History will view Trump as a disaster, bigly.
11
Is there nothing that Trump won't stoop to in order to preserve his "image"? I did not vote for this man, nor was I happy when he was elected. But never in my wildest dreams did I imagine him to be such a bald-faced liar when facing the testimony by Comey. Does ANYONE believe anything Trump says anymore? I hope all the truth of his lies comes out eventually - the sooner we are rid of this buffoon, the better.
8
In his rebuttal, Trump once again returned to his obsession that the Russian investigation is all about the legitimacy of the election and his winning of the Presidency.
We are all so far beyond that.
There is no way to determine the effect of the Russian intervention in the election - no way to find out how many voters voted for Trump based on Russian lies and disinformation campaigns against Hillary. There is no evidence that they actually hacked into voting machines.
Trump is so paranoid that he cannot get the single election out of his mind, and focus on the broader issue - the attempted attack on our democracy - which will continue in the future if we do not understand what they did in the past. It's all about him.
He is so stupid, uneducable.
We are all so far beyond that.
There is no way to determine the effect of the Russian intervention in the election - no way to find out how many voters voted for Trump based on Russian lies and disinformation campaigns against Hillary. There is no evidence that they actually hacked into voting machines.
Trump is so paranoid that he cannot get the single election out of his mind, and focus on the broader issue - the attempted attack on our democracy - which will continue in the future if we do not understand what they did in the past. It's all about him.
He is so stupid, uneducable.
6
Hey Georgia get to the polls and vote to ouster the trumpster.
trump has put this country in the most significant path to danger
of anyone in my lifetime.......Nixon and McCarthy were rank amateurs
compared to this incompetent . Get serious you TV fans who thought
it might be fun to have a TV star run the most powerful office in the world..............or was............Why aren't you terrified?
trump has put this country in the most significant path to danger
of anyone in my lifetime.......Nixon and McCarthy were rank amateurs
compared to this incompetent . Get serious you TV fans who thought
it might be fun to have a TV star run the most powerful office in the world..............or was............Why aren't you terrified?
4
NYT is undoubtedly doing its civic duty by criticizing Trump in several articles every day. But this Trump-bashing does not take into account the good sides of the US electoral system: if President were elected only by popular vote, then three states -- New York, Illinois and California -- would always determine the outcome. I live and vote in one of those states that are at present dominated by leftist Democrats and, attached to their coattails, the lobbies of loud-mouthed vegans, militant feminists, proponents of cannabis use, and promoters of political correctness. God save the US from all such!
4
At first, I thought that Comey's plain-talking, frank and folksy ("Oh Lordi!") style of speaking would help the public trust his testimony, and make President Trump's lack of integrity more evident to those in-denial. However, I suspect instead that Trump's supporters have judged Comey's style of delivery evidence that he's incompetent and dishonest.
Like most people, I appreciate and respect Comey for his decades of impressive service to our country, his professionalism, skill and for speaking like a level-headed adult capable of self-reflection and humility. However, Trump supporters can read into Comey's occasional expressions of fallibility and uncertainty, his non-aggressive demeanor, and his disinterest in public confrontation, as signs of him being weak, cowardly, incompetent and dishonest. He even wondered aloud about some of that himself
A Trump supporter can't accept that Trump is a sick conman, for to do so entails having to witness and endure the collapse of all the magnificent hope that Trump pumped into them--salvation. The more his supporters grow desperate for, hope, the more they'll fight tooth-and-nail to keep it alive. It's when they lose their hope I worry about, because a percentage of them will give up on the "system", on Democracy. The more people drop out of the voting ranks, and the more hopeless and demoralized they become, the less America there will be.
Like most people, I appreciate and respect Comey for his decades of impressive service to our country, his professionalism, skill and for speaking like a level-headed adult capable of self-reflection and humility. However, Trump supporters can read into Comey's occasional expressions of fallibility and uncertainty, his non-aggressive demeanor, and his disinterest in public confrontation, as signs of him being weak, cowardly, incompetent and dishonest. He even wondered aloud about some of that himself
A Trump supporter can't accept that Trump is a sick conman, for to do so entails having to witness and endure the collapse of all the magnificent hope that Trump pumped into them--salvation. The more his supporters grow desperate for, hope, the more they'll fight tooth-and-nail to keep it alive. It's when they lose their hope I worry about, because a percentage of them will give up on the "system", on Democracy. The more people drop out of the voting ranks, and the more hopeless and demoralized they become, the less America there will be.
4
President Trump is the intellectual leader of the Republican Party.
4
Trump has obviously conspired with Putin to become President, as improbable as that was. The Manafort success in changing the Republican platform plank about the Ukraine getting powerful defensive weapons opened the public flow of evidence that the conspiracy existed. All the Trump Team members that had to pass security checks lied about their Russian contacts, like guilty little boys who had stolen hub caps. Trump's pre election romps in Russia got documented by the English Intelligence agent, and led to Putin killing several of his agents who had passed the information to this agent. Flynn got Putin to "not react" to Obama's sanctions, the taking of the two 'spy houses', and expulsion of 35 Russian Agents. And Putin certainly did 'not react' to please Flynn. He did it to please, and help, Trump. That's why Flynn wants immunity. The money trail will show Trump money laundering Russian money over many previous years. This will "all out". Our President is a traitor, guilty of treason. Once he is found guilty we will need to hold an entirely new 2016 election, starting with the primaries and ending with the election of both Houses of Congress and the President. All of Trumps orders and signed laws will need rescinded and the Nation must start with a clean slate, politically. It is the only cure for the Trump Treason.
4
Some people practice law, using research and case studies to inform their work. Doctors undergo years of school and training to gain insight that helps their diagnostic and prescriptive work. When I started as a carpenter, the old timers on the crew said "buy a tool a week and keep it sharp". Donald Trump uses lies. His tool box is full of deception, double talk, slight prevarications, and humongous whoppers. Venal is a good description: he uses these lies to manipulate, to obfuscate, to control, and to keep those around him off balance. It is why he attacks the newspapers. It isolates him. It's beyond a character flaw in that it's pathological, pre-meditated, and completely without remorse. Oh, and he's our president and will represent this country for at least the next four years, and the people who elected him to office think he's right as rain.
11
There can be no mistaking what has occurred, or mincing words about the seriousness of what transpired when DJT opened his mouth today - America is under attack by the US president. How long he is allowed remain is held in Republican hands. God help us all.
7
The President's lies will survive. He IS the President and can say what he likes, while accusing those who challenge his lies as liars themselves, or making up falsehoods. He will not be punished, nor even end up in any court, including the court of Public Opinion. His base is still faithful, and a Republican Congress will not permit anything to damage him seriously. Just watch......
1
The most important question for me is this: At what point do the GOP leadership reach "enough is enough" with Trump? Because if it becomes absolutely clear that Trump committed obstruction of justice in addition to the slew of other issues facing his presidency, some legal; (i.e. failure to release tax returns, widespread business conflicts, potential corruption, collusion, etc.), then it sets a precedent that a US president is literally above the law. That is a scary thought. And therefore, if later a democrat emerges as president, the GOP cannot try and impeach for violation of a law, even if it is a reasonable attempt at impeachment. However, never underestimate the hypocrisy that underlies this entire crisis. Sad times.
2
Since Loretta Lynch said today that Comey did not tell the truth regarding the Hillary 'matter/investigation' conversation between her and Comey, there's no reason to blithely conclude that Comey is a truth teller. This 'matter' needs to be formally investigated by DOJ since obstruction of justice by Lynch, almost certainly in collusion with Obama/Hillary is at play.
2
Who will be the Republican who stands up and says this is wrong? By their statements during the election, it seems that McCain and Ryan would show backbone, but that has dissolved into jelly. Will Susan Collins or Lisa Murkowski step up to the plate, no longer defending the indefensible? No one likes to break ranks with their party or the president ostensibly in their party, but the country needs you. It is truly sad the level of cognitive dissonance this Republican Congress is willing to exercise; the amount of contorted logic that they have had to swallow to continue to support this hollow shell of a person.
7
Trumpty Dumpty had a great fall from his border wall.
3
So, now, Mr. Trump announces that Robert Mueller was under consideration for FBI chief before he was named Special Counsel. Sure, Donnie. Tell us another.
I don't think Mueller will be flattered. Nice try.
I don't think Mueller will be flattered. Nice try.
3
If Trump was clueless during his interactions with Comey, then he is uninformed, ignorant and consequently incapable of performing the duties of his office and should be removed from office in accord with U.S. Constitution, Article 25.
If Trump acted criminally during his interactions with Comey, then he should be impeached.
Therefore Trump should be removed from office in accord with U.S. Constitution, Article 25 or he should be impeached.
If Trump is removed from office or impeached, then the nation will be at the mercy of the ultra-regressive tag-team of Pence and Ryan. . . .
Logic can take one only so far and then reason gives way to existential angst.
If Trump acted criminally during his interactions with Comey, then he should be impeached.
Therefore Trump should be removed from office in accord with U.S. Constitution, Article 25 or he should be impeached.
If Trump is removed from office or impeached, then the nation will be at the mercy of the ultra-regressive tag-team of Pence and Ryan. . . .
Logic can take one only so far and then reason gives way to existential angst.
5
Thank you James Comey, for doing a great patriotic service. Donald J. Trump is a malignant tumor on our body politic and your testimony reinforces that diagnosis. Trump must be removed to save us all. Never have we had a more amoral man in the White House.
5
One aspect of the FBI is its ability to lie with impunity and as a matter of institutional obligation. How many times have we heard about FBI agents who have held themselves out to be one type if person, a business operator or tourist or what-have-you, only to use that pose to collect information on behalf of our country's security, to protect us from those who want to harm us.
The Supreme Court has affirmed that cops can lie as part of their jobs to investigate allegations of criminal conduct, and we cannot lose sight of the fact that the FBI is our national investigative unit. But these lies are told to advance our security interests, not to undermine them.
It was more important for Mr. Comey, in his meetings with Mr. Trump, to follow up on what Comey learned last summer about communications between Russia and the Trump organizations, than it was for Mr. Comey to educate the ignorant Trump about protocols. Comey was first an investigator. There was more reason for Comey to remain quiet and attentive in Trump's presence than there was any reason to instruct Trump in how to behave as something other than the thug that Trump is.
Comey's job as an investigator explains most of his suspicion about Trump, a suspicion generated by Trump before Trump became President. Such a job properly performed will reveal Trump to be either little more than a Queen's mobster or an ignorant narcissist, not that those roles are mutually exclusive.
The Supreme Court has affirmed that cops can lie as part of their jobs to investigate allegations of criminal conduct, and we cannot lose sight of the fact that the FBI is our national investigative unit. But these lies are told to advance our security interests, not to undermine them.
It was more important for Mr. Comey, in his meetings with Mr. Trump, to follow up on what Comey learned last summer about communications between Russia and the Trump organizations, than it was for Mr. Comey to educate the ignorant Trump about protocols. Comey was first an investigator. There was more reason for Comey to remain quiet and attentive in Trump's presence than there was any reason to instruct Trump in how to behave as something other than the thug that Trump is.
Comey's job as an investigator explains most of his suspicion about Trump, a suspicion generated by Trump before Trump became President. Such a job properly performed will reveal Trump to be either little more than a Queen's mobster or an ignorant narcissist, not that those roles are mutually exclusive.
1
The president of the United States to the Russian leader: "Mr. Putin, tear down this American electoral system." How times have changed.
4
When Trump tweeted that Comey should hope there are no tapes, he thought that false tapes can be easily created if you have recordings of both speakers, by splicing words together as was done in various movies and television programs such a Mission Impossible. Probably Bannon and Jared told him that it might not be a good idea to ask the CIA to do that. Thus, now that he has a recording of Comey's testimony he is trying to create the false tape, but must wait until it is finished before releasing it. The work may be being performed in Russia.
“…The question then becomes what did Putin hope to gain by aiding Trump? What Russia and Putin desperately need is money. Even if Putin asked Trump to have the American Treasury transfer, say $200 billion to Russia, that is not going to happen. Even Kellyanne Conway could not spin that one into anything that would be acceptable to the American people or congress. Absent writing Russia a big check, how could Trump cause Russia to gain $200 billion? The answer would be a $50 increase in the price of oil.
We know what has caused most of the oil price spikes in the last 50 years. That has been wars in the Middle East..” http://seekingalpha.com/article/4034048
“…The question then becomes what did Putin hope to gain by aiding Trump? What Russia and Putin desperately need is money. Even if Putin asked Trump to have the American Treasury transfer, say $200 billion to Russia, that is not going to happen. Even Kellyanne Conway could not spin that one into anything that would be acceptable to the American people or congress. Absent writing Russia a big check, how could Trump cause Russia to gain $200 billion? The answer would be a $50 increase in the price of oil.
We know what has caused most of the oil price spikes in the last 50 years. That has been wars in the Middle East..” http://seekingalpha.com/article/4034048
3
Please New York Times editors give one example of a proven lie Trump.
2
Seems that those commenting are blinded by the word "lie" and have lost their critical thinking skills. It appears that Comey is not exactly honest, so how can his accusations against trump be considered vetted?
Comey disclosed that Lynch "suggested" that he downplay Hillary's criminal investigation as a "matter". Comey complied with this political stunt and apparently was not moved to do anything. Now along comes Trump and Comey now believes that he must ethically do something. Seems a bit hypocritical.
Comey in disclosing this story leaked the information. That is very unethical. Work related conversations are not meant for public disclosure. Seems that Comey's unethical action is purposely being overlooked because this is considered "evidence" by the Trump haters that Trump lied. But the Trump haters need to question Comey's testimony. It may be heavily tainted.
Comey also had numerous more appropriate methods of dealing with this situation. He pursued none of them. He could have resigned. He could have told Trump to stop talking. He could have gone to Sessions. Since he failed to take any of these more appropriate actions (and even rolled over on behalf of the DNC), one has to conclude that Comey's was pursuing this action with malice and that it may be heavily tainted against Trump.
Comey disclosed that Lynch "suggested" that he downplay Hillary's criminal investigation as a "matter". Comey complied with this political stunt and apparently was not moved to do anything. Now along comes Trump and Comey now believes that he must ethically do something. Seems a bit hypocritical.
Comey in disclosing this story leaked the information. That is very unethical. Work related conversations are not meant for public disclosure. Seems that Comey's unethical action is purposely being overlooked because this is considered "evidence" by the Trump haters that Trump lied. But the Trump haters need to question Comey's testimony. It may be heavily tainted.
Comey also had numerous more appropriate methods of dealing with this situation. He pursued none of them. He could have resigned. He could have told Trump to stop talking. He could have gone to Sessions. Since he failed to take any of these more appropriate actions (and even rolled over on behalf of the DNC), one has to conclude that Comey's was pursuing this action with malice and that it may be heavily tainted against Trump.
3
The Republicans who insist on continuing their support for this poor excuse of a man and President had better start looking over their shoulders. The electorate will not forget that their loyalty should be for country and not their party. 2018 isn't that far away!
8
At what cost? That is the question of our time. Each day, people around the planet are dying while we spend millions -- billions? -- wastefully every day dealing with the rantings and ravings of an unfit bully in the White House. When do we stop the nonsense? How about a national moment of silence -- one moment -- thinking about changing course!
3
What comes through clearly is that it is Comey who felt that Trump was disloyal to him!
The White House staff may try to insist that "the President is not a liar," but that is empty rhetoric. Most Americans already know that the President is, indeed, a liar. The President's apologists who insist on ignoring what Putin's Russia did, and continues to do against our country, are either willfully blind or cognitively impaired. Mr. Comey is absolutely correct in saying that this is not a Democrat or Republican thing, it is an American thing.
7
We are about to find out what the Republican party truly is made of.
5
Comey's the consummate politician: Trump's a LIAR because he criticized Comey's leadership of the FBI; the Clinton criminal investigation was a "matter" until she was cleared by Comey's initiative; Trump was held officially "under investigation" for months by Comey after being told in fact he actually wasn't. Far from being the non-political professional he portrays, Comey became a leaker in order to achieve his political objectives against Trump, instead of rooting out rampant illegal leakers in government. Trump fired him for non-performance of his professional duties as leader of the FBI and has nominated an experienced professional to replace him. Let the media continue its Trump/Russia witch hunt, unaided by Comey, but let the FBI be led by professional lawmen.
2
Regarding Mr. Comey's testimony, President Trump just tweeted:
"Despite so many false statements and lies, total and complete vindication ... and WOW, Comey is a leaker!"
Regrettably, Mr. Trump did not, or was "allowed" to, tweet during Mr. Comey's testimony. That's a pity! I believe his tweets are a window into his mind and will allow historians to have an accurate measure of the man.
The best analogy to Mr. Trump's tweet account is a gun found by an unruly 5 year old in his brother's drawer. His babysitters (his lawyers and inner circle) are frightened to death, thinking that he could shoot himself and they would all be in trouble losing their jobs. His estranged parents (that is, Republicans and Democrats in the Congress) are never around and do not care much. The mother (the democrats) is actually happy about the whole incident, since she could use that in the divorce court (the judge being the US public) to disqualify the father from taking the child's custody.
The friends of the kid (Saudi Arabia and Israel) are encouraging him to take the gun to their playground. They are hoping that he will use it to threaten their neighbor's kid whom they happen to dislike. His grand parents (Angela Merkle and other EU leaders) are nervously watching him, discouraging him from handling the gun or taking it outside. They are worried sick that if he takes the gun outside, he could shoot somebody or, worse, shoot at neighborhood gas tank and blow up the whole place!
"Despite so many false statements and lies, total and complete vindication ... and WOW, Comey is a leaker!"
Regrettably, Mr. Trump did not, or was "allowed" to, tweet during Mr. Comey's testimony. That's a pity! I believe his tweets are a window into his mind and will allow historians to have an accurate measure of the man.
The best analogy to Mr. Trump's tweet account is a gun found by an unruly 5 year old in his brother's drawer. His babysitters (his lawyers and inner circle) are frightened to death, thinking that he could shoot himself and they would all be in trouble losing their jobs. His estranged parents (that is, Republicans and Democrats in the Congress) are never around and do not care much. The mother (the democrats) is actually happy about the whole incident, since she could use that in the divorce court (the judge being the US public) to disqualify the father from taking the child's custody.
The friends of the kid (Saudi Arabia and Israel) are encouraging him to take the gun to their playground. They are hoping that he will use it to threaten their neighbor's kid whom they happen to dislike. His grand parents (Angela Merkle and other EU leaders) are nervously watching him, discouraging him from handling the gun or taking it outside. They are worried sick that if he takes the gun outside, he could shoot somebody or, worse, shoot at neighborhood gas tank and blow up the whole place!
1
Hope is the thing with feathers, and a sharp beak and claws.
Yet, here in flyover country, no one cares We DO care about Trump's great pick for the Supreme Court, getting us out of a BAD Paris Climate deal where we no longer send taxpayer money overseas, deregulation and repealing Obamacare, reforming taxes.
NYT is becoming irrelevant with its constant biased coverage of Trump
NYT is becoming irrelevant with its constant biased coverage of Trump
3
.
With this editorial and hundreds of other commentaries and news accounts in recent months, the Times has brilliantly and irrefutably made the case for Trump's impeachment for serious malfeasance in various forms.
But the Republicans in Congress are not taking the hint (unsubtle as it is) to put the good of the country ahead of party politics. They are terrified of being voted out by the moderate-sized but fanatical base of Trump supporters.
You're going to have to start hammering on these office-holders, by name, to shame them into line, and exhort their constituents to do likewise.
.
With this editorial and hundreds of other commentaries and news accounts in recent months, the Times has brilliantly and irrefutably made the case for Trump's impeachment for serious malfeasance in various forms.
But the Republicans in Congress are not taking the hint (unsubtle as it is) to put the good of the country ahead of party politics. They are terrified of being voted out by the moderate-sized but fanatical base of Trump supporters.
You're going to have to start hammering on these office-holders, by name, to shame them into line, and exhort their constituents to do likewise.
.
6
Power corrupts. Absolute power corrupts absolutely. We didn't elect Trump to be an all powerful monarch. He was elected to uphold the constitution of the US of A,
3
Who would have thought that President Obama’s signature sentence, also the title of his autobiography “Audacity of Hope”, would actually be acted upon, of all people, Trump? “Audacity of Hope” became the signature line for President Obama, first uttered by him at the end of his speech at the Democratic National Convention in 2004. It articulated a bold desire of a disadvantaged kid of color who was no body dreaming for lofty and noble goals. The phrase stood for hope in the face of difficulty, hope in the face of uncertainty. Ironically now a privileged kid, Trump, who has never grown up, is being audacious in hoping that the criminal transgressions by his associate would be forgotten so his self-proclaimed legacy of innocence would stay untarnished. Trump told the sitting FBI Director Comey: “I hope you can see your way clear to letting this go, to letting Flynn go. He is a good guy, I hope you can let this go”. Asking the head of FBI Director to drop an on-going criminal investigation is indeed audacity of hope with a capital A.
2
Comey is my new hero.
2
As Mr. Comey showed, and most thinking people already knew, trump is nothing but a liar.
5
How can a liar can still occupy the White House? The entire America should take to the streets to unseat Trump, PLAIN AND SIMPLE.
Mr trump is a dangerous person not only for the US but also for the entire humanity. His Saudi vist is an example of how he can misguide the so called allies to punish Qatar!! Also, I am extremely unhappy that Mr Trump singled out Iran as the enemy number 1, while even a child knows that the real culprit is the Saudi Royal family that is spreading deadly Islamic Wahhabi poison in every corner of the earth. Shame on you, Mr Trump!
Mr trump is a dangerous person not only for the US but also for the entire humanity. His Saudi vist is an example of how he can misguide the so called allies to punish Qatar!! Also, I am extremely unhappy that Mr Trump singled out Iran as the enemy number 1, while even a child knows that the real culprit is the Saudi Royal family that is spreading deadly Islamic Wahhabi poison in every corner of the earth. Shame on you, Mr Trump!
7
DT has lied his way into the WH- starting with the birther lies about President Obama and includes campaign lies like building a wall that Mexico would pay for, repeal Obamacare and replace it with much better healthcare for lower costs, bring back mining and manufacturing jobs like they were 60 years ago, the crowd size of his inauguration being the biggest ever, all his so called charitable contributions (none) and that he would release his tax returns once elected, campaign promises that he would be a champion for the middle class- then goes onto gut services with the most inhumane budget ever suggested, etc etc. There are so many, many lies on a daily basis, it's difficult to keep track of them all.
I just know and understand that anything that DT says- it is a lie- and in fact the exact opposite is true. DT is a pathological liar and lies about stupid things that are not even important as well as the important things he wants to deceive us on. He cannot help himself.
I am amazed there are still some people who still believe him- they are deluding themselves and were totally conned into voting for him. These people will be hurt the most and their willful ignorance will be their own undoing. Sad.
I just know and understand that anything that DT says- it is a lie- and in fact the exact opposite is true. DT is a pathological liar and lies about stupid things that are not even important as well as the important things he wants to deceive us on. He cannot help himself.
I am amazed there are still some people who still believe him- they are deluding themselves and were totally conned into voting for him. These people will be hurt the most and their willful ignorance will be their own undoing. Sad.
8
Bullying is second nature with Donald Trump. You are right: He "thought that he'd cow him [Mr. Comey] by tweeting about the possibility that their private conversations were taped."
If Mr. Trump wants to substantiate his charge that whatever Mr. Comey said about him during the testimony were lies, he has to release the tapes. Mr. Comey has challenged him to do it.
If we don't see any tapes released, we can draw only two conclusions: one, no tapes exist, and his threat about its existence was another instance of his bullying; and two, tapes do exist, but he is afraid that releasing them would prove his abuse of presidential power Mr. Comey graphically detailed during the testimony.
If Mr. Trump wants to substantiate his charge that whatever Mr. Comey said about him during the testimony were lies, he has to release the tapes. Mr. Comey has challenged him to do it.
If we don't see any tapes released, we can draw only two conclusions: one, no tapes exist, and his threat about its existence was another instance of his bullying; and two, tapes do exist, but he is afraid that releasing them would prove his abuse of presidential power Mr. Comey graphically detailed during the testimony.
7
In the end, James Comey may have the last word. He is outfoxing Trump and his kool aid drinking followers. He knows how to defend not only the country but himself. He made that abundantly clear.
Trump the fool is unmasked once again. I don't know how long it will take for all of this to see the light of day but it will. It may be with a bang or with a whimper but the liar in chief will have his reckoning. Already he has trust issues even with those who supported him.
Trump's undoing may just be his indifference to what the Russian hacking was and was meant to do. It only goes to prove how little he cares about this country and how limited his ability to lead is.
I appreciate the diligence and courage it took for Comey to dust himself off and face down this President. It exposes the pettiness and hubris of a weak bully who is deficient and derelict as a leader and continues to be exposed for what he is.
Trump the fool is unmasked once again. I don't know how long it will take for all of this to see the light of day but it will. It may be with a bang or with a whimper but the liar in chief will have his reckoning. Already he has trust issues even with those who supported him.
Trump's undoing may just be his indifference to what the Russian hacking was and was meant to do. It only goes to prove how little he cares about this country and how limited his ability to lead is.
I appreciate the diligence and courage it took for Comey to dust himself off and face down this President. It exposes the pettiness and hubris of a weak bully who is deficient and derelict as a leader and continues to be exposed for what he is.
9
This presidency is a daily source of despair, grief, and fear. At the helm we have a cadre of characters I never fathomed was possible in the United States of America. Mr. Comey's testimony only corroborated what has been amply evident throughout Mr. Trump's career and campaign. Nothing has changed. He is ruthless and totally lacking a moral compass. Yes, he is a shameless pathological liar who led a naive base to believe he is a populist bent on coming to their rescue. They should by now be experiencing a rude awakening: the swamp has never been bigger and more indifferent to the common good. I can only hope yesterday's narrative from the former FBI director will contribute to the downfall of the current presidency. Can't wait for this national nightmare to be over.
8
Comey wanted to be a Hoover, but he is a little bit late to realize that he cannot play hoover with Trump. After this testimony, it is very clear that there was an orchestrated attempt, and it may still be continuing, to force out President Trump by collusion among Democrats, media, leakers and some disgruntled Republicans haters of Trump. They trumped up some trivial matters and un PC talk as impeachable offences and treason. They failed miserably, but will still continue. It is sad that Comey became a leaker and may have used his position to intimidate this president using his position as the head of FBI. I don't understand why these same people express no outrage regarding the actual obstruction of justice and attempt to influence election by the attorney general of the previous administration. It was a sad spectacle and it showed how much they hate Trump. Russians should be so happy to see the stupidity play of America's so called intelligentsia.
3
Can we talk about Paul Ryan's "He's new at this" comment. Good god. We have a president with training wheels.
8
According to Prof. Alan Dershowitz, a president has the right to intervene and even stop any inquiry by the FBI. Trump did not even use this right but only commented that Flynn is a good man. The people who should be concerned are Lynch and Clinton, and perhaps even Obama. On the other hand, Comey has shown himself to be totally unfit for the role of FBI chief, and has himself committed illegal acts and lied to Congress.
3
We are just 5 months into a 48 month Presidential term, and the public is getting exhausted trying to stay abreast of the Trump duplicity. As one of the late night comedians said " I am exhausted trying to follow all this Trump stuff. I need a vacation."
Few Republican leaders, except Senator John McCain, are publicly admonishing Trump for his indefensible behavior as President.
Few Republican leaders, except Senator John McCain, are publicly admonishing Trump for his indefensible behavior as President.
2
So now then left likes Comey after wanting his head. Do you have any sense of balance at this newspaper? This weakling saw clear to leaking information through a friend and didn't have the strength to tell the president that the discussion about Flynn should stop.
3
The underlying self-destructive motivation behind those who voted for Trump has brought us here. It can't get worse, and yet look: it is worse.
Trump and his Republican minions are pushing a tax system that will move yet more money into the hands of a very tiny group of people. Health care will be a luxury reserved for the very wealthy. Our infrastructure will remain that of a developing nation, and our educational system will resemble our for-profit prison system, stuffed with people going nowhere.
The Republican party is in chaos. The party is owned by the Kochs and Mercers and all they've been able to purchase is an ignorant and unstable clown of a dictator wanna be.
Every Republican who sticks with Trump will smell forever of what rubs off that man. Every Republican imprudent enough to defend that man's lies and chicanery will be tainted by him forever.
We need the good Republicans to define themselves and to stand up. And most of all, we need the Democrats to get behind a strong platform--to fight for things that are right.
Trump and his Republican minions are pushing a tax system that will move yet more money into the hands of a very tiny group of people. Health care will be a luxury reserved for the very wealthy. Our infrastructure will remain that of a developing nation, and our educational system will resemble our for-profit prison system, stuffed with people going nowhere.
The Republican party is in chaos. The party is owned by the Kochs and Mercers and all they've been able to purchase is an ignorant and unstable clown of a dictator wanna be.
Every Republican who sticks with Trump will smell forever of what rubs off that man. Every Republican imprudent enough to defend that man's lies and chicanery will be tainted by him forever.
We need the good Republicans to define themselves and to stand up. And most of all, we need the Democrats to get behind a strong platform--to fight for things that are right.
6
Mr. Comey comes off as honest and concerned with the honor of the United States and the Constitution, while Mr. Trump looks like a despotic thug determined to wrest control of the country from the other two branches of government.
5
I apologise for not being on point, but I was just struck by the headline. Before Jan 20th, the Times would have used 'misrepresentations', 'untruths' or any other euphemism to avoid 'lies' and 'President' in the same sentence. I sure hope we don't get used to it.
2
Comey demurred when asked to explain why he handled the Hillary Clinton email matter as he did, both in July and October. He hinted that, if the American public knew all the facts, the American public would agree with him.
I doubt it. No question that Loretta Lynch's "tarmac" incident pulled the rug out from under Comey. And Lynch's order/suggestion that Comey refer to the HRC investigation as a "matter" clearly was inappropriate.
Nevertheless, that doesn't change the FBI's mandate in those situations: Report what you've found, if anything, and then shut up. While HRC indeed was "extremely careless," as Comey went on to explain, he had no business giving that speech.
Nor should he have said, in July, that the FBI's investigation was "closed," which is the reason he gave for announcing in late October that the investigation was being "reopened" because hundreds of thousands of HRC's State Department emails had been found on the laptop of Anthony Weiner (aka "Carlos Danger"). No FBI investigation is ever "closed:" the FBI might stop devoting resources to an investigation -- and does, hundreds or thousands of times every year -- but it never actually "closes" an investigation. For example, if someone walked into an FBI office tomorrow morning and said "I have proof that JFK was shot by someone other than Oswald," the FBI would not respond: "Sorry, we closed that investigation years ago; not interested."
I doubt it. No question that Loretta Lynch's "tarmac" incident pulled the rug out from under Comey. And Lynch's order/suggestion that Comey refer to the HRC investigation as a "matter" clearly was inappropriate.
Nevertheless, that doesn't change the FBI's mandate in those situations: Report what you've found, if anything, and then shut up. While HRC indeed was "extremely careless," as Comey went on to explain, he had no business giving that speech.
Nor should he have said, in July, that the FBI's investigation was "closed," which is the reason he gave for announcing in late October that the investigation was being "reopened" because hundreds of thousands of HRC's State Department emails had been found on the laptop of Anthony Weiner (aka "Carlos Danger"). No FBI investigation is ever "closed:" the FBI might stop devoting resources to an investigation -- and does, hundreds or thousands of times every year -- but it never actually "closes" an investigation. For example, if someone walked into an FBI office tomorrow morning and said "I have proof that JFK was shot by someone other than Oswald," the FBI would not respond: "Sorry, we closed that investigation years ago; not interested."
3
Trump is in over his (still attached) head, too. No lie.
2
Comey stated that the NYT 2/14/17 article on collusion between Trump officials and Russian official was not true "in the main." This must be the top "fake news story" of the year, one that was picked up parroted by the media eager to destroy a lawfully-elected president. And by your own definition of lying--making claims that other dispute--the NYT put out the biggest lie of the year.
3
How this country came to have a President such as Donald Trump is beyond the pale. I am continually appalled by this man and as I am by his defenders. There has not been an utterance of policy, either domestic or international, that is indicative of making America great again. On the contrary, I am embarrassed and ashamed for our country.
9
Donald Trump has sued and been sued throughout his career in real estate. He's a man who is well versed in consulting with attorneys.
Now, the Republicans would have us believe that this man who is so accustomed to working the legal system to his advantage would not think to consult with one of the numerous attorneys who surround him about the actions he contemplates taking as President? Really? It didn't occur to the billionaire developer to ask an attorney whether his powers as President extended to asking the Director of the FBI to drop an investigation?
Such an oversight by a man who constantly trumpets his own intelligence strains credulity almost as much as "the President is not a liar."
Now, the Republicans would have us believe that this man who is so accustomed to working the legal system to his advantage would not think to consult with one of the numerous attorneys who surround him about the actions he contemplates taking as President? Really? It didn't occur to the billionaire developer to ask an attorney whether his powers as President extended to asking the Director of the FBI to drop an investigation?
Such an oversight by a man who constantly trumpets his own intelligence strains credulity almost as much as "the President is not a liar."
1
Trump's election was just caviar on Putin's blini. his main desire was to get Hillary, who he blamed for anti-government Russian protests years before. plus, he would rather confront Trump on the world stage than Clinton, of course.
1
Many thanks to the Winning NYTimes for your thorough coverage of the Failing So-called President.
3
To the contrary of being a "nut job," Comey spoke with precision and clarity. What a relief to the vacuous ramblings of the president, with his unfinished thoughts and self-glamorization - not to mention is idiotic tweets, which convince no one. In a "he's a nut" contest, there is not and iota of doubt who is the nut, any more than there is doubt as to who speaks the truth. To quote Trump, "Sad!"
3
a house divided against itself cannot stand.
we are so confused and divided it's no wonder reasonable people don't want to run for office. and look at the dregs we're stuck with as a result. Perhaps Richard III was right.
meanwhile, if I were the most powerful person in the world and I demanded your pledge of loyalty (perhaps spit 3 times, or a bloodbrothers finger oath would do), and you declined, and then I said I hope you have life insurance... would that be construed as a threat or a just a friendly recommendation?
we are so confused and divided it's no wonder reasonable people don't want to run for office. and look at the dregs we're stuck with as a result. Perhaps Richard III was right.
meanwhile, if I were the most powerful person in the world and I demanded your pledge of loyalty (perhaps spit 3 times, or a bloodbrothers finger oath would do), and you declined, and then I said I hope you have life insurance... would that be construed as a threat or a just a friendly recommendation?
2
Trump has used his wealth to bend the rules, lie, steal his way to making money by abusing others. He is using the office of the President to enrich his resorts, his family, his brands. America has been conned.
Republicans showed their brazen choice of party before country again during the hearings. Cornyn was clear he was covering for Trump as were others. McCain was confused, feeble, rambled, off topic, clearly partisan.
Trump will likely serve until 2020. It is up to voters to remove Republicans from office to take our country back from the robber barons. Vote in every election. Be informed!
Republicans showed their brazen choice of party before country again during the hearings. Cornyn was clear he was covering for Trump as were others. McCain was confused, feeble, rambled, off topic, clearly partisan.
Trump will likely serve until 2020. It is up to voters to remove Republicans from office to take our country back from the robber barons. Vote in every election. Be informed!
1
"The president is not a liar"!
Does that sound familiar? A president, sometime ago, declared: "your president is not a crook." Remember who was that? The name is Richard Nixon.
So what does that tell us?
Does that sound familiar? A president, sometime ago, declared: "your president is not a crook." Remember who was that? The name is Richard Nixon.
So what does that tell us?
3
In many legal disputes, both parties are tainted, & adjudication involves assigning relative degrees of taint.
Trump's a disaster, because he automatically enacts the autocratic business "macher" approach to governance, which is more compatible with banana republics & fascist dictatorships than "rule of law" democracies. As it happens, I loathe trump, consider him dangerous, & want him out.
However, Comey seems pretty messed up to me. I believe he loves the limelight, and in a youtube video I saw him striking fake-candid poses for the media literally as if he were a trained model, clearly trying to give them glamourous images combining just the right solemnity with a hint of warmth/geniality, coiffed elegance, with "oh, I being photographed?" (cleary not looking at the camera) faux-aloofness. With each photo flash, he'd tweak the pose.
In other words, a narcissism case, consistent with the election meddling.
His incongruous claim he was primarily afronted not so much on his own behalf as the FBI's made little sense: he listed the insults solemnly: Trump says "The FBI is poorly lead, is in disarray, & that staff have little confidence in their leader" -- as if such remarks (including "little confidence in their leader"), true or not, smear the agency more than Comey himself.
And his weird suggestion he was under some kind of Oval Office spell, shocking him into passive acquiescence to bullying conduct, seems frankly infantile, but no more so than seems the president.
Trump's a disaster, because he automatically enacts the autocratic business "macher" approach to governance, which is more compatible with banana republics & fascist dictatorships than "rule of law" democracies. As it happens, I loathe trump, consider him dangerous, & want him out.
However, Comey seems pretty messed up to me. I believe he loves the limelight, and in a youtube video I saw him striking fake-candid poses for the media literally as if he were a trained model, clearly trying to give them glamourous images combining just the right solemnity with a hint of warmth/geniality, coiffed elegance, with "oh, I being photographed?" (cleary not looking at the camera) faux-aloofness. With each photo flash, he'd tweak the pose.
In other words, a narcissism case, consistent with the election meddling.
His incongruous claim he was primarily afronted not so much on his own behalf as the FBI's made little sense: he listed the insults solemnly: Trump says "The FBI is poorly lead, is in disarray, & that staff have little confidence in their leader" -- as if such remarks (including "little confidence in their leader"), true or not, smear the agency more than Comey himself.
And his weird suggestion he was under some kind of Oval Office spell, shocking him into passive acquiescence to bullying conduct, seems frankly infantile, but no more so than seems the president.
3
Mr. Comey, with his flair for the dramatic and self-proclaimed righteousness, disclosed what everyone already knows. The President is lies, untrustworthy, ignorant and imperious. The case made for obstruction of justice is not prosecutable and will not suffice for a Republican dominated House to vote Articles of Impeachment.
