if as I read, the young teenage Trump, asked to return a ball that had accidentally gone over the fence into his backyard, instead held onto the ball, shouting 'I'll SUE YOU !' - I'd guess he had a solidly entrenched view of the world that his ego must win at all costs.
9
Pretty soon, Mr. Trump is not going to have any friends left.
Let's recap who is on Mr. Trump's enemies list:
- Barack Obama
- Little Marco
- Lyin' Ted
- the entire Bush family
- Crooked Hillary
- Judge Curiel
- the CIA
- the FBI
- the news media
- PM Turnbull of Australia
- President Peña Nieto of Mexico
- most federal circuit and appeals judges
- Angela Merkel
- all Democrats in Congress
- the Freedom Caucus (of the Republican Party)
- Senators John McCain and Lindsay Graham
- President Macron of France
- Mayor Khan of London
- James Comey
- Rod Rosenstein
- Robert Mueller
- Qatar
- the Truth
Let's recap who is on Mr. Trump's enemies list:
- Barack Obama
- Little Marco
- Lyin' Ted
- the entire Bush family
- Crooked Hillary
- Judge Curiel
- the CIA
- the FBI
- the news media
- PM Turnbull of Australia
- President Peña Nieto of Mexico
- most federal circuit and appeals judges
- Angela Merkel
- all Democrats in Congress
- the Freedom Caucus (of the Republican Party)
- Senators John McCain and Lindsay Graham
- President Macron of France
- Mayor Khan of London
- James Comey
- Rod Rosenstein
- Robert Mueller
- Qatar
- the Truth
39
These brief official statements he issues as President of the United States to Americans and the world at large are an abuse of taxpayer money. If we are paying for his official statement production, when he issues short proclamations accusing unnamed "bad" people and alleging political persecution by unnamed persons, or implying a subordinate made him fire someone, when his presidential statements threaten retaliation against witnesses, make unfounded or vague accusations against particular people or calls the bearers of bad news liars, when official presidential statements sic his followers on other Americans as "the enemy", and we can't get any answers from the only person who knows what his words mean because all his spokespeople are pleading the Fifth for him, it is time to stop paying taxes.
No taxation without representation.
How can we be in charge of our government when a president can't account to us for his own words, can't explain what he means, can't provide any details on the endless drip drip drip of Official Very Important Two-Sentence Announcements to All Americans leaking from the White House?
No taxation without representation.
How can we be in charge of our government when a president can't account to us for his own words, can't explain what he means, can't provide any details on the endless drip drip drip of Official Very Important Two-Sentence Announcements to All Americans leaking from the White House?
11
Trump and his family will fight tooth and nail to avoid facing the bar of justice. In many respects, Trump is more dangerous than Nixon ever was. Mainly because Trump is not restrained by institutional norms, partly because of his anti-social nature, and his special relationship with Putin and the Russians. Putin knows the general weakness of the American political system better than most American political commentators. Putin's American analysts realizes that by mobilizing the religious right will do anything to control the Supreme Court and reverse Roe, even countenance a pro-Russian foreign policy. Hence their blind support of Trump. It is evident now that Trump and his allies will do everything possible to maintain power, even selling out their country in the process. Despite all of Nixon's criminality, he was never a traitor.
20
Character is destiny.
7
Character is destiny. It is true for the president, and equally truth of us, America.
8
Mitch McConnell may be the only person standing between Trump and impeachment. I am thoroughly convinced Trump will shoot himself in the foot until Mueller has a strong case for obstruction of justice. I feel certain someone will go down for colluding with the Russians but I doubt it will get back to Trump. So it will come down to the Senate. McConnell has already shown his willingness to violate the Constitution and steal a Supreme Court seat. Now he has locked out Democrats and the public in the health care process. So Trump may survive this crisis as well.
It's almost as important to remove Mitch McConnell as it is Donald Trump.
It's almost as important to remove Mitch McConnell as it is Donald Trump.
38
Dump the Newt. He croaks year after year never making any sense. He's not worth the time it takes for you to type his name.
24
I've said at our dinner table many times: Trump will be the most scrutinized, examined president in history: down to the sub-atomic level. I've read that federal prosecutors have a very high conviction rate. When they catch a fox in the trap, the fox goes to the zoo.
8
I'd love to hear Gingrich and Karl Rove talk about Trump live on TV. I never thought I'd ever agree with anything Mr. Rove ever said. I am a pinko, but his take on Trump was spot on. Thank you Mr. Rove:
http://thehill.com/blogs/blog-briefing-room/news/337077-karl-rove-trump-...
http://thehill.com/blogs/blog-briefing-room/news/337077-karl-rove-trump-...
The world according to Newt Gingrich, hah. On offense, from Georgia, Team Trump's media spin artist, New Gingrich!
Deafening silence from the Republican Leaders, Republican Donors, and pretty much your every day stand-up Republican. The Trump Love Boat is so underbooked, that his lawyers can only find D-list talent.
So who ya going to call? Newt of Gingrich's Skeleton Closet. How people ignore Newt's own cornecopia of Scandals, and eagerly eat up his latest tripe, is beyond me. Seriously, ABC, if you are going to give The Morally Wrong Leader of the Has Been World the microphone, then ABC is complicit to the ever-expanding Team Trump Defamation Campaign. I'm not saying suppress free speech, but we all know a Muellar Smear when we hear one.
Russia's interference plus "whatever" is historic. These are desperate lashing outs from desperate men. Handle with care.
Deafening silence from the Republican Leaders, Republican Donors, and pretty much your every day stand-up Republican. The Trump Love Boat is so underbooked, that his lawyers can only find D-list talent.
So who ya going to call? Newt of Gingrich's Skeleton Closet. How people ignore Newt's own cornecopia of Scandals, and eagerly eat up his latest tripe, is beyond me. Seriously, ABC, if you are going to give The Morally Wrong Leader of the Has Been World the microphone, then ABC is complicit to the ever-expanding Team Trump Defamation Campaign. I'm not saying suppress free speech, but we all know a Muellar Smear when we hear one.
Russia's interference plus "whatever" is historic. These are desperate lashing outs from desperate men. Handle with care.
6
I agree with Gingrich's assessment that someone will fall, but not Trump. Even if he is charged Pence will give him the Gerry Ford treatment. Trump, unfortunately, is just arrogant, belligerent and sloppy. I can't hardly say the p-word about this guy. But unfortunately he's not a crook.
There are only two things that really matter: 218 and 67, the numbers needed to impeach in the House and convict in the Senate.
Until those numbers are reached Trump will get away with what is already true: he is the most corrupt President ever, both in using the office to enrich himself, and violating the law and Constitution to protect himself.
There are any number of scenarios to getting rid of Mueller and he is laying the ground work by attempting to sully Mueller's gilt-edged reputation, aided by the usual loud liars: Gingrich, Limbaugh, Alex Jones, Hannity, etc.
Next is the way to get rid of him. Trump could claim that as Executive he can reverse the Justice Dept rules on who can fire Mueller, which were given the force of law by Congress. Would the GOP stop him? Doubtful.
Or he could replace Sessions and the new AG, not recused, could then fire Mueller. Or he could do a Nixon and order Rosenstein to fire Mueller, and fire him if he refused, purging Justice of moral people till he found his "Robert Bork" to do his bidding. (Bork was the one who did NOT resign when ordered to fire Ed Cox in the "Saturday Night Massacre" and did as Nixon bid).
Or Trump could do an Erdogan and declare Martial Law for the duration of the "emergency", seizing power as dictator. As Trump has no loyalty or honor, we should all be terrified....
Until those numbers are reached Trump will get away with what is already true: he is the most corrupt President ever, both in using the office to enrich himself, and violating the law and Constitution to protect himself.
There are any number of scenarios to getting rid of Mueller and he is laying the ground work by attempting to sully Mueller's gilt-edged reputation, aided by the usual loud liars: Gingrich, Limbaugh, Alex Jones, Hannity, etc.
Next is the way to get rid of him. Trump could claim that as Executive he can reverse the Justice Dept rules on who can fire Mueller, which were given the force of law by Congress. Would the GOP stop him? Doubtful.
Or he could replace Sessions and the new AG, not recused, could then fire Mueller. Or he could do a Nixon and order Rosenstein to fire Mueller, and fire him if he refused, purging Justice of moral people till he found his "Robert Bork" to do his bidding. (Bork was the one who did NOT resign when ordered to fire Ed Cox in the "Saturday Night Massacre" and did as Nixon bid).
Or Trump could do an Erdogan and declare Martial Law for the duration of the "emergency", seizing power as dictator. As Trump has no loyalty or honor, we should all be terrified....
10
Trump can't be indicted by Mueller, so Mueller can't 'get him'. Only Congress can indict - or in their case impeach - the president, and then it is up to the Senate to convict. And with both in the hands of Republicans, the evidence would not only need to be damning, it would need to be absolutely horrific. Don't expect that. Instead, someone else - Jared, Sean, Manafort, Flynn - will go down. And perhaps they provide, to save their necks and reduce their time in the Big House, some further evidence, for what it is worth, against Trump. But Trump himself is safe - at least till more than 50% of Republicans don't support him - and we are a long way from that.
7
Donald Trump is doing exactly what he said. hahahaha laugh out loud
I am concerned that the relationship between the Trump campaign and Russia was not a tit-for-tat exchange. Yes, they knew he wanted to win, and some fake news stories would be helpful. Trump knew they would want relief from sanctions when he was elected, and he would also get some good business opportunities. That's "business as usual" and not a crime. They are also all smart enough not to leave a smoking gun lying around. So there may be insufficient evidence of a crime for anyone to be charged with violation of a statute. Hopefully, even the Republicans will be shocked enough eventually by what comes out that theyt lead the charge for impeachment.
5
And yet, in spite of all the hours he spends watching cable tv and crashing wedding parties at his branded properties, there wasn't enough time to absorb the fact that over 10,000 American service men and women are stationed at Al Udeid Air Base, before launching his latest Saudi-inspired tweetstorm against Qatar. Never mind that his thoughtless actions might have jeopardized the safety of the brave American fighters there.
It's all about him. It's always only about him.
It's all about him. It's always only about him.
33
Trump surrogates are saying that Mueller hiring 12 lawyers is turning this investigation into a big bureaucratic operation with no evidence of any wrongdoing to show for it after months of work. Maybe what these 12 really signify is that Mueller has found so much incriminating evidence, he needs extra lawyers to handle it all? Just saying.
When blowhards like Gingrich are screeching like miner's canaries, you must sense there is a real fire there beneath all the smoke. Danger, President Trump, danger, says henchman Newt!
When blowhards like Gingrich are screeching like miner's canaries, you must sense there is a real fire there beneath all the smoke. Danger, President Trump, danger, says henchman Newt!
19
Trump's legal team is bringing knives to a gun fight.
10
Words matter. They give us insight into the mind.
When Trump tweets that someone "told" him to fire the FBI director, instead of "suggested" that he fire the director we see his lackadaisical approach to managing the country.
No one should tell the President anything unless he is requesting facts, and even then he should be critical.
When Trump tweets that someone "told" him to fire the FBI director, instead of "suggested" that he fire the director we see his lackadaisical approach to managing the country.
No one should tell the President anything unless he is requesting facts, and even then he should be critical.
4
Gee whiz, what's he fighting about now?
Between tweeting and complaining, does Mr. t. do anything in the Oval Office?
Between tweeting and complaining, does Mr. t. do anything in the Oval Office?
19
Does whining pathetically in public really have a history of success as a way to win over public opinion?
20
"This is how truth becomes degraded: by being casually disregarded."
Can one really accuse Gingrich, and other similarly greasy opportunists being summoned by Trump, of being casual? Give Trump credit, he knows them when he sees them. He spreads his hands and says, "What have you got to lose?" Nothing, apparently.
Can one really accuse Gingrich, and other similarly greasy opportunists being summoned by Trump, of being casual? Give Trump credit, he knows them when he sees them. He spreads his hands and says, "What have you got to lose?" Nothing, apparently.
8
Sorry Charlie, a little late.....
Frankly, I don't believe Sponge Trump is at all concerned.
This is the story of his life.
He is an expert at wiggling out of every legal case brought against him.
Newt has it right; there will be a fall guy and it looks like Flynn will do.
It's a set-up job from the get go.
All Big Foot has to do is engage in a theater of conflict with Russia
(now on the horizon) and throw himself around a bit in that. The
masses will be thus again confused and bewildered, certain that he is
the Champion of the Free World with nothing beholding to Putin who
will happily appear stage right to show just how we really do hate one
another.
Oh, the drama of it all is so, so mellow.
Dear Prez will never be impeached, jailed, or brought down other than
through a GOP wipeout in 2018 or a serious illness other than
psychopathy.
Truth is not nearly so much "casually disregarded" as it is no longer
discernible because our moral foundation has lost it's bearing and the
LIE is become our end game.
Unseen forces, occult and nefarious play upon the fate of the world.
Trump's right; it is indeed a "witch hunt".
P.S. He has the witch well hidden - so look out.
Frankly, I don't believe Sponge Trump is at all concerned.
This is the story of his life.
He is an expert at wiggling out of every legal case brought against him.
Newt has it right; there will be a fall guy and it looks like Flynn will do.
It's a set-up job from the get go.
All Big Foot has to do is engage in a theater of conflict with Russia
(now on the horizon) and throw himself around a bit in that. The
masses will be thus again confused and bewildered, certain that he is
the Champion of the Free World with nothing beholding to Putin who
will happily appear stage right to show just how we really do hate one
another.
Oh, the drama of it all is so, so mellow.
Dear Prez will never be impeached, jailed, or brought down other than
through a GOP wipeout in 2018 or a serious illness other than
psychopathy.
Truth is not nearly so much "casually disregarded" as it is no longer
discernible because our moral foundation has lost it's bearing and the
LIE is become our end game.
Unseen forces, occult and nefarious play upon the fate of the world.
Trump's right; it is indeed a "witch hunt".
P.S. He has the witch well hidden - so look out.
5
President Trump,
You have defamed your high office, you will be kicked out for being intellectually vacuous, and your brand will most likely go broke for lack of substance. i hope you suffer more than the rest of us for dragging the greatest nation on earth through the muck of your egocentric pursuit of power.
You have defamed your high office, you will be kicked out for being intellectually vacuous, and your brand will most likely go broke for lack of substance. i hope you suffer more than the rest of us for dragging the greatest nation on earth through the muck of your egocentric pursuit of power.
14
Gingrich was an assistant professor of geography at the University of West Georgia before he entered politics. His claim to fame thereafter was telling his then wife while she was in hospital under cancer treatment that he wanted a divorce to marry his mistress of six years; he later applied for an annulment of his marriage since his wife had been married before and he had converted to catholicism. His mistress, now wife, has just been named as Ambassador to the Holy See. So of course we should believe anything that this fine upstanding character claims
3
I hope the crew go down with the ship. The world is watching this investigation and how Trump and his people are responding to it. They are already playing him (and us) as fools.
I can't recall anyone defending him or herself so vigorously who was completely innocent of all suspected violations, can you?
I can't recall anyone defending him or herself so vigorously who was completely innocent of all suspected violations, can you?
3
Charles, you were scorching and eloquent on Anderson Cooper tonight when you spoke about the revolting job of White House press secretary. I thought Jeffrey Lord was going to melt.
6
It is not a given that Trump cannot simply overpower the opposition. He can fire Mueller and anyone else that opposes him. He can fill the judiciary with ludicrous clowns loyal to him. He can appoint partisan hacks as Federal Prosecutors from coast to coast. He is really only a few steps from turning America into a Ukrainian style kleptocracy. Over the next few months we could be watching the death of the rule of law in this country (not that ROL isn't already quite the invalid. How many bankers went to jail?)
8
His obsession with Hillary is pathological. Did anyone tell him he "won" the election?
17
Everything about Trump is pathological.
10
Donald Trump doesn't know how to do anything except lie and create chaos. That's fine when you're dealing with your own private companies and you can outspend other people, whether you're lying or not, and when you can bail yourself out of some bad decisions. This is not the same. Now is the time we decide whether this country still has civil rules and standards by which civilized people are able to conduct a civilized life. All this chaos and rage and dishonesty. Isn't everyone getting sick and tired of the constant Trump-created drama? He is the tool of his own undoing. All that loud-mouthed name calling might have worked in grifter world but this is not that. Thank God. I don't care whether he goes to jail or not but I do care whether he remains president or not. We can't have a fiend and a fool for president.
12
Does Trump ever care about Americans?
12
C'mon, you know the answer... Trump only cares about Trump, plain and simple.
6
Can you dedicate a column to the Justice Departmen't last 50 years of guidance and action on Presidents on obstruction of justice and presidential powers. I believe the last guidance was issued in 2000 by the Clinton Administration.
1
Not a peep from the Gingrich about our predator-in-chief's groping proclivities or his habit of shirking payment to contractors/vendors or his mockery of those with disabilities or his brand's exponential enrichment/conflicts of interest while in office...ever read the Emoluments Clause, Newt? But then again, consider the source. Gingrich is corrupt as the day is long.
10
I don't know Charles, I know, it's supposed to be, if it walks like a duck, blah-blah, it's a duck, but I would prefer to let the investigator do his job. Every man is entitled to a fair trial. If we believe the way everyone is pointing, the Russians must have put Trump up to running? Trump doesn't remind of a man who would welcome more work for himself? What was his real motive for running?
3
Trump has made donations to Democrats. What's wrong with people on Mueller's team doing it?
1
As usual, your analysis of Trump's political and legal problems are on the money. It is quite obvious that Trump believes that American laws were written for "little people" and that he is above everything that we mere citizens must comply with. The glaring observation I have is a reminder of the late crooner, Brooke Benton's song, "It's Just A Matter Of Time".
6
Mueller will likely collect enough data to support a subpoena to publish trump's tax returns.
12
"In that court, he’s already guilty."
Wrong. All of his tweets are for the benefit of his supporters, who believe he is being treated unfairly. In his mind, there are 63 million people who voted for him (and that's a lot of people BTW) and because they voted for him in the first place, they are more likely to believe what he says now than believe what anybody else says.
Trump is the leader of an alternative universe that Newt Gingrich created, where Bill Clinton/Hillary Clinton is guilty of everything, can never be found not guilty of anything, should be in prison and because she is not, despite the fact that she is guilty of something, makes Trump supporters even more distrustful of the system that cannot find a way to convict her and put her in prison. Meanwhile, no matter how many lawsuits and bankruptcies Trump has been subject to, he is never considered guilty of anything except of being a good businessman. He is immune to prosecution, persecution, prison, impeachment.
We can hope Mueller will get to the bottom of it but even if he does, Trump supporters will not believe him. Him finding someone associated with Trump guilty while Hillary Clinton remains free will only further erode Trump's supporters' confidence in the system. This is what John McCain was tangentially trying to suggest in the hearing last week, that no matter what, if Hillary Clinton isn't investigated further, found guilty and imprisoned, the system and investigation are corrupt.
Wrong. All of his tweets are for the benefit of his supporters, who believe he is being treated unfairly. In his mind, there are 63 million people who voted for him (and that's a lot of people BTW) and because they voted for him in the first place, they are more likely to believe what he says now than believe what anybody else says.
Trump is the leader of an alternative universe that Newt Gingrich created, where Bill Clinton/Hillary Clinton is guilty of everything, can never be found not guilty of anything, should be in prison and because she is not, despite the fact that she is guilty of something, makes Trump supporters even more distrustful of the system that cannot find a way to convict her and put her in prison. Meanwhile, no matter how many lawsuits and bankruptcies Trump has been subject to, he is never considered guilty of anything except of being a good businessman. He is immune to prosecution, persecution, prison, impeachment.
We can hope Mueller will get to the bottom of it but even if he does, Trump supporters will not believe him. Him finding someone associated with Trump guilty while Hillary Clinton remains free will only further erode Trump's supporters' confidence in the system. This is what John McCain was tangentially trying to suggest in the hearing last week, that no matter what, if Hillary Clinton isn't investigated further, found guilty and imprisoned, the system and investigation are corrupt.
8
What you say is likely true of about 36,000,000 of the number you refer to. About 20,000,000 have been willing to give him a chance, and at least 8,000,000 are now looking at their fingernails and wishing they had had another choice, but are still making excuses to the media for why they voted as they did. That's an incredible erosion for less than 160 days into a presidency!
Shortly we will have before us a tax bill that proposes to throw 23,000,000 into the shredder. Call it GOP Health Care, the bill that no one has seen and most won't see until like a late diagnosis it's too late to treat and have the patient survive.
