bush II admin did to Colin Powell and, in a way, to Tony Blair. When Powell's credibility was spent, he was discarded.
Plutocrats are users.
Exactly what the Bush II admin did to Colin Powell and, in a way, to Tony Blair. When Powell's credibility was spent, he was discarded.
Plutocrats are users.
3
"It was a solid brief"
It was a political brief. NYT please pay attention. By long tradition and Constitutional imperative The Justice Department has sought to remain outside the daily beltway political gyre. The Rosenstein memo is a recounting of political failings on the part of then Director Comey, not legal or investigative failings. Signing his name to a political document disqualifies Deputy Attorney General Rosenstein from independently overseeing a criminal investigation into a political campaign.
It was a political brief. NYT please pay attention. By long tradition and Constitutional imperative The Justice Department has sought to remain outside the daily beltway political gyre. The Rosenstein memo is a recounting of political failings on the part of then Director Comey, not legal or investigative failings. Signing his name to a political document disqualifies Deputy Attorney General Rosenstein from independently overseeing a criminal investigation into a political campaign.
4
How about like might happen in the private sector he get rid of the current temporary head of the FBI and for a time do the job himself. Lots of bosses when faced with such situations do just that, and since he is so revered nobody should think that say Russian investigations would be reduced. Comey needed to go and it lasted too long due to foot dragging Dems who would not confirm a team correctly.
Among the best editorials ever written. Bravo.
While it is certainly plausible that Rosenstein was co-opted by Sessions and Trump, it is also plausible that the reverse is true. He must have been aware that Comey's firing would create a firestorm from all corners, which in turn would provide him with cover to appoint a special prosecutor. Was he crazy or crazy like a fox?
Mr. Trump seems to think that he can get away with anything. Well, so far at least, he has gotten away with everything. One cannot expect the Republican lackeys to draw a line in the sand. Hopefully Mr. Rosenstein will.
1
The congress and the courts are the proper places to resolve constitutional crises. The editorial board has erred in expecting help from an administration appointee.
1
No good result will occur until the GOP recognizes and accepts that Trump is a disaster in need of attention.
There is a viable solution to the Trump problem - resignation by one route or another.
GOP, RNC, and all their leaders can end the ongoing deceptive, dangerous, and damaging actions of Trump.
Party leaders must focus on the 2020 election. Call it having 20/20 eyesight.
Trump damages the country, its citizens, and the GOP as well.
He has a low approval rating and is a world-wide embarrassment.
Is the GOP able to look down the road? I hope so, even though it is this failing that has put them and us in our current untenable position.
Let us hope the GOP and its best leaders will consider the following:
Do not become an enabler of the Trump dictatorial juggernaut.
Fall on your sword - with grace, sincerity, decency, and dignity.
You will be the better for it, and so will we all.
By your patriotic action the Party and the country you save will be your own. Spare us all from any further embarrassment in the world's eyes.
Make this necessary sacrifice NOW.
Prepare for a worthwhile and reasonable campaign in 2020 with a decent and honest candidate that your Party can support with dignity.
It would be wise and practical to follow this course of action ASAP.
Time is obviously of the essence.
The behavior of Trump and Trump himself are NOT normal - apply the label of abnormal to both.
The preference is to not apply this same label to the GOP leadership as well.
There is a viable solution to the Trump problem - resignation by one route or another.
GOP, RNC, and all their leaders can end the ongoing deceptive, dangerous, and damaging actions of Trump.
Party leaders must focus on the 2020 election. Call it having 20/20 eyesight.
Trump damages the country, its citizens, and the GOP as well.
He has a low approval rating and is a world-wide embarrassment.
Is the GOP able to look down the road? I hope so, even though it is this failing that has put them and us in our current untenable position.
Let us hope the GOP and its best leaders will consider the following:
Do not become an enabler of the Trump dictatorial juggernaut.
Fall on your sword - with grace, sincerity, decency, and dignity.
You will be the better for it, and so will we all.
By your patriotic action the Party and the country you save will be your own. Spare us all from any further embarrassment in the world's eyes.
Make this necessary sacrifice NOW.
Prepare for a worthwhile and reasonable campaign in 2020 with a decent and honest candidate that your Party can support with dignity.