The most important part of Comey's testimony is that the President wanted to cover up the Flynn investigation and shut down further investigation of Russian interference in the campaign. Comey artfully and implicitly contributed to the case that the President is a tool of the Kremlin.
The most important part of Comey's testimony is that the President wanted to cover up the Flynn investigation and shut down further investigation of Russian interference in the campaign. Comey artfully and implicitly contributed to the case that the President is a tool of the Kremlin.
1
Specifically, what were all the Presidents lies as the article contends? The only one I saw mentioned was that Trump said "The bureau was a mess and that the director had lost the trust of his agents". I've heard politicians and pundits from both sides say the exact same thing in the past 6 months. Is everyone lying but Comey?
And what about Comey's big lie about AG sessions not providing the boundaries of his recusal from the Russian investigation which was blasted to smithereens today.
I acknowledge that Trump can tell some whoppers but Comey did not disclose any.
And what about Comey's big lie about AG sessions not providing the boundaries of his recusal from the Russian investigation which was blasted to smithereens today.
I acknowledge that Trump can tell some whoppers but Comey did not disclose any.
2
This editorial makes Comey out to be a hero and a patriot. But what I and the non delusional haft of the country saw was a disgruntled employee who was waiting in ambush to smear a president he detested and feared. Despite is 6'-8" stature, the man is a coward who, by his own admission, couldn't even respond to Trump questions and sat there like a deer in the headlight. He was this country's top law enforcer yet he claimed that he didn't know if Trump's comments constituted obstruction of justice! Why didn't he tell Trump that he thought Trump's suggestions were inappropriate and that he would not comply? Why, if he felt that Trump had crossed the line, didn't he resign and report is suspicions to the Attorney general? Then this swamp creature admits he allowed a friend to leaked his own notes about his meeting with Trump (revenge?), and further testified that while he couldn't say whether Trump obstructed justice he found the experience emotionally troubling and begged the Attorney general to keep Trump from talking to him. This from a man that likes hiding in the drapes when ever Trump is around. This is your hero? This is the best you could do? You must be very desperate to prove you collusion conspiracy theory to rely on the testimony of this mouse of a man.
3
If there were ever any tapes, they were erased the minute Comey said "Lordy, I hope there are tapes". Believe me.
Hilarious how Trumpers say Comey lied, oh except the part where he said Trump wasn't being personally investigated. That part was true. The rest was all lies.
Hilarious how Trumpers say Comey lied, oh except the part where he said Trump wasn't being personally investigated. That part was true. The rest was all lies.
2
It's clear from Mr Comey's testimony that Lynch, the Clintons and Obama are guilty of Obstruction of Justice for obstructing the investigation into Hillary's illegal email server
3
When all is said and done, no matter what investigations uncover nothing will happen to Trump because the republican congress will never take action. They are in control of the government and are afraid of Trump's "deplorables".
3
Trump calls it a "complete and total vindication"? Complete and total condemnation is more like it. The downward trajectory of this administration and its Republican congressional enthusiasts has induced national acrophobia.
2
Would anyone like to start a"Basic requirements to be President list?
I don't believe the few things like citizen,age and whatever comes close to what we need.
For instance:if you've been bankrupt 4 or 5 times you can't tell the country what its budget should be.
If your favorite meal comes from McDonalds Golden Arches and you don't believe in any exercise you don't get to choose the health and human services
Secretary.
In other words,if your IQ only allows you to force the whole country to swallow
Your personal moronic preferences you may not be president.
Trump doesn't believe in climate change,health care for everyone,public education,fair elections and on and on.He also fires anyone who thinks for themselves.
He sure can give orders but he can't think,because after 4months it's crystal
Clear.....he doesn't think,and citizens we are going to suffer for his stupidity!
I don't believe the few things like citizen,age and whatever comes close to what we need.
For instance:if you've been bankrupt 4 or 5 times you can't tell the country what its budget should be.
If your favorite meal comes from McDonalds Golden Arches and you don't believe in any exercise you don't get to choose the health and human services
Secretary.
In other words,if your IQ only allows you to force the whole country to swallow
Your personal moronic preferences you may not be president.
Trump doesn't believe in climate change,health care for everyone,public education,fair elections and on and on.He also fires anyone who thinks for themselves.
He sure can give orders but he can't think,because after 4months it's crystal
Clear.....he doesn't think,and citizens we are going to suffer for his stupidity!
2
All the president's lies and all the president's men. Comey was not one of them, nor Sally Yates--two upstanding Americans of the old school, who are upholding the constitution and not joining Trump's MAGA charade.
It is clear to all but two year olds what Trump was asking off of Comey, in a Mafioso boss kind of way--personal loyalty and to do his bidding--expressed as a "hope"--crooks always insinuate. I make you offer you can't refuse.
The Russian investigation is important to Trump because he has so much to hide--there is an entire network, and Flynn was but one node that was exposed. Trump's business and Russia are so enmeshed--before his candidacy he and his sons had boasted of Russian connections and financing. And the hiring of Tillerson, CEO of Exxon, having JV with Russia was odd. In Wray, who has worked with Russians, Trump hopes to gain control over the FBI.
Thorough investigation into the Russian Connection will reveal that Trump is so deeply indebted to the Russians that he cannot but be compromised and be beholden to Russia, and he is thus unqualified to hold office. This is what Trump is seeking to suppress. Unqualified from the get go.
We salute Comey for defending the country, trying to keep America great. There is a Chinese saying, if a man is upright, there is no fear that the shadow he casts will be crooked. And Comey is such an upright man; can we say the same of Trump?
It is clear to all but two year olds what Trump was asking off of Comey, in a Mafioso boss kind of way--personal loyalty and to do his bidding--expressed as a "hope"--crooks always insinuate. I make you offer you can't refuse.
The Russian investigation is important to Trump because he has so much to hide--there is an entire network, and Flynn was but one node that was exposed. Trump's business and Russia are so enmeshed--before his candidacy he and his sons had boasted of Russian connections and financing. And the hiring of Tillerson, CEO of Exxon, having JV with Russia was odd. In Wray, who has worked with Russians, Trump hopes to gain control over the FBI.
Thorough investigation into the Russian Connection will reveal that Trump is so deeply indebted to the Russians that he cannot but be compromised and be beholden to Russia, and he is thus unqualified to hold office. This is what Trump is seeking to suppress. Unqualified from the get go.
We salute Comey for defending the country, trying to keep America great. There is a Chinese saying, if a man is upright, there is no fear that the shadow he casts will be crooked. And Comey is such an upright man; can we say the same of Trump?
2
Comey exposed the liars at the Times, in the Clinton campaign and in the Obama regime yesterday. President Trump said he wasn't being investigated and he was right. The Times was caught red-handed lying yet again about our President. The fascist treasonous dishonest temper tantrum the Left is throwing is backfiring big-time!!
3
Trump used the word "hope" with Comey because Trump is a cowardly little man when not surrounded by paid minions.
"The President is not a liar" would be farsically funny if it weren't so sad. He seems to lie nearly as often as he tweets.
2
The saddest fact in my opinion is that Mr. Comey or his ilk are not US president. Watching his evidence was inspiring that people of such character, eloquence and honest patriotism were and still are in government despite what we have in the WH. It makes me feel hopeful.
1
'Nice legs; I HOPE nothing happens to them' is such a mobster cliche that it's a joke. And Republicans trying to excuse Trump's way out of impeachment or jail by claiming he only "hoped" Comey would back off Flynn sound exactly like mobster lawyers trying to get their boss off the hook. They should all be be held accountable for collusion at Trumps coming trial.
1
The question of Comey's refusal to pledge Loyalty and shutdown the Flynn investigation is who else did the donald approach that has already complied with fealty all this under handed dishonesty?
2
The GOP claim that Trump should be excused because he is "new at this" is hilarious. He is NOT new at lying and scheming and duping. No, he is a world-class rock star in those skills. I can just hear him say, "Hey, Jeffie-boy, go out and have a smoke and take these boys with you. I wanna be alone with Jimmie here." Naive?
1
For a man whose intellectual attainments seem not to exceed the level of groping the opposite sex, or tweeting himself a vindication of the indiscretions he is charged with, it is not surprising that he is stumbling from one disaster to another. The most powerful nation in the world cannot afford to have someone with this limited judgment toying with the fate of the country's and the world's citizens. Let us have the courage and intelligence to get on with impeachment and removal from office before a major catastrophe is brought about by the Trump bull in the world's china shop.
1
Comey has said that one ought not to trust government. But when one plots to remove the government of Trump for no reason, it's a plot by any other name. The plot here was to get Congress to impeach Trump for suggesting that Comey ought to end a legitimate criminal investigation. When Comey did not warn Trump at their meeting of ending the Russian influence investigations, he certainly ought to have had Sessions warn him.
None of Comey's F.B.I.duties include plots against the President.If you wish to merely trick someone or get an advantage, you may resort to a lie to them. But if you wish to harm someone, you act dishonestly with them all the time. And James Comey was acting dishonestly with Pres. Trump.
None of Comey's F.B.I.duties include plots against the President.If you wish to merely trick someone or get an advantage, you may resort to a lie to them. But if you wish to harm someone, you act dishonestly with them all the time. And James Comey was acting dishonestly with Pres. Trump.
6
You can't possibly believe Comey is the liar here and trying to have Trump impeached. Trumps doing a great job of achieving that alone. Comey is an American patriot trying to protect America from bad people. Donal Trump is a bad man, who cares nothing for America and her foundation of the rule of law. You are apparently a willing accomplice in destroying America- or you are just a very dumb person.
4
Comey didn't lie. The chance that he did approaches the probability that the moon landings were staged in a warehouse in East Los Angeles.
Given Trump's documented history of lying, who are you more likely to believe lied about this and continues to lie?
And given that Trump lies at will, nearly whenever he speaks, and that he has on numerous documented occasions shown an utter disregard for truth, even contempt for it, why would his objection to even the remote possibility that someone else lied, matter, since he doesn't believe anyone should care about what is and is not true?
Given Trump's documented history of lying, who are you more likely to believe lied about this and continues to lie?
And given that Trump lies at will, nearly whenever he speaks, and that he has on numerous documented occasions shown an utter disregard for truth, even contempt for it, why would his objection to even the remote possibility that someone else lied, matter, since he doesn't believe anyone should care about what is and is not true?
9
In his own words, Trump fired Comey for not closing the investigation into Russian interference of the American elections and Flynn's connections with foreign governments and the Russians. QED, guilty of obstruction of justice!
10
As much as I loathe the idea of President Cheet'oh and the current ruling junta, unless someone can prove that he and members of his administration colluded with a Russian attempt to meddle in our election affairs — behind closed doors, of course, because we do know that Trump openly welcomed Russian hackers — I don't see how this is any different from the millions that our own government has spent to influence other nations' elections, or why we're anymore upset about Russian interference in a general election, than we were when the Koch brothers and Club for Growth attempts to interfere in Democratic primaries, such as they did in 2004. That is, in addition to whatever monies interested parties are currently spending in their oppositions' primaries.
That said, if you really want him gone that badly, I'd look at money laundering in those casinos.
That said, if you really want him gone that badly, I'd look at money laundering in those casinos.
1
Do not forget the Soros' and Styer' intervention on behalf of Democrats.
In the absence of Trump's threat that Comey better hope there are no "tapes" and producing them, I will take Comey's testimony and memos over ANYTHING Trump and his henchmen/women say or Tweet.
If there are no tapes, then Trump needs to testify under oath before the American people!
Wait, Trump did make a lot of campaign "promises" and did take an "oath" when he took office! As did Comey also when he became director of FBI. Trump's oath was what it would mean to him personally. Comey's was to to defend the constitution and the American people.
This is very very difficult!
If there are no tapes, then Trump needs to testify under oath before the American people!
Wait, Trump did make a lot of campaign "promises" and did take an "oath" when he took office! As did Comey also when he became director of FBI. Trump's oath was what it would mean to him personally. Comey's was to to defend the constitution and the American people.
This is very very difficult!
5
If the Russian involvement in the election was so bad why didn't Comey lynch and obama do something about it. And if mr Comey is so brilliant why did he argue Hillary shouldn't be prosecuted for gross negligence when the applicable federal statutes on the espionage act say nothing about intent? And BTW why else would you set up a secret server other than to shield 33000 emails from public scrutiny? Finally mr Comey has spent years denouncing leaks. Now we discover he took government property (memos) out of the office and then leaked himself
8
Seriously, you're still talking about emails? Your not at all concerned the Russians hacked our political process??
2
For some reason, Trump supporters are stuck at Hillary Clinton. Her investigation is over. She is not the president. Trump is. We're talking about him now.
2
But the President IS a liar: In 2016, Politifact and factcheck.org printed the following assessments of Trump's truthfulness (before the mendacity train had really even left the station):
"It is generally believed today that all politicians lie, or at least dissemble, but Trump appears extreme in this regard. Assessing the truthfulness of the 2016 candidates’ campaign statements, PolitiFact recently calculated that only 2 percent of the claims made by Trump are true, 7 percent are mostly true, 15 percent are half true, 15 percent are mostly false, 42 percent are false, and 18 percent are “pants on fire.” Adding up the last three numbers (from mostly false to flagrantly so), Trump scores 75 percent. The corresponding figures for Ted Cruz, John Kasich, Bernie Sanders, and Hillary Clinton, respectively, are 66, 32, 31, and 29 percent."
"It’s been a banner year for political whoppers — and for one teller of tall tales in particular: Donald Trump. In the 12 years of FactCheck.org’s existence, we’ve never seen his match. He stands out not only for the sheer number of his factually false claims, but also for his brazen refusals to admit error when proven wrong."
"It is generally believed today that all politicians lie, or at least dissemble, but Trump appears extreme in this regard. Assessing the truthfulness of the 2016 candidates’ campaign statements, PolitiFact recently calculated that only 2 percent of the claims made by Trump are true, 7 percent are mostly true, 15 percent are half true, 15 percent are mostly false, 42 percent are false, and 18 percent are “pants on fire.” Adding up the last three numbers (from mostly false to flagrantly so), Trump scores 75 percent. The corresponding figures for Ted Cruz, John Kasich, Bernie Sanders, and Hillary Clinton, respectively, are 66, 32, 31, and 29 percent."
"It’s been a banner year for political whoppers — and for one teller of tall tales in particular: Donald Trump. In the 12 years of FactCheck.org’s existence, we’ve never seen his match. He stands out not only for the sheer number of his factually false claims, but also for his brazen refusals to admit error when proven wrong."
11
Lie is intentional telling something which the person knows to be untrue. If the person believes what he says or the source from which he obtained information then it is not a lie even if it is not true. Get the difference?
Comey found himself in a similar precarious position of many white collar professionals who perform their jobs with integrity and efficacy. Many American employees have been fired or black balled because of unscrupulous, incompetent bosses, who have managed to achieve positions of power through incessant lying, misrepresentation, and personal relationships. Their goal is to eradicate anyone who doesn't go along with their agenda. Comey's experience demonstrates that it also happens at the highest level of government. He is fortunate to have had the opportunity to publicly expose his boss; too bad the rest of us don't.
4
Perhaps what amazes me the most....was that neither the GOP nor the President seems the least bit concerned about the Russians hacking the 2016 election. Do they not understand that this was not a one time shot, that it could easily, and will, than likely, happen again....or perhaps they know something that we don't.........
10
What hacking? Which Russians: Russian nationals, people who happen to reside in Russia, Russian government? Despite all the pandemonium and hype that started on November 9 2016, so far there was not a single piece of provable evidence that Russian government in collusion with the Trump campaign hacked anything. DNC server was hacked, we know that. We do not know who did that though. Mrs. Clinton recently said that some Macedonians did the hacking....
The present-day Republican Party has been described by a scholar of U. S. history as the most dangerous organization on the planet today and throughout history. May end all human life. So who knows what they will do about Trump. They and their Paul Ryan are still hoping they can use him to carry out their barbaric aims for the corporate state. They don't seem to care who lives or dies in the process, and rather hope some people WILL die -- people we don't need and who are just in the way. They won't necessarily go after Trump -- no matter what he does or what happens to him. As to Russia (and U. S.) obstructionism, future elections may not mean much -- anywhere. Paper ballots, at least, might help.
8
I also believe that the greatest threat to freedom and Democracy in this country is the current Republican party and its president. The article you refer to is worth reading and can be found here:
http://www.alternet.org/books/requiem-american-dream-chomsky-trump-repub...
http://www.alternet.org/books/requiem-american-dream-chomsky-trump-repub...
1
Comey wrote a check out for McCain in 08 against Obama. In 2012, Comey wrote a check out to Romney against Obama. Comey went out of his way in 2016 to help Trump. That's why Comey is in shock. For an FBI Director, he should have known who Trump is. After all, Trump took the Fifth 97 times in one of his Divorce depositions. When Trump pulls you in close and whispers I hope I can count on you, be prepared for the knife, when you fail him.
6
Where are the patriots in the Republican Party?
7
Isn't that an oxymoron?
How I wish the Times had covered Trump's predecessor the same way they are covering Trump. Now THAT would have been a newspaper! It's difficult to think of the Times as a newspaper anymore, at least in the way the word is usually understood.
10
You should check your "facts". Obama got a soaking too if you were reading this newspaper back then.
3
Your editorial speaks twice of Comey's "sworn testimony." You should go further. It needs to be stressed that it's not a crime to lie on Twitter--people do it all the time. But lying under oath to a Senate committee is perjury, a crime that carries a penalty of serious prison time. Trump and his lawyers should stop name-calling. Instead, they should demand that Comey be indicted for perjury. If they won't make that demand, we can all wonder Why Not?
4
Where is the perjury? What did Comey say that was not true...I am really curious?
7
Ditto, Kostja.
And for poster Democritus, I wonder what the philosopher whose name you've chosen would think of Donald Trump.
And for poster Democritus, I wonder what the philosopher whose name you've chosen would think of Donald Trump.
2
My point was that Comey did NOT commit perjury, and Trump knows it.
1
The Obama administration through Lynch "suggested" how the Clinton criminal investigation should be characterized by Comey and the Time's Editorial Board Ignores this stunning revelation by Comey. The Times then overlooks that Comey essentially rolled-over for the benefit of the DNC without any ethical headache. But then when it came to Trump, Comey all of a sudden has an ethical concern. Seems that Comey is not being honest. If he is not honest, then his assessment of Trump may not be valid. The Times Editorial Board needs to do some self-reflection.
9
They did not - paragraph 7. Read before you comment.
3
The Ed Board reminds readers that from the top cop at FBI to the local dog catcher, it is to the people and the laws that they owe loyalty and the sickness of secrecy.
Seems to me the take home message is that cops should never engage in secret conversations with politicians to their peril and most importantly the people they serve.
If Comey had demanded that one of his deputies sit in on the Trump meeting or that Trump fire him for refusing secret meetings AND that a record would be kept, either politician's shenanigans and threats would disappear or the politicians would.
Secret government is sick government, witness the lately disgusting display of government in free fall.
Seems to me the take home message is that cops should never engage in secret conversations with politicians to their peril and most importantly the people they serve.
If Comey had demanded that one of his deputies sit in on the Trump meeting or that Trump fire him for refusing secret meetings AND that a record would be kept, either politician's shenanigans and threats would disappear or the politicians would.
Secret government is sick government, witness the lately disgusting display of government in free fall.
2
Please have the courage to use active voice "The President Lies". Thank you
11
"The president is not a liar" is not an example of passive voice. Here's the difference:
Active voice: Somebody wrote a confusing comment.
Passive voice: A confusing comment was written by somebody.
(In active voice, the subject of a clause names the agent of action. In passive voice, the agent of action is the object of a preposition in a prepositional phrase at the end of the clause.)
Maybe what you mean is "Please have the courage to phrase a statement in the affirmative"? I dunno.
Active voice: Somebody wrote a confusing comment.
Passive voice: A confusing comment was written by somebody.
(In active voice, the subject of a clause names the agent of action. In passive voice, the agent of action is the object of a preposition in a prepositional phrase at the end of the clause.)
Maybe what you mean is "Please have the courage to phrase a statement in the affirmative"? I dunno.
Now that President Trump has been completely and totally exonerated, it's time to start throwing Democrats in jail: Lynch, Obama, Bill and Hillary for Obstruction of Justice in the investigation of Hillary's illegal email server among countless other offenses
7
"...President Trump...completely and totally exonerated..."?
When did that happen, Larry?
When did that happen, Larry?
4
It seems Trump feels and thinks that the way to accrue and hold power is to lie and/or punish those not loyal to him. There is something so blatantly wrong about this man and his loyalists in the administration that to think otherwise is the height of delusional thinking. His base, or what remains of it, will never see him as anything but their 'savior', and yet they have chosen a man so divorced from reality and so damaged in soul, that he has to destroy everything and everybody around him to save his limited ego.
7
Well put.
1
I don't understand the surprise that has arisen about Mr. Comey publically calling the President a liar.
EVERYONE who had any business dealings with this man over the past 4 decades has said the same thing. Ask any of the contractors whom he stiffed, the workers (or the wives) he tossed aside, the reporters who have tried to reconcile today's comments with yesterday's/last week's/last month's/last year's assertions...
As former New York Mayor Ed Koch is reputed to have said, "I wouldn't trust anything that came out of his mouth if his tongue were notarized."
EVERYONE who had any business dealings with this man over the past 4 decades has said the same thing. Ask any of the contractors whom he stiffed, the workers (or the wives) he tossed aside, the reporters who have tried to reconcile today's comments with yesterday's/last week's/last month's/last year's assertions...
As former New York Mayor Ed Koch is reputed to have said, "I wouldn't trust anything that came out of his mouth if his tongue were notarized."
7
When it came to telling lies during his campaign there had never been a candidate for POTUS from a major political party who could match the sheer volume of lies that Trump uttered. Some of his supporters were confident that once being sworn in he would act "Presidential." However, the man still lies. I'm not writing about opinion but verifiable facts. With such a record how could any rational person accept anything that he says?
4
President Trump certainly knows that pressure on the FBI Director to drop a case is illegal. During the campaign he called out Hillary Clinton's husband, former President Bill Clinton, for what was an appearance of abuse of power when he visited the Attorney General on her plane. By making such a stink of it back then shows clearly that he knows what obstruction of Justice is.
And as you wrote today, the only thing he's truly ignorant of is that there are patriots and honest people in Washington. It may be a swamp in some ways, but just like the Everglades, even a swamp breeds much vital to our lives and is well worth preserving. Maybe this is the best civics lesson our country could have -- that the most terrifying words aren't always: I'm from the government and I'm here to help.
Thank you for your keen insight here. So very much.
And as you wrote today, the only thing he's truly ignorant of is that there are patriots and honest people in Washington. It may be a swamp in some ways, but just like the Everglades, even a swamp breeds much vital to our lives and is well worth preserving. Maybe this is the best civics lesson our country could have -- that the most terrifying words aren't always: I'm from the government and I'm here to help.
Thank you for your keen insight here. So very much.
3
I can't agree with you on this, and here's why: As president, Trump was also Comey's boss, and the president technically has the right to just shut down any investigation he feels is a waste of time, and he certainly has a right to direct a person who is, essentially, his employee. Remember: the president is the Chief Executive. That is also why President Obama was not wrong to weigh in on the investigation of Mrs. Clinton's e-mails, and made it quite clear he wanted it to go away. He had every right to. He didn't issue an order to do that, and neither did Trump in this case, because it would be politically unwise to do so - because of what happened to Nixon when he did that. But it would not be "illegal" for any president to stop any investigation if he/she thought it was a waste of the agencies resources, or even frivolous. And let us not get into saying what is right for one president is wrong for another. That is a path fraught with peril.
What we can surmised from Comey's testimony is:
He did not trust the President
He did not trust the AG (so instead he had his information transferred to the public)
The Russian meddling in the elections is a grave matter that needs immediate attention -- will the media, especially the TV channels, please focus on what is really important here -getting to the bottom of this threat to our democratic process, rather than spending airtime covering tweets and other distractions.
If the number of leaks in the government agencies has increased, it is because no one trusts the system anymore and prefers to put the information straight out in public. All this will not end until there are some clear answers on who is responsible for what......
He did not trust the President
He did not trust the AG (so instead he had his information transferred to the public)
The Russian meddling in the elections is a grave matter that needs immediate attention -- will the media, especially the TV channels, please focus on what is really important here -getting to the bottom of this threat to our democratic process, rather than spending airtime covering tweets and other distractions.
If the number of leaks in the government agencies has increased, it is because no one trusts the system anymore and prefers to put the information straight out in public. All this will not end until there are some clear answers on who is responsible for what......
9
the leaks increased because no one trusts trump. the guy you voted for, the guy on who's behalf you are trying to lead astray investigations
Trump--Only I can do detente with Putin. Everyone other than me is interfering in my effort a the "Art of the Deal".
3
Claiming that the FBI is 'in disarray' is an INTERPRETATION. While it may be inaccurate, it could never be a "lie". Comey (and this paper) should know this. If they do, this conscious misrepresentation may be closer to a "lie" than Trump's appraisal.
6
Donald Trump, in telling Lester Holt that the F.B.I. was in disarray, followed up with "I know that. You know that. Everybody knows that." This is not an interpretation or an opinion. This is certainty. And if it's untrue, which both Comey and McCabe verified, then it's a lie. The fact that Trump was going to visit the F.B.I. the next day and was told he would not be welcomed does not suggest that anyone there thought it was true.
10
No, it is not an interpretation. It is a claim about fact, that may or may not be true, Managers and management consultants have many ways to measure the effectiveness of an organization. The chief executive is responsible to measure, know, and report the effectiveness of his organization. Managers make changes because they want to improve function.
The president is not an outside observer opining casually about an organization. He is the responsible manager and can be held accountable for what he says and does about his organization.
The president is not an outside observer opining casually about an organization. He is the responsible manager and can be held accountable for what he says and does about his organization.
6
It could never be a lie, even if he knew perfectly well it was inaccurate? It could definitely be, and no doubt was, knowing Trump's track record.
3
What does the word "hope" mean? Like any word, what it means depends on social context. That is a basic linguistic fact. The president used the word when speaking to somebody who works for him. Absent such concerns as obstruction of justice, the president can fire the FBI director whenever he wants to. The president spoke to the director about keeping his job, whether he wanted to stay on, and loyalty. Given all of that, the meaning of "the word hope" is clear.
10
Trump violates Comey's 5th and 6th Amendment Rights:
Trump, as president, is vested with the Executive Power of the United States under Article 2 of the Constitution. Comey is a private citizen.
The 5th and 6th Amendments to the Constitution protect individuals against unjust prosecution by the government.
Trump's tweets against Comey, and now his threatened lawsuit against Comey, amount, effectively, to prosecution by the United States against Comey in violation of his due process rights under the 5th Amendment and criminal-prosecution safeguards under the 6th Amendment.
Comey should seek an injunction in federal court against Trump for violations of his individual constitutional rights.
Trump, as president, is vested with the Executive Power of the United States under Article 2 of the Constitution. Comey is a private citizen.
The 5th and 6th Amendments to the Constitution protect individuals against unjust prosecution by the government.
Trump's tweets against Comey, and now his threatened lawsuit against Comey, amount, effectively, to prosecution by the United States against Comey in violation of his due process rights under the 5th Amendment and criminal-prosecution safeguards under the 6th Amendment.
Comey should seek an injunction in federal court against Trump for violations of his individual constitutional rights.
15
I for one will contribute to a defense fund for Comey : Trump is up to his old tricks, with his sleazy lawyers, suing people and tying them up in court until they run out of money, another nasty trick he learned from Roy Cohen. Welcome to Despicable me 4 .
Didn't Donald Trump call publically for Russia to continue to hack into Hillary Clinton emails during the election period? didn't he praise Putin for being a strong leader, and cheered him on for hacking those e mails?
Why didn't he come under scrutiny by our intelligence agencies then?
When it was announced that Russia definitely interfered in our election , trump then pretenddd he could not believe that the Russians did so. Was his blatant lying enough to exonerate him?
Comey said that others in Trump's administration were under linvestigation, but Trump was not at that time. A question that was not asked at the hearing but should have been asked is why wasn't he?
Why didn't he come under scrutiny by our intelligence agencies then?
When it was announced that Russia definitely interfered in our election , trump then pretenddd he could not believe that the Russians did so. Was his blatant lying enough to exonerate him?
Comey said that others in Trump's administration were under linvestigation, but Trump was not at that time. A question that was not asked at the hearing but should have been asked is why wasn't he?
14
It seems to me that if Trump's campaign is under investigation and he, as the candidate, is head of the campaign, then he is also under investigation, albeit not personally. But why would that matter?
5
Trump is smart enough not to contact Russians personally. He would ask others in his campaign or later in his administration to do that job. Many are convinced that Mike Flynn's got in touch with Russians on direct request from Trump. That is why Trump wanted Comey to get him off the hook. Once Flynn and others go on trial, it is guaranteed that much dirty laundry would be aired.
We have seen evidence of Donald Trump’s delusional thinking before, but none so vivid as his claim on Friday that James Comey's testimony provided a "compete and total vindication" of Trump's actions. We also have seen evidence of Trump’s blatant disregard for facts on issues from health care to the global climate change, but none so egregious as his ignoring the highly credible evidence laid out by Comey that he obstructed justice in the FBI's investigation of Michael Flynn. It is telling that Trump, who once suggested that he had secretly recorded his conversations with Comey, did not explicitly deny Comey’s assertions, let alone offer evidence to contradict them. Instead, as has become his custom, he simply attacked Comey's character on Twitter, expecting the American public to disregard what they have witnessed with their own eyes and ears.
11
In a normal parliamentary democracy (which the US isn't), when the government loses a non-confidence vote, new elections are called.
In many countries, where coalition is the norm and single party rule is an exception, this can happen and does happen, as often, as it needs to happen.
The United States has an archaic presidential system, which may have been thought to be progressive in the 18th century, but not today. The constant bickering not only between the 2 (barely distinguishable) parties in Congress and the Senate, but the executive branch (the Presidency) and the rest as well, plus the constant raising of the debt ceiling (does anyone even know how deep is the Federal Treasury in the hole?) to avoid a government shutdown are all symptoms of a very sick political horse.
The current stalemate regarding Mr. Trump's presidency is a characteristic example of everything that's wrong.
The only way forward is a constitutional reform, that would transit the US to a true parliamentary democracy, with a direct election system, multiple parties and platforms.
In many countries, where coalition is the norm and single party rule is an exception, this can happen and does happen, as often, as it needs to happen.
The United States has an archaic presidential system, which may have been thought to be progressive in the 18th century, but not today. The constant bickering not only between the 2 (barely distinguishable) parties in Congress and the Senate, but the executive branch (the Presidency) and the rest as well, plus the constant raising of the debt ceiling (does anyone even know how deep is the Federal Treasury in the hole?) to avoid a government shutdown are all symptoms of a very sick political horse.
The current stalemate regarding Mr. Trump's presidency is a characteristic example of everything that's wrong.
The only way forward is a constitutional reform, that would transit the US to a true parliamentary democracy, with a direct election system, multiple parties and platforms.
6
I couldn't agree more. In this unusual circumstance when we may have an entire administration that may be corrupt we only have impeachment of the president as a next step. What do we do when they all need to go? If collusion with Russia and the Trump campaign is found it seems to me that Hillary Clinton should take her place as president and the one who got the most votes. But that will never happen in this country.
3
I strongly object with the notion that "The United States has an archaic presidential system". In many respects, the US system of government is a progressive one and by no measure it is archaic. What is wrong is not the US system of government; it is the US election laws. In 2010 the US Supreme Court decided to allow corporations spend unlimited money on behalf of political candidates. That has created a loophole that let corporations influence the public and alter election result.
In fact the multi-party systems to which you are referring can be very undemocratic. In countries with many political parties (e.g. India and Israel), one can have very orderly, seemingly democratic, elections. But once the votes are in and victorious candidates are identified, then political machinations starts. The results of such machinations are typically covert agreements, private promises, and under-the-table dealing and wheeling, which have nothing to do with party platforms and promises made to constituencies, but much to do with the personal interests of a few individuals in each party. In this process, one loses the direct connection between the voter, the elected representative, the party, and the government; thus, breaking up the flow of responsibility in both directions.
In fact the multi-party systems to which you are referring can be very undemocratic. In countries with many political parties (e.g. India and Israel), one can have very orderly, seemingly democratic, elections. But once the votes are in and victorious candidates are identified, then political machinations starts. The results of such machinations are typically covert agreements, private promises, and under-the-table dealing and wheeling, which have nothing to do with party platforms and promises made to constituencies, but much to do with the personal interests of a few individuals in each party. In this process, one loses the direct connection between the voter, the elected representative, the party, and the government; thus, breaking up the flow of responsibility in both directions.
2
This matter may be swiftly brought to a head by proffering the President an invitation to come before the Senate Intelligence Committee and offer sworn testimony to refute the of Mr. Comey. He will obviously decline the invitation but that will make it clear that he is unable to refute.
9
It is not beyond belief that he would lie under oath and if there are tapes they might even be doctored.
4
I believe if we offer Mr. Trump a large cash pay-off he will go away and leave us alone.
2
he has lied under oath in the past - the transcripts were published during the election.
his adherents don't care
his adherents don't care
Trump has denied that he asked Comey for loyalty or to have the Flynn investigation curtailed, but his loyalists ignore his denials and treat Comey's version of events as accurate, but misinterpreted.
This would seem odd in other circumstances, but of course even the loyalists know that Trump is lying, as usual.
This would seem odd in other circumstances, but of course even the loyalists know that Trump is lying, as usual.
7
The most important message from the Comey testimony is that it is absolutely necessary for the Democrats to gain a majority in the House in 2018 to be able to limit, and possibly impeach, Trump.
It's great to post comments here denouncing Trump -- he well deserves it and we should know what readers think.
But it is FAR MORE IMPORTANT to participate, starting today, in electing Democrats in the 2018 House and Senate election. PLEASE, make a contribution, even a small one of 5 or 10 dollars, and volunteer some time, even a few hours. It will all add up.
For example, if 6 million outraged people pledge to Democratic candidates $4.00 a week between now and the 2018 election, the Democratic candidates will have more than $1.5 billion for the campaign in addition to the money from the big money donors. A big difference.
It's great to post comments here denouncing Trump -- he well deserves it and we should know what readers think.
But it is FAR MORE IMPORTANT to participate, starting today, in electing Democrats in the 2018 House and Senate election. PLEASE, make a contribution, even a small one of 5 or 10 dollars, and volunteer some time, even a few hours. It will all add up.
For example, if 6 million outraged people pledge to Democratic candidates $4.00 a week between now and the 2018 election, the Democratic candidates will have more than $1.5 billion for the campaign in addition to the money from the big money donors. A big difference.
7
dems don't vote in midterms - they would rather invest their effort in whining about what the victorious is "getting away with"
reps make me angry, dems make me sick
reps make me angry, dems make me sick
Representative Ryan's excuse that Trump is inexperienced doesn't meet the smell test. If Trump was inexperienced in the law, he wouldn't have asked Comey's boss, Attorney General Sessions and Trump's son in law, Jarad Kushner, to leave the room before Trump asked Comey to drop the Flynn investigation. Trump not wanting witnesses for his improper abuse of power request shows knowledge of intended wrong doing which he committed after witnesses left .
17
I agree. If Donald Trump was so unaware of the proper roles of the FBI and the Justice Department, why was he so quick to comment in June 2016 on the meeting between Loretta Lynch and Bill Clinton? And he didn't just comment, he said "Who does this?" and treated it like a major scandal. Well now we know who does this - and worse - Donald Trump himself.
If there were "major attacks" on our electoral system, I don't know what they were. What I do know is that the Democratic party and the Clinton campaign wrote emails documenting that they manipulated their primary to hurt Sanders, they manipulated their debates by feeding Ms. Clinton questions in advance, and they manipulated the NYT and other media, who sought to curry favor by submitting articles in advance for approval. Those were hacked and got out. If "Russia" did that no one has shown how. In any event, it does sound a bit like a guilty child complaining of someone tattling on them.
11
What a rare and sobering post.
Thank you!
Thank you!
3
For months many professionals in the intelligence services have stated that there was significant interference in our election by the Russians, independent of infighting among Democrats. They have also stated the same thing about many European nations where the Russians have interfered in elections. Russian interference in Western democracies goes way beyond the U.S.
One of the main reasons Putin is angry at the West, especially the U.S., is described in a book edited by Nobel laureate Lawrence Klein, “The New Russia: Transition Gone Awry.” Due to its failed system, the Soviet economy was in collapse. Major investment was needed to rebuild an economy that could support a middle class. In the 1930s, programs for employment and investment rebuilt our economy after the ’29 crash. Instead of continued poverty and suffering, the American people were ready to fight on two continents a war they did not start. The Marshall Plan rebuilt Europe. It succeeded in showing that the Soviet system could not compete with the West. That kind of investment was needed after the Soviet collapse. Instead they got a neoliberal catastrophe, from which they have not recovered.
One of the main reasons Putin is angry at the West, especially the U.S., is described in a book edited by Nobel laureate Lawrence Klein, “The New Russia: Transition Gone Awry.” Due to its failed system, the Soviet economy was in collapse. Major investment was needed to rebuild an economy that could support a middle class. In the 1930s, programs for employment and investment rebuilt our economy after the ’29 crash. Instead of continued poverty and suffering, the American people were ready to fight on two continents a war they did not start. The Marshall Plan rebuilt Europe. It succeeded in showing that the Soviet system could not compete with the West. That kind of investment was needed after the Soviet collapse. Instead they got a neoliberal catastrophe, from which they have not recovered.
2
T
The point is a foreign power who is actively trying to cause chaos and destruction to our country is being hero worshipped by our president and his administration.
Bring said enemies into the Oval Office and then trashing the head of the FBI to kremlin operatives while son in law tries to secure secret back channel to the kremlin.
Who cares what the dnc did to try and win, progressive aren't stupid enough o be influenced by the dnc if they wanted to vote for Bernie they did so but
We have seen that the president and his team are trAitors to the citizens of America.