All this winning . . .
Shortly we will have before us a tax bill that proposes to throw 23,000,000 into the shredder. Call it GOP Health Care, the bill that no one has seen and most won't see until like a late diagnosis it's too late to treat and have the patient survive.
All this winning . . .
9
Trump's efforts to delegitimize Mueller's investigation is no different than his caveat that he would accept the outcome of the presidential election only if he won.
16
Does anyone really believe Gingrich's claim that 97% of donations from the Justice Department went to Democrats? Has that one been fact checked, although it sounds like a difficult thing to confirm or negate? There have been more Republican presidents over the last half century, their nominations are rather partisan and politically based. I'm not claiming the Democrats don't do the same. But google Monica Goodling to see how GWB handled his DOJ.
If Newt is somehow accurate here (I'd bet money it's just another GOP alt-fact) it would say something about how the two sides get their funding, eh? We don't really know because of all the recent laws passed regarding political contributions, where corporations are people and money=speech.
If Newt is somehow accurate here (I'd bet money it's just another GOP alt-fact) it would say something about how the two sides get their funding, eh? We don't really know because of all the recent laws passed regarding political contributions, where corporations are people and money=speech.
6
In keeping with Mr. Krugman's opinion piece on Zombies, Vampires and Republicans, we must add Next Gingrich who doesn't even know that he is politically dead. So sad to see such a man spending his golden years as an unpaid talking head for Fox News.
10
Here's hoping this "Russher" kerfuffle ushers in an impeachment hearing and removal, ending Trump's twitter gushers.
12
Although public opinion won't - and shouldn't - play a role in these investigations, I'd caution those who want to see Trump resign or be impeached to "be careful what ye wish for, lads and lasses".
Next in line is Pence. And if Pence somehow got caught up it in, we'd get... Ryan.
Although the thought is repugnant to me as a progressive and as a person who admires and practices civility to the best of his ability, we might be better off with 3 1/2 more years of Trump than with Pence - or worse - Ryan.
Trump has already established his inability to govern as chief executive in any rational or meaningful way. Consequently, it's unlikely that a fractured GOP Congress - made more so with Trump supposedly at the helm - will be able to overturn too much of the progress we've made during the past 70 years.
Pence and Ryan, by contrast, are canny and experienced politicians who might well be able to drag our nation back into the 19th century, or at least as far back as the "Gilded Age".
So I'm personally conflicted. As much as I'd like to see Trump sent back to NY - where they know him well and would likely assign him to his proper place - I find myself thinking "Be careful what ye wish for, laddie."
Next in line is Pence. And if Pence somehow got caught up it in, we'd get... Ryan.
Although the thought is repugnant to me as a progressive and as a person who admires and practices civility to the best of his ability, we might be better off with 3 1/2 more years of Trump than with Pence - or worse - Ryan.
Trump has already established his inability to govern as chief executive in any rational or meaningful way. Consequently, it's unlikely that a fractured GOP Congress - made more so with Trump supposedly at the helm - will be able to overturn too much of the progress we've made during the past 70 years.
Pence and Ryan, by contrast, are canny and experienced politicians who might well be able to drag our nation back into the 19th century, or at least as far back as the "Gilded Age".
So I'm personally conflicted. As much as I'd like to see Trump sent back to NY - where they know him well and would likely assign him to his proper place - I find myself thinking "Be careful what ye wish for, laddie."
12
Be careful what you wish for " already happened .how much worse would anyone else be? Just someone honest would be nice..someone who has a clue would be great.
He is and will continue to be a huge embarrassment not to mention setting us back Years in good relations with other countries and leaders.
He is and will continue to be a huge embarrassment not to mention setting us back Years in good relations with other countries and leaders.
9
"Someone is probably going to jail", I hope that someone is a leaker. I hope that someone is a reporter who revealed classified information. I hope that someone is a violent College protester.
4
Where's the EVIDENCE, Mr. Blow? I don't want Trump to be prez either but without evidence this is all a big waste of time.
3
You say "Where's the evidence?" There is bountiful evidence...You want PROOF. So you must let them follow the bountiful evidence to see if there is proof. The investigation is just beginning, because trump has been stalling it with all his actions, specifically the spate of firings. Investigations take time; they have LOADS of evidence on which to proceed, otherwise no one would be having an investigation! Where the evidence leads or does not lead is the ticket. But no one can say that there is no evidence, because that is just a fairy tale. Is there PROOF? Not yet. (In other words: What does the existing evidence prove or dis-prove?) As far as an investigation with A LOT of EVIDENCE driving it, it is hardly a waste of time. Why is trump so eager to stop the investigation? What is he hiding? Why is he acting so guilty and out of control? Why will he not release his tax returns? Why did he say that he gets no money from the Russians when both of his sons have publicly stated that the trump organization gets A LOT of money from the Russians? Why did Jared Kushner seek to set up a direct line of communication to the Kremlin? What was Flynn doing, and why did trump hire Flynn even after being warned not to? Why did Sessions lie about having any communications with the Russians? Why did Sessions say he was going to recuse himself from the Russia investigation, yet he became instrumental in the firing of Comey who was fired due to the Russia investigation, according to trump?!
7
Charles how is it that the best Intelligence Agencies in the world have yet to find any direct evidence of the Presidents involvement in the hacking. They have not found one instance of any polling machine spitting out votes for Trump via Moscow. IF THEY HAD IT WOULD HAVE BEEN leaked to a certain NY newspaper....
A better theory for you Chaz is that the Russians hacked the Clinton campaign and told Hilary not to campaign in Michigan.
A better theory for you Chaz is that the Russians hacked the Clinton campaign and told Hilary not to campaign in Michigan.
3
There are other things that are very seriously alarming besides polling machines spitting out votes for trump via Moscow. As I said above, earlier: Why is trump so eager to stop the investigation? What is he hiding? Why is he acting so guilty and out of control? Why will he not release his tax returns? Why did he say that he gets no money from the Russians when both of his sons have publicly stated that the trump organization gets A LOT of money from the Russians? Why did Jared Kushner seek to set up a direct line of communication to the Kremlin? What was Flynn doing, and why did trump hire Flynn even after being warned not to? Why did Sessions lie about having any communications with the Russians? Why did Sessions say he was going to recuse himself from the Russia investigation, yet he became instrumental in the firing of Comey who was fired due to the Russia investigation, according to trump?! This was NOT recusal! -- All this and more lead one to believe that there is corruption afoot. But, we shall see; the investigation into the available evidence--and there is bountiful evidence--is just beginning. It has been delayed because trump has tried to quash the investigation at every turn. If he's not guilty--WHY????? Because of his irregular and suspicious behaviors, all he has succeeded in doing has been to get a Special Investigator and task force going. Now they will begin piecing together all these factors that I mentioned above...and see what leads where.
2
I hope that that more than "someone " goes to jail. Remember how many went to jail during the Watergate scandal, all the way up to attorney general.
8
Does Trumplestiltskin ever say what he means?
2
To defend himself Trump will charge American taxpayers for his lawyers.
1
They're not going to jail. Bush commuted the sentence of Scooter Libby for obstruction after Cheney outed one of our own spies. Who thinks Trump won't do the same? Funny how this didn't come up in the last eight years with no drama Obama.
2
Trump is willing to press his luck since the legal system is often in favor of the wealthy and he knows this. He will eventually run afoul of the law. According to Gingrich someone is going to jail. Oh I would love to see Trump thrown in jail. Of course this will never happen so I'll settle for impeachment.
2
You mean Bill Clinton don't you?
1
It would be a dream come true if one of them is Trump.
3
Wow!!! The only silver lining in all this is the hiring surge in criminal defense attorneys caused by the multiple investigations. We're not in danger of running out, are we?
4
Mueller is a fair man,he's low key,honest and very important a decorated ex marine.Contrast him to the subject of this Russian interference Mr.Trump.No income taxes shown,no briefings on Russian interference,complicated business dealings.Seems like a Russian apologists,serial liar,and a number of his people have involvement with the Russians plus he's had financial problems over the years.If he or his people are involved would I be surprised? No
3
Frankly, I don't believe Sponge Trump is at all concerned.
This is the story of his life.
He is an expert at wiggling out of every legal case brought against him.
Newt has it right; there will be a fall guy and it looks like Flynn will do.
It's a set-up job from the get go.
All Big Foot has to do is engage in a theater of conflict with Russia (now on the horizon) and throw himself around a bit in that. The masses will be thus again confused and bewildered, certain that he is the Champion of the Free World with nothing beholding to Putin who will happily appear stage right to show just how we really do hate one another.
Oh, the drama of it all is so, so mellow.
Dear Prez will never be impeached, jailed, or brought down other than through a GOP wipeout in 2018 or a serious illness other than psychopathy.
Truth is not nearly so much "casually disregarded" as it is no longer discernible because our moral foundation has lost it's bearing and the LIE is become our end game.
Unseen forces, occult and nefarious play upon the fate of the world.
Trump's right; it is indeed a "witch hunt".
P.S. He has the witch well hidden - so look out.
This is the story of his life.
He is an expert at wiggling out of every legal case brought against him.
Newt has it right; there will be a fall guy and it looks like Flynn will do.
It's a set-up job from the get go.
All Big Foot has to do is engage in a theater of conflict with Russia (now on the horizon) and throw himself around a bit in that. The masses will be thus again confused and bewildered, certain that he is the Champion of the Free World with nothing beholding to Putin who will happily appear stage right to show just how we really do hate one another.
Oh, the drama of it all is so, so mellow.
Dear Prez will never be impeached, jailed, or brought down other than through a GOP wipeout in 2018 or a serious illness other than psychopathy.
Truth is not nearly so much "casually disregarded" as it is no longer discernible because our moral foundation has lost it's bearing and the LIE is become our end game.
Unseen forces, occult and nefarious play upon the fate of the world.
Trump's right; it is indeed a "witch hunt".
P.S. He has the witch well hidden - so look out.
1
Clearly, Trump's legal modus operandi is to assume the best defense is a good offense. But, I think he and his gang sense something else here: an opportunity to advance their fascist aims by neutering those parts of the judicial system that they don't already control. This fits neatly with their drive to assure that evidence-based science, educational opportunities for all, and a health care system that puts well-being ahead of profits all are demolished.
2
What about this scenario: What the Trump camp really fears is that the Russia
investigators will, logically enough, at some point want to look at his tax returns to see what financial involvement he might have. Perhaps Trump knows that he truly had no Russian financial connection. But the various tax avoidance shenanigans listed on his returns would be very harmful. And someone on the investigative team could and would leak that information. Hence the fury over Sessions recusal--while Sessions had control of Justice things could be contained. Hence the need for Comey's loyalty and the willingness to risk firing him (a gamble justified when Comey admitted to leaking private presidential information to the enemies of the people, aka the press.) Hence the willingness to consider firing Mueller and the close scrutiny of the lawyers he has hired. Hence the constant harping on leaks. Hence the distraction of the financial statement. Hence the gamble to break with tradition and refuse to release tax information during the campaign (until the audit is completed.)
Those tax returns must glow in the dark.
investigators will, logically enough, at some point want to look at his tax returns to see what financial involvement he might have. Perhaps Trump knows that he truly had no Russian financial connection. But the various tax avoidance shenanigans listed on his returns would be very harmful. And someone on the investigative team could and would leak that information. Hence the fury over Sessions recusal--while Sessions had control of Justice things could be contained. Hence the need for Comey's loyalty and the willingness to risk firing him (a gamble justified when Comey admitted to leaking private presidential information to the enemies of the people, aka the press.) Hence the willingness to consider firing Mueller and the close scrutiny of the lawyers he has hired. Hence the constant harping on leaks. Hence the distraction of the financial statement. Hence the gamble to break with tradition and refuse to release tax information during the campaign (until the audit is completed.)
Those tax returns must glow in the dark.
1
Trump's entire career was built on using his inherited fortune and connections to manipulate the courts in his favor.
Not this time. And the only settlement that might be offered is a dishonorable resignation.
He's trying to set up his downfall as a conspiracy, which will work for his most faithful, but the other 80% of Americans will be relieved to see him relieved of power.
But then, what to do with Mike Pence and Paul Ryan, the very complicit successors?
Not this time. And the only settlement that might be offered is a dishonorable resignation.
He's trying to set up his downfall as a conspiracy, which will work for his most faithful, but the other 80% of Americans will be relieved to see him relieved of power.
But then, what to do with Mike Pence and Paul Ryan, the very complicit successors?
5
Frightening.
1
If people think Donald Trump will act in any different from the way he has conducted his business while he is president I have a bridge in New York to sell you.
He has always had the money to hire the most expensive and, in many cases, the most experienced attorney gunfighters in New York, and he has outlasted many of his accusers in the legal game.
He will deal no differently with Robert Mueller. Trump isn't so much a "counter puncher" or a fighter as he likes to describe himself - he's more of an insecure bully who knows in his inner mind that he got to scale the heights without having to work very hard. His failed bankruptcies attest to that.
Look for him to fire Mueller. Trump doesn't give a hoot about the political backlash that will cause. Why should he? He's got McConnell and Ryan in his pocket.
He has always had the money to hire the most expensive and, in many cases, the most experienced attorney gunfighters in New York, and he has outlasted many of his accusers in the legal game.
He will deal no differently with Robert Mueller. Trump isn't so much a "counter puncher" or a fighter as he likes to describe himself - he's more of an insecure bully who knows in his inner mind that he got to scale the heights without having to work very hard. His failed bankruptcies attest to that.
Look for him to fire Mueller. Trump doesn't give a hoot about the political backlash that will cause. Why should he? He's got McConnell and Ryan in his pocket.
3
If Mueller said or did nothing further from this point, he could just sit back and allow Trump to reveal himself. For the only constant in the current White House is that Trump needs to be the center of attention at all times, and when it gets too quiet, Trump will unleash another Tweet-storm until Mueller has enough to build a case. But to be sure, Trump will throw everyone under the bus. This will cut deep - the GOP lassoed a tornado, I hope they're ready for the repercussions.
1
Charles, I'm issuing a B O L O alert. BE ON THE LOOKOUT as this legal battle plays out!
Whenever anything goes wrong with Donald Trump--and we all know how frequent that is--he does something even more outrageous. Yes he will try to reframe the issue, and defame the other players involved. Or maybe he'll just fire another member of his Cabinet, insult a foreign Head of State, or claim to have an earth-shattering announcement on taxes, health care, jobs, or immigration “maybe next week”. Or, maybe he just goes off on another "fake news" tirade. Then he’s off and running, and the media circus follows.
The outcome is always the same. It diverts the attention away from the jam he's gotten himself in, and deflects it on another thing, or another person. And, he's good at it! Better than anyone I've ever seen.
He's in so much trouble now, the next thing you know he'll be dropping his pants in public.
Boxers or briefs?
Whenever anything goes wrong with Donald Trump--and we all know how frequent that is--he does something even more outrageous. Yes he will try to reframe the issue, and defame the other players involved. Or maybe he'll just fire another member of his Cabinet, insult a foreign Head of State, or claim to have an earth-shattering announcement on taxes, health care, jobs, or immigration “maybe next week”. Or, maybe he just goes off on another "fake news" tirade. Then he’s off and running, and the media circus follows.
The outcome is always the same. It diverts the attention away from the jam he's gotten himself in, and deflects it on another thing, or another person. And, he's good at it! Better than anyone I've ever seen.
He's in so much trouble now, the next thing you know he'll be dropping his pants in public.
Boxers or briefs?
Let the career bureaucrats have at him and his family then, there won't be enough left hire a bankruptcy lawyer.
1
If Congress wants to remove Trump, they will. He is defenseless against the pols.
2
He's already convicted of what exactly? What is this investigation actually investigating? The Russians tried to do what? Influence an American election? Shock! Horror! For your information the US invaded a sovereign country and set up and ran an election because the President was not to our liking ... Do we really have to review the extensive sordid history of US interference in the affairs of other countries? Should the UK be setting up an "investigation" of how Obama tried to affect the Brexit vote?
2
Your argument is beyond ridiculous. "Everybody else does it?!" Really? That's the best you can do? It's not even true. Don't quote people who lie casually.
Our best people have told you in clear terms that the Russians interfered with the election on behalf of Trump. That has never happened before in America and yet your guy Trump doesn't seem to give a flying. If he really didn't have anything to hide why is he so obviously trying to obstruct justice?
Our best people have told you in clear terms that the Russians interfered with the election on behalf of Trump. That has never happened before in America and yet your guy Trump doesn't seem to give a flying. If he really didn't have anything to hide why is he so obviously trying to obstruct justice?
A public speech is not the same as covert operations.
Stephen Colbert: Donald Trump will be the only President to settle out-of-court. I wouldn't, in the least, be surprised if that happened.
2
Some Trump supporters have stated that so far, there is no evidence of a crime after months of investigation. To this, one can only respond that they should consult the dictionary as to the meaning of 'investigation'. Meanwhile, President Trump's behavior does little to make many believe that his hand are entirely clean.
4
Trump appears to be completely insane. His actions are not logical and only show his complete confused and demented mind to the world. He needs to be impeached or resign and go home to his golden tower for as long as he needs to get his life in order (a few days) before heading off to jail.
He refuses to listen to anyone but maybe Bannon. He is full of incoherent and downright dumb remarks about so many subjects that one wonders of his mental stability.
Our country deserves a lot more than what this bozo can produce.
He refuses to listen to anyone but maybe Bannon. He is full of incoherent and downright dumb remarks about so many subjects that one wonders of his mental stability.
Our country deserves a lot more than what this bozo can produce.
13
Just walk away or you will end up in prison. You are corrupt in all your business dealings, you money launder and you take money for influence. Your entire family is being investigated Just leave
3
Trump may use sun rise to write his non-stop Twitters. Very dangerous for anybody in the Sun-Set of their lives - see Broadway "Sun-Set Boulevard."
Poor Donald is finished.
Poor Donald is finished.
4
We could take a lesson from these guys:
CNN: "Ousted South Korean president behind bars after arrest on bribery & corruption charges"
http://edition.cnn.com/2017/03/30/asia/south-korea-ousted-president-park...
CNN: "Ousted South Korean president behind bars after arrest on bribery & corruption charges"
http://edition.cnn.com/2017/03/30/asia/south-korea-ousted-president-park...
5
Mr. Gingrich declined to mention that D. Trump gave money to Sen. C. Schumer's campaign in 2010, however, this is probably okay since Trump was a Democrat himself then.
I don't care if trump goes to jail, he just needs to GO! And take archbishop Pence with him. Please set this ship right before more people like James Hodgkinson go over the edge or even worse things happens to the country. Republicans own congress now, the ball is their court, they need to do their duty. History is waiting for the outcome.
3
Can anyone show us who are the major players in the congress of cruel and crazy self dealing. Help ...
Trump will fire Mueller by whatever means necessary. It is not psychologically possible for him to 'wait it out'. Every single member of his team might advise him against it but but his impulses will win. Government by impulse. It's not a plan, its not strategic or tactical. Just impulse. Can it go on forever? The law of gravity says no but he continues to float, in seeming defiance, far above above reality in a human version of the Hindenburg .
3
we can only HOPE he will fire Mueller as that will most definitely be the beginning of the end....
1
No Newt they're going to get a lot of folks. Whistling past the graveyard isn't enough.
Don't tell me what Gingrich says or thinks, I could not care less what this self aggrandizing, self serving, hypocrite's views are. His role in our politics has been one of the most destructive in our history.
.
This fool-for-a-president is the most classic case of a guilty conscience I have ever witnessed.
.
This fool-for-a-president is the most classic case of a guilty conscience I have ever witnessed.
.
4
Trump's long history of finagling is going catch him. He learned this game of chase very young and has more or less gotten away with it his whole life. Loco. Yes. And, like a fox. Yes. But this time he's got lots of experienced brains, know-how and manpower on his trail. The other foxes are scrambling too. Somebody/bodies will end up in the trap.
Whether it be in one's lifetime or later, the truth will always find you out.
Whether it be in one's lifetime or later, the truth will always find you out.
1
So according to Sekulow, his boss Trump lied when he tweeted that he was under investigation. Or is Sekulov lying?
Muller hired lawyers to "get" POTUS for political reasons? - sure Newt, looking into Russian political involvement in our elections of this POTUS. After-all Republicans can't win without lying, cheating, breaking the rules, character assassination, negotiating bills in secret and Russian help.