It would be wise and practical to follow this course of action ASAP.
Time is obviously of the essence.
The behavior of Trump and Trump himself are NOT normal - apply the label of abnormal to both.
The preference is to not apply this same label to the GOP leadership as well.
2
He's already shown himself willing to follow Trump's orders, no matter how insane. I wouldn't put a particle of trust in this man.
1
All Americans who are deeply concerned about the rule of law and the future of our democracy, as I am, should sign on to this open letter to Deputy Attorney General Rosenstein.
Well said; there is little hope otherwise. As the Republic receives another blow to the body by Trump, the Republican Party remains soviet, and there is no one else. There is a tipping point, beyond which, we dare not go. Mr. Rosenstein, stand up now; later will be too late.
1
Be a hero Mr. Rosenstein. Our Democracy needs you to.
2
Lets be blunt… while investigators, members of Congress and journalists are trying to maintain a public posture of open mindedness, the options for what Trump and his associates could be guilty of range from stupidity to treason, with a high likelihood of criminal activity.
Trump has obviously been using every tool at his disposal to advance his unsavory and possibly criminal or treasonous agenda. He is both sure he’s going to get away with it and scared that he’s going to get caught. The blatant disregard for the constitution and the rule of law has left many like deer in the headlights.
It is time to stop dancing around a President who does not play by any normal, legal or moral rules. Unless and until we have the assurance of an independent investigation that is beyond the reach of the criminal… I’ll be blunt… that’s what I believe… in the White House, Americans will not be satisfied that truth and justice are being served.
Trump has obviously been using every tool at his disposal to advance his unsavory and possibly criminal or treasonous agenda. He is both sure he’s going to get away with it and scared that he’s going to get caught. The blatant disregard for the constitution and the rule of law has left many like deer in the headlights.
It is time to stop dancing around a President who does not play by any normal, legal or moral rules. Unless and until we have the assurance of an independent investigation that is beyond the reach of the criminal… I’ll be blunt… that’s what I believe… in the White House, Americans will not be satisfied that truth and justice are being served.
2
I second that emotion--Smokey Robinson.
3
May 11, 2017
Excellent encouragement to take the right path to navigate with the President and his approach to 'all conflicts and deals, and deals, and deals;' that we are witnessing a President that's trigger happy to end causes for his beneficial perception to move the control of events with or without a either judicial transparency or rational just cause for what - oh! the historic record that is needed for the common good of each and every professional on the government payroll from its Chief to the all in tow for honorable service to all the American people and often as well for other international interest with dignity, courage, and the right stuff.
jja Manhattan, N.Y.
Excellent encouragement to take the right path to navigate with the President and his approach to 'all conflicts and deals, and deals, and deals;' that we are witnessing a President that's trigger happy to end causes for his beneficial perception to move the control of events with or without a either judicial transparency or rational just cause for what - oh! the historic record that is needed for the common good of each and every professional on the government payroll from its Chief to the all in tow for honorable service to all the American people and often as well for other international interest with dignity, courage, and the right stuff.
jja Manhattan, N.Y.
2
Rod Rosenstein has a difficult path ahead of him.
Any investigation he conducts, if he does, would be based in the DOJ of this thoroughly amoral and lawless Banana White House.
Let's see if he calls for an independent investigation or if he will place his career over his honor and integrity.
But even then, the statute authorizing the Office of Independent Counsel (Ken Starr) lapsed in 1999.
The replacement is the “Office of Special Counsel” in the JDOJ . Appointment is by the AG and the AG gets to supervise, discipline and/or remove a special counsel.
So it won't be a rogue investigation a la Starr, but at the same time it won't be an independent investigation either.
Nonetheless, it was past time for Comey to go. He had hopelessly bungled the HRC investigations and his credibility is shot on both sides of the aisle.
He was relishing the power he had usurped and the attention he was getting by repeatedly engaging in publicity stunts that was very unbecoming of his office. He was misusing his security clearance to enhance his own image, never mind any laws that circumscribed his power.
Democrats want to turn him into an anti-Trump martyr now, but Democrats have spent most of the last year demanding that he be fired; they are simply going to denounce anything Trump does, in increasingly hysterical tones. Their credibility is long gone.