The point is a foreign power who is actively trying to cause chaos and destruction to our country is being hero worshipped by our president and his administration.
Bring said enemies into the Oval Office and then trashing the head of the FBI to kremlin operatives while son in law tries to secure secret back channel to the kremlin.
Who cares what the dnc did to try and win, progressive aren't stupid enough o be influenced by the dnc if they wanted to vote for Bernie they did so but
We have seen that the president and his team are trAitors to the citizens of America.
There are several questions with great currency in this affair. First, did Trump obstruct justice or not? Second, did he knowingly do so? And third, what was he trying to cover up, if anything?
The other question, which this excellent editorial touches upon, is to ask, quite apart from crimes or motives, is the idea of dropping the Russia investigation a good idea? If you care about this country, the answer is clearly no.
So even if you clear Trump of criminal intent (we'll see), and attribute his request to ignorance of proper channels (right), you are still left with the content of the request. Which is, ignore the serious threats to our democracy because you're bothering me.
The other question, which this excellent editorial touches upon, is to ask, quite apart from crimes or motives, is the idea of dropping the Russia investigation a good idea? If you care about this country, the answer is clearly no.
So even if you clear Trump of criminal intent (we'll see), and attribute his request to ignorance of proper channels (right), you are still left with the content of the request. Which is, ignore the serious threats to our democracy because you're bothering me.
7
Early indications seem to be pointing more and more toward a Trump re-election in 2020. The Democrats are wasting a lot of energy and PR on Russia investigations and impeachment talk that most Americans don't care about. And it could go on to 2020. Meanwhile the real concerns of most Americans continue to be ignored.
I'd put the NY Times in the same boat.
I'd put the NY Times in the same boat.
7
Interesting.... Most Americans I know care passionately about these issues. Our Republic is in peril.
5
Yeah who cares about democracy, justice and freedom of speech? What reality show is on tv tonight?
3
Trump has no concept of proper Presidential behavior, and doesn't want to learn it. In his meetings with Comey he was acting like a CEO, telling his underling what to do, demanding personal loyalty. It's his idea of how a "business" should be run. It's why he resents laws and ethics - he thinks he's King. Let us please pass a law requiring all future presidential candidates pass an examination on the Constitution and American Government.
6
Comey confirmed yesterday that President Trump could not trust him and was correct in his decision to fire Comey.
7
Comey confirmed yesterday that President Trump is a liar and could not be trusted and should be impeached.
2
Liars like Trump and Nixon don't like tattle-tales.
2
Expresses my thoughts exactly...."You remember James Comey, right? The FBI director who dropped a live hand grenade into the toilet that was the 2016 presidential race by disclosing just eleven days before Election Day that the Bureau was investigating newly discovered evidence related to the Hillary Clinton email scandal in which she had been cleared of months earlier? The one who followed up on this inscrutable-yet-ominous-sounding announcement by concluding a few days later that, haha, just kidding, there wasn't anything remotely relevant in these stupid emails, sorry if I torpedoed your election and maybe helped deliver the White House to a semiliterate social media celebrity? That James Comey? Good, because holy hell does this man have some explaining to do."
Jay Willis, GQ http://www.gq.com/story/james-comey-explain-yourself
Jay Willis, GQ http://www.gq.com/story/james-comey-explain-yourself
4
I found it touching that Mr. Comey's most passionate testimony came in defense of the honor of the FBI and its employees -- and secondarily, of course, himself. I am no fan of Mr. Comey's antics during the election -- and I think there is a serious question to ask, why didn't he (or anyone!) warn America about the GOP's possible Russia connection at all, when he was so zealous to let us know about "the damned emails"? BUT -- he is clearly a man who takes the phrase "public servant" seriously, while Trump doesn't understand the meaning of either word.
13
We've got a boldfaced liar (with all manner of personal, possibly psychological, issues!) in the Seat of Power...and everyone with a grain of common sense knows it.
The only question is HOW are we going to manage our way OUT of this national jam?
Dancing around this insidious, treacherously serious FACT is a game of national roulette. And for what?? To save FACE? WHAT face? All pretenses are exposed....given a choice, we actually CHOSE the clown.
Surprise, surprise? Nope.
Just........BANG!!!!
The only question is HOW are we going to manage our way OUT of this national jam?
Dancing around this insidious, treacherously serious FACT is a game of national roulette. And for what?? To save FACE? WHAT face? All pretenses are exposed....given a choice, we actually CHOSE the clown.
Surprise, surprise? Nope.
Just........BANG!!!!
5
No question in my mind that Trump leaned heavily on Comey to end the Flynn investigation. The Republican Senator's (Frisch) effort to distinguish a "hope" from an order was almost laughable. When the boss calls you into his office, tells everyone else to leave, and then expresses his "hope" about an outcome, you get the message.
Comey didn't change his behavior, of course, which is laudable. I was surprised, though, that Comey nevertheless came across as very weak. An honorable person in his position would have told Trump, at the first opportunity, that he (Comey) couldn't and wouldn't be influenced by what Trump might say. This course of action, of course, would have increased Comey's odds of being fired, but it still would have been the right thing to do. According to Comey, he eventually did that (telling Trump he should communicate through channels), but he didn't do it for quite some time.
This is not to condone Trump's behavior in the Flynn matter, which was entirely inappropriate. (Comey said Trump's inappropriate behavior did not extend to the Russia investigation -- just Flynn -- which helps Trump.) But Comey nevertheless came across as weak. Even to say "I'll see what I can do" was inappropriate for Comey. He should have put his foot down right away, putting an abrupt end to Trump's inappropriate behavior, even if that increased the odds that he (Comey) would be fired.
Comey didn't change his behavior, of course, which is laudable. I was surprised, though, that Comey nevertheless came across as very weak. An honorable person in his position would have told Trump, at the first opportunity, that he (Comey) couldn't and wouldn't be influenced by what Trump might say. This course of action, of course, would have increased Comey's odds of being fired, but it still would have been the right thing to do. According to Comey, he eventually did that (telling Trump he should communicate through channels), but he didn't do it for quite some time.
This is not to condone Trump's behavior in the Flynn matter, which was entirely inappropriate. (Comey said Trump's inappropriate behavior did not extend to the Russia investigation -- just Flynn -- which helps Trump.) But Comey nevertheless came across as weak. Even to say "I'll see what I can do" was inappropriate for Comey. He should have put his foot down right away, putting an abrupt end to Trump's inappropriate behavior, even if that increased the odds that he (Comey) would be fired.
2
You would do that if you were in his shoes? Like Sally Yates?
President Trump hasn't had to opportunity while in the business world to encounter the type of person who is dedicated to a higher mission. He probably still doesn't understand this type of person. In government work you will usually encounter people who don't see their work as just a job but devote their life to a cause.
Trump and his family have shown that people in business are often dedicated to pursuing profits and unaware of the ethics of profit over country/cause.
Trump and his family have shown that people in business are often dedicated to pursuing profits and unaware of the ethics of profit over country/cause.
2
It is understandable why Trump would lie about this matter; his job is on the line. But in no way are Trump's actions excusable.
Trump ordered Comey to stop the investigation into Russian influences in the 2016 election, and fired Comey after he didn't stop the investigation after being ordered to do so. These two actions are criminal offenses, and the American People should fire Trump from his current job for conducting these criminal offenses while in office.
Trump ordered Comey to stop the investigation into Russian influences in the 2016 election, and fired Comey after he didn't stop the investigation after being ordered to do so. These two actions are criminal offenses, and the American People should fire Trump from his current job for conducting these criminal offenses while in office.
12
"The president is not a liar" sounds too much like "I am not a crook."
13
What is glaringly left out of this discussion is the fact that on May 10, ONE DAY after Trump fired Comey, he held a meeting in the Oval Office with the Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov and Russian Ambassador to the US Sergey Kislyak amid investigation of Russian contacts with Trump campaign and one day after Trump fired FBI Director James Comey, who was handling the probe. At that May 10 meeting with the Russians the UNITED STATES PRESS AGENCIES WERE BARRED from that meeting. Trump stated to the Russians:“I just fired the head of the F.B.I. He was crazy, a real nut job,” Mr. Trump said, according to the document, which was read to The New York Times by an American official. “I faced great pressure because of Russia. That’s taken off.” The photos taken inside the Oval Office by the Russian News Agency TASS showed the gregarious, celebratory meeting between the Russians and the US President. President Trump. Why? If Trump wasn't being investigated, which he knew he wasn't, why did he feel it took pressure off him? Who or what was pressuring him that he felt relieved when he fired the Head of the FBI investigating Russian interference? I'll tell you who was pressuring him to fire Comey and disrupt and sideline the investigation---the Russians were pressuring him, and he did. Put everything in context. He knew he was hosting the Russians the next day. He fired Comey and disrupted the investigation to appease the Russians.
22
The one thing that is abundantly clear is that the traitor known as Trump needs to end his charade as president of this great nation.
12
When Comey brought up Hillary's emails just weeks before the election, my feelings were that he had an agenda. I also felt that if Hillary won, Comey should be the first person she fired. My feelings about Comey have been turned 180 degrees around since his firing. What I thought was an agenda in releasing more emails was just his principles. In the face of what's going on with our government these days, we need more James Comeys to keep our politicians honest (or at least as honest as they can be) & our democracy free.
10
Not sure about that. What Comey did to Clinton was despicable. Comey is after all a Republican. He got his candidate into the White House, then found out his candidate was wrecking the place. Maybe Comey does have an agenda - getting Trump out and Pence in. Just sayin'.
Who do I believe? The serial liar or the g-man? It's obvious that Comey was telling the truth, and that Trump was just doing his usual thing - lying.
15
"I hope" depends on what the meaning of "is, is".
2
I want to thank Mr Comey for shining the light of truth on the dark lies and Fake News spread by the NYT about our President Trump and Russia. The Democrat/Media Industrial Complex doesn't like have its lies exposed. It took courage to expose their Fake News in this climate of hate, delusions, paranoia, irrationality and violence that the left created after Hillary's attempt to steal the election was foiled
7
For the good of our country, Donald Trump
needs to resign asap.
needs to resign asap.
10
Comey 2018!
The New York Times editorial board pretends to have forgotten that James Comey’s handling of the Hillary Clinton email scandal unleash a torrent of articles that described FBI agents as mutinous. A Wall Street Journal article titled “FBI in Internal Feud Over Hillary Clinton Probe” described growing tensions between agent who though Hillary should or should not be indicted. Huffington Post said “FBI Director James Comey ‘Crossed the Rubicon’ this week when he cast his dice with the Republican Party by releasing a partisan memo with election implications. He’s facing an internal revolt over the affair at the FBI, for undoing decades of non-partisan law enforcement practices.” Even the foreign press jumped in. The Daily Mail reported “James Comey revived the investigation of Clinton's email server as he could no longer resist mounting pressure by mutinous agents.”
11
That was a year ago.
1
So, what's changed? A swamp creature is still a swamp creature.
By his own admission, Comey is not a strong enough person be it with Trump, Loretta Lynch or the Clintons. And he was our counter-terrorism boss? Organized crime prosecutor? We are better off without him.
8
So, when Trump told Comey he hoped he would see his way to ending Flynn, Comey ignored that and kept on investigating. The left calls that obstruction, though there was nothing placed in the way of continuing the investigation, and in fact it continued unimpeded, including after Comey was fired.
When Lynch asked Comey to call HRC investigation a "matter", he demurred, and she persisted and said "Call it a matter". Sounds like an order to me, but whether it was or not, Comey complied. The investigation was called a matter. The left calls that ... nothing. When Lynch meets with Bill on a private plane for 37 minutes, followed closely by the end of HRC investigation, the left calls that ... nothing.
I think a reasonable thinking person would see the hypocrisy in this, the selective outrage, and the resulting lack of credibility on the part of the left, of which the NYT, editors and all, appear to be a key part.
I trust you don't wonder why the MSM is held in lower regard than Congress. Do you think Walter Cronkite, left as he was, would have conducted himself this way?
At best you can say you have descended to the level of Trump (though you’ve gone beyond, or below). I doubt you or the left generally can ever dig yourselves out of those kinds of depths.
When Lynch asked Comey to call HRC investigation a "matter", he demurred, and she persisted and said "Call it a matter". Sounds like an order to me, but whether it was or not, Comey complied. The investigation was called a matter. The left calls that ... nothing. When Lynch meets with Bill on a private plane for 37 minutes, followed closely by the end of HRC investigation, the left calls that ... nothing.
I think a reasonable thinking person would see the hypocrisy in this, the selective outrage, and the resulting lack of credibility on the part of the left, of which the NYT, editors and all, appear to be a key part.
I trust you don't wonder why the MSM is held in lower regard than Congress. Do you think Walter Cronkite, left as he was, would have conducted himself this way?
At best you can say you have descended to the level of Trump (though you’ve gone beyond, or below). I doubt you or the left generally can ever dig yourselves out of those kinds of depths.
10
Comey did well and I forgive him for his blunders with Hillary but the Trump machine doesn't deny anything but lawyers up and by not denying confirms their guilt. I hope his next FBI chief is grilled extensively about his Loyalty oath if any
2
The Republicans keep asking Comey why he didn't "go to someone" about Trump's attempt to obstruct justice. He did, he went right to the one person he was supposed to and that individual shrugged his shoulders. I expect Comey looked around and could see not a single individual who could be trusted to DO something, especially given the antics of people like Nunes and Chaffetz. The entire senior Republican Washington power base seems fine with allowing Trump to lie and profit from his position and destroy the rule of law in this country. Who could Comey trust? No wonder he maneuvered to get a Special Prosecutor appointed. Thank goodness it worked!
9
The present president is known for his exaggerations and lies. Who to believe? Without question, Director Comey! When are the Republicans going to face the truth? Trump is unfit to be president in so many ways.
3
I wish I could hope that Republican voters would wake up and see that they are being fleeced, but apparently they enjoy that. I wish I could hope that Republican voters would care when their leadership supports a consummate liar but then deception is so ingrained in the Republican mantra that those voters now accept it as truth. I wish I could hope that enough of us would care about either of these things that we would get out and vote them out of office, across the country.
Instead, I'm left with wishing I could find hope.
Instead, I'm left with wishing I could find hope.
2
I wish that Democrats would come to their senses and realize that there is no evidence of collusion, just alot of smoke that is starting to affecting my asthma!
Yesterday was a great day for America, for Trump, and for the people who voted for him. It shows just how far the left-over bureaucrats are from accepting that America really is a Democracy.
And it was devastating for Comey. He admitted leaking ... what he had already
told others, who then leaked it, before he did. And since he told who he told about his notes to, we know where to look for the leaks.
And, of course, he absolutely totally vindicated being fired!
If he did not take notes of meetings with Obama, he should not have for Trump.
WOW! just WOW! and the NYTimes can't even see all that. It makes me
prouder than ever to have voted for Trump.
And it was devastating for Comey. He admitted leaking ... what he had already
told others, who then leaked it, before he did. And since he told who he told about his notes to, we know where to look for the leaks.
And, of course, he absolutely totally vindicated being fired!
If he did not take notes of meetings with Obama, he should not have for Trump.
WOW! just WOW! and the NYTimes can't even see all that. It makes me
prouder than ever to have voted for Trump.
7
Do you not realize that the president you so admire is a corrupt, pathological liar? That is an evidence-based fact, not opinion--a concept unfamiliar to many Trump supporters. Don't be fooled by congressional Republicans who have been duping their base for years. They are so spineless and depraved that even though they privately admit to their colleagues that Trump is a danger to our democracy, they support him publicly--just because they selfishly want to push as much of their draconian agenda through congress before Trump crashes and burns. And, despite your delusions about Trump being vindicated, in due time, he will indeed crash and burn.
1
"But Mr. Comey wasn’t suggesting Mr. Trump was foolhardy or inexperienced: He portrayed him as an unscrupulous leader whose request put the nation at risk."
Which is absolutely on target. If Trump really had been ignorant of the law or at least the impropriety of asking Comey to drop the investigation, why did he clear the room? Why was the Attorney General (understandably) hesitant to leave the room? I think the answer is clear to any sentient individual.
Which is absolutely on target. If Trump really had been ignorant of the law or at least the impropriety of asking Comey to drop the investigation, why did he clear the room? Why was the Attorney General (understandably) hesitant to leave the room? I think the answer is clear to any sentient individual.
5
I am reminded of the scene in the movie Apollo 13 where, as the magnitude of the problems become evident and the team is awash in pessimism, Gene Kranz says, "With all due respect, I believe this is going to be our finest hour." This will be the moment when the power and vitality of America and its constitution, its inherent system of checks and balances, as well as the extraordinarily important mission of the press, will combine to transcend politics to take back America.
9
The Russians "want to undermine our credibility in the face of the world", Comey contends. I think Putin was aiming a little higher than credibility when he helped Trump get elected. He couldn't have picked a more dangerous threat to our democracy to help place in the Oval Office.
5
He didn't think Trump would be elected. He was just trying to weaken Hillary, whom he thought he'd be dealing with for 8 years.
I just want to note that you did not call Comey's sharing of his memo a "leak," a term that Trump's apologists, and even some articles in this paper have used to describe it. Thank you. What Comey did was simply speak his own mind, but delegating its communication to a friend acting as messenger. That is not a leak, especially, as you point out here, because the memos contain nothing classified. Now the Trump camp, with some unwitting assist from the media (some of your reporters included), is crowing vindication about its fable of a leaking "deep state." Cheap shot.
3
Comey 2024.
I mean, it's not unthinkable, is it?
I mean, it's not unthinkable, is it?
What I don't understand is why anybody, even a sitting president would want to insult the integrity of the men and women of what is arguably the most powerful law enforcement organization on the planet. Seems risky.
6
Help me: Does anybody understand why there was so much emphasis on Hillary Clinton by the questioners? That matter was settled long ago, in favor of Clinton. Are they afraid to explore the Russian matter, which is much, much more serious and threatening to our country.
8
A Republican's first response to a question he has no cogent answer for is --
"What about _________?"
Fill in any of the following: "Democrats;" "Clinton" -- picked either Hillary or Bill; or "Obama."
"What about _________?"
Fill in any of the following: "Democrats;" "Clinton" -- picked either Hillary or Bill; or "Obama."
Folks: It seems clear to me that we are being played on all sides - the press, the president, the director. Comey is the truth-teller here, but why so much drama? AND, no one could take the time to explain to the Trampler-in-Chief a long-standing protocol that private conversations with the FBI Director and the POTUS do not happen? The only way to explain that would be Comey were also new the game OR if the POTUS were being set up. The new-to-the-game defense for Trump's ineptitudes has been preempted by the cowardly ryan. At this point, it is all way too murky to justify high grades for anyone regarding yesterday's hearing (which by the way was BOOOORRRING!!!).
In light of Comey's articulate testimony, Coates & Rogers (and Rosenstein for that matter), who were asked by the WH to talk to Comey and ask him to back off on the Russian investigation, looked like pathetic fools the day before. Displaying their contempt for Congress by saying they didn't "feel" like answering, with no legal basis to refuse, was sickening. Rogers, with his face twisted in anger, even had to point out that he wasn't trying to be uncooperative. Coates, with his eyes like a deer in headlights, pretended he didn't know a thing and if he did he had no obligation to be honest with the Committee. Rosenstein's body language, especially towards Kamala Harris, gave him away as a just another Trump lackey, Give me a break. These people are obstructing the Russian investigation, all for a guy who will throw them under the bus the minute he "feels" like it.
18
Trump is a liar, Comey is a liar, and so is the New York Times. A sad trifecta.
5
Trump is the Republicans' useful idiot. They will never cooperate in any effort to remove him from office, because while he is obfuscating, they are ramming through their agenda -- with women, minorities, the middle class and the disadvantaged in their cross hairs. They may well succeed if we're not vigilant.
7
NYT - You should be ashamed.
6
Don't believe everything you hear. Read NYT commentary on this. It will come out in the big wash around the corner.
The truth that everyone is dancing around is that Donald Trump is a traitor to the United States. Traitor Trump.
18
The 'Times' editorial board take on Mr. Comey's testimony is predictable. It's possible to have a different opinion, however. To me, Mr. Comey is an unelected politician representing the 'deep state' of the U.S. government who has become a loose cannon, damaging both last year's elections, and the vision of those who want change in Washington due to the egomaniacal pursuit of how he thinks the government should be run. Whatever happens in the temporal matter of Comey vs. Trump vs. the truth, we should never again let an appointed bureaucrat get so powerful. We have apparently forgotten the lesson we were supposed to have learned from the career of J. Edgar Hoover.
6
First of all, this "Deep State" nonsense is yet another invention of the fake news industry, e.g. Fox, Breitbart, etc.
It's a word they invented to label any dedicated public servant who, by the way, has taken an oath to protect the Constitution, not tear it down whenever it doesn't suit some Russian fascist world view.
And second, you need to study that Constitution, because apparently you don't understand the structure of the American government and law regarding public employees and their role in protecting us from anti-American traitors.
It's a word they invented to label any dedicated public servant who, by the way, has taken an oath to protect the Constitution, not tear it down whenever it doesn't suit some Russian fascist world view.
And second, you need to study that Constitution, because apparently you don't understand the structure of the American government and law regarding public employees and their role in protecting us from anti-American traitors.
11
I have another word, which I invented, to describe a pathetic, self servicing, political hack like Comely - Swamp Creature
This is a man that leaked his own meeting notes through a third party!
He was America's top law enforcer yet he didn't know what constituted obstruction of Justice? He is either lying or incompetent.
This is a man that leaked his own meeting notes through a third party!
He was America's top law enforcer yet he didn't know what constituted obstruction of Justice? He is either lying or incompetent.
The only thing that will get President Tornado out of office is a vote of impeachment by the US House. I predict Democrats will gain a huge number of seats as every swing voter votes Democrat in 2018, as getting rid of Trump is the one issue that matters.
7
As history has shown, impeachment will not solve the Trump problem. Resignation, or the next election are our only hopes...........
Agree with you regarding impeachment -- However, either impeachment or resignation leaves us with Mr. Pence, a worrisome person in his own right.
Impeachment happens in the House, but conviction must occur in the Senate.
Gonna be a long four years out there no matter what if we cannot concentrate on those things that are most important to the voters everywhere:
-- the economy
-- full(er) employment
-- education
-- health care
-- national security
-- crime
-- the environment
(and somewhere much further down the line, politics, office holders and the media)
Gonna be a long four years out there no matter what if we cannot concentrate on those things that are most important to the voters everywhere:
-- the economy
-- full(er) employment
-- education
-- health care
-- national security
-- crime
-- the environment
(and somewhere much further down the line, politics, office holders and the media)
1
Con man Trump is trying today to sell Comey's devastating, sworn testimony Thursday as vindication! I had thought we were dealing with a selfish, vicious, dishonest president. I've changed my view, factoring in mentally deranged.
23
Will Republicans repudiate Trump even if he foes to the Russian embassy and asks for asylum.
I mourn for the United States.
I mourn for the United States.
7
I watched Mr. Comey's testimony with a sense of validation that Mr. Trump was being outed for the huckster that he is; I also watched the testimony with a sense of panic. What if nothing changes? What happens next? This president is shameless and I have nightmares that our constitution does not have remedies against this debacle, or perhaps worse yet, that our elected officials lack the spine to execute the constitution's mandates.
20
You can rest assured that the GOP was fully aware of his hucksterism and chose him for the very reason that his administration would be such a distracting mess so they could pass and repeal more laws to make them more wealthy but most importantly to take power away from the people and make the illegal things they are doing legal so they can prevent the people from holding them to account.
The most telling thing to me was that Mr Sessions has had dealings with the Russians that Mr Comey felt needed to be discussed in private. So that's two felonies at his confirmation hearing, the probably crime of helping fire Comey as he was recused from the Russian investigation and now there is some secret apparently illicit dealings he has had with the Russians that we cannot publicly know about yet.
I can hardly wait and don't really know which will be more satisfying seeing Sessions get arrested (hopefully for treason) or watching Trump be fully exposed as the man he actually is?
The most telling thing to me was that Mr Sessions has had dealings with the Russians that Mr Comey felt needed to be discussed in private. So that's two felonies at his confirmation hearing, the probably crime of helping fire Comey as he was recused from the Russian investigation and now there is some secret apparently illicit dealings he has had with the Russians that we cannot publicly know about yet.
I can hardly wait and don't really know which will be more satisfying seeing Sessions get arrested (hopefully for treason) or watching Trump be fully exposed as the man he actually is?
2
I trust Mr. Comey.
19
Don Corleone meets Dudley DooRight.
In the republican senate are Micheal, Sonny, and Fredo, along with consiglieri Tom, where it's family (party) above all.
In the republican senate are Micheal, Sonny, and Fredo, along with consiglieri Tom, where it's family (party) above all.
What does the word hope mean in different contexts?
Trump to Comey about the Flynn investigation, while alone with Comey: "I hope you can let this go."
Trump to Comey via Twitter on May 12, 2017: "James Comey better hope that there are no 'tapes' of our conversations before he starts leaking to the press!"
Is there any doubt that Trump knows there are ways to use the word "hope" in a manner akin to a gangster saying, "nice business you go there, would be a shame if something happened to it."
And then there is Trump's reference, more than once, to "that thing." Trump said to Comey: “I have been very loyal to you, very loyal; we had that thing you know.”
That thing. "We had that thing, you know." If "we" had it, then it would be ours - Our Thing. Anyone from New York would know that Our Thing is English for Cosa Nostra. Governor Christie just reminded us that Trump speaks in New Yorkese, and Our Thing means the same thing in New Jersey as it does in New York.
So we have obstruction of justice and witness intimidation, all conveyed in the language of the Mafia by a President named Don.
Sometimes the truth is right under your nose. Orwell famously told us that this is the circumstance in which seeing the truth might require the greatest effort. It merits remembering that Orwell also wrote at a time when tyrants declared critics to be "enemies of the people."
Trump to Comey about the Flynn investigation, while alone with Comey: "I hope you can let this go."
Trump to Comey via Twitter on May 12, 2017: "James Comey better hope that there are no 'tapes' of our conversations before he starts leaking to the press!"
Is there any doubt that Trump knows there are ways to use the word "hope" in a manner akin to a gangster saying, "nice business you go there, would be a shame if something happened to it."
And then there is Trump's reference, more than once, to "that thing." Trump said to Comey: “I have been very loyal to you, very loyal; we had that thing you know.”
That thing. "We had that thing, you know." If "we" had it, then it would be ours - Our Thing. Anyone from New York would know that Our Thing is English for Cosa Nostra. Governor Christie just reminded us that Trump speaks in New Yorkese, and Our Thing means the same thing in New Jersey as it does in New York.
So we have obstruction of justice and witness intimidation, all conveyed in the language of the Mafia by a President named Don.
Sometimes the truth is right under your nose. Orwell famously told us that this is the circumstance in which seeing the truth might require the greatest effort. It merits remembering that Orwell also wrote at a time when tyrants declared critics to be "enemies of the people."
16
Comey is Younger, Taller, Smarter. Game, Set, Match.............
7
There is an upside to the presidency of Donald Trump.
=========================================
Yes, Trump has raised serious questions about the legitimacy of his presidency, but he has energized the political process. With all his Tweets, his lies and his nonsense, he has made politics interesting and meaningful, again.
Before Trump we had "No drama Obama." It was rare that anything exciting happened during the Obama years. Yawn, yawn. But now, every single day there is something out of the White House and the Congress to talk about. Although the future looks bleak, politics is exciting, again.
Second, the improbable election of the likes of Donald Trump offers hope to the rest of us. If a "clown" like Trump could make it to the White House, think what we could all accomplish. Yes, Trump has revived the spirit of the American dream, in his own crazy way.
As we may hope that Trump will soon leave office, lets see the bright side.
=======================================================
=========================================
Yes, Trump has raised serious questions about the legitimacy of his presidency, but he has energized the political process. With all his Tweets, his lies and his nonsense, he has made politics interesting and meaningful, again.
Before Trump we had "No drama Obama." It was rare that anything exciting happened during the Obama years. Yawn, yawn. But now, every single day there is something out of the White House and the Congress to talk about. Although the future looks bleak, politics is exciting, again.
Second, the improbable election of the likes of Donald Trump offers hope to the rest of us. If a "clown" like Trump could make it to the White House, think what we could all accomplish. Yes, Trump has revived the spirit of the American dream, in his own crazy way.
As we may hope that Trump will soon leave office, lets see the bright side.
=======================================================
3
"In his Thursday testimony before the Senate Intelligence Committee, former FBI director James B. Comey said that a controversial New York Times story in February about alleged contacts between Trump intimates and Russian officials was bogus. “In the main, it was not true,” he said." - Washington Post
Not true is the equivalent of lying. In a court of law a good defense attorney would ask, were you lying then or are you lying now? Or is your whole anti-Trump agenda one big partisan lie? Which is closer to the truth NYT?
Not true is the equivalent of lying. In a court of law a good defense attorney would ask, were you lying then or are you lying now? Or is your whole anti-Trump agenda one big partisan lie? Which is closer to the truth NYT?
7
Here's the difference:
When it comes to dealing with sensitive national security issues, James Tomey, Director of the FBI, consults with his senior leadership team. That includes: The Deputy Director, Chief of Staff, General Counsel, Deputy Director’s General Counsel, and the Head of the National Security Branch of the FBI.
When it comes to dealing with sensitive national security issues, Donald Trump, President of the United States, sends out a tweet.
Who do you believe?
When it comes to dealing with sensitive national security issues, James Tomey, Director of the FBI, consults with his senior leadership team. That includes: The Deputy Director, Chief of Staff, General Counsel, Deputy Director’s General Counsel, and the Head of the National Security Branch of the FBI.
When it comes to dealing with sensitive national security issues, Donald Trump, President of the United States, sends out a tweet.
Who do you believe?
7
President Trump?
Because HE is the one with the authority, not the others.
The others are playing political games at the expense of the duly elected Executive Branch of the government.
They are the perfect examples of "deep state" choosing THEIR views over those of the political leaders that they serve.
Because HE is the one with the authority, not the others.
The others are playing political games at the expense of the duly elected Executive Branch of the government.
They are the perfect examples of "deep state" choosing THEIR views over those of the political leaders that they serve.
4
If by "deep state," you mean "the Constitution of the United States of America," then yes.
5
Or consults with Russian operatives.
1
"There is an aspect to public servants like Mr. Comey that Mr. Trump and his administration seem unable to comprehend, to their peril — a dedication to their roles that places service above any president’s glory."
--------------------------
... and above their own glory. Too many in government positions (but perhaps especially Republicans) either forget, intentionally ignore, or never realize that their job is public service, not self-service. And that "the public" is their entire constituency, not just their cronies, their donors, or even their voter base. Trump is, of course, an extreme case: a willfully ignorant and unethical narcissist focused on serving a constituency of one -- himself.
--------------------------
... and above their own glory. Too many in government positions (but perhaps especially Republicans) either forget, intentionally ignore, or never realize that their job is public service, not self-service. And that "the public" is their entire constituency, not just their cronies, their donors, or even their voter base. Trump is, of course, an extreme case: a willfully ignorant and unethical narcissist focused on serving a constituency of one -- himself.
4
Bad day for the NYT, CNN and the Dem party. Comey confirmed that President Trump is not the target of any Russia related investigation, in direct conflict with the nonsense the Times has been peddling for almost a year now. Comey came off as weak and pathetic, stating himself that he was too much of a coward to come forth with what he thought may be obstruction of justice. He proved himself weak when he obeyed Loretta Lynch's direct order to call the Hillary investigation as a "matter", rather than what it really was. We want self professed cowards who can control their "feelings" leading the FBI? Several constitutional law scholars, including left leaning ones like Alan Dershowitz and Jonathan Turley both state very plainly there is no obstruction of justice based on Comey's written and oral testimony. He admitted leaking his self-serving memo. At the end of the day, Trump was indeed vindicated. The NYT should be ashamed of themselves for their false and misleading reporting. The paper of record? I don' think so
11
So, I guess you're privy to the closed door testimony also? Trump and vindication are not two words that belong together particularly since he keeps acting like there is something to hide and lie about. The whole Trump crew obfuscates and takes their hopes, er, orders from the President. This, plus the tax return issue indicates there is more to this. BTW: Trump got more electoral votes than anyone in the history of democracy. I'm sure you believe that, too.
2
Sorry Robert you have it all wrong. First, Comey said that at the time he spoke with Trump he told him that he was not the subject of any investigation. He did not talk about what is happening today. In any case, several members of the Trump team are indeed subjects of investigation, and common law conspiracy law tells us that if one member of a conspiracy is guilty, all are guilty.
As for the law professors, whether there is a criminal violation is not the same as whether there is an impeachable offense, and Comey's testimony clearly shows that there is an impeachable offense.
Significantly, why is Trump so concerned about stopping an investigation of his campaign's ties to Russia if he is not afraid of what it might show about him and his associates, and why does he deny Russian intelligence involvement in our election, and why does he praise and admire Putin?
And most significantly, Comey -- under oath -- called the Pres of the US a serial liar. Is Trump willing to deny under oath what Comey said?
As for the law professors, whether there is a criminal violation is not the same as whether there is an impeachable offense, and Comey's testimony clearly shows that there is an impeachable offense.
Significantly, why is Trump so concerned about stopping an investigation of his campaign's ties to Russia if he is not afraid of what it might show about him and his associates, and why does he deny Russian intelligence involvement in our election, and why does he praise and admire Putin?
And most significantly, Comey -- under oath -- called the Pres of the US a serial liar. Is Trump willing to deny under oath what Comey said?
2
@Robert: I agree. I'll add that in this editorial the Times said Trump was the "beneficiary of Russian meddling" - when they don't know that, at all. it's just more mudslinging to keep their readers fired up, as most of them are in these comments. For most of them, it's not that Trump is innocent until proven guilty, it's that he's guilty until proven innocent, even before any evidence has been presented. In this, of course, they're no different than many on the right vis-a-vis HRC, but they're no better, either, even though they think they are.
1
Showboat, lol.
2
the man told the truth
4
What we saw in the testimony is the former FBI Director pointing out that his loyalty is to the country and not to any particular individual. And, then going onto say how Comey felt the reason why he was fired from his position as FBI Director. Basically, placing the blame on the POTUS.
In further analyzing the testimony, what we see is the stubborn behavior of our POTUS in not wanting to accept or support the Russian probe. Why would Mr. Trump ask the former FBI Director to suspend investigation of Michael Flynn? Why would the president fire Mr. Comey? Why would the president entertain the Russian Ambassador, and the Foreign Minister to the White House and even on that occasion discredit the FBI Director as a 'nut job'. This is all very disturbing.
The testimony is over. Now, the president's legal team is preparing action against Mr. Comey, who is now been called a liar. This is an attempt to switch back the blame on Comey. What we see in this exercise is that our POTUS wants to show the people that he is never wrong. He is always right. However, he has yet to explain fully, to the people of this country, why he supports Russia, and why he does not believe in the Russia investigation that is going on.
In further analyzing the testimony, what we see is the stubborn behavior of our POTUS in not wanting to accept or support the Russian probe. Why would Mr. Trump ask the former FBI Director to suspend investigation of Michael Flynn? Why would the president fire Mr. Comey? Why would the president entertain the Russian Ambassador, and the Foreign Minister to the White House and even on that occasion discredit the FBI Director as a 'nut job'. This is all very disturbing.
The testimony is over. Now, the president's legal team is preparing action against Mr. Comey, who is now been called a liar. This is an attempt to switch back the blame on Comey. What we see in this exercise is that our POTUS wants to show the people that he is never wrong. He is always right. However, he has yet to explain fully, to the people of this country, why he supports Russia, and why he does not believe in the Russia investigation that is going on.
5
The courts have long ruled that the President has broad powers of executive authority.
You must have missed the part where Comey agreed that Trump has the right to direct an investigation or to halt an investigation. He also has the power to ask for the resignation or to fire any Executive Branch employee who requires confirmation in the Senate. (In this line of discussion, Emcee, you seem to be ignorant of the Second Circuit Court of Appeals decision on the President's sole and exclusive right to fire the Director of the Consumer Protection Finance Board.)
You must have missed the part where Comey agreed that Trump has the right to direct an investigation or to halt an investigation. He also has the power to ask for the resignation or to fire any Executive Branch employee who requires confirmation in the Senate. (In this line of discussion, Emcee, you seem to be ignorant of the Second Circuit Court of Appeals decision on the President's sole and exclusive right to fire the Director of the Consumer Protection Finance Board.)
1
Given the choice to believe Trump or Mr. Comey, I will go with Mr Comey. Every. Single. Time. Mr. Comey was under oath, didn't twist facts to suit himself, was utterly believable and loves America. Trump "loves" the America he wants it to be: in the total grasp of the 1%. The reversal of Dodd-Franks, reversal of all thing Obama, and reversal of Paris Climate Agreement are among the many proofs of Trump's desire to enrich himself and his family at our expense.
8
Unfortunately, in this sort of situation, the practiced and shameless liar (Trump) has the advantage. Despite the details Comey provided, his interactions with Trump remain he said-he said. Remember the accesss Hollywood tape and the women who came forward afterwards saying Trump molested them? The price Trump paid for that was to be elected president. Trump has helped to push an already existing political culture of mendacity into overdrive. And he swims in that culture like a fish in water while people like Comey drown.
5
Comey's testimony, his dignity and comportment, plus the GOP senators' biased and craven questioning, all add up to a profound civics lesson for us all. Fealty to the Constitution, rather than to a person, and the immense power our elected officials actually have the potential to use to save our democracy, and fail to do so, were on display. It's breathtaking.
However. Too much is still being concealed and saved for classified briefings. At this point, we the people really deserve to know the full truth of what went on and what is still going on behind the scenes. I, for one, feel manipulated by what feels like a show trial. We're still left holding our breath and wondering when this nightmare will end. The intelligence seems to be there and a lot of facts seem to be kept from us, not by a supreme being or demigods, but by elected officials, their appointees and employees. I want to see my government, all of it, work for us. OUR government has the information and power to put a stop to this. When???!!!!!!!!