Once we reach a severe Constitutional crisis, will Trump decide to save the Constitution or himself? I think we all know the answer that.
Muller hired lawyers to "get" POTUS for political reasons? - sure Newt, looking into Russian political involvement in our elections of this POTUS. After-all Republicans can't win without lying, cheating, breaking the rules, character assassination, negotiating bills in secret and Russian help.
Once we reach a severe Constitutional crisis, will Trump decide to save the Constitution or himself? I think we all know the answer that.
1
What is so surrreal: we're talking obstruction, alleged collusion with our adversary, abuse of power, imprisonment-we're talking about the President who's been in office for under five months.
1
“The fact of the matter is the president has not been and is not under investigation.” should provide us with a more serious concern: is Donald Trump mentally ill. What protects Trump is his normalization of the abnormal.
Sekulow is doing what all attorney's do: defending his client. We have been provided with an example of how lawyers work in the Cosby case. Despite evidence and over twenty victims, Cosby won a first round in a hung jury. Evidence, facts, and the words of the President are not sufficient if Sekulow can convince America that evidence, facts, and the free speech of Trump are not relevant. That nothing the prosecution offers will prevail is the goal and intent of the attorney Sekulow.
Gingrich is a stark example of what denying consequences for crimes can inflict on society. Gingrich is an albatross hanging from America's neck. Why he is given a soap box? Why does anyone of this generation know his name?
Does America tire of the lies, the deceit, the depraved exhortation to our worst impulses? Are we ever sickened by the outrageous? Our response to this tragic clown will determine the lives that our children and grandchildren will live. There may not be anything Trump can do to waken all of the complacent or confound his attorney, but he may just exhaust our tolerance and be canceled like his TV show. Ratings are already way down. What will it take to hear:"you are fired"?
Sekulow is doing what all attorney's do: defending his client. We have been provided with an example of how lawyers work in the Cosby case. Despite evidence and over twenty victims, Cosby won a first round in a hung jury. Evidence, facts, and the words of the President are not sufficient if Sekulow can convince America that evidence, facts, and the free speech of Trump are not relevant. That nothing the prosecution offers will prevail is the goal and intent of the attorney Sekulow.
Gingrich is a stark example of what denying consequences for crimes can inflict on society. Gingrich is an albatross hanging from America's neck. Why he is given a soap box? Why does anyone of this generation know his name?
Does America tire of the lies, the deceit, the depraved exhortation to our worst impulses? Are we ever sickened by the outrageous? Our response to this tragic clown will determine the lives that our children and grandchildren will live. There may not be anything Trump can do to waken all of the complacent or confound his attorney, but he may just exhaust our tolerance and be canceled like his TV show. Ratings are already way down. What will it take to hear:"you are fired"?
4
...and a big "thanks" to the GOP and Ken Starr for lowering the bar of impeachment. An investigation into a Clinton business deal led to his sex life.
Business deals? Sex life? Trump may be doomed.
Business deals? Sex life? Trump may be doomed.
2
Can't wait til the history books tell the riveting story of the rise and fall of Herr Trump!
3
"This is how truth becomes degraded: by being casually disregarded."
Can one really accuse Gingrich, and other similarly greasy opportunists being summoned by Trump, of being casual? Give Trump credit, he knows them when he sees them. He spreads his hands and says, "What have you got to lose?" Nothing, apparently.
Can one really accuse Gingrich, and other similarly greasy opportunists being summoned by Trump, of being casual? Give Trump credit, he knows them when he sees them. He spreads his hands and says, "What have you got to lose?" Nothing, apparently.
1
On the talk shows yesterday, Mr. Sekulow sounded a bit... what is that word... oh, yes - hysterical.
5
Pumpkinhead will never go to jail. At best, he'll run and hide in Russia, cowering under Putin's skirts.
But the ones who get thrown under the bus along the way? They'll either go to jail or march on the rest of us, alongside the new brown-shirts.
But the ones who get thrown under the bus along the way? They'll either go to jail or march on the rest of us, alongside the new brown-shirts.
Stop quoting Gingrich. Forever. He's a political hack who lies and divorces as easily as Trump. Why is he on any reputable newspaperman's "rolodex" anymore?
9
Just to remind everyone, Jay Sekulow bought his law degree from Pat Robertson, the man that claims to be able to control the paths of hurricanes. So, welcome to the circus Jay. Nice pratfall on your first time in the big top.
5
Propoganda and lawyering-up -- that's what we want the WH to spend their time doing at this point in history. It's disgusting...
4
Trump and his army of attorneys in prior litigations have known nothing but civil/commercial lawsuits. He's been involved in over 3,000, the bulk of them in the SDNY. Every seasoned court reporter working in NYC has sworn him in and taken down his testimony. He'll fight until the end, then ultimately settle.
Q. Why was Preet Bharara fired?
A. Because he was closing in on Donald.
The realtor is currently freaking out. Location, location, location.
He wants to stay in Trumpland, where he's been able to stick it out as long as possible, until settlement.
Not this time.
He's moving to Muellerville, and there ain't nothing he can do about it.
Q. Why was Preet Bharara fired?
A. Because he was closing in on Donald.
The realtor is currently freaking out. Location, location, location.
He wants to stay in Trumpland, where he's been able to stick it out as long as possible, until settlement.
Not this time.
He's moving to Muellerville, and there ain't nothing he can do about it.
1
The investigators will find that Trump has no specific holdings in Russia, but that during the desperate days of the 2008-09 downturn, as his casino world crumbled, he worked as a money launderer for Soviet oligarchs, selling real estate at inflated prices and borrowing money from some of the Russian banks also in the Putin-Oligarch Cronies sphere of influence. They have owned him for a decade and may be nervous themselves now that his high profile and hair-trigger twitter finger may begin exposing a kind of multinational corruption that goes beyond nationalism.
5
Impeachment is too good for trump and we don't want pence. Both are dirty along with many in the GOP party and elected officials for taking Russian money and supporting and using the hacking data from Democrats.
Ah Newt Gingrich! The gift that keeps on giving!
In “The Unwinding, an Inner History of The New America”, George Packer describes Gingrich as an “old man in a white helmet with the cold clever boyish grin.”
In debt most of his life, he spent time out of office with rich people and set out to make a lot of it selling his connections and influence, requiring him to grab every opportunity in the bipartisan lobbying industry.
He created a lexicon of words to use against any of his opponents: “Corrupt elite” “corrupt liberal welfare state” “corrupt left wing machine” “elite liberal media”.
He finally just created a list--a vocabulary lesson to use against opponents: betray, bizarre, bureaucracy, cheat, corrupt, crisis, cynicism, decay, destroy, disgrace, impose, incompetent, liberal, lie, obsolete, pathetic, radical, shame, sick, stagnation, status quo, steal, taxes, they/them, threaten, traitors, unionized, waste, welfare.
Now according to Newt you too can make political speeches and write books.
Looking back it seems that Caribou Barbie just memorized all those words and spewed them out in her Wasilla Word Salads.
Gingrich never got the fame he wanted, but boy he’s still in there every week! He’s the epitome of the entire GOP. Useless platitudes with no substance, no empathy, just nothing!
In “The Unwinding, an Inner History of The New America”, George Packer describes Gingrich as an “old man in a white helmet with the cold clever boyish grin.”
In debt most of his life, he spent time out of office with rich people and set out to make a lot of it selling his connections and influence, requiring him to grab every opportunity in the bipartisan lobbying industry.
He created a lexicon of words to use against any of his opponents: “Corrupt elite” “corrupt liberal welfare state” “corrupt left wing machine” “elite liberal media”.
He finally just created a list--a vocabulary lesson to use against opponents: betray, bizarre, bureaucracy, cheat, corrupt, crisis, cynicism, decay, destroy, disgrace, impose, incompetent, liberal, lie, obsolete, pathetic, radical, shame, sick, stagnation, status quo, steal, taxes, they/them, threaten, traitors, unionized, waste, welfare.
Now according to Newt you too can make political speeches and write books.
Looking back it seems that Caribou Barbie just memorized all those words and spewed them out in her Wasilla Word Salads.
Gingrich never got the fame he wanted, but boy he’s still in there every week! He’s the epitome of the entire GOP. Useless platitudes with no substance, no empathy, just nothing!
11
Trump is a student of Roy Cohn, the junkyard dog attorney who was right hand man to Joe McCarthy. Cohn taught Turmp to react to any challenge with ferocity, to fight back with twice the power of his attackers. This has always been Trump's personal style. All we can say to Trump and the Republican leadership who continue to deny the seriousness of Russian interference in our electoral system is:
"You've done enough. Have you no sense of decency, sirs, at long last? Have you left no sense of decency?" (Thank you, Mr. Welch).
"You've done enough. Have you no sense of decency, sirs, at long last? Have you left no sense of decency?" (Thank you, Mr. Welch).
6
Bluster, bravado, cons, lies, bullying.....AKA Trump.
6
"He is attempting to defame, discredit and delegitimize." These are most historically reliable Republican forms of attack as are their techniques of; deflection, obtuse and obfuscate any issue they don't want to address.
2
I hope America smells the coffee, and the entire trump clan ends up where it deserves to be.
5
“When federal investigators start looking for something, they often find something.” *Something*. That is exactly what rubs so many people the wrong way about all this. And that may be the most critical flaw in American jurisprudence. You learn at a very young age that a police officer could arrest you for anything, because there’s always *something*; there’s always something you don’t know about but he does. You’ll be exonerated in the future, but that’s not his problem. What ill-disposed parties can do to Trump, they can do to anyone—and they do. The only lessons for the rest of us are that we should all speak with the lawyerly linguistic hedges of a Hillary Clinton, and that we should all be rich enough to afford a good lawyer.
1
Always - he shows all the characteristics of having such low affect that he is probably a psychopath - an fmri can confirm the speculation - and the achilles heel of the psychopath is yearning - being compelled to experience dominion. There was another opinion piece this weekend implying Trump is telling us exactly what he thinks - boy was that writer way way off - nothing this guy says is what he is thinking - He chooses his behaviors and his speech to be provocative, to stir you up, to make you think he is thinking what you are thinking. I mean, hello! It's like a bad boyfriend, always telling you what you want to hear instead of what he is thinking. No way is this guy ever, directly going to tell you what he is thinking. However, as someone with extraordinary insight into psychopaths - he does tell you indirectly. See, he is messing with you, and he knows what he is doing - you all don't realize some folks have low life value, are sensation seeking and destructive - and he is having so much fun messing with you, and he drops hints all the time - because it's fun for him, how oblivious he is - the way he drops hints? He blames others for doing what he is doing. And you fall for it. Ego and false pride are your problem. Actually, the seven deadly sins (also known as vices to the less religious) are your achilles heel. Take on the seven virtues. Google them. Rise above your habits of thinking you are right and not listening.
3
there are no consequence for Trump. he can shoot somebody on 5th Ave. and nobody would care. he's entitled. he's rich, which shows he's good,,shows he's smart, shows he's above mere mortal men.
he's bamboozled tens of millions of frightened old white people who,also think they're better than anybody else.
you can't catch me, I'm the gingerbread man!
he's bamboozled tens of millions of frightened old white people who,also think they're better than anybody else.
you can't catch me, I'm the gingerbread man!
3
Gingrich? Seriously, who cares what that man has to say about anything?
6
This is possibly the first 'one man witch hunt' we've ever witnessed.
Gingrich should not relax. He's one of the most hated men in America.
2
Despite deep concern that the Republicans, famously in lockstep, will never vote to impeach him, I have heard that a large proportion actually want him gone. As long as Trump sabotages Republican goals by behaving like a capering fool; humiliates and menaces Republicans personally; and is strongly disliked among their constituents, they would be relieved at his departure. Pence, who is far more appropriate, is doubtless also more effective in collaborating across the aisle and fulfilling their agenda. Of course, if Trump has pulled Pence into his schemes enough to compromise him, then it's anybody's guess how Republicans will respond.
As to whether Trump has obstructed justice, that seems like a very clean case. Trump should probably resign. But he thrives on this type of internecine warfare. Having no true conscience or commitment to his country, as opposed to his egotistical self, Trump won't mind bringing the business of governing (which he doesn't even comprehend anyway) to a virtual standstill while this case runs its course.
As to whether Trump has obstructed justice, that seems like a very clean case. Trump should probably resign. But he thrives on this type of internecine warfare. Having no true conscience or commitment to his country, as opposed to his egotistical self, Trump won't mind bringing the business of governing (which he doesn't even comprehend anyway) to a virtual standstill while this case runs its course.
1
Who cares what Newt Gingrich says.
4
All you attorneys out there already know this punchline to a lawyer joke. Trump and his minions are already "pounding on the table".
1
If they are looking for someone to send to jail, I can think of no one more deserving than Gingrich himself.
4
I'm reminded of the wonderful novel, "Watership Down" and it's rabbit characters. A despotic, fighting rabbit takes on other rabbits, a weasel, and a cat in their turn, until he's finally faced with a watchdog. He refuses to back down even then, screaming "it's only a dog!" before being carried off, never to be seen again. Trump has been litigating against the Little Guy his entire life. But he's facing the Big Dogs now, and we can look forward to the day when his administration is nothing more than a nasty memory.
5
I really like you noting that, "They will say and do anything, even if it directly contradicts what they said or did moments earlier."
That sums up the the Republican party.
As for Trump-Pence, I hope the crimes that bring them down are ones committed before the Gorsuch nomination. A reasonable case can then be brought to the public to invalidate his appointment: We won't allow agents of traitors or criminals serving on the Supreme Court. If he won't honorably step down, impeach him. Every ruling he'd make will be tainted by the crimes of his appointer.
The only further appointment allowed for Trump should be one for him with a tailor to fit him for an orange suit.
That sums up the the Republican party.
As for Trump-Pence, I hope the crimes that bring them down are ones committed before the Gorsuch nomination. A reasonable case can then be brought to the public to invalidate his appointment: We won't allow agents of traitors or criminals serving on the Supreme Court. If he won't honorably step down, impeach him. Every ruling he'd make will be tainted by the crimes of his appointer.
The only further appointment allowed for Trump should be one for him with a tailor to fit him for an orange suit.
The authoritarian and kleptocracy train has left the station! It's incredible that the United States still fashions itself a democracy and moral compass for the rest of the world despite the fact that it's now putting the finishing touch on the greatest coup the world has seen. Donald Trump is a dictatorial bully who has told the American public that he would release his tax returns, place his business and corporate holdings in a "blind trust," disrespected and shown little regard for the legal, political and social institutions of the United States, bragged about sexually assaulting young women at his pleasure, makes racially and bigoted commentary regarding Latinos (Mexicans), African-Americans, Muslims, Native Americans... The United States to my chagrin is being governed without the peoples' consent and is led by an Executive that seeks to dominate and pass any legislation that it wishes. Truly amazing stuff!
3
You Americans for sure are redefining democracy! Yet another installment in the bizarre and bewildering progression of Donald J. Trump, President. And the man has only just started... According to Paul Ryan, he's learning the ropes.
What will that be when he begins to realize exactly how many aspects of the behavior of previous Presidents are not in fact "set in stone", but merely a matter of convention, of common decency, of regard for the spirit of the law, but not actually covered by its letter? And, make no mistake, exploiting loopholes and twisting meanings, staining the semantics, is what made him his billions.
If you want to go down the legal route, be very clear on what you get yourselves into. You may find yourselves facing a junkyard dog in human form, for whom decency and decorum are hollow words and winning is all. He won't shy away from getting really personal, either.
(And of course, while all the eyes are on the spectacle on the main stage, Steve Bannon and his legions of deconstructors are busy, chipping away at the building blocks of the Federal Administration, making sure post remain vacant or only barely qualified and tainted appicants show up, to be rushed through by the Senate.)
What will that be when he begins to realize exactly how many aspects of the behavior of previous Presidents are not in fact "set in stone", but merely a matter of convention, of common decency, of regard for the spirit of the law, but not actually covered by its letter? And, make no mistake, exploiting loopholes and twisting meanings, staining the semantics, is what made him his billions.
If you want to go down the legal route, be very clear on what you get yourselves into. You may find yourselves facing a junkyard dog in human form, for whom decency and decorum are hollow words and winning is all. He won't shy away from getting really personal, either.
(And of course, while all the eyes are on the spectacle on the main stage, Steve Bannon and his legions of deconstructors are busy, chipping away at the building blocks of the Federal Administration, making sure post remain vacant or only barely qualified and tainted appicants show up, to be rushed through by the Senate.)
4
Why is a has been who exited the limelight in disgrace decades ago, an unprincipled, 'do as I say, not as I do' toady like Newt Gingrich, suddenly a spokesperson for the President of the United States? They may as well dig up Calvin Coolidge and wheel him out as a 'surrogate' for the 'Leader of the Free World.'
Or perhaps the sage Ted Nugent, or Alex Jones, or Sarah Palin... oh, wait a sec, I know, let's call on Kid Rock for incisive commentary!
Ignore these people, Mr. Blow. Just ignore them. You lend them far more credence than is their due, merely by giving them your time and attention; and you lend them legitimacy by writing these editorials in response to their daily drivel. The circus will remain in town only as long as you continue to buy tickets to every performance.
Or perhaps the sage Ted Nugent, or Alex Jones, or Sarah Palin... oh, wait a sec, I know, let's call on Kid Rock for incisive commentary!
Ignore these people, Mr. Blow. Just ignore them. You lend them far more credence than is their due, merely by giving them your time and attention; and you lend them legitimacy by writing these editorials in response to their daily drivel. The circus will remain in town only as long as you continue to buy tickets to every performance.
4
Would dearly love to hear Trump testify under oath. Our pathological-liar-in-chief would perjure himself with the first sentence of his testimony.
4
Poor Newt. He wants access to the West Wing so badly that he will all but crawl over broken glass to get hired. How much more public humiliation is he willing to put himself through? Is he getting paid for all of these cheer leading appearances? And if so, by whom? We haven't forgotten that he's more than a bit of a grifter.
2
Did trump choose pence because they'd already discussed impeachment and pence agreed to by loyal and pardon him?
If pence knew anything about russian interference in the election, including trump and his associates being too closely aligned with russian interests, he shouldn't be allowed to remain in the administration.
We need to be prepared to hold a re-election in any race should it be found that there was unlawful interference (especially from a known adversary like russia) that affected the election outcome-that means elections laws need to change.
trump should never have been sworn in, in view of what became known.
If this were Hillary, we know trump would be saying she needed to be jailed, as well as her vice president.
As you said Charles, trump's playbook of "defame, discredit and delegitimize" will be used-it worked to eliminate other gop candidates-but it didn't work with Comey and it won't work with Mueller.
If Comey, Mueller, and any American who cares about our country knows, this investigation has to take place, it doesn't mean that we enjoy it.
If pence knew anything about russian interference in the election, including trump and his associates being too closely aligned with russian interests, he shouldn't be allowed to remain in the administration.
We need to be prepared to hold a re-election in any race should it be found that there was unlawful interference (especially from a known adversary like russia) that affected the election outcome-that means elections laws need to change.
trump should never have been sworn in, in view of what became known.
If this were Hillary, we know trump would be saying she needed to be jailed, as well as her vice president.
As you said Charles, trump's playbook of "defame, discredit and delegitimize" will be used-it worked to eliminate other gop candidates-but it didn't work with Comey and it won't work with Mueller.
If Comey, Mueller, and any American who cares about our country knows, this investigation has to take place, it doesn't mean that we enjoy it.
2
Is there any reason for Trump not to have to be "girding for a fight"?? Look at the attorneys Mueller has hired thus far.. Andrew Weissman, Jeannie Rhee and Aaron Zelby.. Andrew Weissman gave six times to political action committees for Obama in 2008 for a total of $4,700.. Was general counsel on the Enron prosecution. which was overturned in the Supreme court 8-0. Sydney Powell, one of the Enron defense lawyers said she wouldn't believe Weisman if he told her what day of the week it was.. Jeannie Rhee, worked for Eric Holder, gave $16 k since 2008 to the Dems, maxed out Hillary campaign donations in 15 and 16. One of Hillary's lawyers in the email scandal. Aaron Zelby attorney for Justin Cooper, who was Clinton's personal staff aid and one of two people who had access and helped Clinton set up her private email server.. So out of the 4 million US lawyers, Robert Mueller has found three who either worked/donated to Obama/Bill Clinton, worked for Hillary Clinton or worked for the Clinton foundation.. If Mueller ain't assembling a "Trump Hit Squad" then there is no Tea in China..