This latest mini-outrage has a shelf life of about a week, and then - nothing.
Comey’s gone! Democracy threatened! On to the next crisis.
SAD.
Any investigation he conducts, if he does, would be based in the DOJ of this thoroughly amoral and lawless Banana White House.
Let's see if he calls for an independent investigation or if he will place his career over his honor and integrity.
But even then, the statute authorizing the Office of Independent Counsel (Ken Starr) lapsed in 1999.
The replacement is the “Office of Special Counsel” in the JDOJ . Appointment is by the AG and the AG gets to supervise, discipline and/or remove a special counsel.
So it won't be a rogue investigation a la Starr, but at the same time it won't be an independent investigation either.
Nonetheless, it was past time for Comey to go. He had hopelessly bungled the HRC investigations and his credibility is shot on both sides of the aisle.
He was relishing the power he had usurped and the attention he was getting by repeatedly engaging in publicity stunts that was very unbecoming of his office. He was misusing his security clearance to enhance his own image, never mind any laws that circumscribed his power.
Democrats want to turn him into an anti-Trump martyr now, but Democrats have spent most of the last year demanding that he be fired; they are simply going to denounce anything Trump does, in increasingly hysterical tones. Their credibility is long gone.
This latest mini-outrage has a shelf life of about a week, and then - nothing.
Comey’s gone! Democracy threatened! On to the next crisis.
SAD.
3
Just one more example showing that a law degree from Harvard, professional integrity and ethics are just a random combination....
1
When I first heard about the letter Rosenstein wrote about the Comey firing, I wondered if this wasn't another trump trick to change the subject. The letter was to lay the groundwork to reopen the investigation into Hillary's emails and placate trump supporters perhaps get her "locked up." I heard on CNN that someone (I can't remember who) on her team was "terrified" that Comey was fired. Wouldn't that change the subject off Russia?!
1
"You have one choice: Appoint a special counsel who is independent of both the department and the White House." You are so right! And the special counsel (prosecutor) should also be independent of Congress -- and have an unlimited budget. Just look at the Republicans' demand for a special prosecutor for Whitewater (!) which was a big fat zero except as a political tool. Now they resist a special prosecutor for the worst scandals in U.S. presidential history. At long last, have they no shame??
2
And worse than that, you have Mitch McConnell, the Majority Leader, leading the charge not only in resisting the Russia investigation, but in resisting the call for a special prosecutor as well.
Shame is an unknown entity to these people.
Shame is an unknown entity to these people.
Liberty Trumped: The Rise of An Autocrat's Democracy
When good men fall to the folly of their leaders it is the populous that feels the blow. Silent action behind closed doors gives rise to Machiavellian motives aligned against the solidarity of The State and The Union. A poison is created, cowardice. It creeps into the hearts of those who could and should soften the blow and take the hits slung against all by a fickle and false leader.
To say our nation is in jeopardy of falling into imminent peril is shortsighted. We are there.
Only a beacon can cut through the haze of petulant fog to lead us back to sturdy ground. But that light must be bright and tower seated steadfast to noble ground.
When good men fall to the folly of their leaders it is the populous that feels the blow. Silent action behind closed doors gives rise to Machiavellian motives aligned against the solidarity of The State and The Union. A poison is created, cowardice. It creeps into the hearts of those who could and should soften the blow and take the hits slung against all by a fickle and false leader.
To say our nation is in jeopardy of falling into imminent peril is shortsighted. We are there.
Only a beacon can cut through the haze of petulant fog to lead us back to sturdy ground. But that light must be bright and tower seated steadfast to noble ground.
1
That holding the President's men accountable for possible collusion with Russia rests on the delicate thread of the integrity of one man is a constitutional crisis.
1
Trump's complete tax returns must be obtained and all the money identified therein must be followed to its source. It is also likely Trump is super agressive with his income reporting so a broader inquiry into his business dealings is warrented. Only after such scrutiny and the publication of the findings will the American people know if Trump is a crook or traitor.
1
Also look at his minions' money. Manaforte, his campaign manager, in particular received millions from Putin. Were millions in Russian money illegally transferred to Trump's campaign? Putin "lent" Le Pen millions and I am sure did much more to destabilize Western democracies. Let's find out what he did here.