However. Too much is still being concealed and saved for classified briefings. At this point, we the people really deserve to know the full truth of what went on and what is still going on behind the scenes. I, for one, feel manipulated by what feels like a show trial. We're still left holding our breath and wondering when this nightmare will end. The intelligence seems to be there and a lot of facts seem to be kept from us, not by a supreme being or demigods, but by elected officials, their appointees and employees. I want to see my government, all of it, work for us. OUR government has the information and power to put a stop to this. When???!!!!!!!!
5
What about "lies" in the NY Times? Comey said that the Times' report of "multiple contacts" between members of the Trump campaign and Russian agents was "not true."
6
No he did not say that, and the NYT ran at article yesterday addressing the issue.
4
Did anyone else notice that when Comey said "I thought the president might lie about our meetings" no one blinked? A picture perfect moment to cue the Republican outrage but even his party simply takes it as a given that the president is a liar. Wow.
9
The country has come to a bad pass when senators criticize Comey for not giving the President of the United States, a lesson on proper constitutional comportment.
I don't think that that is one of his responsibilities. He has an Attorney General there to give him tutorials. However,Trump knew very well that what he was asking was illegal because he threw out of his office any possible witnesses to his misdeed: the Attorney General, his Chief of Staff, his Senior Counselor. He closed the door on them and there they were, shaking in their boots about what mischief their boss was getting into.
I don't think that that is one of his responsibilities. He has an Attorney General there to give him tutorials. However,Trump knew very well that what he was asking was illegal because he threw out of his office any possible witnesses to his misdeed: the Attorney General, his Chief of Staff, his Senior Counselor. He closed the door on them and there they were, shaking in their boots about what mischief their boss was getting into.
10
"There is an aspect to public servants like Mr. Comey that Mr. Trump and his administration seem unable to comprehend, to their peril — a dedication to their roles that places service above any president’s glory."
This couldn't ring more true. I see my husband slog his guts out every day (days which last longer than 17 hours) at work in a Department that this Administration is trying to demoralize and cripple. When I say, "gosh darl you would work fewer hours for MUCH more money in the private sector and advance more quickly", he resolutely replies, "Romy, I am committed to public service. I really want to serve my country". This is the same for the hundreds of others I have met serving in American institutions. I am blown away by their unwavering commitment to their values and their roles. It is so breathtakingly selfless.
I know that Comey's dedication, shared by American public servants everywhere, will win out in the end.
This couldn't ring more true. I see my husband slog his guts out every day (days which last longer than 17 hours) at work in a Department that this Administration is trying to demoralize and cripple. When I say, "gosh darl you would work fewer hours for MUCH more money in the private sector and advance more quickly", he resolutely replies, "Romy, I am committed to public service. I really want to serve my country". This is the same for the hundreds of others I have met serving in American institutions. I am blown away by their unwavering commitment to their values and their roles. It is so breathtakingly selfless.
I know that Comey's dedication, shared by American public servants everywhere, will win out in the end.
21
Thank you to your husband, you and your family for supporting your husband's efforts to serve our country with integrity. Good people like your husband, your family and a majority of good Americans will prevail during these challenging times of polarity.
Keep the faith. We have a wonderful country in spite of the Republican robber barons...
Keep the faith. We have a wonderful country in spite of the Republican robber barons...
1
Yesterday's testimony, as well as the lack of public testimony of the prior day, are but just the tip of the iceberg dead ahead. This is the beginning.
If you are to connect the already visible dots, it would appear that the Trump presidency and multiple family businesses are very connected to Russian money and perhaps, much more. If the Russians have dirt on Trump or his closest associates, I doubt they will ever expose it. Doing so would relinquish them of any leverage. However, the money trail is going to be hard to combover. The same is true for less than smart meetings with so many Trump family and inner-circle members with Russians.
I don't believe in so many coincidences without a central theme. Maybe blackmail, maybe quid-pro-quo, maybe payback, maybe future deals, or maybe several of these. There is definitely way too much Trump contact with a foreign country that intentionally interfered in our elections (something that the CIA use do too). Coincidence? Let us not be that naive.
Time will tell how far this goes and where it leads.
Maybe it will end like Nixon: a busted burglary, cover up, resignation and pardon. Had the Nixon investigations continued, it would have dissected his career: derailing the '68 peace-talks, Hunt's CIA involvement in the Bay of Pigs and Dallas, as well as an explanation of why Nixon was in Dallas the night before the assassination. Eventually you have to throw in the towel to save yourself.
Trump may be next-anyone have a towel?
If you are to connect the already visible dots, it would appear that the Trump presidency and multiple family businesses are very connected to Russian money and perhaps, much more. If the Russians have dirt on Trump or his closest associates, I doubt they will ever expose it. Doing so would relinquish them of any leverage. However, the money trail is going to be hard to combover. The same is true for less than smart meetings with so many Trump family and inner-circle members with Russians.
I don't believe in so many coincidences without a central theme. Maybe blackmail, maybe quid-pro-quo, maybe payback, maybe future deals, or maybe several of these. There is definitely way too much Trump contact with a foreign country that intentionally interfered in our elections (something that the CIA use do too). Coincidence? Let us not be that naive.
Time will tell how far this goes and where it leads.
Maybe it will end like Nixon: a busted burglary, cover up, resignation and pardon. Had the Nixon investigations continued, it would have dissected his career: derailing the '68 peace-talks, Hunt's CIA involvement in the Bay of Pigs and Dallas, as well as an explanation of why Nixon was in Dallas the night before the assassination. Eventually you have to throw in the towel to save yourself.
Trump may be next-anyone have a towel?
1
The most important question to pursue right now is why Trump would go so far out of his way to protect Flynn. Are we truly to believe that Trump was just being a loyal, concerned friend? Highly doubtful.
6
I still find myself wondering why Flynn has so much power and influence on government proceedings. Could he have some connection to the Russians? And protection by them? I spent over 20 years in the military and I find this Flynn power way out of balance with his rank and position, even now..........
2
James Comey has done a great service to the country. The fact that he knows how to play the Washington game is not a negative. The GOP senators' disingenuous attempts to neutralize Trump's interference in the investigation of Flynn by his use of the word "hope" is laughable. Anyone in the Oval Office with the most powerful man in the country would take that as an order. They are grasping at straws to find ways to give this clear attempt to obstruct justice a gloss of innocence. Trump was not worried for Flynn. He was and is concerned about self-preservation and what would be uncovered about the collusion with the Russians by members of his team with his knowledge and consent. There may be more revelations about Russian ties and influence, perhaps Trump's indebtedness of vast sums to Russian banks whose oligarchs are a step away from Putin. There have been too many forgotten meetings with the Russians by too many of the Trump coterie including Sessions and Kushner. What are they all hiding? What did Trump know and when did he know it? Deja vu to Watergate is unavoidable. It may take some time but the truth will come out. The GOP will deny and obfuscate to maintain their seats and hold on power, but will be damaged for putting party before country. James Comey will go down in history as the man whose honesty shone light on the utter amorality of Trump and his team, just as John Dean did decades ago in Watergate leading to Nixon's resignation.
2
Comet did a great job trying to save some of his integrity.
By useing his massaged notes on a government computer he has opened himself up to investigation for leaking executive documents to the media.
The Democrats will use him up for a while and then discard him.
By useing his massaged notes on a government computer he has opened himself up to investigation for leaking executive documents to the media.
The Democrats will use him up for a while and then discard him.
1
This is stranger than any Twilight Zone episode I have ever seen. Nixon must be laughing wherever he landed in the after life, and with gusto... His transgressions pale in comparison and yet, our current President still has supporters. How far into the gutter will these people go? I resent being dragged into it with them. Vote.
6
When will the NYT run an article on why they got so much of the Trump/Russia story wrong?
6
They did yesterday. Take a look.
it is still frightening that three in four Republicans believe Donald Trump, even as only a third of Americans approve of his presidency. To what do we ascribe the fault line? It can't be as simple as a parallel universe, can it?
Go Dubs.
Go Dubs.
2
They don't believe him they're just trying to get their agenda through.
5
With every shoe that drops I feel measures of increasing hope that the day will arrive when we see an abrupt end to this administration and the deserved disgrace that accompanies its participants to the end of their lives.
2
As I recall, the very principled major players in the Watergate/Nixon chose to resign rather than create and leak personal memoranDUMBS (sic) and then blab to Congress their side(s) of the affair -- except for what must be kept secret and exposed only behind closed doors, which are basically sieves.
2
CSI: Washington!
Just like real juries have come to expect trials to be like a one hour tv show, we now expect the very worst from our politicians and cross our fingers that nothing HUGE happens.
The underlying feature of both is reasonableness.
The courts do not say "do you find this person innocent with no doubt"
It states "guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
Can a reasonable person believe Trump over Comey? Not likely. Everyone agreed before and after the election he was a pathalogocal liar. His supporters would be presented with video or audio taped lies and they'd say, "oh, that just Trump being Trump". They say, "it'll be different". Well, it's much worse.
Now, you have them twisted in a pretzel because Comey is a career lawman. They are trained in measuring people up and alert to physical and verbal threats as their lives depend on it. I 100% believe his version. Trump has been lying all along. The question is why.
Now the issue is that Comey told Trump he was PERSONALLY" was not under investigation at those times.
Who cares if Comey asked his friend to give his memos to a friend to release. It wasn't classified and led to a special prosecutor, good. What if there really is something big out there to be uncovered. Was Comey supposed to leave that to Sessions and his # two?
So I think it has been proven beyond a reasonable doubt based on prior actions that Trump is a liar.
Just like real juries have come to expect trials to be like a one hour tv show, we now expect the very worst from our politicians and cross our fingers that nothing HUGE happens.
The underlying feature of both is reasonableness.
The courts do not say "do you find this person innocent with no doubt"
It states "guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
Can a reasonable person believe Trump over Comey? Not likely. Everyone agreed before and after the election he was a pathalogocal liar. His supporters would be presented with video or audio taped lies and they'd say, "oh, that just Trump being Trump". They say, "it'll be different". Well, it's much worse.
Now, you have them twisted in a pretzel because Comey is a career lawman. They are trained in measuring people up and alert to physical and verbal threats as their lives depend on it. I 100% believe his version. Trump has been lying all along. The question is why.
Now the issue is that Comey told Trump he was PERSONALLY" was not under investigation at those times.
Who cares if Comey asked his friend to give his memos to a friend to release. It wasn't classified and led to a special prosecutor, good. What if there really is something big out there to be uncovered. Was Comey supposed to leave that to Sessions and his # two?
So I think it has been proven beyond a reasonable doubt based on prior actions that Trump is a liar.
1
Trump knows a nut job when he sees one. After all trump is the nut job in cheat, we, I mean in chief. Instead of potus, how about njic. You could use that term for most republicans in general. I also use hypocrites in office. Hio. To Paul Ryan I say this, your asking to give trumpsky a break as he is new to the nuances of Washington. How much of a break did McConnell give Obama- ever. Or any of your colleagues. Lock him UP!
4
With apologies to your bleeding heart, really-hate-America, radic-lib readership, you missed the point entirely. I scratch my head reading your opinions about President Trump. It's a recurring sign of an in-coming headache.
Your editorial board may feel justified in positing your equation depicting Comey decrying Trumpian calumny, but you've slung your arrow so far off target it's almost laughable!
It is appropriate to quote Comey's Russia rant: "They're coming after America...They want to undermine our credibility in the face the world. They think that this great experiment of ours is a threat to them. So they're going to try to run it down and dirty it up as much as possible. That's what this is about and they will be back. Because we remain - as difficult as we can be with each other, we remain that shining city on the hill. And they don't like it."
This is the biggest load of horse hockey I've read in years. Self-obsessed, apparently with a case of J. Edgar Tough-Guy Syndrome, and swinging the Cold War ax at Congress - hoping they all flinch - the former Director serves as yet another too tall cold war warrior in a time that passed decades ago.
Comey is a verifiable caricature of what America now needs in an FBI Director. As you understate, Comey is "sometimes self-righteous". Correct; he has all the qualities that better befit the persona of Johnny Depp or Matt Damon than FBI Director. He was, thankfully, fired.
Your editorial board may feel justified in positing your equation depicting Comey decrying Trumpian calumny, but you've slung your arrow so far off target it's almost laughable!
It is appropriate to quote Comey's Russia rant: "They're coming after America...They want to undermine our credibility in the face the world. They think that this great experiment of ours is a threat to them. So they're going to try to run it down and dirty it up as much as possible. That's what this is about and they will be back. Because we remain - as difficult as we can be with each other, we remain that shining city on the hill. And they don't like it."
This is the biggest load of horse hockey I've read in years. Self-obsessed, apparently with a case of J. Edgar Tough-Guy Syndrome, and swinging the Cold War ax at Congress - hoping they all flinch - the former Director serves as yet another too tall cold war warrior in a time that passed decades ago.
Comey is a verifiable caricature of what America now needs in an FBI Director. As you understate, Comey is "sometimes self-righteous". Correct; he has all the qualities that better befit the persona of Johnny Depp or Matt Damon than FBI Director. He was, thankfully, fired.
5
To see the RNC anti-Comey talking points that were disseminated yesterday was so discouraging.
What about the fact that what Trump did was just plain wrong? As a Dem I was disappointed as heck to hear Lynch directed Comey to spin his announcements, and I believe she should be dragged in for an inquiry now. Trump is orders of magnitude beyond her.
How many more creepy loyalty-demanding tete-a-tete's has the President had with his cabinet members and advisers? How easily did they say yes? Since every Senator on the Intel committee and Comey all affirmed the Russian threat is real, should any of the people Flynn hired in his short tenure remain in government?
These are just a few of the questions that are keeping me up at night.
Thanks Comey, I think.
What about the fact that what Trump did was just plain wrong? As a Dem I was disappointed as heck to hear Lynch directed Comey to spin his announcements, and I believe she should be dragged in for an inquiry now. Trump is orders of magnitude beyond her.
How many more creepy loyalty-demanding tete-a-tete's has the President had with his cabinet members and advisers? How easily did they say yes? Since every Senator on the Intel committee and Comey all affirmed the Russian threat is real, should any of the people Flynn hired in his short tenure remain in government?
These are just a few of the questions that are keeping me up at night.
Thanks Comey, I think.
2
Did the RNC take Putin's $$$?
3
Our president is a liar?? Shame on him and Shame on us. After two years of campaign, we choose the liar? What happened to our judgment and intelligence? Are we a Dumb nation? What a shame!
5
No more evidence that the Republican Party is a party of deplorables need be amassed now that it, in essence, accedes to the creditability of Comey's testimony but finds no reason to distance itself from trump.
Coney,s integrity demonstrated by his admission he revealed documents which could get him into trouble contrasts markedly with the ' me first" tweets of Trump and the statements of his obnoxious lawyer.
Trump is more concerned with self preservation than the preservation of our Democracy which he has sworn to protect.
Again contrast that with Comeys vigorous condemnation of Russia's interference with Trumps deafening silence on this issue.
Trump putting self before country was clearly visible when he kowtowed to Saudi Arabia the sponsers of Wahhabism the foundation of ISIS and Al Quaeda
How he lapped up their feigned adulation.
If anyone doubts the real feelings of Saudi Arabia they should reflect on the fact that the Saudi Soccer team refused while they were in the UK to observe a minutes silence for the victims of the Londin bombings.
Trump is more concerned with self preservation than the preservation of our Democracy which he has sworn to protect.
Again contrast that with Comeys vigorous condemnation of Russia's interference with Trumps deafening silence on this issue.
Trump putting self before country was clearly visible when he kowtowed to Saudi Arabia the sponsers of Wahhabism the foundation of ISIS and Al Quaeda
How he lapped up their feigned adulation.
If anyone doubts the real feelings of Saudi Arabia they should reflect on the fact that the Saudi Soccer team refused while they were in the UK to observe a minutes silence for the victims of the Londin bombings.
2
Sorry...The headline should read "Mr. Comey and All the Director's Lies".
This is a man that has committed a crime for the basest of reasons...to protect his own skin.
He's about as credible a witness as Hillary Clinton is on her e-mail server in the basement and the classified information that was sent and received both by her and her oh-so-loyal staff.
And what about the "loyalty question"? Aren't the Clintons known for their insatiable demands for loyalty from everyone and anyone that enters their circles?
And don't they absolutely destroy anyone that crosses them?
Given that track record, it could be an easy construct that Comey has changed his spots and is once again carrying the Clinton's water.
This is a man that has committed a crime for the basest of reasons...to protect his own skin.
He's about as credible a witness as Hillary Clinton is on her e-mail server in the basement and the classified information that was sent and received both by her and her oh-so-loyal staff.
And what about the "loyalty question"? Aren't the Clintons known for their insatiable demands for loyalty from everyone and anyone that enters their circles?
And don't they absolutely destroy anyone that crosses them?
Given that track record, it could be an easy construct that Comey has changed his spots and is once again carrying the Clinton's water.
6
Lies? What about Comey lying that Hillary Clinton's law breaking did not rise to the level of indictment? And what about Comey himself leaking his personal meeting details with Trump to the press through his buddy? Comey is a loose cannon, and there is absolutely no evidence that Trump coerced him to let Flynn slide, or that he colluded with Russia to rig the election in his favor. Comey should be prosecuted and jailed for lying and incompetence.
4
Though I agree that Comey is a "wiley bureaucratic fighter," what I saw yesterday is a great policeman as well. His comment about being "stunned" after the first meeting rings false to me since Comey is much smarter than that, and in fact, in rushing to memorialize the exchange immediately following this January dinner proves he knew Trump's character beforehand and probably suspected this dinner could prove "awkward" yet at the same time, a source of information related to the Russia probe. When the exchange started, he immediately saw it as possible evidence for the ongoing investigation and thus not reportable until he knew more.
Trump probably sensed during the meeting that he was speaking to a cop and not to a person he could manipulate. Thus he never spoke of dropping Kelly's investigation after the January meeting.
After listening yesterday, we can surmise either one of two scenarios:
1) Trump didn't not know that Russia was working with his campaign staff and as such, was the dimwit candidate at the top of his campaign, or
2) He had full knowledge and did nothing to subvert it or expose it, but instead, ignored the implication and used the help to win an election (and tellingly, he continues to ignore this attack on democracy).
Other "rocks" barely mentioned are the financial ones of this investigation. These "rocks" loomed in the corners of the room and we all felt their weight. Alas, we'll have to wait for Mueller's testimony to hear those details.
Trump probably sensed during the meeting that he was speaking to a cop and not to a person he could manipulate. Thus he never spoke of dropping Kelly's investigation after the January meeting.
After listening yesterday, we can surmise either one of two scenarios:
1) Trump didn't not know that Russia was working with his campaign staff and as such, was the dimwit candidate at the top of his campaign, or
2) He had full knowledge and did nothing to subvert it or expose it, but instead, ignored the implication and used the help to win an election (and tellingly, he continues to ignore this attack on democracy).
Other "rocks" barely mentioned are the financial ones of this investigation. These "rocks" loomed in the corners of the room and we all felt their weight. Alas, we'll have to wait for Mueller's testimony to hear those details.
"the dimwit candidate" is a ruse. He showed us yesterday that his is not childishly out of control as he works so hard to make us think. He knew full well and I suspect we are going to find out that the Steele dossier has more truth than most want to believe in it. I believe Trump is at a minimum beholden to the Russians.
1
It is clear that there are many who hope that the Russia connection will materialize into something impeachable. As a novus homo, Trump will have very little backing in his own party, and he has done nothing but make supporting him politically dangerous. But what did the Russians do that actually mattered? Internet trolls? Publish emails? While I do not question that Putin had his revenge on Clinton for her attacks on Russian elections, I do not believe Russia changed one vote. Who did influence voters to change their minds? James Comey. I know that makes him queasy, but I also remember he felt he had to go public, after an ex-president interfered with an investigation, crippling the chain of command at DOJ. Is there a party capable of presenting ethical candidates to choose from? I think we make it easy for the Russians to troll us.
How far we've come, and how fast as well. Not too long ago, the NYT was defending itself against the use of the word 'lie' when referring to this White House while everyone else was performing linguistic acrobatics and trying to stave off the inevitable truth. How ironic! And those who espouse the ways of 'say it like it is and stop being so politically correct' just got their dose of medicine. I'm so glad that the Senate did its duty admirably here, and I hope that the classified details that were shared in further session moved the needle toward Congress's understanding that this President only has his own interests in mind, and cares nothing for the safety and security of their constituents. It's time to get off the crazy train Republicans!
2
I am hopeful that with Comey's testimony the wheels will finally come off the Trump presidency. We have never had a more morally bankrupt traitor as president. He threatens the future of America. He needs to resign.
5
Perhaps the most devastating bit of Comey testimony was that he passed his memos to a friend at Columbia law with the recommendation to pass them on to a free press.
Why did he not pass them to an internal oversight committees or upstream executive branch minders? Obviously he felt the documents would be suppressed by the Republicans who hold these positions and never see the light of day.
What a sorry state of affairs in our democracy. Honorable public servants cannot trust the politicians who have control over them.
Disgraceful.
Why did he not pass them to an internal oversight committees or upstream executive branch minders? Obviously he felt the documents would be suppressed by the Republicans who hold these positions and never see the light of day.
What a sorry state of affairs in our democracy. Honorable public servants cannot trust the politicians who have control over them.
Disgraceful.
4
I'd love to see a large ( impossibly large?) graphic presentation of the history of The Russia-Trump -FBI interactions. Maybe a genogram or ecogram? A challenge for the Upshot, maybe
Unfortunately for Comey, he has now admitted to a felony under oath. Comey wrote his memo on an FBI computer, on FBI time, following an official meeting with the President in which the discussion centered on an ongoing FBI investigation into Michael Flynn. Comey then discussed this meeting and memo with FBI officials and considered whether to advise his superiors at DOJ. The memo is unquestionably an FBI record .Comey then removed and/or deleted the memo from his FBI issued computer and leaked the memo to a private citizen/friend with orders to further leak the memo to a private partisan newspaper for the purpose of instigating appointment of a special counsel, with the knowledge that the memo would be critical evidence in the ensuing special counsel investigation.
5
Comey is a lawyer - he was perfectly aware of what he was doing. Clearly, he had a choice: risk prosecution and expose Trump's attempt at obstruction and lies, or keep his mouth shut and let Trump continue on. Not a choice to be taken lightly.
1
If true, this damages Comey but still exposes more (or, at least further confirms) the Trump character issue. It also reinforces the axiom that anyone dealing with Trump is in danger of being ruined by sheer malevolence. Perhaps Comey should have resigned when first confronted with Trump's manipulation. The revelations would have surfaced anyway (Comey would still be unemployed. Maybe Comey's sin was getting too "cute" rather than going over the top and just saying "No."
Do you honestly believe that this (Republican) former US attorney, Deputy AG, and FBI Director would leave himself vulnerable to felony charges? Please, think about that for a few minutes. This guy knows the law like Trump knows gilding.
3
I wanted to see what the NYTs response to Mr. Comey's claim they published lies about the Russian investigation in their paper. We use to depend on the NYTs, Washington Post and CNN to provide us the truth, now they have become as bad as Fox, MSNBC and the rest of Network TV. I'm still waiting for the response.
The Trump slogan should be: In Lies We Trust.
4
Or in lawsuits we trust with reference to T attorney announcing prospect of lawsuit. And the people thought he was getting back to the no plan 'infrastructure '. Not so fast folks!
The whole country knows that Comrade Trump is a chronic liar or, as some have said, a “pathological liar.” Members of Congress know that—including all the Republicans, although most are reluctant to use the L word, and so they dance around the point. Even Mr. Comey was reluctant to use the L word, which is why we heard a slight tremor in his voice the first time he used it. (The NYT, by the way, crossed this bridge months ago, and “liar” now routinely appears in the Opinion Pages.) We have no reason to doubt the accuracy and veracity of Mr. Comey’s account. But it will take more—perhaps a lot more—for the Republican majority in Congress to take action. With a President who seems incapable of controlling his tantrums and curbing his behavior, that day may eventually arrive.
1
The problem with all of this is that Comey claimed he was very uncomfortable form the first meeting with Trump. So instead of telling him from the get go that the contact was inappropriate, he went on to meet with him several more times. And then he leaks his own meeting notes. Sounds like Comey, aided and abetted by false news storys (which he said were untrue), manipulated this entire affair. But of course the Times editorial board would never give his testimony the deep consideration it deserved. Similar to the Times doubling down to prove its Russia story even though Comey said it wrong. And you wonder why you are criticized so harshly.
3
You, sir, have never worked for a powerful boss. You do what he says and how he says to do it, or quit. You don't question his methods or, god help us, his ethics, because you will be fired or forced to quit. The logic presented in this comment, and by Republican Senators, is extremely idealistic, unworkable, and delusional.
1
And did Comey ever read Trump his rights in their meetings, after Trump allegedly asked him for things that Comey felt were tantamount to an "obstruction of justice" count: "I'm placing you under arrest. You have the right to remain silent. Anything you say may and will be used against you in a court of law....)??
1
How about John McCain's mixing up Comey and Trump -- twice -- while asking questions. He seemed to be exhibiting some confusion and possible dementia. While I am no McCain fan, to put it mildly, it was sad to see. But sadder still is the fact that he remains a U.S. Senator.
2
Trump's profound cynicism reveals a man who cannot grasp why Comey would chose loyalty to America over him. Trump's incredible act of clearing everyone out of his office to speak with Comey about Flynn means that Trump, a sociopath, is truly worried about what Flynn has to say about Russia. Sure, Trump was not under investigation when Comey ran the FBI,-- the FBI investigators were barely climbing the ladder of evidence. Given Trump's attempts at obstruction he's clearly under investigation now. Trump's next Tweet? "Prior to Feb 14th I was not under investigation!Save Flynn!"
1
In questioning Comey, a couple of Republican Senators asked questions with the jist "Republicans asked why he didn’t try to educate a president so ignorant of the F.B.I.’s role."
Such questions are beyond naive, and they represent a scramble by Republicans to push the blame on Comey. Anyone who has ever had a job reporting to an authoritative boss knows that (s)he NEVER lectures her boss on propriety of instructions if (s)he expect to keep his job. This particular boss is the most powerful person on earth and is known to be irascible and thin skinned. The Republican Senators seem to live in a strange, surreal unrealistic world.
Such questions are beyond naive, and they represent a scramble by Republicans to push the blame on Comey. Anyone who has ever had a job reporting to an authoritative boss knows that (s)he NEVER lectures her boss on propriety of instructions if (s)he expect to keep his job. This particular boss is the most powerful person on earth and is known to be irascible and thin skinned. The Republican Senators seem to live in a strange, surreal unrealistic world.
2
And, for goodness sake. Since when does one get a job that they are unqualified for? I'm to instruct the president of the USA? I don't think so. If he does not know the law...the rules...he has no business in the seat! What a foolish excuse for incompetence of the President!
1
I am thinking that the President has shown us in his staying quiet yesterday that he does have self control. This makes his general behavior and tantrums on twitter a calculated intentional thing. He is actually intentionally behaving like a child and humiliating Us in front of the world! This is an insight into the mind of a man who accumulated so much money but has no apparent skills or abilities that would explain how he managed to do that.
1
In all of Trump's conversations with Comey he never once asked about an update on the Russian interference into our election. How very fortuitous for Putin's purposes and how very sad for the unraveling of our democracy!
2
My one overriding question is, why on earth wasn't Trump personally under investigation? Given the scope and nature of the investigation it stands to reason he should be. Comey hinted that at least one of his colleagues at the FBI felt the same.
2
We need the honest press to continue to serve us well. Thank you.
4
yes we do. Too bad we don't have an honest press.
5
Honest press? Really? Did you pay any attention yesterday? It was confirmed that the NYT was printing fake news.
4
And, they are sticking to their story. Read page one today. The truth will be told soon. Don't be too quick to judge.
It is clear that Trump fired Comey because Comey refused to say publically what he told Trump and congressional leaders in private—that Trump isn't under investigation. This was not obstruction of justice. In fact, Comey testified that Trump told him that the investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 election and possible collusion should continue. Trump’s motive in removing Comey was to dispel the false perception that Trump was a suspect in the collusion investigation, a false perception that was undermining his presidency
2
You are certainly correct that the issue of confirming whether or not Trump was under investigation is not obstruction of justice. I don't believe anyone has posited that. But it is a diversion to focus on that. Trump clearly meant to convey that Comey should drop the investigation into Flynn. And that, my fellow citizen, is a clear attempt to obstruct justice. That is something that should be troubling every American, no matter what other political views they may hold.
5
Paul, Only one problem with your claim: The President has the constitutional authority to order a stop to any investigation by the justice department. The President can also pardon anyone he chooses. You may question Trump's motives - to me, they are clearly based on compassion for Flynn, not any desire to cover up evidence, as the evidence comes out regardless - but there would be nothing illegal in issuing such an order.
2
Trump didn’t order James Comey to shut down the Michael Flynn investigation. Comey testified that he interpreted Trump’s “hope” comment as a directive to shut down the Michael Flynn investigation. When Sen. James Risch pointed out “You may have taken it as a direction, but that's not what he said,” Comey answered “correct.” Risch than asked, “You don't know of anyone ever being charged for hoping something, is that a fair statement?” Comey responded, “I don’t as I sit here.”
1
let the packing commence
Trump asked Comey for his loyalty (to Trump personally)?
Adolph Hitler requested that the German Military Officer Corps personally swear an oath of loyalty to Adolph Hitler personally, and they did, in mass, and almost none of them objected because they wanted to keep their jobs!
Adolph Hitler requested that the German Military Officer Corps personally swear an oath of loyalty to Adolph Hitler personally, and they did, in mass, and almost none of them objected because they wanted to keep their jobs!
9
Comey gained a ton of credibility by volunteering that Hillary was just as dirty trying to downplay the use of a personal email server, designed to bypass government regulations. Good on him.
2
What she was trying to bypass was the corrupt Republican Party. Or is it the Russian party?
2
"...just as dirty" as Trump? Surely you jest.
5
Truth speaks to Power: a classic example of Comey showing the
Powerful that Truth will be the ONLY way to bring democracy back to our
government; to our news organizations.....
yes...the PEN IS MIGHTER THAN THE SWORD....so caveat...media spinners
caveat those whose jobs are the result of the filthy political influence that
money buys ...out with the swamp dwellers...the swamp muckrakers are
at work...cleaning up the swamp ...the liars the spinners of false news.
so caveat...media ....and ...time to join Comey et al.
Powerful that Truth will be the ONLY way to bring democracy back to our
government; to our news organizations.....
yes...the PEN IS MIGHTER THAN THE SWORD....so caveat...media spinners
caveat those whose jobs are the result of the filthy political influence that
money buys ...out with the swamp dwellers...the swamp muckrakers are
at work...cleaning up the swamp ...the liars the spinners of false news.
so caveat...media ....and ...time to join Comey et al.
3
A bit self-righteous? An Eagle Scout? Yes. But when you're dealing with Snidely Whiplash, you need Dudley Doright to come to the rescue.
20
Boy, this is a tough one. Who to believe: the guy who has earned a lifetime reputation as an honest man and defender of the law and the constitution; OR, a guy who has a lifetime reputation as a con-man and who has an unmatched record of lying just in the last 2 years alone? Who, oh, who? I can see how the repubs must give the con-guy the benefit of the doubt.
11
If you know enough to clear the room & not to leave witnesses thats MOB worthy! Stopping making excuses that DJT, or the Trump troop.
Mr. Comey demonstrated honesty by being open about allowing his notes to be published by NYT through an intermediary. Thank you Mr. Comey.
Mr. Comey demonstrated honesty by being open about allowing his notes to be published by NYT through an intermediary. Thank you Mr. Comey.
6
"I'm not a crook" Richard Nixon.
"The President is a liar, plain and simple." Reference to DT
We're there again. Looking at the makings of impeachment.
Boy it will be good to get rid of the Trump Garbage.
But how do we get rid of the Pence Menace, the man who is up to his heels in it, who played along as Trumps sold America down the river. The choice of a traitor to be Vice President should be nullified.
"The President is a liar, plain and simple." Reference to DT
We're there again. Looking at the makings of impeachment.
Boy it will be good to get rid of the Trump Garbage.
But how do we get rid of the Pence Menace, the man who is up to his heels in it, who played along as Trumps sold America down the river. The choice of a traitor to be Vice President should be nullified.
8
Mueller will find out that Flynn did not lie to Pence, that Pence knew all along, and was in on it.
5
let's focus on the here and present danger
2
Trump. . .venial, self interested. . .why stop there? Add liar and thief of funds donated to help children with cancer. Forbes Magazine reported recently Donald Trump, POTUS, charged 10 times normal rate at one of his private clubs for fund raiser of son Eric's 'childhood cancer' foundation. Stealing from children battling cancer. . .disgusting.
7
When Don Trump says, "I hope you can see your way clear to let this go," it is the same sort of performative linguistic act of extortion as when Vito Corleone says, "Such a pretty face you have. I hope it doesn't somehow get cut up."
10
What can we expect form a man mentored by Roy Cohn?
7
donald trump has a looong, looong history of lying, but NOT under oath. Let's hear those "tapes." Liar, liar size 44 pants on fire.
4
As always a well written editorial. Thank you. Watching the Comey hearing I took away a couple of points:
1. Donald never showed interest in the fact that Russians interfered with our election in 2016. The way Mr. Comey put it, sent chills through me. Because the Russians are no friends of freedom nor democracy.
2. Mr. Comey wrote everything down because "he might lie" meaning #45. Hucklebee-Sanders, et al, may tell us "the president is not a liar" but we all know he is! Lies are so natural for Donald that he has everyone in his staff believing his lies as truths!
The proof of collusion and deep in involvement with Russia will come out, with the Mueller investigation. We already see evidence, in that Flynn, Sessions, Jared, Manafort and others had ongoing contacts with Russians during the campaign and after!
The truth always surfaces. And.....folks, IF this were Clinton or Obama, the Republicans would have already impeached! I'm convinced the GOP is dead....they sold their souls.
1. Donald never showed interest in the fact that Russians interfered with our election in 2016. The way Mr. Comey put it, sent chills through me. Because the Russians are no friends of freedom nor democracy.
2. Mr. Comey wrote everything down because "he might lie" meaning #45. Hucklebee-Sanders, et al, may tell us "the president is not a liar" but we all know he is! Lies are so natural for Donald that he has everyone in his staff believing his lies as truths!
The proof of collusion and deep in involvement with Russia will come out, with the Mueller investigation. We already see evidence, in that Flynn, Sessions, Jared, Manafort and others had ongoing contacts with Russians during the campaign and after!
The truth always surfaces. And.....folks, IF this were Clinton or Obama, the Republicans would have already impeached! I'm convinced the GOP is dead....they sold their souls.
8
"The president is not a liar." Another lie, this time about a chronic liar whose ongoing, reckless campaign to deceive, distort and mislead the public has done permanent damage to the office of the presidency and the nation.
5
It seems to me the only thing we know for sure is that Trump is a liar. It's practically his brand at this point.
6
We get the government we deserve.
Truman's birther lies ought to have been a disqualification for the presidency of the United States. His treatment of women ought to have been a disqualification. His refusal to release his tax returns ought to have been a disqualification. Yet, millions of Americans voted this con artist into the White House.
We the People are responsible, not only those who voted for him, but those who did not vote at all and those who voted for candidates who could not win.
Truman's birther lies ought to have been a disqualification for the presidency of the United States. His treatment of women ought to have been a disqualification. His refusal to release his tax returns ought to have been a disqualification. Yet, millions of Americans voted this con artist into the White House.
We the People are responsible, not only those who voted for him, but those who did not vote at all and those who voted for candidates who could not win.
4
Exactly! Exactly!
NEWS FLASH:
After watching the Senate Comey testimony, President TrumP goes into an anger management crisis, mistakes the nuclear codes for the cable news TV remote, accidentally starts WWIII. Hundreds of millions dying around the world!
House Speaker Congressman Ryan: "Heck, he's new to this and just doesn't know. He'll get the knack of it. Just give him the time for a little more on-the-job training".
After watching the Senate Comey testimony, President TrumP goes into an anger management crisis, mistakes the nuclear codes for the cable news TV remote, accidentally starts WWIII. Hundreds of millions dying around the world!
House Speaker Congressman Ryan: "Heck, he's new to this and just doesn't know. He'll get the knack of it. Just give him the time for a little more on-the-job training".
6
If lies were golden Trump would be the king he thinks he is.
6
how can any rational person still support DT?
7
I hope everyone salivating over the wishful thought that somehow Trump actually obstructed justice realizes that as POTUS he could pardon Flynn if he was in fact charged with a crime and convicted. Comey, despite his grand standing and narcissism (I believe he outdoes Trump in that regard) probably knows that as well.
And for all the ballyhoo -- what exactly was Flynn being investigated for? Was a crime committed? Not one that anyone knows about. The only thing we know Flynn did was lie to Pence about his conversation with the Russian ambassador -- which put Pence in an awkward situation but is hardly criminal. We also know that Flynn failed to disclose when he should have that he received payments from foreign governments for services rendered. These were not illegal, any more than Bill Clinton's speech giving for foreign entities was illegal (although that pay for play thing the Clinton's had going while Hillary was SofS probably is).
So -- what was Comey investigating Flynn for re Russia? Anyone know? Oh, I'm sure that's part of an ongoing investigation and the leaker Comey can't leak that -- but there's been nothing suggesting that Flynn did anything illegal in regard to Russia.
And for all the ballyhoo -- what exactly was Flynn being investigated for? Was a crime committed? Not one that anyone knows about. The only thing we know Flynn did was lie to Pence about his conversation with the Russian ambassador -- which put Pence in an awkward situation but is hardly criminal. We also know that Flynn failed to disclose when he should have that he received payments from foreign governments for services rendered. These were not illegal, any more than Bill Clinton's speech giving for foreign entities was illegal (although that pay for play thing the Clinton's had going while Hillary was SofS probably is).
So -- what was Comey investigating Flynn for re Russia? Anyone know? Oh, I'm sure that's part of an ongoing investigation and the leaker Comey can't leak that -- but there's been nothing suggesting that Flynn did anything illegal in regard to Russia.
1
Considering that Flynn is insisting on immunity I'd say his attorneys beg to differ.