Trump has donated to Democratic Ppaery, therefore he is not qualified to serve.
So Newt and Trump's deception worked on you. It wouldn't matter who Mueller enlisted, your Republican standard pall bearers would easily convince you that they are somehow corrupted against the little angel, Trump.
Trump is keeping his promise to create millions of jobs.
Unfortunately most of them are for lawyers.
Unfortunately most of them are for lawyers.
6
The investigation by Mueller and his team give me hope that justice will prevail over the bullying and plethora of lies that have been said by Trump and his surrogates. Pence will likely do what Ford did for Nixon and Trump might avoid jail time, but for the first time in my life I agree with an utterance of Gingrich's "someone is probably going to jail."
1
Gingrich takes up the banner against Russiagate on behalf of the Donald. Trump/Gingrich a perfect match. Newt Gingrich, that GOP moral standard bearer Newt Gingrich who was having a torrid affair with wife in hospital for cancer while impeaching Bill Clinton over a peccadillo because, as Gingrich said, he had the votes. Yes, Newt Gingrich defends wholeheartedly his brother-in-spirit, racist, bigot, misogynist Donald Trump. That is the same Newt Gingrich who crucified the Clintons for trying to bring us single payer health care. Welcome back Newt, as a leading Republican spokesperson for you soul mate Donald Trump. Who can be more despised, Gingrich or Trump? Quite a contest.
4
Jail time for a treasonous betrayal of a Presidential election? Not a problem for me..
2
“someone is probably going to go to jail.”
And a gravy train jail at that. These political entities seldom get hard time. Just a country club with a chain-link fence.
And a gravy train jail at that. These political entities seldom get hard time. Just a country club with a chain-link fence.
"Trump’s public petulance about being mistreated is in fact a public appeal, in order to rehabilitate his brand."
Trump had better start thinking strategically about his supporters and their financial well-being: they're the only ones who will knowingly spend on his brand. For the rest of us, his brand is inextricably linked to his reflexive dishonesty, unethical profiteering while in office, bullying, willful ignorance, and unbelievable narcissism.
Trump had better start thinking strategically about his supporters and their financial well-being: they're the only ones who will knowingly spend on his brand. For the rest of us, his brand is inextricably linked to his reflexive dishonesty, unethical profiteering while in office, bullying, willful ignorance, and unbelievable narcissism.
3
And it's working.
1
"Girding" ?? No , wrong word ... he is just LOOKING for a fight ..To gird would be to prepare oneself, he is looking for the fight .. God help us with him at the wheel ... "deranged" and "power mad" don't even begin to describe him.
2
This investigation is important for the fact of Russian actions to influence the election outcome. For that reason alone, it most continue. Any patriotic American would want the truth to come out.
Time will tell whether or not the investigation into Russia's actions to influence the 2016 presidential election reveals any connection with trump's/Republican's presidential campaign. If it does, that will make national politics in The United States a very scary reality. It's one thing all Americans should be concerned about if we value our democracy.
If there was collusion, we need to know. Attempts by the trump administration to discredit the special counsel is to cast doubt on the legitimacy of the democratic process. Should that take hold among trump supporters, the world we live in could become very chaotic.
The political atmosphere in America today is already very polarized. Many people on both the right & left are taking absolutist positions & are unwilling to be open to honest debate & compromise on any issue.
Yet those are the things we need to engage in at all levels of government & social intercourse. There are so much more we actually agree on. We'd all be quite surprised to learn there's common cause on a wide range of topics. Whatever solutions we as a society decide upon, we're more apt to accept, support & work for when we don't feel these decisions are being rammed down our throats.
Time will tell whether or not the investigation into Russia's actions to influence the 2016 presidential election reveals any connection with trump's/Republican's presidential campaign. If it does, that will make national politics in The United States a very scary reality. It's one thing all Americans should be concerned about if we value our democracy.
If there was collusion, we need to know. Attempts by the trump administration to discredit the special counsel is to cast doubt on the legitimacy of the democratic process. Should that take hold among trump supporters, the world we live in could become very chaotic.
The political atmosphere in America today is already very polarized. Many people on both the right & left are taking absolutist positions & are unwilling to be open to honest debate & compromise on any issue.
Yet those are the things we need to engage in at all levels of government & social intercourse. There are so much more we actually agree on. We'd all be quite surprised to learn there's common cause on a wide range of topics. Whatever solutions we as a society decide upon, we're more apt to accept, support & work for when we don't feel these decisions are being rammed down our throats.
3
Gingrich,the purveyor of lies and half-truths, is one of Trump's most vociferous lap dogs. Historically, what is always evident in his pronouncements is the dearth of facts. He has learned over time that his far-right supporters will believe anything that demeans and damages the other side. In that regard he has served his master admirably.
1
Donald Trump loves a fight; however, he will not win this one.
These are not the little people he has stepped in his shameful
past.
These are not the little people he has stepped in his shameful
past.
4
From the article:
"But that’s the thing with Trump and his hangers-on: They will say and do anything, even if it directly contradicts what they said or did moments earlier. This is how truth becomes degraded: by being casually disregarded......He is attempting to defame, discredit and delegitimize."
How very well put. That is Trump's and his hangers-on M.O. in all of their activities. Shame on us all if we let it work here.
"But that’s the thing with Trump and his hangers-on: They will say and do anything, even if it directly contradicts what they said or did moments earlier. This is how truth becomes degraded: by being casually disregarded......He is attempting to defame, discredit and delegitimize."
How very well put. That is Trump's and his hangers-on M.O. in all of their activities. Shame on us all if we let it work here.
Is there anyone reading these comments who really believes Mueller will make it through the summer without being canned?
Trump will do everything he can to stop this investigation. If the truth comes out, the man is toast.
Trump will do everything he can to stop this investigation. If the truth comes out, the man is toast.
Mueller should remain an investigator - not a prosecutor. Once he starts acting like a prosecutor he should be removed.
And all the lib snowflakes who comment here should recognize that all your paranoid fantasies and groundless hopes and dreams about ridding yourselves of Trump are nothing but thin air.
There is no certainty Russia hacked the DNC (a 3rd grader can phish and it is hard to id hackers, very hard).
No evidence at all of collusion between Trump's campaign and Russia -- there may be smoke but it's like e-cigarettes -- almost invisible unless you use your imagination. And certainly no fire.
Certainly no evidence of collusion. Next will hear that Trump looked at Comey and narrowed his eyes disapprovingly at a meeting, which Comey interprets as a demand to burn all documents related to the Russia investigation.
You may dislike Trump, but this groundless speculation and wishing to get rid of Trump by any means possible is simply silly -- and it subverts the democratic process.
Trump is the legally elected president. Deal with it.
And all the lib snowflakes who comment here should recognize that all your paranoid fantasies and groundless hopes and dreams about ridding yourselves of Trump are nothing but thin air.
There is no certainty Russia hacked the DNC (a 3rd grader can phish and it is hard to id hackers, very hard).
No evidence at all of collusion between Trump's campaign and Russia -- there may be smoke but it's like e-cigarettes -- almost invisible unless you use your imagination. And certainly no fire.
Certainly no evidence of collusion. Next will hear that Trump looked at Comey and narrowed his eyes disapprovingly at a meeting, which Comey interprets as a demand to burn all documents related to the Russia investigation.
You may dislike Trump, but this groundless speculation and wishing to get rid of Trump by any means possible is simply silly -- and it subverts the democratic process.
Trump is the legally elected president. Deal with it.
If Trump really wants to fight with at least 50% of America, I say COME AT ME BRO.
1
Oh PLEEEASE, spare us of New Gingrich!!!
The hypocrisy of Newt is LEGENDARY, astounding, mind-boggling.....!!
Care to add other adjectives??? A link that shows a list of his hypocrisy is below.
It is ALSO bizarre that he is STILL sought after for comments, even though interviewers know fully well about his past history of hypocrisy.
So, could we please NOT have any of his comments?
http://politicalcorrection.org/factcheck/201105110003
The hypocrisy of Newt is LEGENDARY, astounding, mind-boggling.....!!
Care to add other adjectives??? A link that shows a list of his hypocrisy is below.
It is ALSO bizarre that he is STILL sought after for comments, even though interviewers know fully well about his past history of hypocrisy.
So, could we please NOT have any of his comments?
http://politicalcorrection.org/factcheck/201105110003
4
Schaudenfraude, thy name is Trump.
As usual whether Trump is serving his best self-interest is subject to debate, but that he seeks to remain everyone's constant center of attention at any human or inhuman cost, is not.
The GOP would trade Trump for a more seasoned candidate in the system, i. e. Mike Pence.
Patience, it will happen. Not even the GOP likes loose cannons.
Patience, it will happen. Not even the GOP likes loose cannons.
I keep hearing the; "It's been 7 months and nothing," from a lot of his supporters/surrogates. I'd like to remind you all that the Watergate investigation was a very slow burn: 18 months passed before Nixon finally resigned.
1
Other than Trump, Gingrich has the be the least credible person in the country
I doubt the puppet masters (McConnell and Ryan) will allow a fight but with Bannon in the background who knows what Trump will do.
I for one hope there is a fight. The more truth exposed, the better. I can handle the truth. The country survived Watergate and it will survive Trump.
I for one hope there is a fight. The more truth exposed, the better. I can handle the truth. The country survived Watergate and it will survive Trump.
3
A man who hires three lawyers and STILL represents himself has a really, really foolish client.
2
No, no, no Mr. President. Now is the time to defame and delegitimize Putin. Do that and Vladimir will respect your strength and leadership. Fight the accusations and you'll appear weak.
1
This isn't a witch hunt. The "witch" has been identified and found. She's actually a warlock with the power of mass hypnosis and a penchant for irrational raving and destructive, evil acts against humanity.
1
Just the inevitable stalling and the legitimization of his tax reform and health care 'agenda' in congress that comes with the investigation will be a win.
1
Too many Trump supporters don't really understand what an investigation is about, it seems. No one has been charged with a crime because no crimes have been uncovered. That is what this investigation is for--to find out if crimes were committed and who committed them. Trump or anyone else not having been charged at this point does not mean they never will be.
1
Yes! What trump supporters do not seem to understand is that there is PLENTY OF EVIDENCE that might lead to crimes that have been committed; financial crimes, obstruction of justice, treason, and plain old perjury. And someone like Sessions could be in trouble for suborning perjury. THERE IS A LOT OF EVIDENCE. So, what do you do when you have a lot of evidence? You have to have an investigation. trump tried to stop this investigation: He fired Preet Bharara, Sally Yates, Jim Comey. He thought that when he fired Comey that would bring the investigation to a standstill. He is learning that this is not like his reality TV show when he said "You're fired!" Because of his guilty behavior and insane rhetoric, we now have a Special Investigator, and woe be unto trump if he thinks he is going to get away with firing Mueller! trump supporters have to try and understand that the investigation IS JUST BEGINNING. There has always been a lot of evidence that things were corrupt and unethical concerning trump, his family, Flynn, Sessions, Manafort, etc. and their Russian connections. What is done in an investigation is that evidence is like a trail that must be followed; sometimes the trail will be straight, and other times crooked. Crooked because of laundered money, and clandestine behaviors that will or will not be unraveled. It takes a long time to get to the end of a crooked, muddy, trail, when the people that want to hide the trail are creating obstacles, and more mud.
2
To all you Grumpy Trumpees out there - uhem...the reason they are not disclosing what the crime is - is there they are waiting to have ALL THE EVIDENCE to come forth and prosecute all at once~! Really all the disbelievers out there and Grumpy Baserz it seems like you all cannot decipher even a little bit of truth, that this man in the WH is a phony and will be taken down soon. He is NOT presidential in the least, and is a national embarrassment for the United States, and until this man steps down, and I think one commenter said it already, he would rather do this than have his taxes out there, but if they are subpoenaed - whoaboi hang onto your hats girls and boyz cuz the ride weeis gonna take is going to be BREATHTAKING!
5
I think it is wonderful and appropriate if Mueller has, in fact, hired Democratic-leaning counselors to work with him. I do not think there is an honest Republican left to work with to find THE TRUTH. Look no further the Sekulow, the latest legal mouthpiece. And then you have one of the biggest (no pun intended but could be) blowhards, Gingrich, trying to turn TRUTH into LIES. Democratic-leaning has a reason to look deep. Then, if Prez T and his cohort are innocent, let them prove it. That is a lot more consideration than the whole lot of them gave President Obama, who has nary a blemish on his character (that is probably why the Repubs and Trump wanted to deck him so badly, he was not willing to pay to play).
3
Why does the GOP need 45? Will his base believe him when he declares GOP/TrumpDon'tCare wonderful? They probably won't believe Pence. Will the GOP ditch 45 after they destroy USA healthcare? Or will they let him hang on through further "tax reform"?
2
The guy's mentally ill. Get him off center stage NOW. IMPEACH TRUMP...unless you want to put everything you have -- wife, children, home, family -- at risk.
THEN get rid of his conspiratorialists tag-alongs.
Don't you get it, America? Putin's just put us on notice that he'll shoot down our jets if any do what they did to a Syrian jet earlier.
If that happens, it's only a hop, skip and a trump from there to eye-ball to an eyeball stare down/shootout.
THEN get rid of his conspiratorialists tag-alongs.
Don't you get it, America? Putin's just put us on notice that he'll shoot down our jets if any do what they did to a Syrian jet earlier.
If that happens, it's only a hop, skip and a trump from there to eye-ball to an eyeball stare down/shootout.
4
Hope The Donald has his pampers on. We can't have his attention diverted at a time like this.
Hard to believe that all those defending trump actually believe what they're saying? Don't they feel smutty and dirty? Newt, the hypocrite, defending trump is a joke. Kellyanne and her fake news? Sarah H Sanders- whose father is a preacher? Even Spicer is now protecting himself by saying the press needs to ask trump...and it appears that even the lawyers have lawyers now.
The best dense is an offense which is what the administration is doing. As Comey said-' who do you believe? The president who is a habitual liar or me?'
It seems that trump works best when he's battling someone (still Hillary, it seems). My question is, who's minding the store?
The best dense is an offense which is what the administration is doing. As Comey said-' who do you believe? The president who is a habitual liar or me?'
It seems that trump works best when he's battling someone (still Hillary, it seems). My question is, who's minding the store?
2
Simply stated...l.this whole thing is a witch-hunt. That fact is darn hard to deny. Why does the controlling party in Washington, put up with this fiasco, is beyond the pale.
Why can't Gingrich just avoid the headlines and enjoy his retirement? I believe he needs to be in the limelght to satisy his ENORMOUS EGO! He in no way is helping our so called president. Gingrich is such a polarizing figure and a man of no good will whatsoever! Further, this windbag loves to hear himself speak even when he contradicts himself daily and at times hourly!
4
Blow is wrong. He presents no evidence that the president is guilty in the court of public opinion.
There are many people in trouble in the administration's circle. One of them is going to flip and that's all it takes at which point all the king's
Jail might be preferable when compared to working with Trump. And then all the king's horses and all the king's men.
Jail might be preferable when compared to working with Trump. And then all the king's horses and all the king's men.
2
Republicans are getting a taste of what they did to Slick Willie, Obama, and Hillary. Viewed purely as blood sport, they have better ammunition (since our intelligence services have presumably recorded conversations with the Russian ambassador/spymaster) and Trump is singularly bad at dealing with this sort of pressure by seeming to ignore it and rise above it.
For the good of the country, we should not be engaging in this blood sport, but it only stops when both sides stop (as Obama repeatedly found out).
For the good of the country, we should not be engaging in this blood sport, but it only stops when both sides stop (as Obama repeatedly found out).
3
It's pretty simple. The more and longer Trump keeps attacking the investigations, the investigators, and the news media reporting on them, the guiltier he looks. If he were innocent of any and all wrongdoing, he and his surrogates would, at the very least, not respond at all to the drip-drip news media reports and when asked anything about the investigations, simply say, "I want the whole truth and nothing but the truth to come out." How hard is that?
10
"...explain to me why I should relax as a Republican.”
Newt, as a Republican you should not relax.
As an American, you should.
Where do you stand, Mr. Speaker: party or country?
Newt, as a Republican you should not relax.
As an American, you should.
Where do you stand, Mr. Speaker: party or country?
4
Follow the money.
11
I thought the Barnum and Bailey/Ringling Brothers circus closed down.
I don't think Mr. Trump understands the seriousness of what is going on, or he thinks he's smarter and more powerful than the Special Prosecutor.
I don't think Mr. Trump understands the seriousness of what is going on, or he thinks he's smarter and more powerful than the Special Prosecutor.
7
As a (retired) small town attorney, I can confirm that the US legal system (and, I suspect, any reasonable system which can be envisioned) will always favor those who are willing to spend more than the case is worth. In other words, it favors the unreasonable, the angry, and the wealthy.
4
Trump, Kasowitz, Sekulow et. al. facing off against Robert Mueller and his elite team of lawyers is an unfair fight. Trump is clueless about the depth and breadth of legal talent that is now aiming its sights on his Russian connections and his efforts to obstruct the investigation. And, let's be clear: It is extremely unwise to tell the F.B.I. and other intelligence agencies that they are engaged in a "witch hunt" when, in fact, they are simply searching for what most Americans are hopeful they will discover. The truth. It's that simple.
I don't agree that in the court of public opinion, Trump is already guilty. Considering how many Republican voters are still hanging on to his every word with undying loyalty, I'd say that the jury is still out. We can't be complacent about this.
6
Trump is certainly behaving like a man who is under scrutiny
Like . . .Charles? This written by someone how swore after the election that he was never going to let Trump out of his never-resting watchful eye? Your sworn mission is to scrutinize him and now you're inferring that he's the paranoid one? Trump is a man under scrutiny and we all know who to thank for that.
Like . . .Charles? This written by someone how swore after the election that he was never going to let Trump out of his never-resting watchful eye? Your sworn mission is to scrutinize him and now you're inferring that he's the paranoid one? Trump is a man under scrutiny and we all know who to thank for that.
1
Charles Blow has not created the evidence against trump; he just writes about it. Charles Blow is not responsible for trump's guilty and bizarre behaviors, speech, and tweets. He just writes about them. Charles Blow did not create trump's paranoia. trump did that all by himself, with the help of people like kushner, eric and don trump jr., sessions, conway, flynn, manafort, ryan, mcconnell. All these people helped him, create one big mess of intrigue and deceit, by lying, by obfuscating, and by acting guilty and hysterical. If you didn't do anything wrong why would you be guilty and hysterical? Lastly, Charles Blow had no financial dealings with Russia (that we know of); that was trump and some of his other chumps...Charles Blow is a journalist, doing his job. He is doing EXACTLY what he should be doing. trump should not be under scrutiny? He has no concerns that Russia interfered in our electoral processes, and neither do most of the other republicans...the government doesn't care that Russia interfered in our election????? And these people should not be under scrutiny????? I don't know any American who would be unconcerned that Russia interfered in our election, unless they were a Russian agent, or just plain didn't give a damn for the safety and security of The United States of America. Yes, Charles Blow is doing EXACTLY what he should be doing, but I know a bunch of republicans who are not. You can thank trump & co. for what THEY have wrought.
The sheer and utter MADNESS that is the Drumpf administration simply MUST be brought to an end! No action which has the potential to bring about this goal must be overlooked. We are in a fight for the future of our nation, if not the entire planet. The danger that a madman would somehow seize the levers of power within the most powerful nation on earth, has, until now, always been dealt with as an abstract "what if" scenario. Well, we are now living with this frightening reality, and the danger to humanity is clear and present.
If we, the rational and educated of this nation, are to prevent the looming catastrophic consequences of this narcissistic madman's insane agenda, we must take whatever steps are necessary and possible NOW to unseat this president and the morally bankrupt men and women who support him. Anyone who has children or grandchildren that will be left to live with the unacceptable consequences of this man's actions must act NOW. If we are instead, paralyzed with fear, or worse yet, lulled into some false hope that "this to shall pass," posterity will NEVER forgive us.
If we, the rational and educated of this nation, are to prevent the looming catastrophic consequences of this narcissistic madman's insane agenda, we must take whatever steps are necessary and possible NOW to unseat this president and the morally bankrupt men and women who support him. Anyone who has children or grandchildren that will be left to live with the unacceptable consequences of this man's actions must act NOW. If we are instead, paralyzed with fear, or worse yet, lulled into some false hope that "this to shall pass," posterity will NEVER forgive us.