This is war because he wants to destroy western democracies.
This is war because he wants to destroy western democracies.
Beautiful letter. It appeals to morality even while systematically torching Trump's house of cards. Love it!
Sorry to say that Rosenstein has just become another Trump "Yes Man" or has been bullied or threatened to be fired by Trump if he did not comply. A sorry day in our history.
The only way the man can save his soul and, oh by the way, the nation is to resign as some have reported he verged on this week. That would signal and end to the travesty of the Trump presidency.
Otherwise he enters the lists of history as a fool at best and a knave at worst and, more likely, both.
There was not a reason in the world for him to have written that memo. It served no purpose, it had no purpose, it has no purpose except the purpose of cloaking the malfeasance and treachery of this president, his lackeys and minions.
Shakespearean isn't it? Rosenstein and Guildenstern.
Otherwise he enters the lists of history as a fool at best and a knave at worst and, more likely, both.
There was not a reason in the world for him to have written that memo. It served no purpose, it had no purpose, it has no purpose except the purpose of cloaking the malfeasance and treachery of this president, his lackeys and minions.
Shakespearean isn't it? Rosenstein and Guildenstern.
No "explicit recommendation to fire Mr. Comey" this editorial says. You must be joking. Rosenstein stated that Comey has violated important FBI principles and policies, and is not going to change his ways. How short of a recommendation to terminate Comey could this be? Rosenstein has been coopted by Trump - and he knows it.
You don't have to be a liberal, "left wing", progressive, or even democratic to have concerns that President Trump and/or his team might have colluded with Russia to tilt the election. You also need not be a democrat to think that President Trump lacks a moral compass and has sewn chaos into the very fabric of our democracy. He has cheapened the executive office of the United States and we are tarnished beyond recovery.
Republicans: please dig your party out of the muck by demanding accountability from your leaders. Democrats, please don't stop making noise. All of us are at risk of losing our institutional infrastructure thanks to the recklessness of this administration. Policy debates will ebb and flow over time, but the sanctity of our democracy must never be in the cross hairs!
We are all Americans. For the love of country, speak up and DEMAND an independent investigation into the Russian meddling of our national election!
https://www.change.org/p/mitch-mcconnell-american-citizens-request-for-s...
Republicans: please dig your party out of the muck by demanding accountability from your leaders. Democrats, please don't stop making noise. All of us are at risk of losing our institutional infrastructure thanks to the recklessness of this administration. Policy debates will ebb and flow over time, but the sanctity of our democracy must never be in the cross hairs!
We are all Americans. For the love of country, speak up and DEMAND an independent investigation into the Russian meddling of our national election!
https://www.change.org/p/mitch-mcconnell-american-citizens-request-for-s...
1
Not sure the Deputy Attorney General can appoint a special prosecutor, may not be wise (as a precedent going forward). Why not leave it to Congress?
Rod Rosenstein is a good man. I trust him to do the right thing.
I haven't had much confidence in my government since Watergate. Our government has done plenty of things to lose our trust. They've done secret investigations against people and ruined their lives. Since 9/11/2001 they've taken pre-emptive action against people without knowing if they are terrorists, involved with terrorists, or even if they are the right people. Our government passed a Patriot Act that did nothing to protect us but everything to harm us even if we were innocent. Our government votes against our best interests as citizens, is shut down for partisan reasons when one side decides not to work with the other, isn't allowed to function.
How are we supposed to trust a government that works hand in glove with industries that don't care about us, the environment, paying us decent wages, and continues to allow industries to outsource jobs with false claims? How are we supposed to feel when our government, no matter who is running things, is so politicized that the common good no longer applies?
I doubt that the GOP has the courage to set up or continue an impartial investigation of their own. There's too much at stake for them. Besides, they never got over Watergate. Why should they participate in another, similar scenario? Honor, integrity, morals, ethics, and democracy are words to them, not values.
How are we supposed to trust a government that works hand in glove with industries that don't care about us, the environment, paying us decent wages, and continues to allow industries to outsource jobs with false claims? How are we supposed to feel when our government, no matter who is running things, is so politicized that the common good no longer applies?