Trump's proclivity for mendacity and abject nonchalance concerning Russian interference in the 2016 American election alone make him unworthy of the office he now holds, albeit temporarily, it is hoped. Accolades go out to Mr. Comey for standing up to this loathsome bully, for methodically documenting Trump's attempt to quash the investigation, and for projecting an air of patriotism in an environment infused with venom and retribution. Trump should do himself — and the nation — a huge favor and resign immediately. He is woefully unfit for the job, as evidenced by his smug, boorish behavior to date.
4
Mr. Comey has done an excellent job in luring out this unstable man in the WH to the bright lights of public viewing. The Twitter post by Trump that he has "tapes" of their conversation will be the end of Trump. First, that post provoked Comey to leak his private, unclassified notes to the press, resulting in a Special Prosecutor. And second, the "tapes" are now subject to public review under a post Watergate Act. In other words, Trump MUST turn over his "tapes" to the Special Prosecutor. God, is this man stupid or what? He just opened himself up to a whole new line of investigation by claiming or inferring that he had "taped" their conversation.
4
The contrast between a man of integrity and that lying windbag in the White House could not be more stark. And Republicans who keep making excuses for the windbag will pay dearly for it in the next election.
3
The tragedy of all this is that we have lost an extraordinary patriot Mr Comey.
Firing people at will under the so called 'constitution allows it' is non sense. It's time we stop treating Presidents as Monarc.
Firing people at will under the so called 'constitution allows it' is non sense. It's time we stop treating Presidents as Monarc.
1
Cue the Internet JD's.
The White House press office saying Trump is not a liar is itself a lie. My question is: When are the Deplorables finally going to figure out that their savior is a con artist and a danger to their own well being?
1
Comey's performance in testimony was remarkably important in that he spoke truth directly to power. Usually Trump's antics go unchallenged and linger in the public consciousness. This time he challenged a "bad hombre" who stood his ground. Bravo!
The Republican partisan line of questioning was symptomatic of the illness that the US is suffering. We are stuck with this for at least 2 years no matter how corrupted, dishonest, illogical, nightmarish, unreal, the hole we have dug for ourselves. We have a chance to turn this around in 2018. If we don't take that opportunity, we have lost our sanity.
3
Comey is an accomplished performance actor-lawyer, and his Senate testimony added luster to his resume as he starts entertaining multi-milliion dollar offers from law firms and Big Business. Left out of his story line is the fact that he had no legal right to bypass Justice Department officials to whom he should have been reporting -- instead of holding press conferences and usurping power the Constitution and laws did not give him.
1
And Thumbs is back this morning, full of himself. He won, he says. What a loser. Patience will serve America when the Grifter is thrown out of office or loses very, very badly. How could sane people vote for this Administration? There is no vision except to destroy what is good for so many and even for the majority . Republicans are assisting him by standing by him. Get a spine, Republicans.
2
The shame is that so many have pledged their loyalty to this corrupt and narcissistic man--placing what they might gain from that loyalty above basic decency, not to mention American and democratic ideals. These greedy folks should not be let off the hook later, when they try and spin a narrative that it was all an innocent mistake.
3
Is anyone debating whether Trump is a liar? There are so many examples in black and white and in video. He even said Comey was the one who asked for this infamous meeting--I mean, who would believe this? It's a kind of sociopathic inability to tell the truth. And yet Sarah Huckabee Sanders stands there saying he's not a liar. Then, she is also a liar. He is making them all liars. How pathetic is that? Or do they mean he has such a tenuous grasp of reality that he's not really a liar, he's actually a sick man?
2
If the President has "tapes" that show that Comey lied, then I wish he would release them and spare the country all this agony. It will also release Trump from his self-imposed isolation and irrelevancy.
On the other hand ... if the President refuses to say whether such tapes exist, then he simply must be deposed, and start playing out his appropriate role in this legal process. Twitter won't do.
On the other hand ... if the President refuses to say whether such tapes exist, then he simply must be deposed, and start playing out his appropriate role in this legal process. Twitter won't do.
2
There is actually an incredibly simple explanation for the distinguished Senator from the Great State of Idaho hanging his inquiry on the use of the word "hope." He clearly believes his constituents are potatoes, and that their heads will not emerge from the ground before he goes to harvest their votes for his re-election. Hopefully the voters of Idaho shall correct his misconception when the time comes.
As we have sown, now must we reap.
As we have sown, now must we reap.
The only truth that came out was: There was no investigation of Trump although all the media and the Justice groups were dropping hints that Trump was under investigation 2. Loretta Lynch, former Justice department AG, pressured Comey to minimize the Clinton email controversy.
Since the beginning of 2016, all that's occurred has been the handicapping of Trumps campaign and handicapping the beginning of his presidency. Let him do his job.
He's negotiating with China, NATO and the Middle East. He's smart and he's moving them off their sweet spot, which makes them easier to negotiate with. Unfortunately, most people are not educated in negotiation.
Since the beginning of 2016, all that's occurred has been the handicapping of Trumps campaign and handicapping the beginning of his presidency. Let him do his job.
He's negotiating with China, NATO and the Middle East. He's smart and he's moving them off their sweet spot, which makes them easier to negotiate with. Unfortunately, most people are not educated in negotiation.
China's having a field day right now, ME is in chaos, and NATO thinks Trump is a sick joke, but putting all that aside, there are still "hints" that Trump is not free and clear in the Russia investigation. Every time the topic comes up, officials admit they can't talk about it in public...that includes every intel official who's testified over the past few weeks.
A considerable number of Trump's "satellites" (his word) are strongly implicated one way or another in the Russia scandal. You're therefore agreeing that Trump--the smart, great negotiator and leader--has not control over his "satellites."
A considerable number of Trump's "satellites" (his word) are strongly implicated one way or another in the Russia scandal. You're therefore agreeing that Trump--the smart, great negotiator and leader--has not control over his "satellites."
2
The news shouldn't be cherry-picked. That's how we are getting into trouble, by picking through the facts until we come across something that justifies an already-formed opinion.
I listened to the entire public testimony yesterday. I didn't like everything I heard from Mr. Comey, but I am grateful that I could hear a first-hand account from someone who knew what he was talking about.
You seemed to have missed this part: "'This is about America,” Mr. Comey kept saying. Russia “tried to shape the way we think, we vote, we act — that is a big deal,” he added. “They’re coming after America. ... They want to undermine our credibility in the face of the world.'"
You seem to have missed the general consensus of Congress, Republicans and Democrats alike, that Russia interfered in our election.
You also seemed to have missed the news reports last week that the Trump administration is considering returning Russian compounds in the US to Russia. And that Trump virtually said he would do that after Obama threw the Russians out for tampering in our elections. A reward for winning???
And certainly you have not wondered why an American president would continually kiss up to a hostile foreign government. Until that question has been answered, then indeed, every American should handicap the Trump agenda. This is not partisan politics. These are facts and legitimate questions that need to be answered for all our sakes.
I listened to the entire public testimony yesterday. I didn't like everything I heard from Mr. Comey, but I am grateful that I could hear a first-hand account from someone who knew what he was talking about.
You seemed to have missed this part: "'This is about America,” Mr. Comey kept saying. Russia “tried to shape the way we think, we vote, we act — that is a big deal,” he added. “They’re coming after America. ... They want to undermine our credibility in the face of the world.'"
You seem to have missed the general consensus of Congress, Republicans and Democrats alike, that Russia interfered in our election.
You also seemed to have missed the news reports last week that the Trump administration is considering returning Russian compounds in the US to Russia. And that Trump virtually said he would do that after Obama threw the Russians out for tampering in our elections. A reward for winning???
And certainly you have not wondered why an American president would continually kiss up to a hostile foreign government. Until that question has been answered, then indeed, every American should handicap the Trump agenda. This is not partisan politics. These are facts and legitimate questions that need to be answered for all our sakes.
1
The Washington Post reported on Jan. 24 that “The FBI in late December reviewed intercepts of communications between the Russian ambassador to the United States and retired Lt. Gen. Michael T. Flynn — national security adviser to then-President-elect Trump — but has not found any evidence of wrongdoing or illicit ties to the Russian government, U.S. officials said.” CBS News reported in February that “investigators say that despite misleading the vice president, there is not enough evidence to charge [Flynn] with lying to the FBI.”
Trump has no honor or pride and he's lost the consensus to lead. It's time to treat him like the disease his lies have made him. If, the Republicans refuse to act then we must take to the streets in peaceful protest. Thomas Jefferson wrote that we need little rebellions now and then. Trump has taken us to that point and he intends to hold on and fight. It's time to run Trump out of Washington on a rail.
1
Trump's claim of vindication goes right up there with "Mission Accomplished," "Peace With Honor," and not to let the Democrats off the hook, LBJ's "hearts and minds."
The line between chutzpah and naked callousness does not exist in the Trump/Pence cabal.
The line between chutzpah and naked callousness does not exist in the Trump/Pence cabal.
1
The most telling conclusion of the testimony is that Donald Trump is a liar of the highest magnitude. Of course anyone paying attention to Trump over the last several decades should know this as a fact. True to his lying con game Trump has hired a Lawyer to lie and misrepresent for him.(until he can't stand it anymore and needs to tweet again)
The Comey testimony as a "Vindication" for Trump is one of the biggest Lies Trump has ever told. Of course, Trump has probably lied hundreds of thousands of times in his life, so what's one more?
The Comey testimony as a "Vindication" for Trump is one of the biggest Lies Trump has ever told. Of course, Trump has probably lied hundreds of thousands of times in his life, so what's one more?
Dishonesty to someone an authority over you is worse than a lie as it speaks to character. With all apologies to my media friends of Comey, please recall that the New York Times publisher fired its former Executive Editor Jill Abramson in 2014 for dishonesty with him, so the failing is as important in business as it is in government. You can't trust a dishonest coworker.
But using his FBI computer to write memos to share only with friends and the press ----yet not with the President----so that in the event of a legal matter, he would have them as factual evidence, was extremely dishonest. Comey was out to get Trump, and Trump had no legal counsel with him in their meetings to defend their client.
Why didn't Comey share his memos with the President, the witness potentially in a legal "matter" relevant to Comey's memos? After all, Trump might have recalled something that was said that Comey did not. In journalism most accurate reporters verify their accounts most of the time with the source of quotes. Were Comey's memos selective quotes taken out of context? As a dishonest person, acting as a Grand Inquisitor, but not as a subordinate reporting to his superior, Comey now risks charges that he leaked privileged FBI documents because he wrote his memos on an FBI computer.
Julian Assange and Reality Winner's attorneys no doubt are waiting to see whether Comey's unlikely prosecution for leaking his memos to the press vindicates their clients' government document leaks.
But using his FBI computer to write memos to share only with friends and the press ----yet not with the President----so that in the event of a legal matter, he would have them as factual evidence, was extremely dishonest. Comey was out to get Trump, and Trump had no legal counsel with him in their meetings to defend their client.
Why didn't Comey share his memos with the President, the witness potentially in a legal "matter" relevant to Comey's memos? After all, Trump might have recalled something that was said that Comey did not. In journalism most accurate reporters verify their accounts most of the time with the source of quotes. Were Comey's memos selective quotes taken out of context? As a dishonest person, acting as a Grand Inquisitor, but not as a subordinate reporting to his superior, Comey now risks charges that he leaked privileged FBI documents because he wrote his memos on an FBI computer.
Julian Assange and Reality Winner's attorneys no doubt are waiting to see whether Comey's unlikely prosecution for leaking his memos to the press vindicates their clients' government document leaks.
1
The Republicans are not going to pursue an investigation of Trump nor will they impeach him for one simple reason--Pence is not electable in a general election. As long as they have Trump, the Republicans can count on Trump's devoted (and clueless) followers to keep them in power. Party over country is the Republican mantra.
2
I suspect that Trump did make a recording of his private conversation with Comey so that if he agreed to drop the Flynn case he could later use the existence of the tape to bribe Comey to collude again in other matters. The tape would now have been destroyed since Comey did not collude.
4
Clear case of obstruction of justice. Will republicans represent America or will they choose Russia? Mueller needs a bigger net; seems this traitorous behavior runs deep into our gov't.
1
Trump > "I did not have sex with that ex-FBI chief, Mr. Comey"
1
NYT just going to gloss over the fact that Comey essentially called their articles FAKE NEWS?
Look, Trump is a liar, no surprise there. But its extremely disingenuous for the NYT Editors to not even acknowledge, let alone apologize, for the fact that they ran a false story.
Kettle, meet black.
Look, Trump is a liar, no surprise there. But its extremely disingenuous for the NYT Editors to not even acknowledge, let alone apologize, for the fact that they ran a false story.
Kettle, meet black.
1
The NYT did address this: https://www.nytimes.com/2017/06/08/us/politics/james-comey-new-york-time...
1
Now that Mr Comey has exposed the Fake News NYT's lying about President Trump and Russia, we must ask why. Is to distract from the Clintons' and Obama regime's Obstruction of Justice into the investigation of Hillary's illegal email server? Or is the NYT trying to obstruct the investigation into Obama's illegal spying President Trump and countless other Americans?
1
"At The Peril Of Perjury"
Raise your right hand, your left on a bible
Swear to the world, for your falsehoods be liable
Spare us this cancer, from which our country needs surgery
Are you willing to speak at the peril of perjury
You hide behind Twitter, while surrogates do your bidding
A coward, a scoundrel, but your character's not hidden
The world all a'snicker, with you cast as an oaf
Without the courage and conviction to speak under oath
Raise your right hand, your left on a bible
Swear to the world, for your falsehoods be liable
Spare us this cancer, from which our country needs surgery
Are you willing to speak at the peril of perjury
You hide behind Twitter, while surrogates do your bidding
A coward, a scoundrel, but your character's not hidden
The world all a'snicker, with you cast as an oaf
Without the courage and conviction to speak under oath
2
The quest to oust Mr. Trump as president leaves way for Mr. Pence to be Vice President. As concerning and scary as Mr. Trump's actions to date and future intents on environmental, health care, budget, trade, isolationism issues, they will not get better and conceivably could be worse with Mr. Pence in the Oval Office. I caution, Be careful what you wish for....
1
This is the Clash of the Titans. What a thrilling match. . .The Cop v. The Crook.
Research shows us that there is a very fine line between the personalities of cops and crooks. Because they are both cagey and fearless and suspicious, they have certain admiration for each other. The difference is that a crook like Trump fails to appreciate that the Truth triumphs over Lies. Comey, the FBI and the Justice Department, need only persist. If they are doggedly determined my bet is that Trump will be exposed.
Research shows us that there is a very fine line between the personalities of cops and crooks. Because they are both cagey and fearless and suspicious, they have certain admiration for each other. The difference is that a crook like Trump fails to appreciate that the Truth triumphs over Lies. Comey, the FBI and the Justice Department, need only persist. If they are doggedly determined my bet is that Trump will be exposed.
4
What makes this great is that Trump and his weasel lawyer can claim "complete and total vindication" while the rest of the non-Fox news world talks about how Comey virtually nailed him to the wall.
It makes it plainly obvious that Trump only hears what he wants to hear and everything else is "fake news."
But anyone with unbiased common sense hears something else.
It makes it plainly obvious that Trump only hears what he wants to hear and everything else is "fake news."
But anyone with unbiased common sense hears something else.
3
Americans are understandably confused about the Michael Flynn case. No one seem able to specify what crime he has committed.
Flynn is no longer suspected of having violated the Logan Act during his pre-inaugural conversations with the Russian ambassador or lying about the conversations to the FBI.
Flynn is no longer suspected of failing to register as a foreign agent for lobbying work his firm did that benefitted Turkey. He registered in March, within the proscribe time period.
Flynn is under investigation for allegedly taking payment from a Russian government-owned medial outlet for a speech he made in Moscow without first obtaining Department of then Army approval. However, this is an Army investigation, not an FBI investigation, and the Army will probably rule in Flynn’s favor, since his paycheck actually came for a U.S. speaker’s bureau that furnishes keynote speakers, not from the Russian government. But it’s no big deal. If the Army rules against him, the Army will deduct the amount of Flynn’s fee from his military retirement pay.
Flynn is no longer suspected of having violated the Logan Act during his pre-inaugural conversations with the Russian ambassador or lying about the conversations to the FBI.
Flynn is no longer suspected of failing to register as a foreign agent for lobbying work his firm did that benefitted Turkey. He registered in March, within the proscribe time period.
Flynn is under investigation for allegedly taking payment from a Russian government-owned medial outlet for a speech he made in Moscow without first obtaining Department of then Army approval. However, this is an Army investigation, not an FBI investigation, and the Army will probably rule in Flynn’s favor, since his paycheck actually came for a U.S. speaker’s bureau that furnishes keynote speakers, not from the Russian government. But it’s no big deal. If the Army rules against him, the Army will deduct the amount of Flynn’s fee from his military retirement pay.
4
Except that when Trump asked Comey to lay off the investigation in February, the FBI hadn't concluded that Flynn wasn't intentionally lying to them so Trump may have been obstructing justice by trying to influence an open investigation.
As to the paperwork regarding being a foreign agent, the issue isn't when Flynn field but he wasn't totally honest on that paperwork and omitted a payment. The issue here is that Flynn may have lied on the SF-86 forms needed to renew his security clearance in January 2016 about a $45,000 payment he received from Russia. Flynn wasn't an officer at the time and this would be an offense that the FBI could investigate. The issue isn't army approval for the payment but failing to disclose it when he was a civilian.
You've also overlooked that Flynn may have continued lobbying for foreign governments after taking over as NSA.
http://www.mcclatchydc.com/news/politics-government/white-house/article1...
Finally, Flynn remains a person of interest in the investigation Russian meddling in the election and associates of his have had their business records subpoenaed.
Trump could've been trying to call off federal investigators in any or all of the above cases.
As to the paperwork regarding being a foreign agent, the issue isn't when Flynn field but he wasn't totally honest on that paperwork and omitted a payment. The issue here is that Flynn may have lied on the SF-86 forms needed to renew his security clearance in January 2016 about a $45,000 payment he received from Russia. Flynn wasn't an officer at the time and this would be an offense that the FBI could investigate. The issue isn't army approval for the payment but failing to disclose it when he was a civilian.
You've also overlooked that Flynn may have continued lobbying for foreign governments after taking over as NSA.
http://www.mcclatchydc.com/news/politics-government/white-house/article1...
Finally, Flynn remains a person of interest in the investigation Russian meddling in the election and associates of his have had their business records subpoenaed.
Trump could've been trying to call off federal investigators in any or all of the above cases.
1
Our Fourth Estate must also declare that Trump is a Liar...and say why
Donald J. Trump is too mentally ill to remain as president.
that is the TRUTH...and
I wish that you Editors also had to raise your hands and tell the whole truth
and nothing but the truth....just put your own feet to the fires of justice
as James Comey has done...follow James Come's rare example in these days of foul reporting....take the stink of TABLOID out of our Fourth Estate
because TABLOID NEWS is FALSE REPORTING....is the swampland of
foulness of twisting the truth.......re print the Letter Editors....be as truthful
as Comey...and regain our respect...
journalistic twisted reportage.
Donald J. Trump is too mentally ill to remain as president.
that is the TRUTH...and
I wish that you Editors also had to raise your hands and tell the whole truth
and nothing but the truth....just put your own feet to the fires of justice
as James Comey has done...follow James Come's rare example in these days of foul reporting....take the stink of TABLOID out of our Fourth Estate
because TABLOID NEWS is FALSE REPORTING....is the swampland of
foulness of twisting the truth.......re print the Letter Editors....be as truthful
as Comey...and regain our respect...
journalistic twisted reportage.
2
And let's hope the investigators uphold justice & honesty!
My take away after listening to Trump's ambulance chaser's comments, Trump inane tweet this morning and Sarah Huckabee Sanders idiotic comments is that this Whitehouse reminds me of only one thing.
The Trump Whitehouse is starting to remind me a lot of the Nixon Whitehouse hunkering down during Watergate.
It's not much different when Nixon said during Watergate, "People have got to know whether or not their President is a crook. Well, I'm not a crook. I've earned everything I've got." and now, it seems like history is repeating itself.
In Trump's case, not only do the people need to know whether this President is a crook or not, but they also need to know if he's been compromised by the Russians.
The Trump Whitehouse is starting to remind me a lot of the Nixon Whitehouse hunkering down during Watergate.
It's not much different when Nixon said during Watergate, "People have got to know whether or not their President is a crook. Well, I'm not a crook. I've earned everything I've got." and now, it seems like history is repeating itself.
In Trump's case, not only do the people need to know whether this President is a crook or not, but they also need to know if he's been compromised by the Russians.
4
The distinction between Comey and Trump is so apparent one has no difficulty determining who is telling the truth. Trump, over time, has shown himself to be a consistent liar, bombarding us with tweets that are untrue and indicative of a puerile mind. Add to this the incomprehensible remarks coming from the White House and the total disarray within is immediately apparent.
2
Oh, Oh, it,s not me, under investigation, Trump is trumping.
I mean does Trump think we are all playground children. The oversized bully blaming everyone but himself. His childish tweets, street language and never but never self-reflects on anything he does is more then troubling.
How, but How did this man become President. His so called base can't be that ignorant of his terrible performance. God help us all before he gets us into a shooting war!
I mean does Trump think we are all playground children. The oversized bully blaming everyone but himself. His childish tweets, street language and never but never self-reflects on anything he does is more then troubling.
How, but How did this man become President. His so called base can't be that ignorant of his terrible performance. God help us all before he gets us into a shooting war!
2
If the Republicans will not throw the Grifter out of office, i hope the public servants will do their best to crush the Liar in Chief.
3
"The President is not a liar."
Well, yes...he is.
Well, yes...he is.
1
No amount of rationalisation can explain Trump's conduct in respect of the Russian connection. It is sad to know that this President lies. Lies!!!
1
This is not a Fairy Tale where the good win out. In a Fairy Tale Comey would be the Prince that comes to the aid of the people & slays Trump the Dragon, However,.as long as the dragon retains support from those that voted for him,the little dragons which are the Republicans will follow him to the downfall of the Nation.
2
The most blatantly dishonest statement yet from an egregiously dishonest White House Press Office: "The president is not a liar."
14
There are feuds among different govt. agencies because of Mr. Trump's misbehavior, tweets and lies. He is not behaving as a normal President. He is using govt resources for his personal gain. Because of recklessness of WH, people's business suffers. In addition, we spend billions of dollars to pay for paying all these overheads. Let us have people's referendum as parties are in deadlock on most of issues cannot be addressed. GOP won the election but majority of population is opposed to GOP's agenda such as plan parenthood, tax reduction for the rich, foreign trade relationship, NATO and many more. Can take people's opinion nationwide instead of via congress to resolve our national crisis? Let us start first with who is trustworthy - Comey vs. Trump?
1
To me, it is not just the lies of Donald Trump - it is his assumption that the American people would not detect them because they were too dumb. Just imagine how many times in his business dealings he did the same thing, but the people he was dealing with were too frightened to call him on them. Shame on us, America ! WE ELECTED HIM !
2
Back in April, "President Trump . . . urged NASA to go further, even saying — perhaps jokingly — that he would like to send an American to Mars “during my first term or at worst during my second term.”
If only we could CONVINCE him of the GLORY of that mission, COAX him into that ROCKETSHIP, and make sure it's a ONE WAY TRIP!
If only we could CONVINCE him of the GLORY of that mission, COAX him into that ROCKETSHIP, and make sure it's a ONE WAY TRIP!
2
Anyone who leaks memos to The NY Times can't be all bad. Will the person who leaked Trump's tax returns please step forward to take a bow.
2
"The president is not a liar".
There simply isn't enough room in the comments section to tell them all. And the WH has tried to repudiate them with another lie.
Just shameful, even for a politician
There simply isn't enough room in the comments section to tell them all. And the WH has tried to repudiate them with another lie.
Just shameful, even for a politician
1
Trump thought he had to use the "TAPE" angle to prevent Comey from lying about telling him he was not under investigation. (One of the curses of being a liar is that you think everyone else is one.) Comey's candor and concern about Russian hacking and its ramifications makes one proud to be an American.
2
I am still laughing at Sarah Huckabee Sander's statement that the president is not a liar! At least there is some humor in this situation. Ms Huckabee Sanders, don't you want a job where you do not feel dirty at the end of each day?
3
So, it appears as though Mr. Comey has joined the ranks of millions of Americans who have known the truth about Donald Trump all along; namely that he's an inveterate liar who has no business being in the White House.
After all, how could there have been any doubt?
When a person running for the office of President of the United States goes to the extremes of contacting a foreign adversarious power in order to guarantee a win, there's every reason to have no confidence in their integrity.
And that's just the beginning in what by now, has become a very long list of questionable and indecorous behaviour.
Nevertheless in the end, this really isn't a judgement call about Mr. Trump, he's already proven on numerous occasions that no amount of "loyalty" will ever make him a good president -- it's about our country.
And regardless of whatever party one belongs to, this is something that should concern every American.
The laws of justice will do the rest.
After all, how could there have been any doubt?
When a person running for the office of President of the United States goes to the extremes of contacting a foreign adversarious power in order to guarantee a win, there's every reason to have no confidence in their integrity.
And that's just the beginning in what by now, has become a very long list of questionable and indecorous behaviour.
Nevertheless in the end, this really isn't a judgement call about Mr. Trump, he's already proven on numerous occasions that no amount of "loyalty" will ever make him a good president -- it's about our country.
And regardless of whatever party one belongs to, this is something that should concern every American.
The laws of justice will do the rest.
2
trump has shown that every president should fire the FBI director on day one of their presidency, and put in his own man.
comey tried to own both clinton and trump, how J. edgar hoover like!!
comey tried to own both clinton and trump, how J. edgar hoover like!!
There are 4 legs to the story of Comey's command dinner with Trump.
1) Trump "invited" Comey to a one-on-one dinner. That's a command appearance and Trump CLEARLY lied when he said Comey asked for the dinner. Why would Comey do that? And why would he lie about it? We KNOW why Trump would lie--because he lies about everything.
2) Trump asked Comey how he liked his job. When the boss asks that, especially a boss you don't or barely know, the employee ALWAYS gets nervous because it is NEVER a casual question, but always an implicit threat.
3) Trump demanded Comey's personal loyalty. That violates Article VI, Paragraph 3 of the Constitution:
"all executive and judicial Officers, both of the United States and of the several States, shall be bound by Oath or Affirmation, to support this Constitution".
Loyalty to the Constitution comes first, and makes loyalty to the President, at best, secondary. Trump demanded that Comey violate that oath.
4) Trump then tried to sweet-talk Comey into dropping the criminal investigation into Flynn with the threat of firing Comey hanging over every soft word. Remember Don Corleone's "I'll make him an offer he can't refuse!" ?
To anybody but a hard-core, Trump-devotee (like his sons and lawyer) it was clear Trump was attempting to coerce Comey to stop the FBI investigation into his pal, Flynn, that may tar Trump, too, by threatening Comey's job.
And those four legs of the chair, friends, is the definition of obstruction of justice.
1) Trump "invited" Comey to a one-on-one dinner. That's a command appearance and Trump CLEARLY lied when he said Comey asked for the dinner. Why would Comey do that? And why would he lie about it? We KNOW why Trump would lie--because he lies about everything.
2) Trump asked Comey how he liked his job. When the boss asks that, especially a boss you don't or barely know, the employee ALWAYS gets nervous because it is NEVER a casual question, but always an implicit threat.
3) Trump demanded Comey's personal loyalty. That violates Article VI, Paragraph 3 of the Constitution:
"all executive and judicial Officers, both of the United States and of the several States, shall be bound by Oath or Affirmation, to support this Constitution".
Loyalty to the Constitution comes first, and makes loyalty to the President, at best, secondary. Trump demanded that Comey violate that oath.
4) Trump then tried to sweet-talk Comey into dropping the criminal investigation into Flynn with the threat of firing Comey hanging over every soft word. Remember Don Corleone's "I'll make him an offer he can't refuse!" ?
To anybody but a hard-core, Trump-devotee (like his sons and lawyer) it was clear Trump was attempting to coerce Comey to stop the FBI investigation into his pal, Flynn, that may tar Trump, too, by threatening Comey's job.
And those four legs of the chair, friends, is the definition of obstruction of justice.
3
Mr. Trump considered Comey's allegiance to F.B.I. protocol over presidential preference to be a form of disloyalty.
Yes, the white house has lied. The hypocrisy is that this newspaper never had anything to say about lies coming from the previous white house on very serious matters
Where was the editorial on "if you like your doctor you can keep your doctor.
If you like your plan you can keep your plan". Those were the key tenets that sold the bill that passed by a shoestring. It was knowingly a lie.
Where was the editorial on the white house stating that the Benghazi attacks that killed our ambassador and four security officers were a emotional response to a Youtube video? The lie was made to keep the facade of a stable middle east 30 days before Obama's re-election.
Your selective outrage diminishes its value.
I voted for Trump and am disappointed that the white house has not been truthful or forthcoming in the matters at hand.
The Times needs to step up to the plate and call it both ways.
Where was the editorial on "if you like your doctor you can keep your doctor.
If you like your plan you can keep your plan". Those were the key tenets that sold the bill that passed by a shoestring. It was knowingly a lie.
Where was the editorial on the white house stating that the Benghazi attacks that killed our ambassador and four security officers were a emotional response to a Youtube video? The lie was made to keep the facade of a stable middle east 30 days before Obama's re-election.
Your selective outrage diminishes its value.
I voted for Trump and am disappointed that the white house has not been truthful or forthcoming in the matters at hand.
The Times needs to step up to the plate and call it both ways.
1
Comey verified yesterday that the "progressive" media have been printing untruths, so pot calling the kettle black?
1
“This is about America,” Mr. Comey kept saying. Russia “tried to shape the way we think, we vote, we act — that is a big deal,” he added. “They’re coming after America. ... They want to undermine our credibility in the face of the world.”
And that is getting very easy with an American public increasingly unable to muster the skepticism required to see through con men like Trump, buying his lines, "believing" his lies, able to wilfully ignore his conspiracy theories, his need for attention, his ignorance, and even his womenizing which most of their ilk blasted except in Trumps case, of course.
The key here is that until that public becomes able to actually think again, we are on a downward spiral. I don't know how much lower we can descend, and where I will get off the ship, but it's getting closer than I imagined. If Congress had a shred of decency they would get rid of this president and release us from a national and possibly global nightmare.
And that is getting very easy with an American public increasingly unable to muster the skepticism required to see through con men like Trump, buying his lines, "believing" his lies, able to wilfully ignore his conspiracy theories, his need for attention, his ignorance, and even his womenizing which most of their ilk blasted except in Trumps case, of course.
The key here is that until that public becomes able to actually think again, we are on a downward spiral. I don't know how much lower we can descend, and where I will get off the ship, but it's getting closer than I imagined. If Congress had a shred of decency they would get rid of this president and release us from a national and possibly global nightmare.
5
I have always regarded James Comey as a straight shooter beginning with his stance on the Bush Administration's torture memos. He proved to me, at least, that he put his country above his own ambitions. I watched the hearings yesterday and was inspired that maybe--just maybe--there's hope for the Republic. Thank you, Mr. Comey, for your dedication and honesty.
2
Consider this: Don the Con never asked Comey about the FBI's investigation into Russian hacking! Unbelievable!
3
I've always seen Mr. Comey as a principled man. It concerned me when he was fired. I just find it a little rich that the Dems and NYT are now his champions given the vitriol he was subject to during the Clinton server investigation.... oh, I miss spoke... the Clinton "matter".
2
It's also noteworthy that Trump fielded a list of candidates for the directorship that included many partisan folks, whom he may have assumed would be "loyal", i.e. submit to his directives rather than obey the law. Those candidates were not likely to be approved. The candidates with integrity all walked away from the offers/discussions of the position. And now, Trump is putting forward the lawyer that defended Chris Christie in Bridgegate.
Reasonable people can see that Trump believed that firing Comey would put the Russian investigation back under his control.
Fortunately, that is not the case.
Reasonable people can see that Trump believed that firing Comey would put the Russian investigation back under his control.
Fortunately, that is not the case.
1
I don't think that even Trump's backers can call Mr. Comey dishonest, and if that's the case, our President is indeed unscrupulous and a liar, among many other worrisome characteristics....
1
From the article: Republicans asked why he didn’t try to educate a president so ignorant of the F.B.I.’s role that he risked incriminating himself.
Despite being fairly successful in life and business, I am decidedly not presidential material. I know my limitations. But were I somehow thrust into the role, I think, I have the good sense to get some expert advice. And, having lived a fair amount of time and being an observant fellow, I am pretty sure of the separate roles built into the leadership of our government. In short, I don't need anyone to tell me to not use the Office of President to exert bully influence onto the director of the FBI. Hope to shout... this is really a no-brainer.
Trump is corrupt through and through. He doesn't know any other way to behave other than what we are seeing. The Republican congress, on the other hand, is choosing corrupt behavior. This is the truly shameful part of the whole debacle. The R's could put an end to it, but they won't. They are adding water to the mud they are mired in but are trying to tell America that they are on firm footing. This has been patently obvious for some time to a lot of us. I hope the rest of America wises up soon.
Despite being fairly successful in life and business, I am decidedly not presidential material. I know my limitations. But were I somehow thrust into the role, I think, I have the good sense to get some expert advice. And, having lived a fair amount of time and being an observant fellow, I am pretty sure of the separate roles built into the leadership of our government. In short, I don't need anyone to tell me to not use the Office of President to exert bully influence onto the director of the FBI. Hope to shout... this is really a no-brainer.
Trump is corrupt through and through. He doesn't know any other way to behave other than what we are seeing. The Republican congress, on the other hand, is choosing corrupt behavior. This is the truly shameful part of the whole debacle. The R's could put an end to it, but they won't. They are adding water to the mud they are mired in but are trying to tell America that they are on firm footing. This has been patently obvious for some time to a lot of us. I hope the rest of America wises up soon.
2
If the Comey testimony was so devastating as the New York Times and its readers seem to think, the stock market would have dived. Instead the market is moving to new highs, this is a much better indicator than the opinion of the New York Times and their readers.
2
If people are only using their portfolios to judge the the overall health of Americas current political and constitutional situation, my concerns deepen exponentially.
1
So. To quote the Times' home page lead-in to this editorial "James Comey made plain that unlike Mr. Trump, he values honesty and the Constitution above blind loyalty." This is a remarkable change from the Times' opinion articulated when Mr. Comey released a letter regarding the FBI's investigation into Hillary Clinton's email server a few days before the November election.
What a difference a day makes.
Personally, I think the Times' current opinion is closer to being correct, but it's sure hard for the public, including myself, to get it right when the politics are so hot and heavy.
The Editorial Board of the Times should be aware that while it clearly enjoys the loyalty of many members of the Times' liberal base, it has essentially no credibility with large swaths of America. Firing your Public Editor and closing the Public Editor office didn't help any.
Frankly, this is too bad.
What a difference a day makes.
Personally, I think the Times' current opinion is closer to being correct, but it's sure hard for the public, including myself, to get it right when the politics are so hot and heavy.
The Editorial Board of the Times should be aware that while it clearly enjoys the loyalty of many members of the Times' liberal base, it has essentially no credibility with large swaths of America. Firing your Public Editor and closing the Public Editor office didn't help any.
Frankly, this is too bad.
3
Mark Rubio's questioning during the testimony has not been discussed but I thought it was brilliant. He and President Trump had words during the presidential debate but he put aside their differences and was very impressive during his questioning of James Comey yesterday. He was quick to point out that Mr. Comey did not hesitate to leak memos of his conversations with Mr. Trump to the New York Times. But when Mr. Trump asked him if he was under investigation and he said no he would not leak that very important piece of information to the Times too. That was an oversight and was it deliberate? Only Mr. Comey knows the answer.
Bravo for Mr. Rubio for bringing this up and he certainly has presidential potential. He would get my vote.
Bravo for Mr. Rubio for bringing this up and he certainly has presidential potential. He would get my vote.
1
Many politicians exaggerate the truth, usually hidden behind legal jargon and double talk. Trump has perfected the art of out and out, in your face lies to the American Public. He does this with a straight face.
What makes this more incredible is how his base insist on believing him.
Meanwhile, he's had no success getting any laws through the congress yet he's done an incredible amount of damage to the country and the country's reputation world wide. His rhetoric, tweets and executive orders tell the story.
On the micro level, my wife, a psychologist, works for a northern California county, helping traumatized foster infants and children. This program will shut down in September due to medicaid uncertainty, which funds 80% of the program.
On the macro level, racism, hate and violence, which has probably always existed, but underground, has been legitimized to hit the mainstream. We see this almost daily.
I'm not only ashamed at what the U.S. has become, but am scared of what the next 3 1/2 years might bring.
What makes this more incredible is how his base insist on believing him.
Meanwhile, he's had no success getting any laws through the congress yet he's done an incredible amount of damage to the country and the country's reputation world wide. His rhetoric, tweets and executive orders tell the story.
On the micro level, my wife, a psychologist, works for a northern California county, helping traumatized foster infants and children. This program will shut down in September due to medicaid uncertainty, which funds 80% of the program.
On the macro level, racism, hate and violence, which has probably always existed, but underground, has been legitimized to hit the mainstream. We see this almost daily.
I'm not only ashamed at what the U.S. has become, but am scared of what the next 3 1/2 years might bring.
4
The title of the editorial strikes me as odd. How does one know whether it is the president or Mr. Comey who is not being truthful?
1
Magnificent performance by James Comey in his testimony to the Senate Intelligence Committee. My doubts about the man when he produced a controversial letter on the email fiasco 10 days before the last election are gone. As tough as Trump likes to project himself, he more than met his match in Comey. I think Trump will think twice the next time he tries to bully an individual.
James Comey, a great and fearless American.
James Comey, a great and fearless American.
4
Although I am glad Mr. Comey has spoken out, I do not hold him in high esteem. I think he made a political move with the Hillary emails and didn't realize what he had unleashed until Trump actually became president. He is someone trying to correct a situation that he helped create. Give him credit for trying, but he is no hero. Policies such as removing Dodd Frank, leaving the Paris Climate Accord, weakening the EPA, harming public education, trying to repeal Obamacare among others are the result of Comey putting politics before country in the final week of the election.