11
Let's just all take a deep breath and let the counsel do his job. Let Gingrich scream like a stuck pig and make one contradiction after the other. He has exposed countless reasons for discounting him as having a shred of veracity, beginning with his affairs, divorce, coerced documents signing with his dying wife; its all too much to repeat. Trump has his TV lawyers who act tough but have never seen the inside of a Federal Criminal Court. I am glad Trump is using them. These things take time. Once they begin they tend to turn things up. A money laundering bank in Cyprus, Russian oligarchs buying inflated real estate from Trump: it's all a mess of information now, but in a year it will form into something. That something will not be good for The President and his people. This isn't about trademarks or not paying contractors. Brands won't matter in the end. Wait.
12
Since they are suspected by the public of profiting from their favors to America's enemies, Trump and his immediate family, each of them, should welcome a comprehensive audit by Mueller's forensic accountants. The results would be made available to the media and if no wrongdoings were uncovered, each family member would be cleared. Why would they object to such an action?
9
Spot on article Mr. Blow!
10
Payback time.
The evil GOP went after Bill Clinton for absolutely nothing, they got only a silly technicality of his cover-up of a personal affair that was absolutely nobody's business but his, Hillary & Lewinsky's.
Meanwhile the double-standard prevails, & the Grabber in Chief gets elected by the GOP.
The GOP won, they also succeeded in basically destroying the integrity of the nations politics.
Now a GOP president is being pursued for, basically nothing, it seems.
I say bring it on.
The GOP destroyed the nation over nothing, the repercussions were that HRC lost & the GOP nastiness has made US politics permanently toxic. The GOP succeeds at this because they never relent, & they're never held accountable.
So it's payback time, the nation is already in the gutter, the society has become a hideous, hateful, ornery place, powered by red-state hostility. The only solution to beat them back is to beat them at their own game.
Sorry, but 'going high' doesn't work, you have to go low, tear down the fabric of the nation if you have to, just to tear down the GOP. That's the only way to rebuild, gut Gingrichism at its own game.
The evil GOP went after Bill Clinton for absolutely nothing, they got only a silly technicality of his cover-up of a personal affair that was absolutely nobody's business but his, Hillary & Lewinsky's.
Meanwhile the double-standard prevails, & the Grabber in Chief gets elected by the GOP.
The GOP won, they also succeeded in basically destroying the integrity of the nations politics.
Now a GOP president is being pursued for, basically nothing, it seems.
I say bring it on.
The GOP destroyed the nation over nothing, the repercussions were that HRC lost & the GOP nastiness has made US politics permanently toxic. The GOP succeeds at this because they never relent, & they're never held accountable.
So it's payback time, the nation is already in the gutter, the society has become a hideous, hateful, ornery place, powered by red-state hostility. The only solution to beat them back is to beat them at their own game.
Sorry, but 'going high' doesn't work, you have to go low, tear down the fabric of the nation if you have to, just to tear down the GOP. That's the only way to rebuild, gut Gingrichism at its own game.
12
Look who his mentor was. This explains so much. http://tinyurl.com/y9snh8uc http://tinyurl.com/ha6swus
1
I haven't read the previous 700+ comments, but does anyone else remember the head of the Whitewater investigation stating clearly, at the outset, that he was going to "get" the Clintons? Conservatives can sure dish it out, but, when the tables turn, they squeal like little piglets.
23
Nothing new here, every week Trump starts a fight with someone over something. So much fighting, I'm so tired of the fighting. Sad, bigly sad!
5
It depends on how fast Trump unravels and with whom he attacks. Trump possibally turns on the wrong person who eats Trumps lunch. While in turn world events could unfold that take the focus from his national crisis leading public oppinion away from learing eyes of the people. This of course too could happen Trump is not above manufacuring a senario that is found out and the bottom falss out of his presidency. Only the American people are just left with a Pence replacment and this could be as bad or worse even in some light. Hopefully it is over in 4 years and we have some normal again.
4
Trump plays from the Roy Cohn playbook. Cohn was an early mentor. For anyone who doesn't remember who and what Cohn was, look how up. Horrible. Sad.
3
Don't forget one of Trump's foremost strategic advisors, Roger Stone, who was a Cohn acolyte and carried forward his strategy of dirty tricks, character assassination, and Orwellian-level lying to further the goals of some of the most corrupt politicians ever elected to public office. Stone must operate in the background these days because he was outed in a sex club scandal in the mid-90s. But he continues to use his Machiavellian maneuverings to undermine democracy: he was one of Trump's earliest backers.
Being an exceptionally litigious man, it's no surprise Trump would assemble a legal team.
Trump knows beyond a doubt he is the prime target, and it's quite likely he has committed criminal acts. Were it only his underlings in peril, he would go on about his business. He has thrown more than one former intimate under the bus.
The president and his defenders illogically insist that because there have no charges of damning evidence made public, the investigation is a "witch hunt."
Logic and basic knowledge of the justice system tells us that investigations take months, as evidence is assembled, testimony confirmed, leads followed. There will be announcement of guilt or innocence until the probe is complete.
The shrill cries of witch tell me that those shouting are afraid.
Chief among them is Trump himself.
Nobody is impeding his work as president.
If he had a clear conscience, he would go about his duties and ignore the investigation. Indeed, he would applaud the efforts to clear his name.
Trump knows beyond a doubt he is the prime target, and it's quite likely he has committed criminal acts. Were it only his underlings in peril, he would go on about his business. He has thrown more than one former intimate under the bus.
The president and his defenders illogically insist that because there have no charges of damning evidence made public, the investigation is a "witch hunt."
Logic and basic knowledge of the justice system tells us that investigations take months, as evidence is assembled, testimony confirmed, leads followed. There will be announcement of guilt or innocence until the probe is complete.
The shrill cries of witch tell me that those shouting are afraid.
Chief among them is Trump himself.
Nobody is impeding his work as president.
If he had a clear conscience, he would go about his duties and ignore the investigation. Indeed, he would applaud the efforts to clear his name.
5
Exactly, as you state: "The president and his defenders illogically insist that because there have no charges of damning evidence made public, the investigation is a "witch hunt." Logic and basic knowledge of the justice system tells us that investigations take months, as evidence is assembled, testimony confirmed, leads followed. There will be [no] announcement of guilt or innocence until the probe is complete." Isn't it amazing how that whole contingent (trump an his supporters, cohorts, etc...) blatantly defy reality and logic and make these arguments with a straight face ? Maybe I'll try that approach in my business dealings. Honor and logic be damned......
Trump is under attack and he is girding for a fight. Wow. How perceptive. And how so what. Was Hillary ever under attack and did she fight back? Did Blow waste any ink on opining about those facts? Did Bubba fight back when he was under attack for all of the "bimbo eruptions"? Blow really must be left with nothing of substance to write about.
1
well, he certainly hit a nerve with you.
2
I am honestly concerned for the guy's mental stability. It seems to be fairly fragile at the moment.
5
"They will say and do anything, even if it directly contradicts what they said or did moments earlier. This is how truth becomes degraded: by being casually disregarded."
Sounds like he's talking about mainstream media.
Sounds like he's talking about mainstream media.
3
Nope, he's not writing about mainstream media, and it doesn't look like mainstream media either. Maybe have your ears examined?
In contrast to Trump, the MSM has been quite consistent. I'm not aware of anyone in the MSM who has behaved the way you describe.
Team Trump can often contradict themselves in a matter of hours. For example, how many mutually exclusive reasons did Trump et al. offer for firing Comey? At least four that I can think of:
(*) because he failed to prosecute Hillary (lock her up!)
(*) because he mishandled the Hillary emails (failed to support Hillary!)
(*) because Rod Rosenstein said so.
(*) because of the Trump-Russia thing (from the Orange One, live).
You can't blame the press for inconstancy when it simply reports what Team Trump actually does.
Team Trump can often contradict themselves in a matter of hours. For example, how many mutually exclusive reasons did Trump et al. offer for firing Comey? At least four that I can think of:
(*) because he failed to prosecute Hillary (lock her up!)
(*) because he mishandled the Hillary emails (failed to support Hillary!)
(*) because Rod Rosenstein said so.
(*) because of the Trump-Russia thing (from the Orange One, live).
You can't blame the press for inconstancy when it simply reports what Team Trump actually does.
1
yep, he is talking about mainstream media
I'd like some thorough explanation of what's in those tax returns that Trump's been so resistant to reveal and what's with all the Russia connections, including, but not limited to, the election hacking. If there's nothing criminal there, so be it. But there's so much smoke there that we ought to know if something's burning.
5
Let's hope that genuine leaks about Mr Mueller's investigation do not surface; they only give Trump a target to hit. The less they know, the more Trump and his closest allies will seek to pre-emptively discredit possible findings by Mueller. Their efforts will surely provide intriguing fodder for investigators to chew on. Talk on Trump.
3
As others have said, Trump is definitely not acting like someone with nothing to hide. He is acting guilty.
9
chelle -- I assume that is based on your vast experience as a private investigator -- or perhaps with the FBI?
and what's the source of your assumption that he's innocent?
Gingrich told Fox News’s Sean Hannity on Friday of the investigation: “They’re going to get somebody. I don’t think they’re going to get the president, but they’re going to get somebody, and they’re going to get him for something."
Isn't that exactly what Gingrich did with Ken Starr's investigation into Whitewater? (Nobody went to jail.)
Isn't that exactly what Gingrich did with Ken Starr's investigation into Whitewater? (Nobody went to jail.)
6
Mr. Blow: I agree with virtually everything you have written in the past. And I regard Newt Gingrich a one of the most odious politicians in the history of this nation. But even creeps have a right to say or believe something one day and later change their minds and disbelieve that something without degrading truth, "casually" or otherwise. If Gingrich offered an explanation for his change of mind regarding Mr. Mueller's suitability as special counsel, I would think fundamental fairness required that you state his rationale so that we readers can judge whether he was degrading truth or had not previously considered different facts about Mueller. By omitting Gingrich's explanation, you have contributed to the same degradation of truth that has afflicted our politicians to the point that none seem to have any credibility these days. As I've always counted on you and the NYT to be the most reliable source of truth in American politics, it saddens me that you would do so.
1
Newt Gingrich can politicize the sunrise. He's the most toxically partisan political operative alive today, which ia low bar to get under, but he's managed. Any explanation he could give will come from that place. He has been shilling for Trump for quite some time now, and was rewarded by having his wife sent to the Vatican as our envoy. Let's see, 4 out of 9 Mueller team members have donated to Democrats. Unspoken is whether they ever donated to Republicans as well. Many people donate to both parties. Moreover, he "doesn't know" about the other 5. There's some innuendo and some studied ignorance for you. I guarantee he does know about the other 5, but found nothing convenient to use.
If the orange one schemes and bullies his way to shutting down the investigation into Russian meddling and the citizens do not fill the streets and legislatures then the rest of the world will possibly shrug and walk away. How can you help a nation that will not help themselves when it comes to their morality and integrity.
1
Girdling for a fight, you say?
2
Why is that Newt Gingrich gets any coverage at all? he holds no elected office and is obviously on the payroll. Sorry I wasted my time reading his meaningless opinion...
3
The Russians have succeeded in delegitimizing our election process; Trump has worked overtime to shake confidence in the press. Whether there has been actual collusion between these two forces makes for more than academic historical interest. They act synergistically to weaken the USA both domestically and internationally. Domestically, the legislative record for the Trump administration is remarkably anemic; internationally, we have been embarrassed by our President's fecklessness and boorishness.
Perhaps the only saving grace is the splintering of the old line major parties. The Grand Old Party is far from Grand, though it's certainly Old. Even young Paul Ryan harks back to the tired runes of Ayn Rand. The Democrats are scarcely more unified. Perhaps a parliamentary system would fit our circumstances better. It may devolve to that.
Perhaps the only saving grace is the splintering of the old line major parties. The Grand Old Party is far from Grand, though it's certainly Old. Even young Paul Ryan harks back to the tired runes of Ayn Rand. The Democrats are scarcely more unified. Perhaps a parliamentary system would fit our circumstances better. It may devolve to that.
6
Trump attacks the Hillary Clinton charge that Russia stole the election. The motivation for Clinton's accusation is from a candidate who is floundering. The worst came to be as the boorish Trump stumbled to the presidency over the flawed Clinton. For months it was that Trump was a Putin flunkey. Mueller will get at the Russian question. Trump's behavior indicates he has guilty knowledge. Something between Putin and Trump involved some sort of corruption. Probably Putin playing on Trump's love of shiny objects that China's President Xi discovered.
7
Trump in October 2016: “She would be under protracted criminal investigation and probably a criminal trial, I would say. So we’d have a criminal trial of a sitting president.”
Good thing we elected "the lesser of two evils"
Good thing we elected "the lesser of two evils"
10
For all the chatter about Trump and pals not knowing what they are doing, it is clear to me at least that we are all now deeply embedded in the trenches as targets of what is essentially sophisticated psychological warfare launched by Trump and strengthened heavily by Bannon. It is shocking how massively successful their campaign has already been, not just fooling or seducing a large part of the electorate to win the election, but successfully intimidating the entire White House cabinet and most Republican members of Congress to fall in line. So much is riding on Mueller. Everything actually.
16
The goal for Trump is to avoid impeachment. The key is holding on to the House Freedom Caucus constituency. His tweets are aimed directly at heavily Republican districts that are more likely to accept the message, for whatever reason. If you believe that the prosecutor is corrupt; that the deep state is conspiring against Trump and Hillary is the devil, then the results of the investigation will not be taken seriously. That is where the Caucus public stands and their representatives, regardless of their true feelings will not defy their constituents. That's the fire wall. Should it ever happen that the polling shows that Trump loyalist are abandoning him; the Freedom caucus will abandon him likewise. I just don't see it though.
11
So.. how is Jared doing with restoring the VA, establishing a Middle East peace strategy and what is going on with the Wall?
I guess he is busy...
I guess he is busy...
14
“They’re going to get somebody. I don’t think they’re going to get the president, but they’re going to get somebody, and they’re going to get him for something. And they’re probably going to go to jail.”
I hope it's you, Newt.
I hope it's you, Newt.
12
Jared Kushner
6
"When federal investigators start looking for something, they often find something."
This seems to imply they start looking randomly and/or that if they don't find anything it, they'll fabricate it. The simpler explanation is that they don't start looking until they already have some evidence suggesting a search might turn up more evidence. They don't just randomly investigate people and don't fabricate out of whole cloth. It's just statistically more likely they will find something, given the initial selection.
This seems to imply they start looking randomly and/or that if they don't find anything it, they'll fabricate it. The simpler explanation is that they don't start looking until they already have some evidence suggesting a search might turn up more evidence. They don't just randomly investigate people and don't fabricate out of whole cloth. It's just statistically more likely they will find something, given the initial selection.
6
How happy was the left when they couldn't get Cheney, but got Scooter Libby instead?
At the same time that Trump is scheming to undermine the investigation into Russian interference with American elections, he is also getting aggressive with Russian-backed forces in Syria. Wouldn't it be ironic if Trump squelches the investigation, leaving us wide open to Russian interference again in 2020, but this time the Russians work against Trump instead of for him, to get us out of Syria?
politicsbyeccehomo.wordpress.com
politicsbyeccehomo.wordpress.com
8
The investigation has too much momentum now and too much has been uncovered for it to stop or end without reaching its logical conclusion.
DJT cannot escape the truth and he cannot fire Mueller or he will suffer catastrophic consequences. We are beyond the tipping point and even DJT knows it so it must be obvious!
What many miss is that even if this was to linger into 2018, when the GOP losses the House, impeachment proceedings will be brought by duly elected representatives of the people.
I do not think anyone knows how this will end but those that actively follow the workings of D.C. understand that DJT will not finish his only term in office.
DJT cannot escape the truth and he cannot fire Mueller or he will suffer catastrophic consequences. We are beyond the tipping point and even DJT knows it so it must be obvious!
What many miss is that even if this was to linger into 2018, when the GOP losses the House, impeachment proceedings will be brought by duly elected representatives of the people.
I do not think anyone knows how this will end but those that actively follow the workings of D.C. understand that DJT will not finish his only term in office.
12
The Republicans can't lose unless they have somebody to lose to. If the Democrats don't get organized for this years state and local elections and lay the groundwork for 2018, the Republicans will run the table again. The deck is stacked against the Democrats in 2018.
"They will say and do anything…"
"They will say and do anything…"
3
"too much has been uncovered."
What has been "uncovered?"
Nothing.
What has been "uncovered?"
Nothing.
We do not know the full extent of what has been uncovered because the investigation is in its early stages and evidence uncovered in investigations is, by its nature, not public knowledge. It is disingenuous for anyone to deny there is smoke. Whether there was or is a fire is yet unknown. As people who love their country, who value our democracy, as I assume we all do, wouldn't we want to know?
The Supremes have just voted against Gerrymandering…what will the republicans do?
10
No, they haven't. They have just agreed to hear a case about partisan gerrymandering. Don't count your chickens. OTOH, with NC being one of the most gerrymandered states and one where the state legislature is dragging its feet to implement court ordered redistricting to cut back on gerrymandering, I can understand your eagerness.
1
Oh, the Trumps have too much money to ever be ruined financially. And I doubt they'll go to jail (only the little people go to jail, to paraphrase Leona Helmsley). But wouldn't it be nice if their name became a stink in the nostrils of every American? If they were sentenced to a lifetime of social imprisonment with bottom feeders just like themselves.
27
They already have the distinction of being relegated to the bottom feeders. Their resorts cater to B listers and a prime example is Mar a Lago here one might rub elbows with lowlife little Jeffrey Epstein or Joey no socks.
Not exactly the haute mond.
Not exactly the haute mond.
1
They have a lot to lose when their brand becomes worthless.
Gingrich sees everything as partisan. When the Republucans investigated Clinton, they appointed a partisan -- Ken Starr. Naturally, Gingrich sees Trump's investigator the same way.
Gingrich and his gang are distorting truth and justice in the Roger Ailes tradition. Anything to win!
In the new Trump world, truth and justice are all relative -- "good for this day and this train only." For these God-fearing conservatives, there are no absolutes.
Gingrich and his gang are distorting truth and justice in the Roger Ailes tradition. Anything to win!
In the new Trump world, truth and justice are all relative -- "good for this day and this train only." For these God-fearing conservatives, there are no absolutes.
20
Putting the substance aside for a moment, the tactic of denial after having said the opposite is a classic maneuver of the egocentric narcissist.
After a while there are those that will question whether or not they actually heard the initial statement and just scratch their heads in disbelief.
This is a very dangerous behavior that can lead to dire consequences especially when a person in control repeatedly performs this way. BEWARE. BE ALERT!
After a while there are those that will question whether or not they actually heard the initial statement and just scratch their heads in disbelief.
This is a very dangerous behavior that can lead to dire consequences especially when a person in control repeatedly performs this way. BEWARE. BE ALERT!
16
Perhaps he and his coterie don't really think most of us exist as human beings; rather as leeches who through attrition of the aged and sickness of our progeny will eliminate ourselves.
McConnell and the dead men walking behind him should be called out by name and removed from office with every election cycle.
As long as we recognize the problem lies with those we elect to office and our system allowed this to happen,our system can also eliminate this fault.
McConnell and the dead men walking behind him should be called out by name and removed from office with every election cycle.
As long as we recognize the problem lies with those we elect to office and our system allowed this to happen,our system can also eliminate this fault.
16
Money laundering.
DJT is easy to read. In an interview ( I think the Lester Holt interview) he mentioned that the only Russian contact was the selling of the Miami property to a Russian oligarch for twice what he paid for it.
This comment came out of the blue and is one of his tell tale signs. If he was smart he would not have said anything about it, however he knows it is out there and has to attack it. A dead give away.
DJT is easy to read. In an interview ( I think the Lester Holt interview) he mentioned that the only Russian contact was the selling of the Miami property to a Russian oligarch for twice what he paid for it.
This comment came out of the blue and is one of his tell tale signs. If he was smart he would not have said anything about it, however he knows it is out there and has to attack it. A dead give away.
22
Quoting Newt Gingrich? He should have "gone to jail" himself after his misdeeds in Congress some years back!
23
Gingrich should have gone directly to jail without collecting $200.
The Times reported yesterday that Jared Kushner is reconsidering his legal team saying, "Some of Mr. Kushner’s allies have raised questions about the link between his current lawyer, Jamie S. Gorelick, and Robert S. Mueller III, the special counsel appointed to investigate the Trump campaign’s ties to Russia."