I doubt that the GOP has the courage to set up or continue an impartial investigation of their own. There's too much at stake for them. Besides, they never got over Watergate. Why should they participate in another, similar scenario? Honor, integrity, morals, ethics, and democracy are words to them, not values.
I find find this editorial farcical. Rosenstein has already proven he is one of Trump's puppets.
Of course he will pay attention to the NYT ( not!)
Of course he will pay attention to the NYT ( not!)
4
I understand the outrage the Times and other media are expressing about Mr Rosenstein. I share it.
But there is another way of looking at this and if Mr Rosenstein is as good a lawyer as his reputation suggests,
He may be thinking about another way to assure the FBI
can maintain the reputation it has built since the tawdry days of J. Edgar Hoover.
Mr Rosenstein might have looked at it this way.
If I refuse to put my name on this letter,
I will be fired. Trump and Sessions will then appoint a stooge
who will abort the investigation and deny the public what we want to know about the Russians involvement in the presidential election. The traitors on Trumps staff who helped them will go free. The hard earned reputation of the FBI since Hoover will suffer.
I'd like to think that Mr. Rosenstein , instead of a stooge,
Is actually a patriot who allowed his own reputation to be sullied to protect the greater good of the country and the FBI.
Dana Spitzer
St Louis
314-341-0769
But there is another way of looking at this and if Mr Rosenstein is as good a lawyer as his reputation suggests,
He may be thinking about another way to assure the FBI
can maintain the reputation it has built since the tawdry days of J. Edgar Hoover.
Mr Rosenstein might have looked at it this way.
If I refuse to put my name on this letter,
I will be fired. Trump and Sessions will then appoint a stooge
who will abort the investigation and deny the public what we want to know about the Russians involvement in the presidential election. The traitors on Trumps staff who helped them will go free. The hard earned reputation of the FBI since Hoover will suffer.
I'd like to think that Mr. Rosenstein , instead of a stooge,
Is actually a patriot who allowed his own reputation to be sullied to protect the greater good of the country and the FBI.
Dana Spitzer
St Louis
314-341-0769
Next NYT Rosenstein/Comey firing editorial:
"Dear criminal with a previous 30 year record of probity. Let us just forget the political hack you have actually shown yourself to be, sacrificing country and ethics for the desires of a crazed President. Let us instead imagine that your 30 year record (BTW, did we mention that before) stands untarnished by your most recent action. In fact your amazing 30 year record we cite, may in fact be "amazing" simply because we erase all conflicting evidence (See! We speak your language. That would be Trump doublespeak.). So what do you say, amazing full of probity guy? Can you forget the ethics devoid, morally bankrupt hack you have shown yourself to be, and consider history, and how we might in fact have to in future report on all your apparently many blemishes? PUT THE COUNTRY FIRST YOU CLOWN. That's what your job requires. Signed, NYT Editorial Board, after reconsidering our "Open Letter" to you."
"Dear criminal with a previous 30 year record of probity. Let us just forget the political hack you have actually shown yourself to be, sacrificing country and ethics for the desires of a crazed President. Let us instead imagine that your 30 year record (BTW, did we mention that before) stands untarnished by your most recent action. In fact your amazing 30 year record we cite, may in fact be "amazing" simply because we erase all conflicting evidence (See! We speak your language. That would be Trump doublespeak.). So what do you say, amazing full of probity guy? Can you forget the ethics devoid, morally bankrupt hack you have shown yourself to be, and consider history, and how we might in fact have to in future report on all your apparently many blemishes? PUT THE COUNTRY FIRST YOU CLOWN. That's what your job requires. Signed, NYT Editorial Board, after reconsidering our "Open Letter" to you."
9
Bill Moyers thinks a coup is coming. And I have a pit of fear in my guts. T***p thrives on chaos and turmoil, hiring and firing at will in a regular exercise of power. I think this man is capable of anything in his struggle for ABSOLUTE power. We need to be woke.
20
For the New York Times to speak of honor, after supporting a machine takeover of the Democratic Party. You have no credibility.