2
Thank you Mr. Comey, I forgive you for the HRC comments. Your testimony and notes on Trump conversations prove you are a true Patriot.
4
I watched every second of the open sessions of the Senate Intelligence Committee on Wednesday and Thursday. What I saw were five true patriotic American civil servants dedicated to truth, and democratic values. Their responses, to me, came across as nonpartisan. Yes, there were times each deferred their responses to a close session, or withheld a response in order to not interfere with an investigation, but from my perspective they did so to protect the American process of investigating the impact of Russia's interference in our election - which should be the focus of outrage in this country! I believe every word those men said was the truth as they understood it.
President Trump, on the other hand, has lived his life saying whatever was necessary to get his way. He has "fuzzy" morals. He lies. Everyone knows he lies - even the Trump supporters know this. That is why even a Trump supporter would probably want to document every interaction with him because you never know when a pathological liar will turn his lies on you.
I believe Trump is president because his supporters liked his America first proposals in spite of his lies. But Trump's legislation proposals - outlines - are really plans akin to a survival of the fittest society. He will abandon the weak, he will abandon the sick. He will abandon the poor.
President Trump, on the other hand, has lived his life saying whatever was necessary to get his way. He has "fuzzy" morals. He lies. Everyone knows he lies - even the Trump supporters know this. That is why even a Trump supporter would probably want to document every interaction with him because you never know when a pathological liar will turn his lies on you.
I believe Trump is president because his supporters liked his America first proposals in spite of his lies. But Trump's legislation proposals - outlines - are really plans akin to a survival of the fittest society. He will abandon the weak, he will abandon the sick. He will abandon the poor.
5
WOW! Trump is a Liar!
6
Does anyone, even Trump's most ardent lackeys, sycophants and deplorables really believe there are no recordings of the goings on in Trump's White House office? This narcissist, who lives to hear the sound of his voice, to badger, bludgeon and cow to get what he wants? Of course he's got "tapes" (digital video most likely) of his "dealings." And he plays them over and over to hear himself, to smirk and smug over them. He is, as JK Rowland pointed out, "...a tiny, tiny, tiny little man."
The president is "not a liar" lied Sarah Sanders. The president is not a liar" lied his lawyer, Marc Kasowitz. Someone must have hidden his smartphone because Trump, most uncharacteristically, said nothing on his favorite "real news" platform. Ohh, but Donny, Jr. took up the slack, a chip off the tiny, tiny, tiny little shoulder. Dad must have been proud.
Comey is the antihero, and the best thing we have, as Americans, going for us at this point. Oh, to have been a fly on the wall (or a miniature video-microphone) on the wall during the closed session, and heard Comey's responses to the snarky questioning of Blunt and Cotton.
The president is "not a liar" lied Sarah Sanders. The president is not a liar" lied his lawyer, Marc Kasowitz. Someone must have hidden his smartphone because Trump, most uncharacteristically, said nothing on his favorite "real news" platform. Ohh, but Donny, Jr. took up the slack, a chip off the tiny, tiny, tiny little shoulder. Dad must have been proud.
Comey is the antihero, and the best thing we have, as Americans, going for us at this point. Oh, to have been a fly on the wall (or a miniature video-microphone) on the wall during the closed session, and heard Comey's responses to the snarky questioning of Blunt and Cotton.
3
Of all the Republican senators on the committee, Senator John Mccain seemed to be a sad case. He was lost in Hillary Clinton narrative. Asking the same question over and over again. He needs to be checked for some neurologic condition. His friends were clutching at straws like, 'hope' is not an order! Pathetic.
2
And now the tweets. Whom shall we believe? The prevaricating Tweety Bird in Chief or the truthful testimony of a dedicated public servant?
Trump has been warned that there would come a time when he would be unable to present his case due to his ever increasing lack of credibility. That time has come.
Trump has been warned that there would come a time when he would be unable to present his case due to his ever increasing lack of credibility. That time has come.
2
My biggest take away from yesterday's hearing his what has been known for at least a year and half, that Donald Trump, now our President is a Liar.
It's that simple, Donald Trump is a Liar.
Our President is a proven Liar.
Our President is a pathological Liar.
Our President is a chronic Liar.
Liar is such an appropriate term for Donald Trump.
Liar!
It's that simple, Donald Trump is a Liar.
Our President is a proven Liar.
Our President is a pathological Liar.
Our President is a chronic Liar.
Liar is such an appropriate term for Donald Trump.
Liar!
5
NYT outed as a purveyor of Fake News.
6
Executive privilege cannot trump loyalty to your country and the principles on which it was founded. All elected officials owe their loyalty to their country not a person. The resident of the WH, whoever he/she is, cannot claim executive privilege to mask, hide, or obfuscate a violation of this principle. Any elected official that forgets this essential principle that sustains this country as such, will be held responsible, as will those whose direct actions place the country at risk.
The majority of citizens of this country understand, have pledged, and will defend this principle.
Having secret meetings, advocating for secret channels, breaking bread with those that want to harm you, profiteering at the expense of your country, are all examples of a violation of this principle. No amount of spin will make these insalubrious actions healthy.
The majority of citizens of this country understand, have pledged, and will defend this principle.
Having secret meetings, advocating for secret channels, breaking bread with those that want to harm you, profiteering at the expense of your country, are all examples of a violation of this principle. No amount of spin will make these insalubrious actions healthy.
2
Can't we guess what Donald's "We had that thing..." meant? Isn't it a reference to Donald agreeing not to replace Comey when he took office, in exchange for "future considerations"? The odor of mafia is everywhere. Attorney Cash-a-wits as a character on SNL? Get used to him, there's a lot more to come.
2
Over the past weeks of this sad administration and during the campaign I listened to the boastful claims of the candidate Trump and now our President. After enduring his non-stop "Only I can fix it" boasting, the self aggrandizement and the need for ego-stroking, I came to the conclusion this person, Trump, cannot be trusted, in addition to Trump's past questionable business activities.
The bottom line is, what would Mr. Comey gain in fabricating stories that paints Trump in a bad light? Would he fabricate stories for retribution or out of vengeance? If that was the case he would have started his actions on his first day of being a private citizen.
I will take the word of a person such as Comey long before I will take the word of a con artist and grifter.
The bottom line is, what would Mr. Comey gain in fabricating stories that paints Trump in a bad light? Would he fabricate stories for retribution or out of vengeance? If that was the case he would have started his actions on his first day of being a private citizen.
I will take the word of a person such as Comey long before I will take the word of a con artist and grifter.
2
Comey didn't have to say Trump was lying about him. We all knew Trump was lying through his teeth as usual when Acting director of the FBI Anthony McCabe said this when asked by Senator Heinrich about Comey: “I can tell you also that Director Comey enjoyed broad support within the FBI and still does to this day. We are a large organization. We are 36,500 people across this country, across this globe. We have a diversity of opinions about many things, but I can confidently tell you that the majority, the vast majority of FBI employees enjoyed a deep and positive connection to Director Comey.” McCabe added that it had been a great honor and privilege to work with Comey.
Why anyone gives credence to ANYTHING Trump says is beyond me.
Why anyone gives credence to ANYTHING Trump says is beyond me.
3
Comey is like Lt. Keefer in Caine Mutiny. At every inflection point where he could've made a difference to the republic by simply saying "no" -- to Loretta Lynch, to Donald Trump--he did what he had to do to keep his job. He is less Thomas Moore and more Eddie Haskell.
1
Any honest person, brought up with morals, and listened to Trump during the campaign, except maybe for the evangelicals who voted for him, know that Trump is a pathological liar. Trump has a track record of telling bald-face lies; Comey does not. If Comey were in a court of law testifying based on his memos as an FBI investigator the judge would have no reason to disbelieve him. So why should there be an exception for Trump just because he's president?
Jim Comey is a flawed man. He had a job he loved and wanted to keep it. Yet it is clear that he was unfit to work for the man who by hook or crook or dumb luck found himself as POTUS. This man was different from all previous presidents. First he is a pathological liar and he simply cannot tell truth from lies or fact from fiction. He has been described as a man-baby who demands his way or throws a tantrum. He is the only person in the world that matters; not the people who he promised to serve, the Constitution or the rule of law or the foundations of our government and long established relations with the world.
Flawed Jim Comey is something that the president and the great majority of his political party, which misuses the term conservative for fascist, fears and connot tolerate, a patriot, a man of honor and integrity who is loyal to the American people and their democracy who has power to make them subject ti the rule of law. We have our first fascist president and fascist majority in Congress and Mr. Comey would not pledge personal loyalty to the boss. We have a new political mofia and Comey refused to kiss the ring and make the FBI the presidents new secret police.
We should be clear that government by racketeers and gangsters and Republicans is going to be resisted.
Flawed Jim Comey is something that the president and the great majority of his political party, which misuses the term conservative for fascist, fears and connot tolerate, a patriot, a man of honor and integrity who is loyal to the American people and their democracy who has power to make them subject ti the rule of law. We have our first fascist president and fascist majority in Congress and Mr. Comey would not pledge personal loyalty to the boss. We have a new political mofia and Comey refused to kiss the ring and make the FBI the presidents new secret police.
We should be clear that government by racketeers and gangsters and Republicans is going to be resisted.
6
Maybe I am just a "loser" or a "nutjob," but I cannot imagine living where I, myself, am the sole point of my moral compass.
I am guessing I speak for many NYT readers when I say, a sense of "professional ethics" -- which is what Trump has zero concept of -- has steered me through many decades. I almost feel sorry for Donald, that he is bereft of such a sense. How alone he must feel.
I am guessing I speak for many NYT readers when I say, a sense of "professional ethics" -- which is what Trump has zero concept of -- has steered me through many decades. I almost feel sorry for Donald, that he is bereft of such a sense. How alone he must feel.
5
Again, this is the only relevant line in the obnoxious editorial "Mr. Comey is a wily bureaucratic infighter".
2
It's hard to tell who's lying when everyone lies.
2
Anyone who has ever had a boss knows what it means when your boss asks you if you would like to "keep your job." And then asks you a "favor." Any Republican who tries to sully Comey over his interpretation of what Trump meant by that is simply lying through their teeth.
3
I am baffled by the Republican's , namely Ryan, assertion that 45 is new to the office and doesn't have all the rules down right. Well, in my licensed profession ignorance is not a defense nor is stupidity.
5
"The White House press office, its own credibility in tatters, was left to feebly insist, 'The president is not a liar.'" One is reminded of Nixon's self-defense: "I am not a crook."
2
Comey also made clear that The New York Times publishes fake news. Comey really performed a public service making that clear.
5
Comey proves that Bill Clinton did pressure Lynch to pressure Comey on the investigation into Hillary's illegal email server and its cover-up. Without question, the Clintons and Lynch and likely Obama too are guilty of Obstruction of Justice. Lock 'em up!!
2
At this point, I am not surprised that our President lies. I am angry and afraid of his Party. The Republicans seem quite amiable about the shift from America using its power for good than them using it as an ATM. Their complicity in this mess, this traitorous mess with selling souls, our collectives souls to RUSSIA! Their refusal to see that traitorous behavior as wholly and entirely unacceptable is mournful. We are more in peril of losing the America we believe we are for some crass, craven, selfish thing that is laughed at and scorned by the whole world.
No one in this mess has any shame! We all watch as our country slides perilously downward and no one in power wants it to stop. Are we to become yet another Russian satellite state? Where are the adults in this mess?
No one in this mess has any shame! We all watch as our country slides perilously downward and no one in power wants it to stop. Are we to become yet another Russian satellite state? Where are the adults in this mess?
3
After refraining from tweeting for about 24 hours. This Am he tweeted "Despite so many false statements and lies total and complete vindication." Delusion of grandeur is a psychological malady.
3
The potential realized from the ridiculous the glide down the escalator to the cheers of a paid crowd for 45 is worse than I anticipated. I have always been sickened by 45's presence in our politics from the very first tweet about Obama's birth certificate. We need to vote his supporters out and hopefully, not wait too long for his and his VP's resignation because of the inability to "lead" or hopefully, BOTH impeached and ouster. The best case scenario would be that we take back the house and have a Dem in place at the help as speaker when it happens. I would be willing to wait for that. VOTE. That he still has backers at the highest levels of the Republican political miasma is a testament to their lack of any integrity or patriotism. Lies and deception prevail with these people and have so for a long time now. Emperor T and his whole cabal, have no clothes...
2
We should all be thankful that one -- ONE -- person employed by the federal government at one of the highest and most important levels (though sadly now out of a job) has had the guts to flat-out call our so-called president a liar in sworn testimony before a worldwide television audience. Never in my lifetime did I expect to hear the Director of the FBI call a sitting president a liar in such circumstances. Breathtaking.
Since we haven't heard from Trump on this, we must assume his aides have taken away his mobile phone, hog-tied him, and put him in a locked room.
Here's hoping Mueller can get the job done -- but even if he concludes that the worst has actually happened vis-a-vis collusion with Russia, etc., I still have no faith that Congress will act to remove this execrable human being from office.
Since we haven't heard from Trump on this, we must assume his aides have taken away his mobile phone, hog-tied him, and put him in a locked room.
Here's hoping Mueller can get the job done -- but even if he concludes that the worst has actually happened vis-a-vis collusion with Russia, etc., I still have no faith that Congress will act to remove this execrable human being from office.
1
Since it had to be stated so early in his Presidency,..Does he actually greet folks with "I'm not a Liar"?
2
I much prefer Obama's use of the word 'hope.' Twice Trump has perverted its meaning into something threatening. I'm hoping words will once again mean exactly what they say. For that to happen a certain hopeless liar has to move far away from the center of attention.
1
Is Mr. Khizr Khan at the hearing? He needs to bring copies of the US Constitution to everyone in the room.... especially the Republican committee members who need reminding of the Rule of Law.
1
What will it take for the Times to stop the pervasive, outrageous lying and distorting the truth that even James Comey said was "nonsense". Donald Trump did not hinder in any way the investigation of Russian interference. In fact, Mr. Comey clearly and unequivocally affirmed that Trump thought it was a good thing to fully pursue any improprieties by his "satellites". Read the tr5anscript or watch Comey's testimony again if you missed it. Trump was obsessively focused on the sleazy, despicable tactics of the Democrats and the collusive media to disgrace him and reject the results of a lawful election. At this point, you have to look for a way out. He knew it was a contrived, phony deal from the gitgo but lacked the political acumen to realize that corrupt politicians and supercilious media have no interests other than their own. Your propaganda, dishonesty, lack of integrity and partisan bias have been exposed to the nth degree. How about something you haven't tried for years? The truth!
Republicans defend ANYTHING Trump does even when Trump is telling obvious lies and even when it is colluding with the Russians.
The lure of power must be strong to have so many toss their integrity away without a thought.
The lure of power must be strong to have so many toss their integrity away without a thought.
2
Does anyone know if Marco Rubio pledged his loyalty to Donald Trump during the dinner he was invited to with Trump the night before Comey's hearing?
Marco Seemed to be trying to vindicate Trump rather then get to the bottom of the line, it is embarrassing to think that Rubio who had been completely emasculated by Trump during the Republican Primary has joined the Trump team, instead of defending the Constitution.
Marco Seemed to be trying to vindicate Trump rather then get to the bottom of the line, it is embarrassing to think that Rubio who had been completely emasculated by Trump during the Republican Primary has joined the Trump team, instead of defending the Constitution.
3
Utter nonsense that Trump would want to share his "hopes" with Comey in complete privacy. What is this Koolaid that the Republicans are consuming? How long can a democracy sustain under such corrupt leaders?
Key word here: a "venal" politician. That tells you everything you need to know about Donald Trump. To such a person nothing is out of bounds.
1
".....the White House press office, its own credibility in tatters, was left to feebly insist, “The president is not a liar.”
Those words took me back in time when another president insisted he wasn't a crook.
Those words took me back in time when another president insisted he wasn't a crook.
2
It is hearsay. There is no corroboration. He said. He said. Even if Comey wrote down verbatim what Trump said -- which he can't prove - he can't accurately capture intent. The hearer hears things one way, but that may not have been what the speaker intended.
Comey has shown himself to be gutless. He rolled over for Loretta Lynch (I wonder where she got the directive re calling the investigation into HRC's server a matter). He didn't stand up to Trump -- if he thought what Trump was doing inappropriate.
If you're an accountant and your boss asks you to tweak a few accounts, you tell her or him that violates professional ethics. Period. If a patient asks a doctor to fake med records, he will be told that violates medical ethics.
But Comey did nothing of the sort. If he truly believed Trump's comments were inappropriate he either calls him on it or resigns.
And it's all a little strange Comey releases this info after he was fired. Not before.
Comey had to know he was someone any new president would treat as damaged goods after his performance re HRC. He had to know that it would take a lot for any president to trust Comey wouldn't make some grandstanding play. He'd already shown he would do that. Thus he documents every word.
And re Russia. While Russia may have hacked the DNC, the real threat isn't specifically Russia, it is our lack of cyber security. Someone breaks into your house, you buy locks etc. to defend against all future break ins.
Comey has shown himself to be gutless. He rolled over for Loretta Lynch (I wonder where she got the directive re calling the investigation into HRC's server a matter). He didn't stand up to Trump -- if he thought what Trump was doing inappropriate.
If you're an accountant and your boss asks you to tweak a few accounts, you tell her or him that violates professional ethics. Period. If a patient asks a doctor to fake med records, he will be told that violates medical ethics.
But Comey did nothing of the sort. If he truly believed Trump's comments were inappropriate he either calls him on it or resigns.
And it's all a little strange Comey releases this info after he was fired. Not before.
Comey had to know he was someone any new president would treat as damaged goods after his performance re HRC. He had to know that it would take a lot for any president to trust Comey wouldn't make some grandstanding play. He'd already shown he would do that. Thus he documents every word.
And re Russia. While Russia may have hacked the DNC, the real threat isn't specifically Russia, it is our lack of cyber security. Someone breaks into your house, you buy locks etc. to defend against all future break ins.
1
Actually, what we learned is Hillary was under criminal investigation during the election, and that Lynch ordered Comey to mislabel it to help her get elected. So bad! That should be investigated.
We also learned Trump has never been under investigation.
Also that Trump has the constitutional right to order, direct or cancel any investigation. He could have ordered cancelation, but did not.
Moreover that Comey is a weak, disloyal leaker.
Lastly, that the NYTimes was cranking out stories that were dead wrong, ie Fake news. Put that in your pipe and smoke it.
We also learned Trump has never been under investigation.
Also that Trump has the constitutional right to order, direct or cancel any investigation. He could have ordered cancelation, but did not.
Moreover that Comey is a weak, disloyal leaker.
Lastly, that the NYTimes was cranking out stories that were dead wrong, ie Fake news. Put that in your pipe and smoke it.
3
Joe -- spot on. But the whiny left -- which hated and blamed Comey for HRC's loss -- and labeled his behavior as inappropriate and politically motivated -- now sees the same man as heroic. I see him as narcissistic and weak. He rolled over for Loretta Lynch -- who -- let's be clear -- didn't act on her own but in all likelihood was conveying Obama's wishes.
1
What seems to be missing here is that "I hope" is a corporate phrase (hence, very familiar to Mr. Trump), which I heard for 25 years in industry, which is best translated as "if you value your job, do what I just said". Notice the phrase is sometimes used by judges, as in "I hope you will never stand before me in this court again"; the purport not being a friendly, offhanded comment, but an outright threat that Nothing Good will happen if you do appear before that judge again. The word "hope" must be interpreted within the context that it is spoken.
14
indeed. it also depends on who uses the word "hope". saying to your boss: "i hope you will give me a raise." has very different meaning than when an employer says:
"i hope you complete the task by 2:00."
"i hope you complete the task by 2:00."
1
Mueller may be the only grown-up left in Washington. Let's hope he can save this nation from trump and putin.
3
There once was a President lying
So often without even trying
That when he gets accused
We are often amused
But this time it’s electrifying
So often without even trying
That when he gets accused
We are often amused
But this time it’s electrifying
2
That America has lost a public servant of such calibre and integrity as Mr. Comey at the expense of the presidential equivalent of a barker in a carnival side show... underscores the disturbing effectiveness of Russia's meddling.
3
Comey lied when he took an oath to obey the law, and yet began collecting "evidence" on Trump using an FBI computer to compose "Field Reports" (AKA personal recollections/memos) as though Trump was an unwitting criminal witness. And you are playing with the truth here, arguing a "Big Lie" based on "little lies" that amount to Trump's short attention span, confused memory, and his unguarded attitude during a casual discussion. As FBI director, as a former prosecutor, Comey is seldom unguarded with anyone, giving him always the advantage.
But Trump saw no reason for Flynn to be charged with a crime after being fired. Comey disagreed, and the truth is that their conversation about whether Trump would have Comey's loyalty also went no further than that dinner.
But the Big Lie here is that Trump, in an obstruction of justice, fired Flynn for exposing similar entanglements of Trump's White House associates and family, and that he fired Comey because his investigations into Russian meddling in our last national election would find the same thing. The truth is that he fired Comey because he did not trust Comey, and he had good reasons, so it now seems.
But Trump saw no reason for Flynn to be charged with a crime after being fired. Comey disagreed, and the truth is that their conversation about whether Trump would have Comey's loyalty also went no further than that dinner.
But the Big Lie here is that Trump, in an obstruction of justice, fired Flynn for exposing similar entanglements of Trump's White House associates and family, and that he fired Comey because his investigations into Russian meddling in our last national election would find the same thing. The truth is that he fired Comey because he did not trust Comey, and he had good reasons, so it now seems.
Thank you Mr Comey for your honest testimony.
4
It's ironic to say the least that the man responsible for Trump's election may be responsible for his downfall.
10
How anyone can remain among those working in the White House and continue to say that this nefarious president isn't a liar, puzzles me because, in doing so, remaining on the payroll, these individuals are essentially telling any potential employer in the future that they don't know the difference between truth and lies. President Trump has a long, long record of being amazingly mendacious. "Liar, liar, pants on fire!"
4
But apparently half the nation - the millions who voted for Trump - don't care. So they will, unfortunately, be fine.
1
The guy lies about crowd size and rain. Do we expect he'd be truthful about anything else?
4
One point has troubled me since all the back and forth on Russian involvement in the 2016 election has become part of our daily lives.
So many of the highest officials in the administration of our government, either transitioned from high government or private careers seem to be pleading ignorance and memory lapses as the reasons for hiding interactions with people and institutions they choose not to reveal for one reason or another. This problem is epidemic and is blithely accepted by their supporters and too many other citizens. Be honest, is any important political, intelligence or business official not performing his/her daily professional life without a schedule and calendar that accounts for most if not every minute of their time on every day? If meetings were taken then the time would have to be provided in the calendar and a record should be available. This fact belies the memory lapses used to allow administration members to alibi forgetting meetings they would like hidden. Further, if dates, times, individuals and topics aren't currently available in calendars, were they removed?
It's difficult to accept that a number of people in Trump's administration have both no recording of meetings with certain people nor any memory of those meetings and topics until information uncovers facts about them and causes the tap-dance of the memory problem.
So many of the highest officials in the administration of our government, either transitioned from high government or private careers seem to be pleading ignorance and memory lapses as the reasons for hiding interactions with people and institutions they choose not to reveal for one reason or another. This problem is epidemic and is blithely accepted by their supporters and too many other citizens. Be honest, is any important political, intelligence or business official not performing his/her daily professional life without a schedule and calendar that accounts for most if not every minute of their time on every day? If meetings were taken then the time would have to be provided in the calendar and a record should be available. This fact belies the memory lapses used to allow administration members to alibi forgetting meetings they would like hidden. Further, if dates, times, individuals and topics aren't currently available in calendars, were they removed?
It's difficult to accept that a number of people in Trump's administration have both no recording of meetings with certain people nor any memory of those meetings and topics until information uncovers facts about them and causes the tap-dance of the memory problem.
1
Finally there is an adult in the room. Mr. Comey, you were a breath of fresh air and more yesterday in the hearing. Thank you for standing up to corruption and power.
5
In service to this country Director Comey set out facts which make out a compelling prima facia case of obstruction of justice. His testimony has virtually insured that Special Counsel Mueller will question under oath Coates, Rogers, Pompeo, Rosenstein, McCabe, Sessions,Pence, Trump and numerous others. This investigation is likely to produce additional evidence of obstruction of justice - such as Trump's requests to Coates and Rogers to to influence the FBI to stop the Russia investigation.
2
There is one question I really wish they had asked in yesterday's testimony. Given the nature and theme of the investigation, why on earth wasn't Trump personally under investigation? It defies logic that he wasn't. I would like to know why not.
120
Because Trumpcare is likely to be the resulting focus of the investigations of his subordinates.
He probably is now except Comey would never reveal that in a public forum.
1
After the Comey testimony, after all the editorials that have been written, all the tweets, all the accusations, and all the denials, where is the evidence that Russia interfered with the election? What specifically did they do to interfere with the election? What votes were changed? What votes were cast that would not have been cast? All I've heard is they tried to hack into our voting machines. They certainly have been accused of similar acts in elections in other countries.
And how did Trump's staff "collude" with the Russians to influence the election - and was it the Russians or Comey and his sloppy investigation of Hilary's email server which tilted the election?
We still don't know anything at all - even though many branches of government have been "investigating" collusion by Trump's associates with Russia since July of last year - and we still don't know what those deleted emails were about.
Really, the Times and their writers should address how ridiculous this all is.
And how did Trump's staff "collude" with the Russians to influence the election - and was it the Russians or Comey and his sloppy investigation of Hilary's email server which tilted the election?
We still don't know anything at all - even though many branches of government have been "investigating" collusion by Trump's associates with Russia since July of last year - and we still don't know what those deleted emails were about.
Really, the Times and their writers should address how ridiculous this all is.
1
So Comey wakes up in the middle of the night, jittery and discomposed, calls up this law-school guy, and does what? Tells this guy he's about to send him his version of his meetings with President Trump and to "leak" them to the reliably neutral and patriotic NYT. Why did Comey say he used an intermediary? Because he didn't want to start a media feeding frenzy. Got that? And who knows...what other "leaks" did this FBI director engineer?
2
We have had example after example after example of a very important fact. This POTUS clearly doesn't recognize, let alone uphold ANY of the legal principles at the foundation of American democracy. There are no examples of this so far. Yet, to this very second our GOP-led Congress is practically worshiping this ignorant man. That tells you that a culture of complete indecency is the bedrock of the GOP.
3
Dear Mr. Ryan; "He didn't know" is not a defense. Stop insulting our intelligence.
7
Why after these hearings did Paul Ryan try to explain why President Trump seemingly did not understand what he was doing by saying he is new to Washington. Why then has it taken any Republican all this time to start making excuses long after the horse is out of the barn for Trump?
It appears the President does not understand conflict of interest or the simple notion he is not the CEO of America, and as long as he is the White House he won't.
It appears the President does not understand conflict of interest or the simple notion he is not the CEO of America, and as long as he is the White House he won't.
2
The support of Russia by Trump is simply not rational when all is considered. It just doesn't add up--and I think the GOP is in a very risky position here, as is our nation.
1
My belief is that Trump is a Russian stooge, they could not have chosen better and in four months he has delivered much. Trump has a White House in total chaos and is leaking like a sieve, he has upended the Middle East, outraged NATO, his admiration of strongmen is mind bogging, he LIES, this list could go on and on.
Mr Mueller needs to follow the money and his tax returns will illuminate much.
Currently, he relies on the Republican controlled Legislature to not ask the hard questions.
Russia has succeeded in upending the American democracy, how many Americans will comprehend and act to save this Nation?
Mr Mueller needs to follow the money and his tax returns will illuminate much.
Currently, he relies on the Republican controlled Legislature to not ask the hard questions.
Russia has succeeded in upending the American democracy, how many Americans will comprehend and act to save this Nation?
2
Hoover is to Comey as Trump is to Obama.
2
Most of what Comey yesterday claimed were "lies" were nothing more than opinions, such as the FBI leader was not doing a good job.
What we did learn, however, is that the Hillary Clinton campaign lied that there was no "criminal" investigation of her, insisting it was this or that type of "Matter" and that the then Attorney General of the United States, Loretta Lynch, then ordered Comey to adopt the Clinton campaign propaganda label of "Matter," which he willingly did.
This proves that the entire Clinton investigation was a foreordained fake from the start (as we all knew anyway), with here so-called exoneration in the bag and the re-labeling part of the PR psychology played on the Amerian people to make it look like there was a real investigation.
Comey's testimony proves as a matter of logic that Ms. Lynch's famous airport tarmac meeting with former President Bill Clinton was obviously not an accident, or called for the purpose of discussing grandchildren. Rather, that was the occasion where they met to make the deal as to what quid in the new HIllary Clinton administration for Ms. Lynch would be generated from the quo of the campaign cooperation.
This really was indictable obstruction of justice, and sooner Ms. Lynch and Mr. Comey are indicted, convicted, and disbarred, the better.
What we did learn, however, is that the Hillary Clinton campaign lied that there was no "criminal" investigation of her, insisting it was this or that type of "Matter" and that the then Attorney General of the United States, Loretta Lynch, then ordered Comey to adopt the Clinton campaign propaganda label of "Matter," which he willingly did.
This proves that the entire Clinton investigation was a foreordained fake from the start (as we all knew anyway), with here so-called exoneration in the bag and the re-labeling part of the PR psychology played on the Amerian people to make it look like there was a real investigation.
Comey's testimony proves as a matter of logic that Ms. Lynch's famous airport tarmac meeting with former President Bill Clinton was obviously not an accident, or called for the purpose of discussing grandchildren. Rather, that was the occasion where they met to make the deal as to what quid in the new HIllary Clinton administration for Ms. Lynch would be generated from the quo of the campaign cooperation.
This really was indictable obstruction of justice, and sooner Ms. Lynch and Mr. Comey are indicted, convicted, and disbarred, the better.
4
Yes, but while this former director was fully engaged in pre and post electoral politics, who was in charge of catching crooks? Comey will be more at home on K street.
2
Those Tapes POTUS bragged about previously will (No Doubt) go the way of those Tapes of Enhanced Interrogations, "Poof",..they will disappear:) as in destroyed.
2
Director Comey is a true leader for letting us all know about what happened behind closed doors in this White House. He should probably have stood tall and told the president no when the president said he shouldn't be investigated, and to stop the investigation of Flynn. But that's very easy to say and very difficult to do when you're in the oval office being directed to stop doing something by the president.
Thanks Director Comey, for all you've done to preserve, protect and defend our constitution, in service of our country.
Thanks Director Comey, for all you've done to preserve, protect and defend our constitution, in service of our country.
4
This bumbling, blustering, bullying excuse for a President has as uneasy a relationship with the truth as he does with the media. He only cares for it when it suits or flatters him and, when it does not, is dismissive or hostile toward it.
Psychologically, all the President's mendacity can be viewed as a primal behavior, a defense against the deep-seated and anxiety-provoking awareness that he is a fraud and a failure. He is a disturbed man and as unfit for the Office he holds as anyone has ever been. He will not change, lacking the requisite insight and motivation to do so.
Confronted with "the nature of the person," Comey refused to be seduced or dissuaded, rightly seeing the emperor for the unclothed liar that he is. What will happen next will do little to add to our knowledge of Trump's character but tell us much about the character of this Congress and our character as a nation.
Psychologically, all the President's mendacity can be viewed as a primal behavior, a defense against the deep-seated and anxiety-provoking awareness that he is a fraud and a failure. He is a disturbed man and as unfit for the Office he holds as anyone has ever been. He will not change, lacking the requisite insight and motivation to do so.
Confronted with "the nature of the person," Comey refused to be seduced or dissuaded, rightly seeing the emperor for the unclothed liar that he is. What will happen next will do little to add to our knowledge of Trump's character but tell us much about the character of this Congress and our character as a nation.
1
Both Trump's lawyer Kasowitz and Alan Dershowitz keep pointing to Comey's acknowledgement that Trump as President could fire him whenever he wanted. But those guys are smart enough to know the President can't fire the FBI Director because he won't drop an investigation into Trump's buddy Flynn. That is an abuse of power.
1
I suspect Trump has goods on Dershowitz. Trump wasn't the only one frequently seen on the pedophile billionaire's Lolita Express airplane.
It would be laughable that Trump says he is thinks he is vindicated by what Comey said if he weren't just another barefaced lie. Although the Republicans also lied for him it was evident that everyone watching Comey's testimony believed the man. His television presence was convincing enough to place doubts about Trump in the mind of even the most gullible or resistant.
1
Question: why did Comey refute the NYTimes Feb. article? Is he refuting it because it is in fact very true and therefore for classified intelligence reasons he is refuting it ... as a cover?
1
If Trump has learned anything it's the old adage: don't fool around with the FBI. They have eons of experience taking on bigwigs and showing who and what they really are.
1
Its been troubling to reconcile the Comey that torpedo'd Clinton and gave us Trump with the Comey that is now torpedoing Trump. The answer appears to lie in what the main is most loyal to and defends first - and that appears to be the FBI itself. He didn't send the Clinton steamer to the bottom because he wanted Trump to win, he did it because he deeply resented the FBI being dragged into the middle of the election by politicians. With Clinton going down by the bow, he thought he was preserving the independence and integrity of the FBI. Confronted now by the no good rounder that was the beneficiary of the sinking to once again meddle, he feared the threat to the independence of the United States of FBI even more clear, present and palpable. He acted accordingly. As to what we in the peanut gallery are to make of it, the bottom line is this: you can question the man's motives but not his facts. He cares nothing fo which way the chips fall but he cares everything about what is factual. The coal fired steamer Trump has been holed and is taking on water.
Many members of congress, chained to the president, have already been pulled off the deck of the ship of state. The question then becomes do they have enough sense to realize that the country, not just themselves, are drowning in a sea of chaos created by a foreign power? Dismally many still publicly disregard that an external attack, designed and implemented to thwart, distort, and delegitimize our democratic institutions and form of government, has taken place and continues to place at peril the stability and prosperity of the United States.
Why such flippant disregard for an existential threat? Why such folly in unswerving support of an undeserving president of low character? Why does Mr. Comey have to repeatedly state the obvious, i.e. its a "very big deal" ?
Are tax cuts for the wealthy truly worth selling out democracy to a murderous Russian thug? The smirks on McConnell's and Ryan's faces are poignant evidence that powerful interests think they are.
Why such flippant disregard for an existential threat? Why such folly in unswerving support of an undeserving president of low character? Why does Mr. Comey have to repeatedly state the obvious, i.e. its a "very big deal" ?
Are tax cuts for the wealthy truly worth selling out democracy to a murderous Russian thug? The smirks on McConnell's and Ryan's faces are poignant evidence that powerful interests think they are.
2
I disagree with the comment that Mr. Comey is one of those government bureaucrats "that is dedicated to their roles such that it places them above any president's glory". I believe MR Comey is dedicated to his self preservation over anything else as shown by his cowardly acceptance of Loretta Lynn's direction to call the Clinton email case a "matter" rather than an investigation, and by his failure to aggressively confront President Trump in the face of his demand to back of Flynn. In both cases it was all about his job security and not burning political bridges for the future. Just like any other politician in Washington.
The headline says it all! Thanks NYT!
I hope all the premier sound engineers and best forensic audiologists we have are preparing themselves to analyze the mysterious "tapes" that are undoubtedly being worked on by the Russian Intelligence Services.
It's not a stretch to think that our crook president and his band of crazy handlers are waiting for Vlady's green light.
We're at the beginning of a long, ugly period in our nation's history.
It's not a stretch to think that our crook president and his band of crazy handlers are waiting for Vlady's green light.
We're at the beginning of a long, ugly period in our nation's history.
1
If Trump wins this battle we will have an autocrat.
2
Those tapes POTUS claimed earlier will clear this right up.
He can release both the English and Russian Versions.
He can release both the English and Russian Versions.
3
I was a starting college student when Watergate broke wide open. I thought it would be a lesson to our democracy and that we would never see something like this again. I was also perplexed when Hollywood "leading man" Ron Reagan was elected. I thought it was a unique case of charismatic persona (Reaganesque) and that figure-head presidency would unlikely happen again.
Well, we now have both. But Nixon was as highly competent a statesman as a deeply corrupted politician. Reagan was as as highly reasonable an acting figurehead as ignorant as he was of governing matter. With Trump, we now have the worst of both with little redeeming quality of either except for the incredible cult-like appeal that propelled him to presidency and perhaps US first kakistocracy.
Well, we now have both. But Nixon was as highly competent a statesman as a deeply corrupted politician. Reagan was as as highly reasonable an acting figurehead as ignorant as he was of governing matter. With Trump, we now have the worst of both with little redeeming quality of either except for the incredible cult-like appeal that propelled him to presidency and perhaps US first kakistocracy.
1
"Mr. Comey is a wily bureaucratic infighter" say the Times, but we know him from history as just another bureaucrat in a line of FBI prosecutors and inquisitors. Honesty has nothing to do with it and never has. The criminal misuse of NSA data to invade domestic privacy is a hallmark of shame. Big brother has arrived big time.
1
Comey had this one opportunity to torpedo Trump the way he did Clinton and he squandered it. He failed America when he helped ruin a good candidate's campaign, and he has failed America again by not doing his utmost to sink a morally bankrupt and criminally liable President.
40
There was a good candidate? Who might that have been?
I am not surprised that Mr. Comey was fired. Mr. Comey should have charged Mrs. Clinton. Not charging Mrs. Clinton was an OBSTRUCTION OF JUSTICE.
2
If the NYT editorial board is looking to James Comey for "lessons in honesty" then God help us all!
Of course Trump is not an angel. But neither is Comey. Here is the THE EDITORIAL BOARD itself on NOV. 7, 2016.
"Never mind.
"That was the message James Comey, the F.B.I. director, sent to Congress on Sunday in his latest headline-grabbing interruption of the 2016 presidential race.
"Having dropped a bomb packed with innuendo on Oct. 28 when he informed Congress that there was a new stash of emails that “appear to be pertinent” to the investigation of Hillary Clinton’s use of a private email server, Mr. Comey had to dig himself out."