One wonders if this is another step towards Trump removing Mueller citing "conflict of interest" which is listed as one "cause" in the regulation for removal of a special counsel. Already Trump allies have raised Mueller's relationship with James Comey as one conflict and they have also cited his relationship with Gorelick. Sen. Marco Rubio, many pundits and White House attorneys from previous administrations have voiced doubts that Trump will try to fire Mueller. When so many people predict that Trump certainly won't do something because of the undoubted political backlash, count on it to happen.
(https://www.nytimes.com/2017/06/18/business/jared-kushner-trump-russia-e...
One wonders if this is another step towards Trump removing Mueller citing "conflict of interest" which is listed as one "cause" in the regulation for removal of a special counsel. Already Trump allies have raised Mueller's relationship with James Comey as one conflict and they have also cited his relationship with Gorelick. Sen. Marco Rubio, many pundits and White House attorneys from previous administrations have voiced doubts that Trump will try to fire Mueller. When so many people predict that Trump certainly won't do something because of the undoubted political backlash, count on it to happen.
(https://www.nytimes.com/2017/06/18/business/jared-kushner-trump-russia-e...
7
Donald Trump attacks anyone who may have the goods on him.
Preemptive delegitimization. He has done it since he was a school boy, accused of a weekly transgression. "That Principal has it out for me, Mom. He's totally unfair. Did you know he's a ..." He did it anytime he was caught cheating on a spouse. He did it when he hit on a People Magazine reporter, while his pregnant wife was changing. When his advances were shunned, he went on a defamation jag. Anyone who doesn't like him is crazy, or a liar, or of Mexican heritage. The "failing New York Times" knows what I'm talking about, here. According to Donald, this prestigious publication is rife with "fake news" anytime the Times tells the truth.
His new campaign of preemptive delegitimization is aimed at Mr. Mueller.
The can of worms has been opened. We're about to discover whose dirty money flows into Trump and Kushner properties and emerges out the other end scrubbed clean. We're about to discover the complexities of debt and the reach of Russian oligarchs into the real estate holdings of titans who can't get a loan from an American creditor.
And so Donald goes on the attack.
Name it when you see it, Padawans. It's called "preemptive delegitimization" and is the go-to device of the guilty.
Preemptive delegitimization. He has done it since he was a school boy, accused of a weekly transgression. "That Principal has it out for me, Mom. He's totally unfair. Did you know he's a ..." He did it anytime he was caught cheating on a spouse. He did it when he hit on a People Magazine reporter, while his pregnant wife was changing. When his advances were shunned, he went on a defamation jag. Anyone who doesn't like him is crazy, or a liar, or of Mexican heritage. The "failing New York Times" knows what I'm talking about, here. According to Donald, this prestigious publication is rife with "fake news" anytime the Times tells the truth.
His new campaign of preemptive delegitimization is aimed at Mr. Mueller.
The can of worms has been opened. We're about to discover whose dirty money flows into Trump and Kushner properties and emerges out the other end scrubbed clean. We're about to discover the complexities of debt and the reach of Russian oligarchs into the real estate holdings of titans who can't get a loan from an American creditor.
And so Donald goes on the attack.
Name it when you see it, Padawans. It's called "preemptive delegitimization" and is the go-to device of the guilty.
23
And the Russians said that they would keep the trump trademarks safe for them. I mean, really, talk about being in bed with them.
1
This aberration called Trump, needs to be thrown to the side of the road at the earliest possible opportunity. He and all his minions are a malignant disease destroying the country. We continue with this fool at our peril. Enough is enough!
16
Don Trump was trained by Roy Cohen, of the McCarthy era. His basic tenets, lie, deny and sue. Trump is following that coaching to a "T"
I would love the nytimes to go back an look at Roy Cohen and how much influence he had on Trump
I would love the nytimes to go back an look at Roy Cohen and how much influence he had on Trump
18
Throughout this process it will be very important to discredit the idea that anyone who investigates this president is biased. If we fail to address this, we will have to live with conspiracy theories that evil liberals were out to get an honest fella like Donald Trump.
11
I guess you are saying the American people must be convinced of a lie? It is clear that bias is unavoidable, and given the liberal bias of the investigators that bias will be liberal.
1
Mueller will do this investigation strictly by the book. Every i will be dotted and every t will be crossed. You can count on that.
Trump is using his same playbook from the campaign, when he claimed the election was "rigged" to protect his name in what at that time seemed the unlikely event that he would win. Now he is claiming the investigation is rigged by Democrats (by Gingrich's talking points) and a witch hunt. All to undermine a valid investigation. But who knows, maybe the FBI is infiltrated by Russians and Trump will be cleared eventually.
7
What a pathetic spectacle - a presidency and a president coming apart before our eyes. This would be a classic tragedy - a man undone by his own hubris - were it not also the tragedy of our nation. But perhaps "tragedy" is too grand word for this very petty little man, so dependent on approval, so ready to attack, deluded into thinking that a drizzle of undignified tweets could be anything but pathetic. Watching Trump play at being presidential, his frowns, his fake smiles, his always-open mouth - is the sad spectacle of the decay of our once-great and honorable nation.
17
Obviously his nose doesn't work. So to breath his mouth must be open. Whether it is a deformity he was born with or the consequences of being a bully (busted nose) I don't know. I do know it causes problems (mine doesn't work as it was badly injured in falls several times when I was growing up). Dry mouth which causes tooth decay & destruction. With his facial deformities (probably unrepairable when he was a child) that he has passed on to ALL his children (probably repairable when they were children, but, daddy would have had to admit something was wrong, & we know he is perfect, therefore their deformities cannot be fixed either), it will be tough to fit any of them will properly fitting dentures. So, he will talk funny, his kids will, slowly teeth will disappear. Unless they all have implants now, which at least with the major deformities *45 has, will mean lots of pain. Maybe that's why he is such a bully, nasty man, horrendous father. Even his wife doesn't want to hold his hand. Bet when she moves into the WH it will be separate bedrooms. If she does.
I personally think that Trump Inc is makng a serious mistake in attacking the integrity of of the people who have been the main players in establishing a credible investigation of possible malfeasance in the White House. Trump's amateur attempts at gas lighting former FBI Director James Comey into dropping his inquires into Trump's lieutenants backfired, and only managed to convince Comey that he needed to seek the establishment of a Special Council.
Now we have the Trump hit squad, led by that paragon of integrity and honesty- Newt Gingrich, making the rounds between the news talk shows and the spooked Republican leadership attacking the Special Council himself, Robert Mueller, for doing his job by putting together a team of top notch lawyers and public investigators (probably including active elements of the CIA and FBI).
What I think the Trumpians, in their cynicism, are missing is the degree of integrity and commitment to our Democracy that many people in government and politics , like James Comey and Robert Mueller still have, and that the last thing that Trump Inc ought to be doing is trying to intimidate such people into sidelining an honest and impartial inquiry. I note that Richard Nixon and his crew made this same mistake, and for many of the same reasons.
Now we have the Trump hit squad, led by that paragon of integrity and honesty- Newt Gingrich, making the rounds between the news talk shows and the spooked Republican leadership attacking the Special Council himself, Robert Mueller, for doing his job by putting together a team of top notch lawyers and public investigators (probably including active elements of the CIA and FBI).
What I think the Trumpians, in their cynicism, are missing is the degree of integrity and commitment to our Democracy that many people in government and politics , like James Comey and Robert Mueller still have, and that the last thing that Trump Inc ought to be doing is trying to intimidate such people into sidelining an honest and impartial inquiry. I note that Richard Nixon and his crew made this same mistake, and for many of the same reasons.
11
If there is nothing, then nothing will come forward. Let Mueller do his job, if he finds something that is of no matter to our country, great but if Russia interfered and whether Trump had anything to do with it or if it was his election team, it will be dealt with. There have been so many countless witch hunts on our Presidents, why on earth do you think Trump should be excluded when there seems to be a lot of questions on his pre-presidency dealings. Trump would make everything easy if he would just cooperate, why would he not cooperate, especially when he says he's clean..
10
I find Trump's lawsuit record amusing. How many of those suits were, in fact, criminal cases? If some were criminal cases, how many were federal?
Criminal court, state or federal, is entirely different from civil court. Trump often has his civil attorneys paper the other side until the cost of litigation becomes impossible for the other side.
That's simply not an option in a criminal case. Even if it was, it's smart for a criminal defendant and/or his attorney to say as little as possible. Every deposition, every pleading is an opportunity for the defendant or the defendant's attorney to say one sentence too much. While too much can be said in civil court, what's at stake is money, not freedom.
Trump and his minions can keep on talking and tweeting. He's got nothing to lose but his freedom.
I only hope it happens soon!
Criminal court, state or federal, is entirely different from civil court. Trump often has his civil attorneys paper the other side until the cost of litigation becomes impossible for the other side.
That's simply not an option in a criminal case. Even if it was, it's smart for a criminal defendant and/or his attorney to say as little as possible. Every deposition, every pleading is an opportunity for the defendant or the defendant's attorney to say one sentence too much. While too much can be said in civil court, what's at stake is money, not freedom.
Trump and his minions can keep on talking and tweeting. He's got nothing to lose but his freedom.
I only hope it happens soon!
11
One has to wonder, how many millions of dollars of tax payers money will be spent to get, as Newt says, "they are going to get somebody." Trump gets off the hook and some Assistant gets two years at Club Fed. It appears we are in the first chapter of the 21st century equivalent of "Moby Dick." Captain Ahab Mueller chasing the elusive Moby Donald or possibly a parody of a TV soap opera we'll call it, "The Old and The Useless."
2
Like all pathological individuals, Newt's frame of reference is that everyone else is pathological too. He's incapable of imagining that anyone can be honest and impartial in their job because he's never been. He can't conceive of anything different.
17
Gingrich is right, witch hunters always find a witch, someone needs to be burned at the stake otherwise all the time and effort of lawyers (aka witch hunters) was wasted. Finding some minor infraction is inevitable given the shear number of laws and regulations with obscure details.
1
Yup! And meanwhile, our intelligence community is doing what to prevent the Russians from influencing the next election - something they need no collusion to accomplish?
Trump is girding for a fight and meanwhile, behind the scenes, our democracy is being torn apart. The Trumpcare tax cut for the 1% is being done behind closed doors as is everything else they are dismantling as quickly as they can. Please shine some light on all that is being destroyed while we look "over here" at the Russian mess.
16
Trump wants a fight, let's give it to him, good and hard. This despicable despot is an embarrassment and an outrage to US, to all that Americans should hold sacred. What we have done we must undo. The sooner the better, for US and the world. For now, we must hold Trump and all Republicans who continue to support him accountable daily.
While we bide our time till 2018, we must do all within our power as citizens to obstruct the Trump/Ryan/McConnell Axis of Evil. What they propose for the American people is sheer lunacy. An activist electorate is what politicians most fear. Let's give them something to fear, something that is far greater than any threats of violence, which are acts of the mindless. When politicians lose their power of fear and intimidation over their constituents, of their divide and conquer strategies which has kept them in power for so long, then and only then will we the people triumph.
DD
Manhattan
While we bide our time till 2018, we must do all within our power as citizens to obstruct the Trump/Ryan/McConnell Axis of Evil. What they propose for the American people is sheer lunacy. An activist electorate is what politicians most fear. Let's give them something to fear, something that is far greater than any threats of violence, which are acts of the mindless. When politicians lose their power of fear and intimidation over their constituents, of their divide and conquer strategies which has kept them in power for so long, then and only then will we the people triumph.
DD
Manhattan
13
Dennis, you are obviously one who thinks all this is POLITICS AS USUAL. Sorry it isn't. Wait until '18 & either El Stupido will be the only legal person to announce who won anything & he'll make up the numbers, or he will be for then declare a state of emergency, declare martial law, suspend the Constitution (all legal for him to do under certain circumstances), then call off all elections. 'Too dangerous' he'll say. Too late then. You do know the Constitution was suspended during WW2? No 1st Amendment (no one can say anything, anywhere against HIM!), no 2nd Amendment (NRA was very quiet that other time too), all weapons confiscated. I wouldn't put it past hm to destroy the Declaration of Independence & the Constitution. They would be useless under these circumstances. He'd then sell off all the National monuments, parks & forests. Take the money & send it off shore (the US Treasury will be his then too), make all transportation prohibitively expensive (private vehicles & public trans, both). The internet would be totally monitored for any speech against HIM. He'd probably sell all the antiques in the WH, the items in the museums (like the Star Spangled Banner). Anything to steal a nickel. Every company in the country would be required to kickback a certain percentage of the wages they pay, then deduct it from the wage earners check. The 1%ers would no longer pay any taxes, everyone else would pay 95% of all we earn in taxes. With no benefits or refunds. Kickback 5% to him.
It says a lot about partisan politics that newt's wife, a very strict catholic, is being named to be the ambassador to the Vatican. The American people get to pay for political payoff in Italy. How does one get a gig like that? I guess being willing to discard your principles and morals to support a despot pays off. Not that newt's been know for his shining character in the past.
9
The Devil struggles hardest as he is about to be defeated.
8
The case against Trump himself will come down to laundering money for Russian oligarchs by selling them overpriced luxury real estate through shell corporations.
Only in the world of Donald Trump would Neuter Gingrich have credibility. Like Trump, a thoroughly amoral and dishonest man.
1
Watch the Dutch documentary "The Dubious Friends of Donald Trump". The whole Trump crowd is up to their eyeballs with connections to the Russian mob.
If Dutch filmmakers can figure this out then it seems only a matter of time before Mueller starts to get the same picture ... and MORE.
If Dutch filmmakers can figure this out then it seems only a matter of time before Mueller starts to get the same picture ... and MORE.
8
Donald Trump is employing all the defensive tools that Roy Cohen taught him. When questioned = Attack.
When attacked = Attack Harder.
When seriously threatened = destroy your attacker.
When attacks are personal = scorched earth destruction of attacker's creditability.
Go ahead Donald keep tweeting you innermost darkest thoughts to the world and destroy yourself in the process.
When attacked = Attack Harder.
When seriously threatened = destroy your attacker.
When attacks are personal = scorched earth destruction of attacker's creditability.
Go ahead Donald keep tweeting you innermost darkest thoughts to the world and destroy yourself in the process.
9
“someone is probably going to go to jail.” This does not give me a sense of anything.
I am interested in the salivation of the U.S. Constitution and Democracy. The courts may help in that matter by actually finding some actionable crime that includes the Psychopath in Chief and presenting him with an opportunity to resign rather than face a trial.
The only ones who can salvage and re-instate Democracy, Liberty, and Justice for All, is us, the people who have enough consciousness and courage to vote and demand that the Rights of the People are supreme in this Nation.
We need to wake up and get to work. 2018 elections are the best shot we have.
I am interested in the salivation of the U.S. Constitution and Democracy. The courts may help in that matter by actually finding some actionable crime that includes the Psychopath in Chief and presenting him with an opportunity to resign rather than face a trial.
The only ones who can salvage and re-instate Democracy, Liberty, and Justice for All, is us, the people who have enough consciousness and courage to vote and demand that the Rights of the People are supreme in this Nation.
We need to wake up and get to work. 2018 elections are the best shot we have.
8
Trump is WWE. Girding for a fight? He was born to fight. He shakes hands as if preliminary to a fight. It's if his manhood is at stake even with harmless greeting etiquette.
4
The media are showing how easily they are duped and misled by now focusing on comments made by Newt Gingrich.
This washed up guy has been pushed out into the arena because he'll be a good lap dog, and both print and television journalists are soaking up his every comment, no matter how fake or dumb.
This is not good. It is part of the reason the Trump mess got rolling over the past few years. Complicit media looking for the loudest voice.
Push a blowhard out there, tell him or her to shout louder and crazier than anyone else, and the media will drool.
From Falwell to Palin to Gingrich to Bachman to Cruz to Trump and on and on.
All hustlers and all basking in the glow of endless free attention.
This washed up guy has been pushed out into the arena because he'll be a good lap dog, and both print and television journalists are soaking up his every comment, no matter how fake or dumb.
This is not good. It is part of the reason the Trump mess got rolling over the past few years. Complicit media looking for the loudest voice.
Push a blowhard out there, tell him or her to shout louder and crazier than anyone else, and the media will drool.
From Falwell to Palin to Gingrich to Bachman to Cruz to Trump and on and on.
All hustlers and all basking in the glow of endless free attention.
7
Trump has nothing to give Mueller which would make Mueller turn away.
No settlement offer, no threat of retaliation, no threat of outlasting or outspending. Without his usual arsenal of weapons, Trump has only the facts and public opinion. If Trump had facts on his side, he'd be all over Twitter and TV with them.
Trump knows there's trouble ahead, so he's trying to discredit the investigator and win the public opinion battle - which he can't.
No settlement offer, no threat of retaliation, no threat of outlasting or outspending. Without his usual arsenal of weapons, Trump has only the facts and public opinion. If Trump had facts on his side, he'd be all over Twitter and TV with them.
Trump knows there's trouble ahead, so he's trying to discredit the investigator and win the public opinion battle - which he can't.
309
Are you implying that Trump is guilty if he cannot win the public opinion battle?
This is a commendably succinct analysis of Trump's general m.o. when it comes to legal squabbles.
Unfortunately it leaves out the ultimate possibility that Trump may at last deploy the device he found so useful in his television persona, and begin firing everybody at the Justice Department who won't do his bidding until he finds someone toadying enough to fire Muller.
What's the opposition game plan then?
Unfortunately it leaves out the ultimate possibility that Trump may at last deploy the device he found so useful in his television persona, and begin firing everybody at the Justice Department who won't do his bidding until he finds someone toadying enough to fire Muller.
What's the opposition game plan then?
Are you implying that trump is innocent if he can win the public opinion battle?
Only to the 99percent.
Only to the 99percent.
Thanks for the headline, Capt. Obvious.
Thanks for referencing unnamed sources, Local Journalist.
Thanks for keeping up the witch hunt and not removing Trump so quickly from jeopardy, Cotton Mather.
Thanks for referencing unnamed sources, Local Journalist.
Thanks for keeping up the witch hunt and not removing Trump so quickly from jeopardy, Cotton Mather.
lying in an endeavor to impede an ongoing federal investigation, especially if a grand jury has been convened, adds fuel (evidence of a corrupt intent) to the fire. and it may also begin to define a "conspiracy to obstruct".
so, keep on talking, newt, keep on tweeting, don. as a former prosecutor, i can say that this continuing "endeavor" will help resolve any doubts about proceeding to an indictment.
so, keep on talking, newt, keep on tweeting, don. as a former prosecutor, i can say that this continuing "endeavor" will help resolve any doubts about proceeding to an indictment.
6
Mr. Blow writes: Trump "is attempting to defame, discredit and delegitimize." Of course he is. That's how Donald Trump works. To him the world is a junior high school play yard, and he is the bully. Truth, fairness, real issues don't matter. It's just who can beat up everyone else. Demean people? Absolutely. Crooked Hillary, Little Marco, Lyin' Ted, the disabled reporter, the beauty contestant he thought was gaining too much weight, Barack Obama's place of birth, Comey a showboater. Bring down competitors and foes — regardless of what is best or right or true — so he can be on top. That's Donald Trump.
331
And as usual, everything he calls someone else is what he believes, deep down, himself to be (probably because of what his daddy always thought of him). So Crooked, Little, Lyin' Donny it is! Or as I have now named him El Stupido. The 'leader' of the North American banana republic, dictator wanna be.
Roy Cohn would be proud of Trump. If he were still alive, Roy Cohn would probably be Trump's lawyer... that would be consistent with his clientele.
And if all else fails, fire somebody. Who will be next?
Gingrich should be added to the lot of people being investigated.
Bribery, patronage...
His wife Calista was just named ambassador to the Vatican. She should go to confession before meeting with the Pope and ask to be pardonned for being with foulmouth Newt. He is an insult to the Catholic church.
Bribery, patronage...
His wife Calista was just named ambassador to the Vatican. She should go to confession before meeting with the Pope and ask to be pardonned for being with foulmouth Newt. He is an insult to the Catholic church.
19
Aww. The Catholic Church frowns on women divorcing their husbands. They are supposed to make everyone think that whatever comes out of their men's mouths is the Gospel Truth. So, she will be rewarded by the church for being the perfect wife & then they will treat her husband as the true Ambassador to the Vatican. Since no woman is capable of holding that august position.