2
Yeah, because that's why the NYT endorsed the grass roots liberal Bill de Blasio over the corporate democrat Christine Quinn for mayor of NYC (a position that's a springboard for the presidency) . Oh, and that must also be why the NYT was the first news outlet to report on Hillary's emails. Please, stop scapegoating the NYT because of your anger from the recent election.
1
"The sky is falling, the sky is falling"....What nonsense. When will the NYT be honest? Did it ever occur to the editorial board of the Times that Mr. Rosenstein believes in the memo he wrote? That Comey is no longer in a position to lead the FBI? There is so much info out there now about the Russian interference, and two congressional committees (containing R's and D's) that this issue is not going to be mysteriously swept under the rug....but go ahead...scream away..."The Sky is falling, the sky is falling"
4
Times Editorial Board
This is the definition of the "Echo Chamber" described by the illustrious Ben Rhoades. Keep repeating your baseless, fact less story ad infinitum for yourselves and your readership which have your own version of the truth. "The Truth" you can't handle the Truth.
This is the definition of the "Echo Chamber" described by the illustrious Ben Rhoades. Keep repeating your baseless, fact less story ad infinitum for yourselves and your readership which have your own version of the truth. "The Truth" you can't handle the Truth.
2
Mr. Rosenstein's little dingy is now tied to the Trump Titanic. He can cut the ropes or he can go down with the ship.
17
Come on NYT. The best case scenario is Rosenstein was just following orders. The worst case scenario is he's gladly just following orders. Just because some dude kept a government job for 27 years doesn't mean he's necessarily a good guy. He's obviously smart given his background. Smart people are suppose to recognize a buzzsaw and not walk into it. If a smart person walks into a buzzsaw he ain't smart. A martyr for the cause, maybe. It's that simple. I see us readers got Bret Stephens given an opinion on this and hand waving for Rosenstein, too.
4
What was the BuzzSaw he blindly walk into? That he was supposed to be smart enough to avoid?
My comment is; Wow! That's a great letter. You may have - if nothing else, - shamed him into doing just that. I’m proud to be a subscriber…
9
What is the evidence that Comey was asking for more resources and what are your sources. ?
4
The answers to your questions are easily obtained through research.
Anonymous FBI sources who I guess would know because - well - they're the FBI.
Where is your source for the statement that Comey asking for more resources was a lie? Oh, that's right. The Trump Administration - a bastion of accurate information.
Where is your source for the statement that Comey asking for more resources was a lie? Oh, that's right. The Trump Administration - a bastion of accurate information.
If there is documentation, kindly send along the links. Thank you.
God help us and Rod Rosenstein to do the right and noble thing, as the Editorial Board is suggesting. We are praying for our country and you, specifically. You may have been put in this position for just such a reason as this, like Queen Esther in the Bible, who saved her people from certain destruction. "Our Father, who art in heaven......thy will be done on earth, as it is in heaven. Forgive us...as we forgive those who have sinned against us..." Writing this reminds me of the story of the pastor who stood up and said it was time for a special prayer meeting and an elderly lady responded, 'Has it really come to that?' America, yes, it has REALLY come to that!
8
DAG Rod Rosenstein, who was enthusiastically endorsed by Sally Yates during the Senate hearing, would do well to remember:
Fool me once, shame on you.
Fool me twice, shame on me.
Fool me once, shame on you.
Fool me twice, shame on me.
5
I appreciate and respect the decision of the Times Editorial Board to target Deputy Attorney General Rosenstein with the thoughtful, logical open letter. Many other reputable news organizations are devolving their coverage of this topic to mere observation rather than focused action to affect change. Targeting one of the VERY few adults in the current administration and imploring him to take an action that seems to be plainly obvious and necessary is an action that actually could result in a change. Continued whining (sorry...reporting) on the President's poll numbers or lack of Republican action to address the concerns of our Nation or the embarrassing immaturity of our senior elected officials will result in nothing. Sadly, I am no longer optimistic that even an independent investigation will be effective. The end state for such an investigation would yield a recommendation for either action by the legislative branch (obviously inept and unwilling to take action) or the executive branch (no additional comment needed) so really....what is the point? Which may be the actual brilliance of this move by the POTUS.