But now you are singing a different song,
"unlike Mr. Trump, he values honesty and the Constitution above blind loyalty."
Aren't you relying on your own readers having short memories?
Of course Trump is not an angel. But neither is Comey. Here is the THE EDITORIAL BOARD itself on NOV. 7, 2016.
"Never mind.
"That was the message James Comey, the F.B.I. director, sent to Congress on Sunday in his latest headline-grabbing interruption of the 2016 presidential race.
"Having dropped a bomb packed with innuendo on Oct. 28 when he informed Congress that there was a new stash of emails that “appear to be pertinent” to the investigation of Hillary Clinton’s use of a private email server, Mr. Comey had to dig himself out."
But now you are singing a different song,
"unlike Mr. Trump, he values honesty and the Constitution above blind loyalty."
Aren't you relying on your own readers having short memories?
2
Mr. Comey (like J Edgar Hoover) kept a black book on DC politicians. Mr. Comey should turn over all of his notes since they are the property of the US Government.
1
Mr. Comey is a patriot. Thank God we have these individuals in our government. 45 never asked about Russia or how we better protect our country, what a traitor. The republicans continue to try and normalize these heinous acts. It's frightening.
2
Does Donald Trump understand or care about the oath of office he swore to on January 20th? His first five months in office have been guided by his ignorance of our constitution and his antipathy for the most precious document this nation has.
1
That's a great picture!
During that Oval Office meeting alone with Trump, Comey should have immediately clarified. A simple question from Comey: I need to fully understand what you are asking -- are you asking me to drop the Flynn investigation?" No doubt crooked Trump would have said yes!
1
So, what possible favor can Trump provide the Russians before he implodes. One scenario that follows his reluctance to support NATO is that Trump will unilaterally cancel the sanctions against Russia/Putin. The payback.
1
If you go on the Politifacts website, you will see that 70% of what Trump says are lies. To those who are still in denial, I suggest they check it out.
1
As a person who despised Comey for what he did to Hillary and the bogus email stories aiding in Trump's electoral college victory, maybe Comey will atone for his sins. Let's hope that during these investigations the Republicans defending Trump will pay a big price at election time. They will be publicly exposed as never before as the treasonous, self-serving party they have become. We may have needed to take this poison pill of Trump in the White House to serve as a wake up call. This country has been far too complacent and distracted for decades, which is how a person like Trump became president. The time has come for embracing Democracy and make it stronger, or we will become Russia.
It is mind bugling that after our nation's 17 security agencies conclusively declare that Russia interfered (and continues to interfere) on our election, POTUS has never had a meeting with any of those agencies to at least consider what to do about this vital threat to our nation! All he is interested in is closing the investigation of the matter by our law enforcement agencies. This is what happens when good people take their democracy for granted and don't trouble voting--bad people get elected!
2
Most important statement made by Comey: Why did Trump require Kushner and Sessions leave the room before asking Comey to drop the Flynn investigation?
Most important question of the Republicans: Why are they not demanding prompt answer to Russian interference in 2016 election and fake media?
Scariest observation: The Republican Party has become thugs, protecting party over country.
Conclusion: Unless the young and idealists who can't vote for "the lesser of evils" candidates turn out and vote in 2018, this country that we have loved and cherished will be gone forever.
Something smells rotten in 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue.
Most important question of the Republicans: Why are they not demanding prompt answer to Russian interference in 2016 election and fake media?
Scariest observation: The Republican Party has become thugs, protecting party over country.
Conclusion: Unless the young and idealists who can't vote for "the lesser of evils" candidates turn out and vote in 2018, this country that we have loved and cherished will be gone forever.
Something smells rotten in 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue.
3
Let's give credit where credit is due. Donald Trump told the truth. Oh, not yesterday, but months ago when he proudly boasted that he could shoot someone in the middle of Fifth Avenue and his supporters would still champion him.
He did that yesterday and they did.
Yesterday Donald Trump shot down Jim Comey in front of millions of people, and his supporters, including the Elected Ones, came to his aid. From the Speaker of the House (the President is just a babe in the woods, he didn't know what he was doing) to the smarmy lawyer (whose reputation for the truth is as warped as his client's), they painted him as the victim of the plot.
Scientists are saying that the magnetic field of the earth is in the process of reversing itself. When that happens, north will be south and south will be north. I think we're already there.
He did that yesterday and they did.
Yesterday Donald Trump shot down Jim Comey in front of millions of people, and his supporters, including the Elected Ones, came to his aid. From the Speaker of the House (the President is just a babe in the woods, he didn't know what he was doing) to the smarmy lawyer (whose reputation for the truth is as warped as his client's), they painted him as the victim of the plot.
Scientists are saying that the magnetic field of the earth is in the process of reversing itself. When that happens, north will be south and south will be north. I think we're already there.
3
This article is an very biased presentation of Comey's testimony. The testimony did in many respects vindicate president Trump, but this article tries to turn that around and ignores the most important facts to come out of this whole spectacle. Trump did NOT order Comey to drop the investigation of Flynn, he only expressed hope that he would(perfectly within his right to do). The fact that Comey confirmed that Trump was NOT under investigation. And speaking of the president's lies, New York Times here conveniently jumps over the fact that Comey said that many of the reports of intelligence leaks based on "anonymous sources" were completely wrong, including a New York Times article. Is the New York Times going to apologize to the president for those lies against him? And Comey's revelation that he himself was leaking information about confidential discussions he had with the president to the media, perfectly demonstrate why the president was absolutely correct in questioning Comey's loyalty. The fact that Comey took notes of his discussions with Trump but not in many other discussions where there was obvious corruption and wrong doing, as when Loretta Lynch was meddling in the investigation of Hillary Clinton, just goes to show how biased he was against the president. The only "lie" that Comey revealed coming from the president was the administrations description of the disarray at the FBI and the lack of confidence in Comey, which obviously is subjective.
4
Trump sees himself as Americas CEO. Comey worked for him, not the country. That's why loyalty was so vital. Comey could not commit to blind loyalty, only honest loyalty. And so he was fired. Honesty apparently is not highly valued in the Trump White House.
1
Mr. Comey is a curious creature to Mr. Trump, someone he has not really seen or encountered before up close: a public servant of erudition and moral rectitude yet politically savvy, dedicated to the complexities of the law and disinterested in personal accumulation of stuff, excessive wealth, or cozy access. Trump tried to apply the usual gladhanding balms to Comey familiar to him from the business world -- Trump's only life experience -- and got badly stung. There are rules, principles, morals, honor codes, and stiff spines out there, Donald. God bless America, and stay tuned to the story of those computers that were talking between Trump Tower and the Russian Alfa bank.
1
In essence, the lies which Comey referred to were (i) Trump's opinion when he fired Comey "that the bureau was a mess and that the director had lost the trust of his agents", which Comey, in his own defense, called "lies, plain and simple"; and (ii) who invited who for dinner. Everything else was a matter of conjecture.
When you come right down to it, it was a matter of he-said, he-said. The only entity that we know which disseminated falsehoods was The Times.
As far as the Russia investigation goes, it would be ongoing regardless of who won the election. The issue was and is, whether Russia tried to interfere with our election. In fact, if Hillary had won, it would be even more onerous because of this:
As per The Times,
"Cash Flowed to Clinton Foundation Amid Russian Uranium Deal"
https://www.nytimes.com/2015/04/24/us/cash-flowed-to-clinton-foundation-...
Detailed are half-million dollar "speaking fees" paid by Russians to Bill Clinton and tens of millions of dollars of "donations" to Clinton's phony-baloney, pay-to-play foundation designed to obtain control of uranium facilities for Russia in the USA, and Canada, while Hillary was Secretary of State. "American political campaigns are barred from accepting foreign donations. But foreigners may give to foundations in the United States." The Russians know this well.
Then as a coda, there was John McCain, all of which resulted in high comedy.
When you come right down to it, it was a matter of he-said, he-said. The only entity that we know which disseminated falsehoods was The Times.
As far as the Russia investigation goes, it would be ongoing regardless of who won the election. The issue was and is, whether Russia tried to interfere with our election. In fact, if Hillary had won, it would be even more onerous because of this:
As per The Times,
"Cash Flowed to Clinton Foundation Amid Russian Uranium Deal"
https://www.nytimes.com/2015/04/24/us/cash-flowed-to-clinton-foundation-...
Detailed are half-million dollar "speaking fees" paid by Russians to Bill Clinton and tens of millions of dollars of "donations" to Clinton's phony-baloney, pay-to-play foundation designed to obtain control of uranium facilities for Russia in the USA, and Canada, while Hillary was Secretary of State. "American political campaigns are barred from accepting foreign donations. But foreigners may give to foundations in the United States." The Russians know this well.
Then as a coda, there was John McCain, all of which resulted in high comedy.
2
"....James Comey on Thursday deftly recast his confrontation with the president as a clash between the legal principles at the foundation of American democracy, and a venal, self-interested politician who does not recognize, let alone uphold, them." This gem of an opening and the point it quietly tries to make is then lost in a dutiful reporting of the process of yesterday's public hearings. That is SOP for most American journalists these days and a growing standard for the NYT (a media source dropping daily in my esteem). The easily-missed point is this: a president who does not recognize or uphold the legal principles on which our democracy is built (i.e., the rule of law) is a president who does not support democracy. If he is not a supporter of democracy, then what does he support? Many labels come to mind, but they are all encompassed by one: fascism. We are rapidly headed toward becoming an autocracy under the leadership of...Trump? No, Trump is NOT a leader. The movement toward autocracy is being led by a corrupt GOP, beholden to all the rich patrons who own them. Sadly, until the American press recognizes this and begins to sound the alarm, the American public will remain anesthetized to reality and continue to live helplessly in the fog of a false sense of security. Read Timothy Snyder's "On Tyranny" - wise up and rise up. Our representative democracy is in peril.
Former FBI Director Comey is the only person in this picture warning that the Russians are coming at us and it doesn't matter if you are a Democrat or Republican.
1
What took years to finally bring down the presidency of Richard Nixon has taken just over a hundred days to set into motion the demise of Trump's. Former Director Comey's testimony under oath is not the end of this sordid mess created by the bumbling and bungling Trump, it is but the beginning. Comey represents merely the first of many accusations that the occupier of the Oval Office is a madman, an unhinged, incompetent and dangerous person who has no sense of what it means to be the Chief Executive of the most powerful nation on Earth. Things move a lot faster than they did forty years ago. The world we inhabit now leaves us no room to breath, to take in the enormity of the events occurring. No sooner does one bombshell drop when we are assaulted with another concerning the absolute inability of the man in the White House to govern. He is a clear and present danger to our democracy. How long will it take before the Republican majority does something? They have till next year, and the we the people will speak, loud and clear, and it will not be something Republicans want to hear. Until we remove the obstacle, Republicans in elected office, from power will we receive and relief from the audacity of the madman in the White House. The clock is ticking for Republicans. They better act soon or they will be the recipient of the wrath of the people come 2018 and 2020.
DD
Manhattan
DD
Manhattan
Mr. Trump has no personal integrity. He will say or do anything that he can get away with. The is why he GETS Mr. Putin and does not GET Mr. Comey. In Trump's self interested, self aggrandizing playbook Comey's actions, based as they are on integrity and genuine patriotism, do not compute.
2
Why would anyone trust the FBI when its Director leaks confidential information? The top down sets the tone. President Trump said "I hope you can see the way to letting this go" which Comey "reasonably took" as an "order." He had a duty to report what would amount to an attempt to obstruct justice. Comey did not report it so he evidently did not view it that way. A hope is not an order. More interesting was the testimony about AG Lynch ordering the Clinton investigation labeled a "matter." Moreover, Comey concluded that Hillary did not "intend to commit a crime." Not his job! This is more about Comey trying to redeem himself but he has shown he should have been fired much earlier than he was. As for President Trump, the people support him 150%. Only this paper continues in its crusade to destroy our President. Others have dropped this nothing burger.
2
After listening to Comey's entire testimony I come away with two salient conclusions: Trump is guilty of obstruction and Bill Clinton doomed his wife's candidacy by having a private conversation with Lynch on the tarmac. Both Trump and Bill Clinton played dirty and Comey outed them on Thursday.
But Comey is just as flawed as the rest of us. He tried to take the morally superior high ground regarding the circumstances leading up to his firing but he knows he aided in getting Trump elected by his comments about Hilary prior to Election Day. He has to live with that and it showed in his expression and body language that he knew announcing Hilary was under investigation and then not under investigation was detrimental to her.
The perfect storm that allowed Trump to be elected is finally understood: Russian interference, Bill Clinton's actions that set Comey on a path to announce a Hilary investigation, an outdated Electoral College and Democrat voter apathy.
But Comey is just as flawed as the rest of us. He tried to take the morally superior high ground regarding the circumstances leading up to his firing but he knows he aided in getting Trump elected by his comments about Hilary prior to Election Day. He has to live with that and it showed in his expression and body language that he knew announcing Hilary was under investigation and then not under investigation was detrimental to her.
The perfect storm that allowed Trump to be elected is finally understood: Russian interference, Bill Clinton's actions that set Comey on a path to announce a Hilary investigation, an outdated Electoral College and Democrat voter apathy.
105
Nice comment, but "body language" is a scam. I can assure you from personal experience that it is invariably wrong whenever it is applied to me. Therefore is invalid in every application. It either works or it don't, and it don't, there is no "well this time it was right".
Lingonberry, you "forgot" to mention the elephant in the room: the incompetent candidate herself.
4
The electoral college is an important check on the formation of permanent factions. You may not like it when your favorite loses too many states, but I assure you will not like direct democracy.
There are two main aspects to the current investigations, both of which Trump will lie, spin, tweet to protect his stained name, those being the meddling (and possible collusion) , the other being partnered corruption staged by US and Russian oligarchs, about which lifting sanctions against Russia is a vital piece. Trump is far from "vindicated" in either one, but more entrenched in the corruption game. It will be very difficult to prove had his hands on meddling operations. When we concentrate on why he's so fearful of the Flynn investigation the entire "matter" will be in sharp focus, and will connect the Putin/Trump dots that will eventually be the subject of a Bill of Impeachment. We're a year or so away from this, which means this story will dominate the news cycles for quite awhile. Once the probe dispels the notion that Trump fired Comey to help out a "good guy" Flynn and focuses on the chain of conversations and backroom deals that were planned for execution after Jan 20 Mueller will have the smoking guns to bring to the attention of a grand jury.
What astounded me most was an effort on the part of a few Republicans to break Comey's obviously truthful testimony down to partisan issues. Our country is under attack via sophisticated cyber warfare by the Russians. You could hear the passion in Comey's voice as he tried forcefully to get that point across. That is the big picture. That should have brought all partisan posturing to a screeching halt. Time for every single lawmaker in the United States to Put America First.
178
"wrote his notes with care so they would remain unclassified, and therefore eligible to be released to the public"
A "leak"?? Not in the strictest sense. Mr. Comey released his own material, not someone else's. It was not classified, and not restricted from public disclosure. So it is actually not a true leak. An anonymous distribution perhaps.
A "leak"?? Not in the strictest sense. Mr. Comey released his own material, not someone else's. It was not classified, and not restricted from public disclosure. So it is actually not a true leak. An anonymous distribution perhaps.
2
One of the most damaging releases during the campaign was that of the Access Hollywood tapes (orchestrated by a major network?) and everything thing released by Wiki-Leaks/ Russia pales in comparison. Yet, Trump survived. Hmm ... why? Mr. Comey's clumsy re-opening of the case against Secretary Clinton weeks before the election? Not sad to see Mr. Comey replaced.
The gist:
“This is about America.”
"Russia “tried to shape the way we think, we vote, we act — that is a big deal.”
“They’re coming after America. ... They want to undermine our credibility in the face of the world.”
And the Republicans. particularly the President of the United States of America, don't care.
“This is about America.”
"Russia “tried to shape the way we think, we vote, we act — that is a big deal.”
“They’re coming after America. ... They want to undermine our credibility in the face of the world.”
And the Republicans. particularly the President of the United States of America, don't care.
1
We need more leakers of the truth.
1
Of all the questions posed and answered yesterday (someone counted 259) one of the most telling exchanges was about whether the President asked about any followup on the Russian meddling into the Nov election. The answer was no. The man who proclaims America First was not concerned enough about the meat of the investigation, only about removing the 'cloud' over his presidency.
191
Certainly no one has valued the US Constitution more than Trump. He has taken many actions that are offensive, cruel, possibly even evil, but they are allowed for a sitting president under the Constitution.
Our Constitution has failed completely so far to protect the American people, or the world at large from a leader with no apparent moral or ethical principals other than winning at all cost. Until now, this void in the Constitution has been okay, because we relied on human decency and because for the large part the electorate of America have chosen leaders who have at least some ethical principals.
The current leader runs the country to benefit his personal interests over those of the American people. He increasingly operates in secrecy. Ethics violations have no repercussions. Executive orders are subject to exceptions.
Our Constitution is today shown as a leaky sieve that gave us a leader who was "elected" but lost the popular vote. We are not a dictatorship--yet--but when do we acknowledge that our Constitution is woefully inadequate today.
Our Constitution has failed completely so far to protect the American people, or the world at large from a leader with no apparent moral or ethical principals other than winning at all cost. Until now, this void in the Constitution has been okay, because we relied on human decency and because for the large part the electorate of America have chosen leaders who have at least some ethical principals.
The current leader runs the country to benefit his personal interests over those of the American people. He increasingly operates in secrecy. Ethics violations have no repercussions. Executive orders are subject to exceptions.
Our Constitution is today shown as a leaky sieve that gave us a leader who was "elected" but lost the popular vote. We are not a dictatorship--yet--but when do we acknowledge that our Constitution is woefully inadequate today.
2
Hooray for Director Comey! Very impressive, considered witness. I hope he is but an exemplar of federal employees. He should remain the director.
This is one of the most thoughtful, cogent, powerful editorials by the NY Times. Thank you.
2
Rolling my eyes at how Fox and Trump loyalists are interpreting Comey's testimony as vindication. Sad. When the POTUS of all people says "I hope" you can do something for me," it's like your CEO saying "We're having a happy hour tonight, it's optional but I hope to see you there." If you care about your career, you understand the meaning of "hope" in such a context. Trump obstructed justice, and now the spotlight should be cast on House Republicans: Will they put country or party first?
2
"Will they put country or party first?". I believe many of us know the answer to that question.
At the time of the Feb. 14 conversation, Michael Flynn was no longer suspected of having violated the Logan Act during his pre-inaugural conversations with the Russian ambassador. The Washington Post had reported on Jan 24 that the FBI had reviewed intercepts of the conversations and ‘found no evidence of wrongdoing or illicit ties to the Russian government.” However, Flynn had told the FBI that he didn’t discuss sanctions while the intercepts showed the subject did come up. So he potentially could be charged with lying to the FBI. But on Feb 17—three days after the White House conversation, CBS News reported “investigators say that despite misleading the vice president, there is not enough evidence to charge [Flynn] with lying to the FBI.” So it appears Trump was right to hope the FBI would let Flynn go. Hoping that an innocent person is let go is not obstruction of justice.
Mr. Case,
So nice to see that you have found a way to keep yourself happy as the sideways world of Trump and crew comes unraveled. Just one question (sorry, but it's about facts): what leads you to believe Flynn's criminal liabilities have all been resolved?
Still, if interpreting Trump's 'hope' that Flynn can be let go as both innocent and logical makes you happy in these dark days, stick with it as long as you can.
So nice to see that you have found a way to keep yourself happy as the sideways world of Trump and crew comes unraveled. Just one question (sorry, but it's about facts): what leads you to believe Flynn's criminal liabilities have all been resolved?
Still, if interpreting Trump's 'hope' that Flynn can be let go as both innocent and logical makes you happy in these dark days, stick with it as long as you can.
While Comey will be criticized relentlessly for manipulating the leak so as to have an impact on future investigations, it's difficult to see what personal motive he could have. After all, he only wanted to trigger the appointment of an independent counsel. If there is nothing there, nothing will be found. Obviously, however, Comey believes there is a great deal there (though he said he could not say in an "open session" what it was). By the way, why is it necessary to dismiss him as "self" righteous and a "boy scout" because he is trying to do the right thing? He seems genuinely troubled to find himself in the midst of the politics of this election, but there he is, first with Loretta Lynch and Mr. Clinton and now in the situation with the Russia investigation. He did not seem to prize his integrity over that of Mr. Mueller, whom he deemed quite capable of being independent. "Wily" is a word with negative connotations; could be he's just smart.
7
It just keeps getting worse. If you take a step back and look at where we are six months into Trump's reign, it is astounding that the person who said they were going to "drain the swamp" has hunkered us down into the sewer further than any president since Nixon. Actually it seems worse than Nixon. There are multiple criminal, civil and ethical investigations into Trump's administration, yet barely an "accomplishment" in sight. Obamacare - soon to be Trumpcare - is still alive, there are no tax cuts, no wall, no infrastructure improvements. Nothing. And worse (for Trump), the next headline is absolutely going to be about Russia/Comey/Trump-Lies. I don't care if his supporters, including Congressional Republicans like Ryan, continue to enable him, Trump's dug such a pit for himself that even Trump Tower couldn't fill it and it's not going away anytime soon. This seems like a reality TV show, but the problem is that Trump can and has no qualms about taking all of us down with him.
8
This Trump mess is a lot worse than Nixon, and Nixon was a lying, low-life crook. He probably was not a traitor.
"Comey offered no proof that the President colluded with the Russians"
That is a grasping at straws by the apologists. A good attorney, of which there were many in the hearing room including Comey, would not want proof to be provided in a hearing setting. The truth will come out with through the investigation by the special counsel.
That is a grasping at straws by the apologists. A good attorney, of which there were many in the hearing room including Comey, would not want proof to be provided in a hearing setting. The truth will come out with through the investigation by the special counsel.
10
In retrospect, Mr. Comey should not have evaded Mr. Trump's request for personal loyalty, but should have stated bluntly that he is loyal to the country, the Constitution, and his agency, but that he serves at the pleasure of the President, so that if all that is not sufficient, he would be happy to submit his resignation. Ball in Trump's court.
3
It's hard to put oneself in somebody else's shoes but knowing what we do about the incumbent, lots of us would have recorded that meeting by being wired to protect ourselves.
5
While all eyes and ears are on the Trump media circus... what is Congress up to? Passing legislation rolling back regulations on banks meant to prevent another 2008 meltdown and weakening the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. Let me ask - do you think the average person would approve or disapprove of this? No matter. These politicians don't serve us anyway.
Out of the spotlight the Republican House is free to pursue their pro-business, tax cuts for the wealthy to the detriment of everything else agenda without much public scrutiny. All this hype around Trump is providing excellent cover. When the smoke finally clears Trump may be gone but we will all wake up to find ourselves in a different country.
Out of the spotlight the Republican House is free to pursue their pro-business, tax cuts for the wealthy to the detriment of everything else agenda without much public scrutiny. All this hype around Trump is providing excellent cover. When the smoke finally clears Trump may be gone but we will all wake up to find ourselves in a different country.
258
rvl...I might add the Republican House concept of "health care" yet to be devised & passed, budget, tax changes, & whatever else that has nothing to do with all American
people's needs.
people's needs.
Exactly!!
The GOP needs Trump in office to sign every piece of toxic legislation they pass. A "useful idiot" so to speak. That could be the reason for all of the excuses Speaker Ryan tries to make us believe.
Isn't all the so called news just propaganda and the so called journalists master manipulators?
Is religion's narratives just myth and it's priest's demagogues. Is staged theatre propaganda and the actors liars?
The truth lies some place in between because the way society is stratified and people's intellectual abilities are so limited.
And really what is "truth", it is so different to so many.
Is religion's narratives just myth and it's priest's demagogues. Is staged theatre propaganda and the actors liars?
The truth lies some place in between because the way society is stratified and people's intellectual abilities are so limited.
And really what is "truth", it is so different to so many.
2
Yesterday, Americans saw evidence of the following:
a. Comey? A bit too good to be true. He did deep six Hillary's chances; hence it is hard to surmise he is playing with a full deck. He is building a case like a good lawyer, and did not reveal more than he had to. A real player.
b. Trump? Troubling dictator of a banana republic.
c. McCain? Out to lunch. Beyond the line that divides sanity and senility.
a. Comey? A bit too good to be true. He did deep six Hillary's chances; hence it is hard to surmise he is playing with a full deck. He is building a case like a good lawyer, and did not reveal more than he had to. A real player.
b. Trump? Troubling dictator of a banana republic.
c. McCain? Out to lunch. Beyond the line that divides sanity and senility.
4
There is more to the Hillary nightmare, probably still classified. Comey's behavior was not good, but was not completely off the wall.
The information will be released in due time.
Comey's behavior as far as Trump has been admirable.
The information will be released in due time.
Comey's behavior as far as Trump has been admirable.
In my view, this is not about impeachment of a president. This is about shoring up our democratic Republic and political process from attacks from foreign adversaries. If investigations indict Americans along the way for collusion with Russian interference or impeach a president for obstruction of justice, so be it.
The immediate danger is the lack of commitment and absence of courage from GOP congressional leadership to aggressively support the rule of law and to defy a lying, vengeful, vindictive president who has put this country last in nearly every act and statement since inauguration. Oh, I understand the politics of appealing to an ignorant base enthralled with a conman; I do not understand subversion and propping up an incompetent, irresponsible president in pursuit of political advantage and putting this country in danger.
The immediate danger is the lack of commitment and absence of courage from GOP congressional leadership to aggressively support the rule of law and to defy a lying, vengeful, vindictive president who has put this country last in nearly every act and statement since inauguration. Oh, I understand the politics of appealing to an ignorant base enthralled with a conman; I do not understand subversion and propping up an incompetent, irresponsible president in pursuit of political advantage and putting this country in danger.
6
In fairness to Mr. Trump he lies mostly to his adoring base on Twitter and they seem to relish them. They are, apparently, like mushrooms thriving on animal waste and darkness. It's hard to see the foul. This is what they watch Fox News for, attend Trump rallies to hear, and feel smug about.
5
The ideals that formed the foundations of our country seem to have become some kind of joke to Republicans.
6
Lock him up!
4
"Believe me" or the writer of copious notes? Isn't even close who I believe by far.
2
Popcorn moment it was to watch the testimony of James Comey who said multiple times that Donald Trump is a liar. Comey will be known for ever a truth seeking FBI director who also gave the Country Donald Trump as the 45th President and there is no taking back although Comey never admitted that he was wrong,
It was also a sad moment to watch John McCain temporarily losing his grip . He will always be remembered to be a war Hero also for his heroic act by rebuking a racial comment by a woman when running for President.
Donald Trump is none of that proves to be an unsecured man lives within the cocoon of his own WH walls.
It was also a sad moment to watch John McCain temporarily losing his grip . He will always be remembered to be a war Hero also for his heroic act by rebuking a racial comment by a woman when running for President.
Donald Trump is none of that proves to be an unsecured man lives within the cocoon of his own WH walls.
5
Saw Trump's latest tweets. I knew he couldn’t read. Didn’t realize Prez Tweet can’t understand television. SAD!
6
twit, n. One who communicates in tweets.
Just about everything Trump has ever said has been a lie. He is the most disgusting, shameful excuse for a president in my lifetime. While Comey has his own credibility baggage, he made clear just how dangerous Trump is to our democracy. He doesn't give a wit about Russian interference in our election because he's in this for himself, not the country. God help us all.
9
President Trump committed no lies and for James Comey to call him a liar is outrageous. He is the one who needs to be investigated. He leaked memos to the New York Times about his meetings during his time with President Trump while the FBI Director.
He was vengeful because Mr. Trump terminated him from one of the most prestigious and important positions in America and maybe even the world. He was hoping to fulfill his ten years as it was cushy and he loved the power that went along with it.
If Mr. Comey was upset with President's behavior during their meetings, he should have comfronted him directly or spoken to the justice department about his feelings. He was a grown man who has dealt with many complicated situations before. He only has himself to blame for his current predicament.
He was vengeful because Mr. Trump terminated him from one of the most prestigious and important positions in America and maybe even the world. He was hoping to fulfill his ten years as it was cushy and he loved the power that went along with it.
If Mr. Comey was upset with President's behavior during their meetings, he should have comfronted him directly or spoken to the justice department about his feelings. He was a grown man who has dealt with many complicated situations before. He only has himself to blame for his current predicament.
2
Replace Comey with Trump and you have it.
If you truly believe that Trump "committed no lies", then you've REALLY not been paying attention this past year or so. Trump is an inveterate liar, telling falsehoods with full intent to deceive. And I guess he's "Great!" at it - look at all the good people in this country who believe him to this day!
1
Always interested in hearing from Trump groupies out there in the fog. The problem is how Comey reacted to his firing, not the fact that he was fired in order to derail an ongoing investigation. Unless, of course, you doubt the veracity of Trump's own account of his rationale.
Never since Nixon has a person acting in the office of president lied consistently about an investigation.
None have ever lied so consistently about everything.
It is a sad state of affairs when major publications are forced to flat out call the person who is alleged to be our "leader" a bald faced liar.
None have ever lied so consistently about everything.
It is a sad state of affairs when major publications are forced to flat out call the person who is alleged to be our "leader" a bald faced liar.
8
You forget Reagan in the Iran Contra scandal. Ollie North was to take the fall.
Does anyone really believe that the US intelligence agencies are not involved with similar antics throughout the world?
Why isn't anyone asking this question?
Why isn't anyone asking this question?
3
Others haven't been caught. The Russian government knows who's State and who's Langley at our Moscow Embassy. Other nations also know. It's not discussed in polite company. It's the way things work.
Flynn was not working for the IC and should have known the IC was watching him. Hubris.
Flynn was not working for the IC and should have known the IC was watching him. Hubris.
1
Someone please correct me if I'm wrong. Is there not a difference between impeachable offense and criminal offense. In other words, a public servant can commit impeachable offenses that do not necessarily rise to the level of high crimes. Based on Comey's testimony (and I'm admittedly not a legal scholar), it appears there was an abuse of power AND attempt to obstruct justice. Lack of knowledge of the law does not give one immunity. If DT is claiming he didn't know better, he shouldn't be in the Oval Office. However, the fact that he sent everyone out of the room suggests otherwise. It sounds like DT tried to simultaneously threaten and seduce Mr. Comey into doing his bidding. How can this country endure 4 years of this?
9
Experts are divided on whether or not a sitting POTUS can be indicted. Nixon was an "unindicted co-conspirator" because no one was sure, not because criminal indictment was barred by anything.
The Constitution says "Treason, Bribery, or other high Crimes and Misdemeanors." That leaves things wide open for Congress. Once a President is removed from office, indicting him for crimes is easy. It may, in fact, be easy while he's still in office.
If the House members can grow some gonads, they've already got impeachable offenses. I'm not sure the EDVa or the state of New York is willing to wait that long. They can indict.
Trump's lawyer was less than impressive yesterday. He cannot possibly intimidate folks in DC.
The Constitution says "Treason, Bribery, or other high Crimes and Misdemeanors." That leaves things wide open for Congress. Once a President is removed from office, indicting him for crimes is easy. It may, in fact, be easy while he's still in office.
If the House members can grow some gonads, they've already got impeachable offenses. I'm not sure the EDVa or the state of New York is willing to wait that long. They can indict.
Trump's lawyer was less than impressive yesterday. He cannot possibly intimidate folks in DC.
I imagine Comey breathed a sigh of relief when he was fired. At last, he was rid of this meddlesome king.
6
You are finished trump!
6
"He acknowledged that he had engineered some of the notes release"
When you anonymously release information around the leadership of an organization is that better called "leaking" and "release".
When you anonymously release information around the leadership of an organization is that better called "leaking" and "release".
2
Comey was no longer an employee, John, and he believed that he owned his own notes about his own recollections of those meetings. That's not "leaking" in the way you wish that word to be understood, it is indeed "releasing."
1
David,
For releasing information, why not directly contact the NYT a named source? Didn't he use third party?
For releasing information, why not directly contact the NYT a named source? Didn't he use third party?
1
Humpty Trumpty can ghave a great fall if he's hounded to death or incapacity.
Then, we will be saved by our VP, Phony Upright, who will be given a lying path to establish America as a theocracy and bestow Knighthood upon the Sacks of Gold Men, Jamie Diamonds, and Llyod Bank Fine.
Did you see what Craven Coward Vassals did to Average Man and Poor We consumers yesterday in the House of Unrepresentatives? And what simultaneously they did there for Filthy Rich yesterday while Most All were looking the other way at Comey Truth hearing?
If you haven't, It will take your breath away what they stealthily did to Vast Majority, while Press Paused.
True, they have no shame. What Measures are available for Many Most to fight back against Vassals Congress?
Then, we will be saved by our VP, Phony Upright, who will be given a lying path to establish America as a theocracy and bestow Knighthood upon the Sacks of Gold Men, Jamie Diamonds, and Llyod Bank Fine.
Did you see what Craven Coward Vassals did to Average Man and Poor We consumers yesterday in the House of Unrepresentatives? And what simultaneously they did there for Filthy Rich yesterday while Most All were looking the other way at Comey Truth hearing?
If you haven't, It will take your breath away what they stealthily did to Vast Majority, while Press Paused.
True, they have no shame. What Measures are available for Many Most to fight back against Vassals Congress?
3
The liberal progressives are very upset that there was not any damaging information Included during the Comey testimony. They were so hoping something would transpire much to their dismay that would cause the president to be charged with a crime. They have been calling for his impeachment even before he stepped into office. They will use every conceivable method to have him removed. He must stay as he was elected honestly by the people. He just has to ignore them and continue conducting business as usual. That is why he got elected.
President Trump was a smart successful businessman who knew how to conduct meetings in private. Of course in retrospect, he should have had the attorney general In attendance but hindsight is always 20/20 as this was your run of the mill one. He used the word hope which was very prudent of him when discussing the possibility of an investigation against Mr. Flynn. I hope you will not investigate him as he is a good man. Choosing the right words is so important and he certainly has a knack for that.
He know must pass the bills he promised during the campaign such as healthcare and tax reform. Can we please let him proceed and not not waste any more of his precious time on silly matters.
President Trump was a smart successful businessman who knew how to conduct meetings in private. Of course in retrospect, he should have had the attorney general In attendance but hindsight is always 20/20 as this was your run of the mill one. He used the word hope which was very prudent of him when discussing the possibility of an investigation against Mr. Flynn. I hope you will not investigate him as he is a good man. Choosing the right words is so important and he certainly has a knack for that.
He know must pass the bills he promised during the campaign such as healthcare and tax reform. Can we please let him proceed and not not waste any more of his precious time on silly matters.
2
Whether in our personal lives or in assessing those in the political arena, we tend to judge people and their actions in the context of what we already know about them. Trump lies with ease and conviction. We have seen this documented repeatedly, through his candidacy and, most unfortunately, continuing into his presidency. By contrast, Comey's reputation is that of an honest career bureaucrat who goes by the rules. I was unhappy about his announcement of the reopening of the Clinton email issue days before the election as it seemed to be placing his thumb on the scales, of justice and of the election. But I also understood his rationale for the action. Therefore, in assessing where truth lies in the gulf between Comey and Trump, in my view, there can be no doubt that truth lies with Comey, not with Trump and his administration lackeys.
6
It appears that journalists were all too eager to obtain illegal leaks of classified information from government sources which were then published as credible, established news. This unfortunate series of leaks fed the conspiratorial theories among the educated elites about the so-called Russian collusion, which in the end will likely prove to be a false narrative. The time is now, now's the time to pass legislation like, health care reform, tax reform, and to foster infrastructure projects. Comey and his likes have had their 15 minutes of fame.
4
That would be great and there is nothing preventing it except for the fact that none of the proposals can pass.
I am a lifelong liberal Democrat who was pleased to vote for Hillary Clinton, and I seem to remember (although many have apparently forgotten) that just prior to the 2016 election, Mr. Comey was condemned and vilified for his statements regarding the status of the investigation into Mrs. Clinton's email server; in fact, Mrs. Clinton and many others place a significant portion of the blame for her unexpected loss on the timing of Mr. Comey's statements regarding her email sesrver, and others have stated that Mr. Comey's pre-election statements were politically motivated. After yesterday, however, Mr. Comey is now regarded as an extreme patriot and anti-Trump hero who is upholding the Constitution and fighting for truth and justice.
Although I believe Mr. Comey has told the truth as he sees it, I am looking forward to Mr. Meuller's report as a more definitive description as to what was actually said.
Although I believe Mr. Comey has told the truth as he sees it, I am looking forward to Mr. Meuller's report as a more definitive description as to what was actually said.
2
The fact that Trump lies is really old news. However, what we expect is that once in office he would limit his lies to matters of policy and other 'acceptable' lies to the public that can be characterized as points of view or opinions.
After all, we have been subjected to numerous lies from virtually all our presidents. Johnson lied about the Gulf of Tonkin, Reagan lied about Grenada and arms for hostages, Clinton lied about the Iraqi sanctions regime, Bush WMD's and Obama swore that the NSA would never surveil American's, until the Snowden revelations proved that to be a lie.
I don't expect politicians to stop lying, especially in Washington. What I hope comes out of this is a renewed vigor from our press and a recognition of the essential role they play in the delicate balance of our fading democracy.
The press's role in this Trump affair hasn't always been noble. It has verged on the sensational. But without its persistence Trump might simply turn his presidency into a TV game show.
But now the real work begins. There is policy after policy that the administration is advancing that is based on misinformation, disinformation and at time outright lies. Let's hope that the press pursues those stories as well. If they don't, then we and they will have learned nothing from this episode.
After all, we have been subjected to numerous lies from virtually all our presidents. Johnson lied about the Gulf of Tonkin, Reagan lied about Grenada and arms for hostages, Clinton lied about the Iraqi sanctions regime, Bush WMD's and Obama swore that the NSA would never surveil American's, until the Snowden revelations proved that to be a lie.
I don't expect politicians to stop lying, especially in Washington. What I hope comes out of this is a renewed vigor from our press and a recognition of the essential role they play in the delicate balance of our fading democracy.
The press's role in this Trump affair hasn't always been noble. It has verged on the sensational. But without its persistence Trump might simply turn his presidency into a TV game show.