Somebody will indeed go to jail. And it won't be Hillary.
AG
Calgary, Canada
AG
Calgary, Canada
11
Mueller - Republican
Comey - Republican
Rosenstein - Republican
Gingrich needs to get a grip.
Comey - Republican
Rosenstein - Republican
Gingrich needs to get a grip.
23
He hasn't had a grip in decades. Why start now?
6
All the more reason he needs to get one. ;o)
Same on the news media and shame on ABC for giving notorious rabble rousers such as Gingrich a forum to stir the pot. You may as well ask Alex Jones his thoughts. Its always the same old discredited fallen bozos making the news show rounds - Gingrich, Coulter, Pailin, Giuliani. Stop it!
11
What a lovely picture of Trump here! As usual in the Times. Snarling, authoritarian paranoia seem like the right words. Perfect casting for a mafia-horror movie, if there is such a thing. But it fits in with the tone of the column.
After reading his columns week after week, I'm starting to think Charles Blow doesn't like Trump too much. Can't put my finger on why exactly, but the feeling is inescapable.
After reading his columns week after week, I'm starting to think Charles Blow doesn't like Trump too much. Can't put my finger on why exactly, but the feeling is inescapable.
"Can't put my finger on why exactly...." why Trump is disliked [by Blow and others]?
And what planet have you just arrived from?
And what planet have you just arrived from?
1
Pssstt...a hint to you, Mr. Blow; if Trump reads this (Unlikely) he won't know what the word "girding" means.
On the other hand, he may just spend hours in front of a mirror "gurning", that is, practicing weird faces as confuses "gurn" with "gird".
And nobody on his staff would dare stop him for fear of another "ing", "firing"!
On the other hand, he may just spend hours in front of a mirror "gurning", that is, practicing weird faces as confuses "gurn" with "gird".
And nobody on his staff would dare stop him for fear of another "ing", "firing"!
One minor correction if I may Charles. You state that "he knows one of the critical flaws in American jurisprudence is that too often it favors fight over right". In reality it favors might over right. And this is by design. It is no accident that crooked bankers steal millions and get a golden parachute and maybe a slap on the wrist, while a welfare mother with children goes to jail for cheating the system for a few hundred dollars. And they will fight to the death to keep it this way. Why do you think they pulled that scam with Gorsuch? And justice for All. Indeed.
If I can make an analogy it is like playing in a casino. The casino wins in the end and most often because it is the richest player. Of course Trump managed to screw this up too and lost money in his casinos but this is due to his incompetence; which makes me slightly hopeful in the Russia investigation. Time will tell.
If I can make an analogy it is like playing in a casino. The casino wins in the end and most often because it is the richest player. Of course Trump managed to screw this up too and lost money in his casinos but this is due to his incompetence; which makes me slightly hopeful in the Russia investigation. Time will tell.
1
Follow the money (laundering).
6
"Witch hunt?"
First, Trump is a warlock, not a witch.
Second, please, do not defame warlocks.
First, Trump is a warlock, not a witch.
Second, please, do not defame warlocks.
6
Oh, take your icosahedral dice and get back to the dungeon.
1
"When the facts are on your side, you argue the law. When the facts are against you, you pound on the table and yell like hell."
Newt has seen the same evidence we all have, is pounding on the table and denouncing Mueller.
This White House is the most dysfunctional in history. Positions are unfilled, no one dares being hired by Trump for fear of being thrown under a bus, the leaks are becoming a stream, and Donald regularly contradicts himself or his staff. Wanting to fight isn't the same as being ready to fight.
Newt has seen the same evidence we all have, is pounding on the table and denouncing Mueller.
This White House is the most dysfunctional in history. Positions are unfilled, no one dares being hired by Trump for fear of being thrown under a bus, the leaks are becoming a stream, and Donald regularly contradicts himself or his staff. Wanting to fight isn't the same as being ready to fight.
9
Maybe we can turn those 'leaks' turning into streams into waterboarding for El Stupido & his minions? He approves of torture. Lets start with him, his family, his evil minions, & his cabinet.
1
Trump's past legal successes were, save for a few notable exceptions, limited to minor disputes related to his commercial ventures involving real estate, construction, divorce settlements and the like. One "settlement" of recent note was the 25 million he paid to put the Trump University lawsuits to rest. If that counts as a "victory" it shouldn't be. It was as much an admission of fraud and malfeasance than anything else.
As we like to say out west, " he's in the big water now". His usual antics of legal intimidation and stalling won't work. He doesn't control the ball or the court and his team is woefully inexperienced. Nor does he have the resources of the intelligence agencies or the FBI and Special Prosecutor Mueller has time on his side.
If Trump had nothing to hide and no one to protect he would turn over his income tax records, and fully cooperate with the investigating parties. But, so far, he's acting like a cornered raccoon caught in a garbage can. In the end he may get away but he is leaving one hell of a mess behind.
As we like to say out west, " he's in the big water now". His usual antics of legal intimidation and stalling won't work. He doesn't control the ball or the court and his team is woefully inexperienced. Nor does he have the resources of the intelligence agencies or the FBI and Special Prosecutor Mueller has time on his side.
If Trump had nothing to hide and no one to protect he would turn over his income tax records, and fully cooperate with the investigating parties. But, so far, he's acting like a cornered raccoon caught in a garbage can. In the end he may get away but he is leaving one hell of a mess behind.
Why does any reputable news organization still feature the rantings of blowhard Gingrinch? He dabbles in conspiracy theories, excels at hypocrisy, and was the midwife to the political strife we face now. Can't this Loathsome pig just go away?
9
Same reason Donny & his cohorts are still here. God is too busy to take them home & deal with them. So, is leaving it to us (free will, remember?) & we have been muffing it. So, time to do what needs to be done. Clean them out, legally, before they can scotch the next elections, or just fake the count like other banana republics do.
We the People must arrest them, try them, find the guilty, sentence them, carry out the sentences. Then call new elections & the majority that is US. Better do better this time.
We the People must arrest them, try them, find the guilty, sentence them, carry out the sentences. Then call new elections & the majority that is US. Better do better this time.
The important thing, in savoring this entertainment, is to guard against its inciting the mob. I know this columnist would regret sentencing an underling for misdemeanor truth evasion, only to re-elect the liar in chief.
1
No I'd rather hang both. High gallows, short rough rope. The sentence for High Treason. Since all from El Stupido, down to the newest Congressman, all the evil minions & cabinet members have broken their oaths, they should hang. This includes the adult members of the grifter clan, they have been, with collusion of their patriarch, stealing from the American people since day one. See the 1% are not ALL THE PEOPLE, as their oaths say they must protect.
We need to, for several decades at least, go back to the original income tax set up. The wealthy paid tax on all their income, no matter the source. Everyone else paid nothing. It helped with the equality. Once that time has passed all who have income should pay some income tax. The less you earn the less percent you pay. Corporations would not be considered individuals. If they want to be, every owner & employee, would have to spend 4 years in the military. As enlisted. At the same time. So, as individuals in the service only have their pay, so would the corporations. As a recruit. No corporation work could go on at all. Couldn't hire more employees, or they would be immediately drafted. Then we'd see how many corporations want to be treated like individuals.
We need to, for several decades at least, go back to the original income tax set up. The wealthy paid tax on all their income, no matter the source. Everyone else paid nothing. It helped with the equality. Once that time has passed all who have income should pay some income tax. The less you earn the less percent you pay. Corporations would not be considered individuals. If they want to be, every owner & employee, would have to spend 4 years in the military. As enlisted. At the same time. So, as individuals in the service only have their pay, so would the corporations. As a recruit. No corporation work could go on at all. Couldn't hire more employees, or they would be immediately drafted. Then we'd see how many corporations want to be treated like individuals.
Trump pulls out this Jay Sekulow character from his quiver of lawyers and sends him out to chastise the American public, claiming some sort of divine authority because he is a lawyer. There are so many lawyers running around Washington is is like a cockroach infestation, none of them know the difference between right and wrong. Every one in Trumps inner circle in under investigation therefor Trump is under investigation by association. He is just trying to pull the old, " I'm in charge but I have no idea what is going on around me" trick used by every C.E.O from Wells Fargo to Enron. Jay Sekulow should go crawl back under his rock and stop treating the American people like idiots.
Between Orwell and Rod Serling it's unclear which, they wrote this stuff, or, you can't write this stuff is more relevant.
2
The President is a criminal.
End of story.
End of story.
12
The fact that 45 refuses to heed the security briefings on the cyber threat posed by Russia to our free elections speaks volumes. He is totally uninterested in this subject, rejecting the alarming findings (highlighted by Comey in his recent public testimony) of his own intelligence agencies. What other president would be so negligent ? so dangerously distracted ? Only an idiot. Or a treasonous criminal - a president who worked with the Russians either personally or through delegates to affect our election. If 45 were a Dem, he'd be neck deep in the impeachment process right now. (The Dems are smart not to push that yet.) Trump is going to go away and hell be remembered as the only one who could make Nixon look like a master of deception.
4
Harding was dumb, Bush minimus dumber, and Nixon was a clever crook. But Trump? Smart as an outhouse rat, probably psychotic, and slippery as snot on a glass doorknob. Happily, however, he is terminally self-destructive, and soon will be fodder for the historical revisionists, who will find him a nasty but necessary emetic for our democracy.
4
‘Well, I shan’t go, at any rate,’ said Alice: ‘besides, that’s not a regular rule: you invented it just now.’
‘It’s the oldest rule in the book,’ said the King.
‘Then it ought to be Number One,’ said Alice.
The King turned pale, and shut his note-book hastily. ‘Consider your verdict,’ he said to the jury, in a low, trembling voice.
‘There’s more evidence to come yet, please your Majesty,’ said the White Rabbit, jumping up in a great hurry; ‘this paper has just been picked up.’
‘What’s in it?’ said the Queen.
‘I haven’t opened it yet,’ said the White Rabbit, ‘but it seems to be a letter, written by the prisoner to — to somebody.’
‘It must have been that,’ said the King, ‘unless it was written to nobody, which isn’t usual, you know.’
.
‘It’s the oldest rule in the book,’ said the King.
‘Then it ought to be Number One,’ said Alice.
The King turned pale, and shut his note-book hastily. ‘Consider your verdict,’ he said to the jury, in a low, trembling voice.
‘There’s more evidence to come yet, please your Majesty,’ said the White Rabbit, jumping up in a great hurry; ‘this paper has just been picked up.’
‘What’s in it?’ said the Queen.
‘I haven’t opened it yet,’ said the White Rabbit, ‘but it seems to be a letter, written by the prisoner to — to somebody.’
‘It must have been that,’ said the King, ‘unless it was written to nobody, which isn’t usual, you know.’
.
3
So will Mr. Blow and his disciples be satisfied when Mike Pence becomes POTUS?
2
WE have had religious bigots try to change us before. Sometimes they make it through 4 years of hell (as Americans don't give up their Freedoms easily), or die in the attempt. The Separation of Church & State is so clear that not even Fundamentalist Evangelicals can twist it (they have been trying, they can be sick politicians now, for a bit anyway). Messing with this particular Freedom will find them so far out on the edges of our nation that they will have to prove they are not FE's to get any job, menial or otherwise. They will quickly be cast out of society & ignored. Any who try to use force will find themselves, their particular church, members & family labeled unAmerican & lose all rights as citizens. That is if we don't go shoot them all. They should know Americans have never been peaceful when it comes to their beliefs. Some try to force others to believe their way & their way only. While others will be willing to pass laws saying that any time any FE tries to keep anyone else from worshipping as they wish (in ways that hurt no one, throwing bombs is not worshipping, neither is handling deadly snakes near children, adults can if they wish, but, their life insurance should be voided by it, it's attempted suicide) their particular church will lose all rights as a religion in this country. What you do to others will come back thrice as hard on you.
So what would you suggest Trump do? After 10 months there is not a shred of evidence. Everything points to zero collusion. Zero. Every article includes nothing but unnamed sources.
This is a time suck and a major distraction, and he has work to do. People lose sight of the fact that Russia attempts to "disrupt" any election of consequence around the world. The don't care who wins. They want to disrupt.
This entire "hack" occurred during the last administration yet they are not held accountable. Thanks Obama! The "hack" was initiated by a stooge at the DNC who clearly missed the internet security class.
This is a time suck and a major distraction, and he has work to do. People lose sight of the fact that Russia attempts to "disrupt" any election of consequence around the world. The don't care who wins. They want to disrupt.
This entire "hack" occurred during the last administration yet they are not held accountable. Thanks Obama! The "hack" was initiated by a stooge at the DNC who clearly missed the internet security class.
1
The only one who intentionally and frequently encourages Russian hacking is trump.
3
Obama knew about and let it go on - why, with Hillary's victory assured, it would be her mess to clean up!
And here's how Donald Trump treated his second father and mentor, Roy Cohn:
http://theweek.com/speedreads/617343/donald-trump-turned-back-closest-fr...
(Y)our president is evil, through-and-through.
NOT my president
http://theweek.com/speedreads/617343/donald-trump-turned-back-closest-fr...
(Y)our president is evil, through-and-through.
NOT my president
5
Mr. Blow castigates President Trump for allegedly "attempting to defame, discredit and delegitimize [there you go again, Charles, another one of your ubiquitous alliterations!]".
Well, the kettle just called the pot black. Mr. Blow has voraciously, vehemently and viscously defamed, discredited and delegitimized Mr. Trump from the gitgo.
Maybe the Prez read the Blow hysterical histrionic that ended with "Fight! Fight! Fight!" and decided that he would respond to the mighty Times' strategy to topple his presidency by adopting Mr. Blow's battle cry. What's good for the gander is surely good for the goose.
By the way, Charles, contrary to your anonymous sources, the court of public opinion is mired in a deadlock - us populists against y'all elitists.
Speaking of justice, what do you make of Gingrich's claim that 97% of Justice Department careerists donated to your gal Hill?
Well, the kettle just called the pot black. Mr. Blow has voraciously, vehemently and viscously defamed, discredited and delegitimized Mr. Trump from the gitgo.
Maybe the Prez read the Blow hysterical histrionic that ended with "Fight! Fight! Fight!" and decided that he would respond to the mighty Times' strategy to topple his presidency by adopting Mr. Blow's battle cry. What's good for the gander is surely good for the goose.
By the way, Charles, contrary to your anonymous sources, the court of public opinion is mired in a deadlock - us populists against y'all elitists.
Speaking of justice, what do you make of Gingrich's claim that 97% of Justice Department careerists donated to your gal Hill?
2
Since DOJ careerists have proven they are trustworthy to uphold the law, as private citizens they obviously backed the only person they deemed qualified to be our president.
1
Trump could not care less about healthcare, terrorism, his polls, Russian interference in elections, NATO, the American people or anything else except stopping this investigation before it uncovers his decades of criminal behavior. Income tax evasion, money laundering, racketeering, more and worse sexual assaults, who knows what will turn up. That's why he pre-emptively attacks those who will inevitably expose him (the press and the intelligence community), and those who will convict him (the courts). He is not worrying about Paul Ryan's agenda, he is worrying about dying in jail. That makes him every bit as unpredictable and dangerous as any hunted criminal, only he has armies instead of a hand gun. Every day he remains in office risks a horrific catastrophe. Americans are increasingly aware of that, and are more worried about Trump than they are about terrorism, and with good reason. Terrorism kills fewer Americans than lawn mowers and bee stings. Trump would start a war to distract us in a heartbeat to save his hide, without a second's concern for the casualties. If Congress wants to to fix this by removing him, they need to get at it before the citizenry decides waiting is too risky. 60,000,000 died because the Good Germans couldn't believe Hitler was as bad as the "lying pressed" said he was. Trump is following Hitler's playbook, and the only thing stopping him is that, thank God, we are not Weimar Germany, and the press is not going to roll over.
5
The president is doing what he has always done to anyone who stands up to him or calls him out for his misdeeds and words, he attacks and does everything possible to make his opponent look bad. He sues first and claims vindication no matter what the outcome. To him, holding a grudge and 'getting even' are as natural to him as having a piece of fabulous chocolate cake. While the Clintons have no part in this story, he's going to turn every screw to get his base worked up and demand she also be investigated in order to take the heat off himself. Thank you conservative America, this twisted man will divide us even further to get what he wants, and doesn't care that he's taking the nation down with him. Meanwhile Paul Ryan tells us to give the 'new boy' some slack, and Vladimir, with his Cheshire Cat smile, tells us, "... don't worry, be happy."
5
I can conclude from this that the U.S laws don't apply to the rich if they have the ability to wear down our justice system and just make it too hard and too costly to win? Some of the possible issues (filing as a foreign agent, etc) should have been found out prior to investigating Russian/American relations. Such as the never ending tax audit for Trump - why is it taking so long? Are his accountants just wearing our IRS down and is too costly to come to any conclusion?
5
This investigation is about Russia and how it colluded with our government, the elections and other arenas. The fact that the so-called president fired the head of the investigation was not a good move.
He told Lester Holt that he and he alone decided to fire Comey. Then he blames those who are doing the investigations for investigating him for interfereing with the investigation. He sends his lawyer to deny he ever said that.
If you are having a hard time trying to follow this, this is the so-called presidents plan. Double speak we heard it on the campaign trail. This is how he conned many others out of their money in real estate.
If there is nothing to hide, if there is no wrong doing, why is he acting to guilty?
Let the investigation run its course. We need to find out how much Russia has on us. Watergate which happen 45 years ago to the week, took 2 years to get to the bottom of.
As an American I want to know what Russia has on us.
He told Lester Holt that he and he alone decided to fire Comey. Then he blames those who are doing the investigations for investigating him for interfereing with the investigation. He sends his lawyer to deny he ever said that.
If you are having a hard time trying to follow this, this is the so-called presidents plan. Double speak we heard it on the campaign trail. This is how he conned many others out of their money in real estate.
If there is nothing to hide, if there is no wrong doing, why is he acting to guilty?
Let the investigation run its course. We need to find out how much Russia has on us. Watergate which happen 45 years ago to the week, took 2 years to get to the bottom of.
As an American I want to know what Russia has on us.
14
When you're wealthy, the law is generally on your side due to the expensive lawyers and the delaying tactics they can employ. But, when you're fighting the federal government which is just investigating a set of issues that may or may not directly involve you, those tactics don't work. So, you're left with the "Witch Hunt" defense and destructive "bomb thowers" like Newt Gingrich to toss mud on the opposition. This strategy will only work if Congressional Republicans continue to deny, deflect, and ignore the mounting evidence of potential "collaboration' with Russia to win the election and the ongoing attempts by surrogates like Gingrich and before him, Rep. Devin Nunes, to obstruct it.
177
"the mounting evidence of potential "collaboration' with Russia"
What evidence? To date, there is none! Not a single thing.
Better have some time out with your crayons and coloring book.
What evidence? To date, there is none! Not a single thing.
Better have some time out with your crayons and coloring book.
1
The GOP will obstruct every which way they can. Count on it! Getting the Augean stables cleaned is nothing to what we are dealing with here. Abuse of power may well win the day, as that and money are the gods of the party in power.
Bah, Trump has to win in spite of the Republicans! They are mere spectators at the hunt waiting to see whether the fox gets shot.
Newt Gingrich was the proto-Trump in the 1990s, bullying, corrupt, hypocritical and self-serving to the core. Now he rides Trump's coattails in an effort to regain some legitimacy, at least among the right wing. Let him try to defend Trump. They are two of a kind. His efforts do Trump no favors.
11
The shallow insecurity of Trump is so obvious. Had he simply rolled with the FBI investigation and let it take its own course, political fallout would have been minimal. But he's too weak of mind and character to leave well enough alone. Of course there's the other view: he's guilty, he knows he's guilty and he knows that an investigation will prove that. So what's he got to lose by obstructing? Either way, his behavior is not the sort I deem worthy of any responsible adult. Let alone that of President. He truly is pathetic.
13
I hope Trump fights on to the bitter end and is ultimately stripped of power. I also hope that the Republican Party pays a huge political price for their lies and collusion.
However, what is best for Trump, the GOP, and the country is for Trump to resign immediately. Trump has exhibited (being kind here) a mental fragility that could unleash unfortunate and irreparable harm. Republicans need to step up and do the right thing, and push this clear and present danger to the country out of office.
However, what is best for Trump, the GOP, and the country is for Trump to resign immediately. Trump has exhibited (being kind here) a mental fragility that could unleash unfortunate and irreparable harm. Republicans need to step up and do the right thing, and push this clear and present danger to the country out of office.