Again, I applaud your sincere efforts to make a difference NY Times. That's why I have subscribed to your online service. So I can watch this slow motion train wreck of my Nation's reputation and credibility with at least a modicum of intellectual stimulation to keep me engaged.
Again, I applaud your sincere efforts to make a difference NY Times. That's why I have subscribed to your online service. So I can watch this slow motion train wreck of my Nation's reputation and credibility with at least a modicum of intellectual stimulation to keep me engaged.
7
Wait, with the Russians traveling that distance to visit POTUS, he had to fire Comey. It would've been too awkward if he was still there. Investigating POTUS and his ties to his Russian BFFs.
Though, I'm pretty sure Russians just walking across the street wasn't too long a trip for them.
Though, I'm pretty sure Russians just walking across the street wasn't too long a trip for them.
6
Mr. Rosenstein, you have been lauded from the high heavens as a man with integrity. It is now time for you to do the honorable thing and resign.
5
All anyone needs to know about this department: Sessions.
11
While we have seen or heard little from or about Steve Bannon lately we are certainly witnessing the destruction of the administrative state..very scary.
10
Absent his very signature on the letter, this is clearly Bannon's work. He is even more dangerous when his public presence is being restricted, as of late. There is nothing beyond his reach in this so-called administration.
Why does anyone, including the venerable NYT Editorial Board, believe that Mr. Rosenstein is anything but a political hack at this point. I have lost all faith in the US / GOP government to follow the constitution. We are witnessing, in time lapse, a soft coup. The GOP leadership is complicit. The DOJ is complicit. And most distressing of all, a sizable sliver of the electorate is.
I went on Breitbart yesterday and read some comments. Almost all, without exception were calling for a totalitarian right-wing takeover. More than a few called for death squads in liberal cities.
Be afraid.
I went on Breitbart yesterday and read some comments. Almost all, without exception were calling for a totalitarian right-wing takeover. More than a few called for death squads in liberal cities.
Be afraid.
Tell me again what a gifted and honorable man Rod Rosenstein is because all I see is a political hack whose cowardice in the face of adversity will haunt his name through history. He is now in the Pantheon with such heroes as Haldeman, Erlichman and Mitchell.
A similar, eight word version of this letter should be sent to James Comey :
"Please, tell the congress what you know. Now."
It will fit on twitter, so even Trump can read it.
"Please, tell the congress what you know. Now."
It will fit on twitter, so even Trump can read it.
8
I totally agree. This MUST happen.
3
Thank goodness for the Times and the truth! And the deep necessity for it from our government.
2
Without the press, where would be? My gratitude to you is boundless.
4
I can only add 'AMEN' to this editorial!
4
It might just save what is left of this country.
4
What are Mr. Rosenstein’s options? He can say nothing and do nothing which is what Trump would want at the cost of his sterling reputation which would be a gift to Trump. He could play a waiting game to see who is appointed to succeed Comey and what Congress will do. So for a while Rosenstein would loan his sterling reputation to Trump. So he could take a pass except for the expectations or fears of many people. The question that would be asked would be what exactly is left of our democracy.
Mr. Rosenstein could take action and appoint a Special Prosecutor to get to the bottom of this mess. Assuming he did so and that prosecutor was someone like the fired US Attorney from the Southern District of NY, I can foresee some likely NY Times headlines: (1) Rosenstein appoints Special Prosecutor with subpoena power, independent and non-political who will be entitled to use the FBI or retain outside investigators and entitled to call a grand jury. Both parties approve. Or (2): Rosenstein appoints Special Prosecutor. Trump fires Rosenstein, suspects bribe. Ryan says there will be no funds for a Special Prosecutor. Attorney General resumes full powers.. Investigation to continue under the supervision of special adviser Jarred Kuschner.
Mr. Rosenstein could take action and appoint a Special Prosecutor to get to the bottom of this mess. Assuming he did so and that prosecutor was someone like the fired US Attorney from the Southern District of NY, I can foresee some likely NY Times headlines: (1) Rosenstein appoints Special Prosecutor with subpoena power, independent and non-political who will be entitled to use the FBI or retain outside investigators and entitled to call a grand jury. Both parties approve. Or (2): Rosenstein appoints Special Prosecutor. Trump fires Rosenstein, suspects bribe. Ryan says there will be no funds for a Special Prosecutor. Attorney General resumes full powers.. Investigation to continue under the supervision of special adviser Jarred Kuschner.