But now the real work begins. There is policy after policy that the administration is advancing that is based on misinformation, disinformation and at time outright lies. Let's hope that the press pursues those stories as well. If they don't, then we and they will have learned nothing from this episode.
11
"Weeks after being described as a 'nut job'..."
Please name your source for that leak. Or damn lie.
Because as Dems cheerfully troop aboard what may be the good ship Lusitania, in pol meta4, (a ship with a belly full of contraband gun cotton, to boot) they may wish to pause. Is it worth staking all on the Russia bit?
Ultimately Mr Comey has a HUGE problem. His name is on the doc that opened the "Russian ties" investigation into Trump. Which can be targeted as a political game arrogating the "color of authority" in police powers. Who was being subject to NSA, DIA or whatever investigation as a spy prior to the Trump primary win?
There is the point.
Further, was Comey wearing a wire. Was he, since he thought Trump was a "liar" (& spy) framing the President-elect? For Comey is subject to the charge of using his authority to screw the boss... to cover up his attempt(s) to throw the national election to Ms Clinton.
Not the Russians fixing it for Trump. Comey and the "conspirators" behind his act. Do Dems on The Hill want to risk the next elections on this. Or play on the field of the GOP having bad policies?
Comey clearly knows he needs cover... but his memos may have started in the Clinton matter... seems an SOP, and maybe enlightening in less than desired fashions...
Think again, if their is no spy crime, there is no cover up. Hence perforce no Obstruction! Just the firing of someone who misused his powers.
And was working to undermine the Administration from day 1
Please name your source for that leak. Or damn lie.
Because as Dems cheerfully troop aboard what may be the good ship Lusitania, in pol meta4, (a ship with a belly full of contraband gun cotton, to boot) they may wish to pause. Is it worth staking all on the Russia bit?
Ultimately Mr Comey has a HUGE problem. His name is on the doc that opened the "Russian ties" investigation into Trump. Which can be targeted as a political game arrogating the "color of authority" in police powers. Who was being subject to NSA, DIA or whatever investigation as a spy prior to the Trump primary win?
There is the point.
Further, was Comey wearing a wire. Was he, since he thought Trump was a "liar" (& spy) framing the President-elect? For Comey is subject to the charge of using his authority to screw the boss... to cover up his attempt(s) to throw the national election to Ms Clinton.
Not the Russians fixing it for Trump. Comey and the "conspirators" behind his act. Do Dems on The Hill want to risk the next elections on this. Or play on the field of the GOP having bad policies?
Comey clearly knows he needs cover... but his memos may have started in the Clinton matter... seems an SOP, and maybe enlightening in less than desired fashions...
Think again, if their is no spy crime, there is no cover up. Hence perforce no Obstruction! Just the firing of someone who misused his powers.
And was working to undermine the Administration from day 1
1
No. Everything you stated here is factually incorrect
1
After painting Comey as the one angel who survived the war in Heaven, the NYT pauses and feels that some balance is needed by documenting his self-righteousness and bureaucratic intransigence. But Comey is a flawed tool to seek to use in destroying a presidency. In the end, he wasn’t the servant a differently flawed president needed to achieve his ends while respecting all of our standards. His testimony sounds like that of an outraged union member asked to pitch in at an important task when it would interfere with the 20 min. permitted by contract to put away his tools at the end of a shift.
He offered no proof of wrongdoing by the president and it remains a he-said-he-said situation in which a disgruntled former employee is given his chance to put himself in the best light possible. So, he had his day in something faintly court-like, and he took his best shot. So … what’s next?
Even the most ardent Trump-haters now admit, lacking something Mueller might turn up in the ten years he’s likely to be skulking around on fishing expeditions, that Trump most probably will be our president for at least the full four years he was elected to serve; and maybe longer if Tom Edsall’s depressing analysis of the sorry state of Democratic prospects proves true. Again … what’s next?
Tax reform, healthcare, immigration, defense -- and so much more. Do we move on these matters with Democratic ideas and dickering, or do we merely move down to the next item on the checklist to destroy Trump?
He offered no proof of wrongdoing by the president and it remains a he-said-he-said situation in which a disgruntled former employee is given his chance to put himself in the best light possible. So, he had his day in something faintly court-like, and he took his best shot. So … what’s next?
Even the most ardent Trump-haters now admit, lacking something Mueller might turn up in the ten years he’s likely to be skulking around on fishing expeditions, that Trump most probably will be our president for at least the full four years he was elected to serve; and maybe longer if Tom Edsall’s depressing analysis of the sorry state of Democratic prospects proves true. Again … what’s next?
Tax reform, healthcare, immigration, defense -- and so much more. Do we move on these matters with Democratic ideas and dickering, or do we merely move down to the next item on the checklist to destroy Trump?
18
Despite your utterly unconvincing attempts to discount the amazing testimony of former FBI director Comey, and disparage the several committees and the work of Special Counsel Mueller, I'm gonna go with the latter. The RULE of LAW must destroy Trump and all that he represents, before we can get back to the business of state.
Destroy Trump to save the Nation.
Destroy Trump to save the Nation.
ten years skulking around...sounds like shades of Ken Starr.
Regrettably for Trump supporters, that checklist was created by the man himself....
At least we can all be clear as to who "the nut job" is.
15
I'll have what your drinking.
1
you're
The white guys let slimy Comey slither. A snake when he grandstanded to thwart Hillary's election chances. Now his so-called candor is congratulated as he leaks memos through a friend. It took Senator Dianne to call out Comey for not putting on his big boy pants and stand up to Trump. Why didn't he say no to The Donald's invitations? Advise him about proper FBI etiquette? He was either surreptitiously creating a case for obstruction or he's a political wimp.
Then there are Sessions, Priebus, and Kushner who scurried away, leaving Trump alone with Comey while peeking in through the door. Boo! Retreat. McConnell & Ryan. Saying Donald's a rookie, doesn't know the ropes. No heroes here. Milquetoast patrol. We are screwed.
Then there are Sessions, Priebus, and Kushner who scurried away, leaving Trump alone with Comey while peeking in through the door. Boo! Retreat. McConnell & Ryan. Saying Donald's a rookie, doesn't know the ropes. No heroes here. Milquetoast patrol. We are screwed.
4
So I was curious as to how Republicans would react to this damning testimony. I turned on Talk radio. I never listen to it but I wanted to see how the "real" leadership of the GOP (Talk Radio Personalities) would react. Their reaction, Comey leaked "privileged" information to the press. I see that reflected in many conservative comments here. I guess they have their marching orders from their masters. Unbelievable, the testimony that the President on several occasions attempted to coerce the director of the FBI to drop the russian interference investigation apparently doesn't bother them that much. Because they won I guess? If you think Comey broke the law in leaking his personal notes, cool, take him to court but the more important matter to me is that our President is apparently guilty of Obstruction of Justice and it is just really sad that his followers don't care.
18
If the information about Trump "hoping" Comey would let the Flynn investigation go, was privileged information, then it must reflect what actually happened. If it actually happened then Trump lied publicly and his lawyer continues to assert this lie about Trump not urging Comey to end the Flynn investigation.
The testimony of Director Comey yesterday implicates the president in a criminal action. Trump ordered Comey to stop investigating Flynn. This was an order - not a 'suggestion' or a 'request'. This was confirmed as an order by the president in the president's subsequent tweet, which noted that he fired Comey because he would not drop the Russian investigation by the FBI.
Director Comey probably should have stood tall and told the president no when the president ordered him to stop the investigation of Flynn. But saying no in that situation is very difficult to do when you're in the oval office being directed by the president to stop doing something.
There are no happy endings here. But an ending is warranted in this matter.
Trump implicated himself in this matter, through his action in the oval office and through his subsequent tweet.
Director Comey is a true leader for letting us all know about what happened behind closed doors in this White House. Thanks Director Comey, for all you've done to preserve, protect and defend our constitution, in service of our country.
Director Comey probably should have stood tall and told the president no when the president ordered him to stop the investigation of Flynn. But saying no in that situation is very difficult to do when you're in the oval office being directed by the president to stop doing something.
There are no happy endings here. But an ending is warranted in this matter.
Trump implicated himself in this matter, through his action in the oval office and through his subsequent tweet.
Director Comey is a true leader for letting us all know about what happened behind closed doors in this White House. Thanks Director Comey, for all you've done to preserve, protect and defend our constitution, in service of our country.
14
Okay, so this is the question: if the President didn't say the things Comey claims he did, then how can Trump's attorney accuse Comey of leaking information? Doesn't that validate all that Comey said? So has Trump not validated Comey? This is typical of the President, to claim something isn't true, then redirect. Later the truth emerges, proving the President wrong. Comey's testimony will prove true and accurate; the nature of the President's denial says as much.
15
In regard to sneakiness and falsehoods, let us also note that Comey declined to discuss "the matter" as he was instructed, by his boss Loretta Lynch, to call it, where Lynch had a so-called chance-meeting with Bill Clinton on the tarmac of an airport in Arizona while Mr. Clinton's wife was the subject of an FBI investigation as to mishandling email and covering it up.
Ms. Lynch, an attorney in New York and the nation's top law enforcement officer should known better than to meet with the spouse of someone who her office was actively investigating.
The Departmental Disciplinary Committee of the Appellate Division First Department, where Lynch is admitted to practice law, should be investigating this conduct as it clearly violates Canon 9 of the lawyer's code of professional responsibility which states that "A Lawyer Should Avoid Even the Appearance of Professional Impropriety".
The next business day after the meeting between Lynch and Bill Clinton, July 5, 2016, Comey announced that the FBI would not be recommending that charges against Hillary be filed.
Comey was complicit in this wrong-doing, even though he made a joke out of it at the committee and he does not come into this with clean hands.
What if Trump has pulled something like this?
Ms. Lynch, an attorney in New York and the nation's top law enforcement officer should known better than to meet with the spouse of someone who her office was actively investigating.
The Departmental Disciplinary Committee of the Appellate Division First Department, where Lynch is admitted to practice law, should be investigating this conduct as it clearly violates Canon 9 of the lawyer's code of professional responsibility which states that "A Lawyer Should Avoid Even the Appearance of Professional Impropriety".
The next business day after the meeting between Lynch and Bill Clinton, July 5, 2016, Comey announced that the FBI would not be recommending that charges against Hillary be filed.
Comey was complicit in this wrong-doing, even though he made a joke out of it at the committee and he does not come into this with clean hands.
What if Trump has pulled something like this?
7
Lynch directed Comey to call the criminal investigation a "matter," which Comey did, and to which he fessed up. He didn't say he didn't discuss it. He also didn't note the inappropriateness of the request Trump made of him in private. What we learn is that Comey is human. Just like the rest of us: when the boss corners you, we all defer, especially in matters that are gray. Trump has on the record confirmed that he fired Comey because of the Russia investigation. That seems to connect a dot to the Oval Office conversation. Let's note that Comey also publicly re-opened the Clinton email investigation a week before the election, without examining the evidence, though there proved nothing new in the material. To answer your question: Clinton lost the election, so we might assume the same would have happened to Trump.
1
Trump DID pull something even worse than this. He tried to shut down an investigation that was on going
I would "hope" that the investigations into those who colluded with Russia include those who have pledged "loyalty" to trump including Republicans and media that give them cover.
7
Just think about all the things trump has said during the past two years or even just since January. Then think about Mr Comey, the man we have heard if front of congress a few times during this past year. Now which one comes across as truthful and which one comes across as a slippy, shady operator who lies all the time?
15
The President's lies" according to Comey were that "the bureau was a mess".
Comey is not impartial in making a judgement on that issue.
Then the NYT highlights "lies" on the front page and in its Editorial as if factual and widespread.
That is deceptive and disingenuous.
Comey is not impartial in making a judgement on that issue.
Then the NYT highlights "lies" on the front page and in its Editorial as if factual and widespread.
That is deceptive and disingenuous.
7
The times might've been a little bit early but here are the facts Trump is under investigation now
Can we please stop making a hero out of the guy responsible for putting trump into office via a fake new scandal about Clinton?
2
No way to get rid of Trump without Republican help. They aren''t going to help, in fact they seem to be going into the "mock Trump all you want, just don't go against the party so we can steal health care from the poor and cut taxes for the millionaires" mode.
Hugh Massengill, Eugene Oregon
Hugh Massengill, Eugene Oregon
11
Regarding Loretta Lynch please do not continue the misinformation. Please see A denial/clarification of Comey statement about Lynch, from a source familiar with discussion, to NBC News the was posted on Twitter:
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DB1G3ytXYAAORY6?format=jpg&name=large
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DB1G3ytXYAAORY6?format=jpg&name=large
1
The portrait Mr. Comey painted of Mr. Trump confirms clearly what those of us who have watched him already knew. Mr. Trump is both incompetent and immoral. He stumbles through his life trying increase his wealth and feed his ego, often at everybody else's expense. The Republicans hold on to him because they think he will get their agendas passed and because they fear his ability to retaliate without any annoying conscience if they oppose him. Indeed the Republicans have put their personal political needs above the Country. Mr. Comey proved he is both a competent political actor in the Washington swamp but he also an honest and patriotic citizen. It was good to see him outclass and out maneuver the demagogue in the White House and his Republican sycophants on the podium.
14
Comey testified that he was prompted to leak his private conversations with Trump after Trump tweeted that Comey better hope there were not tapes of their conversations - implying that Comey had misrepresented their conversations. The tweet, however, occurred 4 days after the leak so that Comey's statement could not be true. This is not to excuse Trump's boorish conduct but Comey's conduct and credibility also leaves much to be desired.
5
Not true! Check your dates instead of taking Trump lawyer at his word.
Yes true. Comey's claim that leak occurred on May 16 (following May 12 tweet) is rebutted by May 11 NYT article "In a private dinner...." which closely tracks Comey's notes. Where did NYT get the story?
Great photo art. I thought it was Darth Vader, from a distance, at first.
4
President Trump, release the tapes you said you had of your conversations with James Comey, or are you just playing 'untruthful hyperbole,' alternative fact, fake news with us, plain and not so simple for you, aren't you just lying again?
12
"The president is not a liar"
And Obama was not born a US citizen,
Do we need to go on????
And Obama was not born a US citizen,
Do we need to go on????
21
As important as these hearings are, as much as Mr. Comey's honesty in this situation is admirable, the most vital element is missing. If people don't vote in the 2018 elections for enough Democrats to at least take control of the House, this is all for nothing. James Comey's honesty is for nothing. The FBI's mission to uphold the Constitution is for nothing. Our democratic standards are gone if we can't get representatives who will vote beyond party loyalties, dogmas and vested interests. Voters have to start voting regularly and responsibly.
18
The Times seems intent on promoting the biggest lie of all. That is the false idea that the FBI and James Comey as its leader are given absolute unfettered power by the Constitution to do whatever they want without oversight from either the Justice department or the Executive branch. That concept is simply untrue. It is not supported by the precedent of history, nor is it supported by the Constitution or Constitutional law. One has to only look at the abusive reign of J Edgar Hoover to recognize the effects of such beliefs. It is very close to what was happening here, an FBI chief who completely overstepped his authority both with the Clinton and Trump "matters" and now bereft of the power he thought was his is striking out to try to fatally wound the Trump Presidency. It's quite obvious that Comey bristled at any "suggestions" from the outside. He didn't like Lynch obviously pushing him to down talk the Clinton email investigation norTrump asking him to "go easy" on Flynn. Absurd to say that one is obviously "obstruction" the other isnt. Comey's underhanded tactics of "taking notes" rather than telling the President he thought he was out of line or getting Justice involved as required by the law shows his true nature. He was happy to leak stuff that would damage Trump but not the fact that Trump was not the focus of investigation. so hypocritical of the Times to support Vomey know after they lambasted him for the email affair.
5
A private citizen writing recollections that are not classified is not 'leaking info.'
"Taking notes" is what lawyers call "memorializing" and it's what we do. Those notes are also admissible in court as present sense impressions.
Clearly running around with one's fingers planted securely in one's ears isn't going to change the fact that no matter how partisan Congress may or may not be on this, Mueller isn't. Trump is toast.
Clearly running around with one's fingers planted securely in one's ears isn't going to change the fact that no matter how partisan Congress may or may not be on this, Mueller isn't. Trump is toast.
1
dt obstruction is clear no matter what spin you put on it. Comey is no JE Hoover.
Makes one wonder if the russians/trump didn't pay up after november... or if he just really didn't want a woman president.
He seemed fine violating the rules of his job in 2016, and offended by the request to violate those rules in 2017
He seemed fine violating the rules of his job in 2016, and offended by the request to violate those rules in 2017
2
Where is the mea culpa? The New York Times reported *repeatedly* that President Trump was under investigation by the FBI. As of yesterday's sworn federal testimony, that appears to be factually false.
So the New York Times would appear to be either mislead, wrong, or publishing so-called "fake news". Which is it?
Ignoring this gross departure from both reality and journalistic integrity is not an option. The Times needs to approach its readers hat in hand and ask for forgiveness.
Instead, we get acerbic editorials like this, complete with unflattering art, and an inflammatory title.
At what point are you no longer journalists? Because we're certainly approaching that point now.
So the New York Times would appear to be either mislead, wrong, or publishing so-called "fake news". Which is it?
Ignoring this gross departure from both reality and journalistic integrity is not an option. The Times needs to approach its readers hat in hand and ask for forgiveness.
Instead, we get acerbic editorials like this, complete with unflattering art, and an inflammatory title.
At what point are you no longer journalists? Because we're certainly approaching that point now.
9
You are technically correct but here are the facts. Trumps campaign manager Trump's son-in-law, trumps national security advisor and trumps Attorney General all had undisclosed contacts with Russian intelligence. It sounds to me as if you would believe that the Russians would co-opt The entire Trump team but the "useful idiot" at the center of the scheme would have plausible deniability. Give me a break. The times did get it wrong they should've said the FBI is not investigating Trump yet
Most, if not all of us, were told by a parent, "I hope you'll be good."
Any child who ever heard that knew it was a request, even an order, not just an idle wish.
Any child who ever heard that knew it was a request, even an order, not just an idle wish.
7
The biggest lie is Donald Trump. himself!
===============================
He had no business running for president, in the first place. He has no experience in government, no record of service to be judged on. And his record in business is saturated with lies and uncertainties. And his logical thinking is constantly in doubt. He lives is a fog of confusion.
The result of Trump's lies, is that he is constantly on the defensive, defending himself and his record of lies. It is one fabrication, after another. And so the future is clouded by endless uncertainty and confusion.
Thank goodness for James Comey, who had the courage to confront Trump. We own him a debt of gratitude for taking Trump on and pointing the finger at this phony bully. Now, we can begin to move forward back to sanity and truth.
The only thing we have to fear is ... Donald (Lying) Trump!
===========================================
===============================
He had no business running for president, in the first place. He has no experience in government, no record of service to be judged on. And his record in business is saturated with lies and uncertainties. And his logical thinking is constantly in doubt. He lives is a fog of confusion.
The result of Trump's lies, is that he is constantly on the defensive, defending himself and his record of lies. It is one fabrication, after another. And so the future is clouded by endless uncertainty and confusion.
Thank goodness for James Comey, who had the courage to confront Trump. We own him a debt of gratitude for taking Trump on and pointing the finger at this phony bully. Now, we can begin to move forward back to sanity and truth.
The only thing we have to fear is ... Donald (Lying) Trump!
===========================================
11
Mr, Comey is an honest man of integrity and a true patriot. Seeing that there still some principled people left in the cesspool of Washington gives me some measure of hope for our country. Equally disgusting are the conservative Republican senators and congressional representatives who willingly support their President only because of self interest in preserving their hold on power and the graft that they receive in the form of political donations.
11
Americans should be concerned about the egregious behavior of the President. We deserve to know the facts now, just as we did before the election. What amazes me is the complete transformation of Mr. Comey from corrupt villan to national hero in the pages of the NYT. The Editorial Board seems to base their opinion not on Mr. Comey's revelations but on whom they reveal. Perhaps Americans should also be concerned about the egregious behavior of the press and selective journalism.
5
Speaking of lies, what about the NYT story that the Trump campaign had repeated contacts with Russian operatives in colluding over the election?
9
At last count it was seven.
Unfortunately Mr. Comey was only able to give us some of President Donald John Trump's lies.
It might be easier to find and compile a list of all of the President's 'truths'.
Trump's refusal to disclose his tax returns along with his failure to divest and disclose his personal, family and business holdings is based upon his malign intent to covert his temporary occupation of the Oval Office of our White House to his personal profit and benefit primarily aided and abetted by Russian President Vladimir Vladimirovich Putin. That is the one and only Trump truth.
It might be easier to find and compile a list of all of the President's 'truths'.
Trump's refusal to disclose his tax returns along with his failure to divest and disclose his personal, family and business holdings is based upon his malign intent to covert his temporary occupation of the Oval Office of our White House to his personal profit and benefit primarily aided and abetted by Russian President Vladimir Vladimirovich Putin. That is the one and only Trump truth.
8
We also have no real information about his health, physical or psychological. A 71 year old angry confused pathological liar wandering around the White House alone in the middle of the night tweeting crazy things isn't stable. And isn't getting enough sleep. Why?
errata 3rd paragraph.....'convert' not covert.
1
Let's make it simple.
Mr. Comey gave Mr. Trump the "finger", then poked him in the eye, then pummeled him about the body and, gloriously, there was NOTHNG "Twitler" could do about it; he FIRED the guy!
A wonderful day, don't you all think?
Mr. Comey gave Mr. Trump the "finger", then poked him in the eye, then pummeled him about the body and, gloriously, there was NOTHNG "Twitler" could do about it; he FIRED the guy!
A wonderful day, don't you all think?
7
After watching Mr. Comey's testimony, it is clear now that the President was right to fire Mr. Comey. Mr. Comey demonstrated by his own words that he lacked a backbone who was only interested in saving his job. Mr. Comey acted as a political hack and obeyed Mrs. Lynch like a puppy dog. Then proceeded to let Mrs. Clinton off the hook from his own "judicial expertise" and coming from a man who wasn't sure if it was his obligation to report any possible breaking of the law. Really ?? Mr. Comey seemed to have acted cowardly and often confused. Confused? Confused about what is right and wrong? Or confused about what was good for himself? Maybe if he was "stronger" he would have had a backbone. Instead he chose to take notes to use against the President and then leaked to the press. Makes you wonder if this is the first time he leaked government information. I suppose this is what he calls "honestly loyal." I suppose that his own self-description brings to mind only one description. This guy was a confused wimp.
8
I suspect Comey didn't feel Trump was above suspicion and I believe he said at one point he felt saying too much to the President would compromise the investigation. His trust in the President and the Justice Department was so low that it came to that. That should give you pause for concern. Why hasn't the President said anything at all about the Russian assault on Democracy? Surely that is the issue at stake. This admin is acting in an extremely suspicious manner.
You seem to forget that by his own admission, Trump fired Comey because he would not shut Down the collusion investigation between Russia. And Flynn.
If Comey was as weak as you have tried to portray him, he would have been another Trump lackey, and the emperor with no clothes would have been satisfied and not fired him.
If Comey was as weak as you have tried to portray him, he would have been another Trump lackey, and the emperor with no clothes would have been satisfied and not fired him.
Huh. He's a former federal prosecutor who headed the FBI through two administrations. He is probably going to be a major contributor toward taking out the trash in DC, starting with the mindless petty tyrant in charge.
I think you meant, "hero," but no mind, I've fixed it for you.
I think you meant, "hero," but no mind, I've fixed it for you.
If, after Mr. Comey's testimony, we let this go because there is no precedent to prosecute, our nation is going to be on a very slippery slope from now on.
14
Mr. Comey, whatever mistakes he may have made in his long career is no doubt a man of integrity who on the whole has served the public very well. If Democrats blame him for the loss of the election in 2016 they are not focusing on the essential reasons they lost. Democrats have most of the blame for that loss.
And as for Trump...! He is living pathology nurturing many more pathogens into our experiment in democracy. The Republicans endanger the world, the United States and what once was a proud party by supporting this THING in our government. It is fascinating and it is scary. It must end and we must come out of it a better nation.
A crisis can also be an opportunity.
We must all be grateful to Mr. Comey for his integrity and coolness under so much pressure. Thank you sir. You serve our democracy. -Rudy
And as for Trump...! He is living pathology nurturing many more pathogens into our experiment in democracy. The Republicans endanger the world, the United States and what once was a proud party by supporting this THING in our government. It is fascinating and it is scary. It must end and we must come out of it a better nation.
A crisis can also be an opportunity.
We must all be grateful to Mr. Comey for his integrity and coolness under so much pressure. Thank you sir. You serve our democracy. -Rudy
12
In the Presidential oath of office, Mr. Trump swore to "preserve, protect and defend the Constitution of the United States"
On the other hand, in the FBI Director's oath of office, Mr. Comey swore to "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."
Obviously, Mr. Comey took the part about "defending the Constitution of the United States against all enemies, foreign and domestic" dead seriously.
And also obviously, Comey sees Mr. Trump's campaugn's collusion with Russia as falling squarely into that domain: an attack on the Constitution by enemies foreign AND domestic.
Donald Trump: Domestic Enemy No. 1?
On the other hand, in the FBI Director's oath of office, Mr. Comey swore to "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."
Obviously, Mr. Comey took the part about "defending the Constitution of the United States against all enemies, foreign and domestic" dead seriously.
And also obviously, Comey sees Mr. Trump's campaugn's collusion with Russia as falling squarely into that domain: an attack on the Constitution by enemies foreign AND domestic.
Donald Trump: Domestic Enemy No. 1?
11
I fear our country is becoming a banana republic.
6
It already is. And has been.
2
Jared Kusher, Ivanka Trump. We are like China now where the sons and daughters of top Party officials enjoy the largesse of China people's public treasury.
1
Stan,
Don't insult banana republics!
Don't insult banana republics!
1
White House 's petty statements will not change the fact that the President is a serial liar, we knew that since the campaign era. What is more clear now are the lengths Trump is willing to go to get what he wants, including siding with America's enemies.
What happens next will define who we are as a country. In a totalitarian government, Comey would go prison for "leaking" information that the President wants to be kept away from the people, like in Venezuela. In a developed country with a functioning system of checks and balances, we would see a bipartisan action to have the President's testimony before the Senate.
By the way, the only thing worse that the White House was Marco Rubio playing the defense lawyer to his favorite "con man". They deserve each other.
What happens next will define who we are as a country. In a totalitarian government, Comey would go prison for "leaking" information that the President wants to be kept away from the people, like in Venezuela. In a developed country with a functioning system of checks and balances, we would see a bipartisan action to have the President's testimony before the Senate.
By the way, the only thing worse that the White House was Marco Rubio playing the defense lawyer to his favorite "con man". They deserve each other.
11
Errata: instead of "worse that the" it should read "...worse than the..."
So there was nothing there and the NYT and all the Democrats are still trying to make something out of nothing. The only things that did come out were that Comey assisted in a leak, and that Loretta Lynch acted inappropriately with regards to the Clinton investigation/tarmac meeting.
The only thing that springs out to the viewer is the smarminess and clear duplicity of Comey when he's in a tight place and squirming and doing questionable and possibly illegal things when he's cornered.
And the NYT wonders why Trump questions his loyalty?
The only thing that springs out to the viewer is the smarminess and clear duplicity of Comey when he's in a tight place and squirming and doing questionable and possibly illegal things when he's cornered.
And the NYT wonders why Trump questions his loyalty?
8
There si not supposed to be "loyalty!"
There's no evidence of any illegal activity on the part of our president. There's also no irrefutable evidence that he has lied. But that won't stop you.
3
The Trump presidency will end not because of Russia or even because Republicans wanting it but because President Trump will have deeply offended basic sensibilities. Richard Nixon exhausted the country will too many lies and an attitude of scorn. Mr. Trump is doing the same. He ignores the embarrassment he inflicts on the congress and the bureaucrats and he acts with scorn toward a public that expects a president to act with probity and to be honest in his statements. This presidency is exhausting the country. Soon enough the Republican leadership will pay Mr. Trump a visit. And after he is 'fired' he will still tweet and rant. Mr. Comey exposed Mr. Trump for what he is, a bullying ignoramus who will never change!
11
You express the hope that the principles articulated by Comey in his sworn testimony before the Senate committee and shared by others who hold them will guide the investigation into Trump, the Russians, election interference, and all sorts of things in the days ahead. Do you truly think there is any hope? Are there anything remotely like principles in the American government and the American public? I am asking seriously here. Time runs out even as I am writing this. Most pundits I read suggest that we are at the beginning of a long, slow, deliberate process. Isn't that something like scheduling a heart stress test for next month as a patient is going into arrest on an operating table? Every second this man and his administration remain in power brings us closer to the doom of the American dream and the American public.
6
Trump fired Comey. The ultimate obstruction, preventing him from pursuing his lawful and relentless investigation into Trump-associates' ties to Russia. This is obstruction pure and simple. "Obstruction" doesn't mean permanently ending the investigation. It just means putting up substantial roadblocks to impede its moving forward. Trump did this to the head of the FBI. It does not matter that the investigation will continue.
Was Trump's motive in firing Comey proper, albeit Comey served at his pleasure? Trump's stated reasons for Comey's termination were conflicting and the initial reason lacked substance. Firing Comey to relieve the pressure of the Russian probe is improper and bolsters the obstruction charge.
Trump's conduct and statements are indictable as obstruction.
mB, active member of the Bar of the U.S. Supreme Court
Was Trump's motive in firing Comey proper, albeit Comey served at his pleasure? Trump's stated reasons for Comey's termination were conflicting and the initial reason lacked substance. Firing Comey to relieve the pressure of the Russian probe is improper and bolsters the obstruction charge.
Trump's conduct and statements are indictable as obstruction.
mB, active member of the Bar of the U.S. Supreme Court
16
I strongly challenge the term "leaked" being used by the media when discussing Comey's release of his notes. His personal notes, not a government document. Notes that do not contain even the low-level designation of "secret" material. That he passed them out privately (I think unwisely but it's his material) does not change their character. If we complain about the release of non-secret material dealing with a president's potentially unlawful actions, we will be buried in corruption.
17
How will the GOP ever explain cooperating with Russian intelligence services in overthrowing our democracy?
We have had a coup.
A group of people illegally seized power with the aid of a foreign government.
We have had a coup.
A group of people illegally seized power with the aid of a foreign government.
19
The country should always be grateful that Comey showed the courage to resist pressure by Loretta Lynch, to sweep the investigation into Hillary's home-brew server under the carpet. Without his brave defiance, she might be President now.
10
Yes we would have a president not beholden to Russia.
Oh, still on the server!? Will you ever recognize - admit? - that there are much bigger issues at hand?
Or are you okay with Russia meddling in our elections? Worse, with the likely support of at least some of the Trump campaign team. It's called treason.
Or are you okay with Russia meddling in our elections? Worse, with the likely support of at least some of the Trump campaign team. It's called treason.
1
amen
1
The most striking thing about the hearing was the complete lack of interest on the part of all Republicans in Trump's lack of interest in, and attempt to discourage and then obstruct pursuit of, the evidence that a foreign power is working on multiple fronts to undermine American democracy.
40
"This is about America,” Mr. Comey kept saying. Russia “tried to shape the way we think, we vote, we act — that is a big deal,”
And they succeeded.
Not necessarily in the election of Donald Trump but in the people of the US see themselves as part of the world, the US place as a leader, NATO, alliances and agreements. That has all turned where conservatives especially who one spoke of Russia as the antipathy of freedom now embrace not only the leader, culture, and country, but the strongman tactics and antidemocratic principals they once championed.
And they succeeded.
Not necessarily in the election of Donald Trump but in the people of the US see themselves as part of the world, the US place as a leader, NATO, alliances and agreements. That has all turned where conservatives especially who one spoke of Russia as the antipathy of freedom now embrace not only the leader, culture, and country, but the strongman tactics and antidemocratic principals they once championed.
16
What best typifies this president is an old Yiddish saying, "a fart has no nose."
27
It seems probable that the British intelligence file on him is of great concern to Mr. Trump and that it is part of the investigation into Russian interference in his election. The file itself remains to be tested if the investigation continues. There is a reason that Trump would go to the extraordinary length of firing the Director of the FBI without cause - but with a purpose. The contents of the file may well be substantial and will not go away.
17
We shouldn't get hung up on whether it was an order or not. Clearly he leaned in, making his wishes clear, as the "elected" "president". That's obstruction, by definition, open and shut.
21
It's the "liars calling the liars liars" show. Would the former head of the FBI lie? Never! Would the President lie? Never! It's worse than watching Tom Delay on Dancing with the Stars.
1
The narrative that Trump is a naïf, innocent because he knows not the ways of Washington, is all bunk. He was running for the position of the most powerful person in the world...if he didn't know anything about the constitution or the government, he was obligated to learn about it. When the average joe breaks the law, no court will excuse him due to ignorance. When the stakes are so high, ignorance is absolutely no excuse. Paul Ryan's feeble attempt to paint him as an ingenue is pathetic. And let's just get this straight...Trump asked everyone else to leave the room because he DID know it wasn't right to ask for loyalty. So let's also dispense with the naïveté excuse.
850
Frau:
"Learn about it" That implies that the president is able to "learn".
This writer questions whether the current president has the ability to "learn" anything.
"Learn about it" That implies that the president is able to "learn".
This writer questions whether the current president has the ability to "learn" anything.
Absolutely on target. Ryan is such an excellent lap dog. It is a shame that he is in such an important role. I think his (Ryan) reputation will ultimately go down in flames too.
Why didn't Comey try to help the president knowing Trump lacked experience? How would you feel if someone with a close working relationship was taking notes and indirectly leaking it to the Press? An FBI director no less. How slimy is that? That says it all for me.
Nytimes,
You apologized to your subscribers after the election saying that you had not done a good job in reading the signs. You kept on beating the drum for Hillary's win when data showed otherwise. You failed to be fair and let yourself be informed by your ideology. I see rhat five months haven't changed anything. This editorial is complete and utter biased nonsense. The FBI director leaks privileged information and you are not outraged? You report false stories based on sloppy sourcing and you are not outraged? You are dealing in hubris once more and I will be moving on as a subscriber soon. Very sad indeed that this board does not even understand the meaning of fairness anymore.
You apologized to your subscribers after the election saying that you had not done a good job in reading the signs. You kept on beating the drum for Hillary's win when data showed otherwise. You failed to be fair and let yourself be informed by your ideology. I see rhat five months haven't changed anything. This editorial is complete and utter biased nonsense. The FBI director leaks privileged information and you are not outraged? You report false stories based on sloppy sourcing and you are not outraged? You are dealing in hubris once more and I will be moving on as a subscriber soon. Very sad indeed that this board does not even understand the meaning of fairness anymore.
9
Just one itsy, bitsy correction to your comment: Comey's memos were not privileged, regardless of what Trump's lawyer (who seems to have his own problems with the facts) may say. Thus his sharing them with the press was not a "leak" as that term is commonly used today.
14
NYT brings journalism, not hallelujahs. Fox News does that.
NYT is able to recognize their mistakes when they make one.
Can you pretend to do the same?
You blindness is a way bigger issue. A costly one for the entire country.
Anyhow, byebye then.
NYT is able to recognize their mistakes when they make one.
Can you pretend to do the same?
You blindness is a way bigger issue. A costly one for the entire country.
Anyhow, byebye then.
3
The information that Comey gave to the law professor was not privileged - do you really think Comey would get himself in trouble by leaking privileged information? The NYT appears to have made a mistake - they will have to set the record right, as is customary when they make a mistake.
1
Comey is even handed. Just as he didn't trust his encounters with the Presudent his antenna went up when Loretta lunch too threw a hint and the visual of her encounter with bill Clinton confirmed his suspicions of lack of neutrality at the AG. Loyalty was bought by the Clintons from the entire democrat establishment folks. Being mega fundraisers, the Clintons helped down ticket state parties win elections or at least raise a ton of money. At one stage nearly 30 state democratic parties owed allegiance to the Clintons. This unspoken loyalty played out in the primaries when the black congressional caucus went to bat for Hillary in the south making sure Bernie was decimated there beginning in South Carolina. Hillary had major help from former AG Eric holder as well. The visuals were all clear, loyalties bought and paid for.
6
"At one stage nearly 30 state democratic parties owed allegiance to the Clintons." They still do. We in Virginia are watching the smearing of Tom Perriello, the progressive (who is supported by the majority of people who worked in the Obama White House & Obama campaigned for him in his race for Congress) by his opponent Lt. Gov. Ralph Northam, a close ally of longtime Clinton buddy Gov. Terry McAuliffe. The neoliberal Clintonites who control the Virginia Democratic Party, including McAuliffe who reportedly plans to run for president, have been working African-American neighborhoods trying to paint Tom Perriello as a candidate who doesn't care about the African American community. Nothing could be further from the truth - it's Northam and McAuliffe, neoliberal trickle down Democrats, who aren't concerned with the economic welfare of most Virginians. But until the Democrats find the guts to push the Clintonites out of the Party, the Democrats will remain a neoliberal party that is interested in the welfare of the professional class and the wealthy above the concerns of normal Americans. It worked getting Hillary the nomination - but she couldn't rally the Obama coalition of African Americans, Hispanics, people under 40 and progressives. Hence, President Trump. allegiance to $$$ has poisoned the Democratic party.
One man's lie is the next fella's yarn, and we all know that Trump is pretty generous with the handiwork of his loom. That Comey is trying to spin wool out of wholecloth speaks more to his own fumbling with the darning needles. We all saw him try to pull the rug out from under Hillary's election efforts, so why are all the lefties suddenly rushing to buy his cotton?
6
He did in fact pull the rug out beneath her. And did she fall
A bald-faced liar as President! Shame on Republicans. Shame on America.
If Comey had done what trump wanted or "hoped, he would certainly still have his job.
But he would have betrayed America. Betrayed America. Exactly what trump and his supporters have done and are doing. Betrayed America.
If Comey had done what trump wanted or "hoped, he would certainly still have his job.
But he would have betrayed America. Betrayed America. Exactly what trump and his supporters have done and are doing. Betrayed America.
31
9 articles about Comey today????
9?
Please move on NYT......
9?
Please move on NYT......
6