5
Mr. Rosenstein must be selfless and risk job loss in appointing an independent investigator or suffer a future being "Bork'ed"
5
Mr. Rosenstein:
You might might lose this job, but there is always another for someone with your talent and hopefully ethics.
You might might lose this job, but there is always another for someone with your talent and hopefully ethics.
1
I am not surprised that Mr. Comey was fired. Mr. Comey should have charged Mrs. Clinton.
See: Gowdy grills Comey over Clinton's 'false statements'
Jul. 07, 2016 - 1:50 - South Carolina Republican questions the FBI director over the Clinton email investigation
http://video.foxnews.com/v/5026413742001/?#sp=show-clips
Also, I have thought all along that Russia DID NOT interfere with the election. Can anyone answer my questions?
- How did the Russians tamper with voting machines? How?
- How did the Russians tamper with the Electoral College? How?
This is what we know:
- The Obama Administration started investigating the Trump Campaign in July.
- The investigation involved surveillance (gathering of information by surreptitious use of electronic devices).
- The hearings confirm President Trump’s claim that his campaign was being surveilled by Obama Administration US Intelligence.
See: Gowdy grills Comey over Clinton's 'false statements'
Jul. 07, 2016 - 1:50 - South Carolina Republican questions the FBI director over the Clinton email investigation
http://video.foxnews.com/v/5026413742001/?#sp=show-clips
Also, I have thought all along that Russia DID NOT interfere with the election. Can anyone answer my questions?
- How did the Russians tamper with voting machines? How?
- How did the Russians tamper with the Electoral College? How?
This is what we know:
- The Obama Administration started investigating the Trump Campaign in July.
- The investigation involved surveillance (gathering of information by surreptitious use of electronic devices).
- The hearings confirm President Trump’s claim that his campaign was being surveilled by Obama Administration US Intelligence.
2
Another vote in favor of this editorial and another vote for a special counsel.
5
Sir,
Just as many of us have; you took an oath to protect and defend the Constitution of the United States of America.
Every one of your colleagues in government, senators, congressmen, etc. swore that very same oath. Unfortunately many that swore that oath alongside us (including Mitch McConnell, Paul Ryan, etc.) are reneging on it in favor of partisan politics; in spite of the ultimate cost.
Many of my brothers in arms swore that oath and backed it up with the ultimate sacrifice. They did not renege. We will never renege on that promise.
We pray that you honor the sacrifices of those that came before you. Their promise was to protect the sovereignty of one Nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.
Please do not lose sight, as others have, of your promise. Please do not become complicit in an order designed to destroy a legacy built on the blood of our forefathers.
Your promise is to protect the American way of life. Your promise is NOT to protect one man from himself. That only a good psychiatrist can do and you, sir, are not a psychiatrist.
We pray for you.
Just as many of us have; you took an oath to protect and defend the Constitution of the United States of America.
Every one of your colleagues in government, senators, congressmen, etc. swore that very same oath. Unfortunately many that swore that oath alongside us (including Mitch McConnell, Paul Ryan, etc.) are reneging on it in favor of partisan politics; in spite of the ultimate cost.
Many of my brothers in arms swore that oath and backed it up with the ultimate sacrifice. They did not renege. We will never renege on that promise.
We pray that you honor the sacrifices of those that came before you. Their promise was to protect the sovereignty of one Nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.
Please do not lose sight, as others have, of your promise. Please do not become complicit in an order designed to destroy a legacy built on the blood of our forefathers.
Your promise is to protect the American way of life. Your promise is NOT to protect one man from himself. That only a good psychiatrist can do and you, sir, are not a psychiatrist.
We pray for you.
The only dark cloud is in the minds of the democrats. The Russian collusion story (Maxine Waters) is totally ridiculous. Ten months of this nonsense with no evidence or proof. The democrats have unresolved election loss anger.
Did you bother to read Rosenstein's letter before you wrote this open letter to him? It takes very convoluted thinking to not realize that the last two paragraphs of his letter are an explicit recommendation to fire Mr. Comey.