18
Gingrich is to politics what the Kardashians are to, well, anything!
He's an over-the-hill pol of personal and political disrepute who has staked out an occupation as a right wing bloviator, good for a quote in the newpapers from time to time.
The Times and its columnists would do the nation a favor just ignoring him. He thrives on the publicity you afford him.
He's an over-the-hill pol of personal and political disrepute who has staked out an occupation as a right wing bloviator, good for a quote in the newpapers from time to time.
The Times and its columnists would do the nation a favor just ignoring him. He thrives on the publicity you afford him.
10
"This was a stinging about-face from when Gingrich praised Mueller when he was selected."
There shouldn't be any surprise that Newt Gingrich has undergone a violent 180 in attacking Mueller. He is the quintessential political hack, one of many also including Chris Christie and Rudy Giuliani, who have latched onto Donald Trump. Gingrich is 74 now, seeing his last opportunity for glory and political power disappear into the sunset. He will be remembered for such contributions leading a government shutdown, leading the impeachment of a president for sexual impropriety while he was cheating on his wife, receiving a congressional reprimand for violating ethics rules, and a long career of fake "college courses" offered to the republican base.
There shouldn't be any surprise that Newt Gingrich has undergone a violent 180 in attacking Mueller. He is the quintessential political hack, one of many also including Chris Christie and Rudy Giuliani, who have latched onto Donald Trump. Gingrich is 74 now, seeing his last opportunity for glory and political power disappear into the sunset. He will be remembered for such contributions leading a government shutdown, leading the impeachment of a president for sexual impropriety while he was cheating on his wife, receiving a congressional reprimand for violating ethics rules, and a long career of fake "college courses" offered to the republican base.
7
"But that’s the thing with Trump and his hangers-on: They will say and do anything, even if it directly contradicts what they said or did moments earlier."
The same is true for Trump's supporters. Many commenters believe that Trump's success lies in his ability to continue to dupe millions of uneducated people in our country. I don't believe his supporters are that stupid. If one looks at the demographics of Trump voters, one finds millions of Americans with higher education, from all walks of life.
So why do his supporters continue to support someone whom they know lies constantly? It's really quite simple. They themselves want the power he and the Republican party have given them, and they will do anything to keep that power, including continuing to spout known lies (Muslims in New Jersey cheering on 9/11, for example). Trump supporters don't support him in spite of his lies, but rather, because of them.
We are witnessing a toxic brew of right wing media spewing hatred and white Americans (the vast majority of Trump voters) realizing they soon will be a minority in this country, a country they believe is theirs alone. Race is the determiner. While Hillary Clinton won the majority of votes from non-white women, white women went for Trump.
Yes, Trump is girding for a fight. He of course won't fight it himself. But he knows he has millions of supporters who will go to war for him.
The same is true for Trump's supporters. Many commenters believe that Trump's success lies in his ability to continue to dupe millions of uneducated people in our country. I don't believe his supporters are that stupid. If one looks at the demographics of Trump voters, one finds millions of Americans with higher education, from all walks of life.
So why do his supporters continue to support someone whom they know lies constantly? It's really quite simple. They themselves want the power he and the Republican party have given them, and they will do anything to keep that power, including continuing to spout known lies (Muslims in New Jersey cheering on 9/11, for example). Trump supporters don't support him in spite of his lies, but rather, because of them.
We are witnessing a toxic brew of right wing media spewing hatred and white Americans (the vast majority of Trump voters) realizing they soon will be a minority in this country, a country they believe is theirs alone. Race is the determiner. While Hillary Clinton won the majority of votes from non-white women, white women went for Trump.
Yes, Trump is girding for a fight. He of course won't fight it himself. But he knows he has millions of supporters who will go to war for him.
6
Newt Gingrich lecturing on fairness, ethics, and integrity. Priceless! It's like were living in some sort of an alternate universe.
12
Nobody is "going to jail". Does anyone think that the President is going to let his son-in-law go to jail? Flynn? Anyone? This is all kabuki theatre. Trump will say that these people testified before Congress/Muller truthfully and are innocent, but this was a witch hunt, etc. Then pardon them before any jeopardy attaches.
BTW, remember you heard it here, Trump could care less about the office of POTUS. The title is more fun than the job. On a very simplistic level, he's not enjoying himself. Having led the "winningest" administration in American history, he will decline to run for re-election and handover re-election to Pence.
BTW, remember you heard it here, Trump could care less about the office of POTUS. The title is more fun than the job. On a very simplistic level, he's not enjoying himself. Having led the "winningest" administration in American history, he will decline to run for re-election and handover re-election to Pence.
1
I would love to see Trump get caught this time and then prosecuted and sent to jail. It couldn't happen to a more deserving snake oil salesman.
16
Trump lawyer Jay Sekulow ?
The same lawyer who, as a Romney advisor, recommended outlawing homosexuality and abortion? The lawyer who works in Africa to criminalize LGBT and increase penalties, including death?
The same lawyer paid millions to sue for Christian America?
The one who is a talk show host and appears on CBN and FOX on a regular basis? Looks good for the cameras, knows a good sound bite?
Got it.
Oh, and keep in mind, those legal cases Trump is the apparent victor in?
Don't confuse having charges dropped with being innocent.
Trump can just afford to outlast his opponents in court, his lawyers can delay and keep cases going until the other side drops out. It does not mean Trump wasn't guilty as charged. Just that charges won't be pursued. Trump often sues when he's decided he doesn't want to pay for something. Eventually the other side settles for a fraction of money owed. Trump counts it as a "win".
Most innocent people don't pay $25M to settle fraud & racketeering charges against their for-profit "university", do they?
The same lawyer who, as a Romney advisor, recommended outlawing homosexuality and abortion? The lawyer who works in Africa to criminalize LGBT and increase penalties, including death?
The same lawyer paid millions to sue for Christian America?
The one who is a talk show host and appears on CBN and FOX on a regular basis? Looks good for the cameras, knows a good sound bite?
Got it.
Oh, and keep in mind, those legal cases Trump is the apparent victor in?
Don't confuse having charges dropped with being innocent.
Trump can just afford to outlast his opponents in court, his lawyers can delay and keep cases going until the other side drops out. It does not mean Trump wasn't guilty as charged. Just that charges won't be pursued. Trump often sues when he's decided he doesn't want to pay for something. Eventually the other side settles for a fraction of money owed. Trump counts it as a "win".
Most innocent people don't pay $25M to settle fraud & racketeering charges against their for-profit "university", do they?
14
Fascinating as all this is, the senate republicans are in a black hole destroying any hope of health insurance for millions of us. Please do not be distracted. Call your Senators and demand that they shed light on these hidden activities. Before it's too late.
8
Trump invokes Hillary's name, often out of the blue, as a conscious tactic. Hillary hate abounds. The mere mention of her name sends shivers up the spines of a large swath of Republicans, especially his core base, causing a visceral reaction that prompts them to defend him at any cost. He's saying to them "you may not like me, but you despise the alternative...remember why you voted for me and how I saved you from her." Her name is his shield.
7
OMG. You're absolutely right, that's what it is.
Government by tweet. So sad.
7
Trump is a marketing man. Marketing is about separating fools from their money. Fools are the gullible, taking mythos as logos--and digging in--all the way to the poorhouse or hospital.
Standards of proof--as in law, science and academia generally are irrelevant--the suspension of disbelief is what matters most.
So instead of preparing a legal argument, Trumpies wage marketing war.
Instead of running the country, he/they focus on the illusion of running the country.
What is true is that he is pushing the suspension of disbelief to revolutionary heights for a POTUS.
But he's certainly no world record breaker. Goebbels did it better. So does any pope.
PS: stats about what "the people" believe or not is hardly an argument for what should be done. Government by referendum is well know to be a stupid idea.
Standards of proof--as in law, science and academia generally are irrelevant--the suspension of disbelief is what matters most.
So instead of preparing a legal argument, Trumpies wage marketing war.
Instead of running the country, he/they focus on the illusion of running the country.
What is true is that he is pushing the suspension of disbelief to revolutionary heights for a POTUS.
But he's certainly no world record breaker. Goebbels did it better. So does any pope.
PS: stats about what "the people" believe or not is hardly an argument for what should be done. Government by referendum is well know to be a stupid idea.
3
Trump seems to have yet to figure out there is no chapter 11 for a failed President.
8
More pointless hate speech. How does this relate to economics? What solutions does it offer?
If they (the Federal investigators) get Flynn, they eventually will get Trump...
8
Trump may be a court room veteran but now he's in the big league. Keep posting on twitter, your lawyers will keep billing and nothing will get done legislatively and Putin will proclaim "mission accomplished".
5
No man is above the law. Or woman, but in this case treason seems to have been a man's game.
5
In the end, I hope they get him for the same thing as Al Capone - tax evasion.
7
Good ole Newt, the paragon of virtue, dispensing his irrelevant, worthless opinion.
9
I don't know who said it first. Newt Gingrich is actually considered to be an intellectual...but only by dumb people.
11
Trump has finally stepped out of his element. He doesn't control the situation any more. He doesn't own the thing he runs - the citizens own it. His running for President is going to be his undoing. A lot of great scoundrels have had their great downfall late in life because they just couldn't stop themselves.
Trump could have retired and played golf and acted like a big deal at his fun house in West Palm. But he just couldn't keep his big mouth shut.....
Trump could have retired and played golf and acted like a big deal at his fun house in West Palm. But he just couldn't keep his big mouth shut.....
5
Nothing like dusting off nattering Newt, the high lord of hypocrisy, to act as Trump's latest mouthpiece.
How is this guy still relevant and newsworthy? He was a cancer 25 years ago and still is today. SAD!
How is this guy still relevant and newsworthy? He was a cancer 25 years ago and still is today. SAD!
1
“They’re going to get somebody …..And they’re probably going to go to jail.” Newt would look good wearing an orange jumpsuit. DT would look even better.
3
Republicans started a horrible precedent when they let Olly North and President Reagan skate. North deserved jail and Reagan, as his boss, deserved the same or at least forced removal from office.
3
Jay Sekulow states that what the president said, is not what the president meant. Why is there always a translation afterwards?
2
Plus we were told by Sean Spicer and others that 1) the President's tweets speak for themselves, and 2) the President's tweets are to be regarded as official presidential communications.
I bet that if Mueller exonerates the President, hés shower Mueller with praises as the most fair special counsel.... much like he had praised Director Comey for announcing that he was investigating H.
4
"Sekulow stated emphatically, “The fact of the matter is the president has not been and is not under investigation.”"
And the world is flat, and water isn't wet.
They don't help themselves by making such incredible statements, it simply reinforces the fact that this administration is a complete clown show.
Why don't they just come out in clown makeup or Groucho glasses at this point?
And the world is flat, and water isn't wet.
They don't help themselves by making such incredible statements, it simply reinforces the fact that this administration is a complete clown show.
Why don't they just come out in clown makeup or Groucho glasses at this point?
2
Where's the crime? Habeas Corpus! Where's the body? Media hysteria bestows little or no credit on it's purveyors.
1
Trump, our so-called president, going ballistic, just means what most of us have known all along, the election was rigged, as Trump said it would be. Generally, he accuses others of the very things he is guilty of, either because he thinks everyone is scamming like he scams or to cover his own tracks. He is used to throwing money at things to thwart others efforts to control him. He has probably paid off more folks than anyone in history to make a suit go away, like wrong doing never happened. The fact that so many lied about every meeting with Russians and have gone to such lengths of resigning or recusing or firing to avoid uncomfortable truths coming out, let's you know there is truth coming out. HE is throwing a tantrum because there is nothing he can do about it! No amount of money, prestige or name dropping, is going to halt the investigation and this makes him furious, like a toddler who can't get his own way! He can gird for a fight all he wants, but might never makes right and you can't make things right, by the force of your will. These politicians including Nunes, can't cover for you. They actually look foolish trying to deny the truth coming out. You can "kick up the goad" all you want, but when the dust settles, you'll still be the donkey you've always been, who prefers Russian to America anyway, as you CAN use money to buy your version of truth there, which is why the masses are dying earlier and earlier there, as all hope change is gone. God helps
3
More socialistic democratic dreams about impeachment. Until someone is found guilty of something (and I doubt the president is so stupid) no one will be impeached. As a matter of fact, it probably goes back to Lynch, Comey, Clinton and that sick arrangement to begin with.
1
Trump is like those blow-up plastic clowns with a weighted bottom that little kids used to have: (Remember them? ) The kids would punch or knock them, the clown would bounce over toward the ground and then pop back up. Alas, this guy is so crafty, so devious and crazily so adored, nobody will ever get him. I just watched an 11 year old National Geographic documentary on North Korea. The psychology of the people there in their adulation and yes, worship for their leader, is pretty much the same psychology in the Trump supporters here. It is quite astounding to behold.
3
i wish Newt Gingrich could be jailed for murdering American Democracy by knifing bipartisanship in the back.
2
Trump needs loyal minions to launch AFN - Alternative Fact Network - when he leaves office. Which I suspect will be sooner than later. He knows the jig is almost up, so he's paving the way for his exit - like any expert con man.
He'll need them to fork over a portion of their ever dwindling SS disability checks so that he can continue to live like Tammy Faye Baker. Grifter. Pure and simple.
He'll need them to fork over a portion of their ever dwindling SS disability checks so that he can continue to live like Tammy Faye Baker. Grifter. Pure and simple.
3
My ordering of those going to prison, from most likely to least:
Flynn
Page
Manafort
J Kushner
Trump
Sessions
Bannon
Ivanka T
My ordering of those I like to see go to prison (if I can't have my wish that they all get to wear an orange jumpsuit), from most hopeful to 'they were just a gullible stooge':
Trump
Flynn
J Kushner
Bannon
Manafort
Ivanka T
Sessions
Page
Flynn
Page
Manafort
J Kushner
Trump
Sessions
Bannon
Ivanka T
My ordering of those I like to see go to prison (if I can't have my wish that they all get to wear an orange jumpsuit), from most hopeful to 'they were just a gullible stooge':
Trump
Flynn
J Kushner
Bannon
Manafort
Ivanka T
Sessions
Page
4
If this is a witch hunt, I think they've found the witch.
2
I think Comey is a traitor to this country. What else would you call trying to bring down our president but traitorous. Also leaking info to the media. If anyone in the armed forces would pull the traitorous deeds that Comey just pulled on our president they would be Court Marshalled, and the FBI should be in the same category as our armed forces. Court Marshall Comey!!!
3
Did you read what you wrote?! Why does "courtmartial* Trump" not make even more sense, as he (who never met a Russian oligarch he didn't like) is obviously far more traitorous than boy-scout Comey.
*PS. That you wrote "court Marshall" and not "court martial" makes me think, sir, you are a Russian internet troll.
*PS. That you wrote "court Marshall" and not "court martial" makes me think, sir, you are a Russian internet troll.
Trump, Gingrich, and Hannity! What a trio.
4
Most Americans could care less about this whole garbage with the Russians.
The dems want him out and that is what we have to deal with for 4 years.
He won and she lost. Can we just move on. Wait till they win the whitehouse,
The same thing will happen and we can enjoy another 4 years of a do nothing government.
The dems want him out and that is what we have to deal with for 4 years.
He won and she lost. Can we just move on. Wait till they win the whitehouse,
The same thing will happen and we can enjoy another 4 years of a do nothing government.
2
Trump is scared of something, and Flynn knows what it is. If only Muller can get him to tell the truth, we'll find out what Putin has on Trump.
4
If the past is prologue, Trump will succeed in undermining himself, a strategy wherein he is truly an idiot savant.
3
Is it just me or does Blow pretty much write the same column week after week, with minor variations to slip in the Trump "scandal" of the day? The same over the top and frothing at the mouth faux outrage in each column. (Krugman's the same.)
How is this any different than what Limbaugh or Hannity do?
How is this any different than what Limbaugh or Hannity do?
1
NYT op-ed writers tend to believe in the existence of a shared objective reality and that truth exists.
Limbaugh/Hannity, well, not so much.
Limbaugh/Hannity, well, not so much.
The difference is that Limbaugh and Hannity spew their bile in the direction of ordinary middle-class Americans: "feminazis" and Muslims and libruls and schoolteachers and gay and transgender individuals and others, whereas Blow spews his bile in the very deserving direction of the conman-in-chief, Donald J. Trump, who has shown with his every word and deed throughout his entire life that he cares for no one but Donald J. Trump.
Maybe that's what's different.
Maybe that's what's different.
Echoes from 1973:
"I am not a crook."
---President Richard Nixon
"I am not a crook."
---President Richard Nixon
5
The hypocrisy of Newt Gingrich lying his way to securing a Vatican ambassador ship for his wife is sinfully rich!
3
"But that’s the thing with Trump and his hangers-on: They will say and do anything, even if it directly contradicts what they said or did moments earlier."
What Trump and his sycophantic followers fail to realize is that (as Shakespeare stated in Henry V), "the game's afoot" and will not be shut off because of their objections.
Throughout the course of these investigations -- in Congress, by the FBI, and now with the Special Counsel -- much has been made of the expression that the investigations will follow the evidence, wherever it may lead. Special Counsel Mueller is the embodiment of that saying.
Thus, it is interesting to read how any number of Trump's hangers-on are now decrying Mueller's ( and his emerging team's) credibility. The statistics published in this articles' side-box -- 43% favor impeachment; 55% believe Trump is abusing the power of his off -- give powerful testimony that there is, indeed, an increasing groundswell of citizens who want the truth to be known about the Russian incursion into our electoral and democratic processes, as well as the role of Trump's (and his team and administration's) efforts to impede these investigations.
Whether Trump is guilty in the court of public opinion, impeached by Congress, or subsequently found guilty in a court of law, any guilt levied upon him and/or his associates arises solely from their complete and utter disregard of the law. Lies never support a cause that is unjust.
What Trump and his sycophantic followers fail to realize is that (as Shakespeare stated in Henry V), "the game's afoot" and will not be shut off because of their objections.
Throughout the course of these investigations -- in Congress, by the FBI, and now with the Special Counsel -- much has been made of the expression that the investigations will follow the evidence, wherever it may lead. Special Counsel Mueller is the embodiment of that saying.
Thus, it is interesting to read how any number of Trump's hangers-on are now decrying Mueller's ( and his emerging team's) credibility. The statistics published in this articles' side-box -- 43% favor impeachment; 55% believe Trump is abusing the power of his off -- give powerful testimony that there is, indeed, an increasing groundswell of citizens who want the truth to be known about the Russian incursion into our electoral and democratic processes, as well as the role of Trump's (and his team and administration's) efforts to impede these investigations.
Whether Trump is guilty in the court of public opinion, impeached by Congress, or subsequently found guilty in a court of law, any guilt levied upon him and/or his associates arises solely from their complete and utter disregard of the law. Lies never support a cause that is unjust.
1
Because of his actions and reactions, I can't imagine how Trump could appear more guilty. I'm sure those facts aren't lost on the investigators.
7
It's not lost on the public either...
9
I disagree with your assessment, thoughtful and observant though I believe it to be. While Trump is clearly getting ready for a fight, I think he will resign. And probably fairly soon. I believe your reasoning fails to take into account Trump's personality and the incredible distress his presidency is inflicting upon him. Never before has the spotlight shone so critically and so ubiquitously upon him. Courts are one thing. The attention of an entire country is a quite different thing.
2
President Trump has been found guilty in the court of public opinion. Tell me. What proof do they have that he obstructed justice or colluded with the Russians in our presidential election? None.
They want to unseat a legitimate president who was elected by the people. This is a travesty and Mr. Trump knows this. He will win and be found innocent but they will continue to look for ways to remove him. We have heard cries of impeachment since he was elected. His detractors hate him and will stop at nothing to get him out of office. You are wasting your time as he will complete his term as intended. He was elected and will remain.
They want to unseat a legitimate president who was elected by the people. This is a travesty and Mr. Trump knows this. He will win and be found innocent but they will continue to look for ways to remove him. We have heard cries of impeachment since he was elected. His detractors hate him and will stop at nothing to get him out of office. You are wasting your time as he will complete his term as intended. He was elected and will remain.
21
WMK needs to understand that this is about Russian involvement in our election process. What part the Presidents team played in this is still not known, but if there is involvement it will be found out. The Russians will be back for 2018 and 2020. They need to be stopped and to stop them we need to know what did or did not happen in 2016.
11
No proof, but lots of suspicious activity such as his strange admiration for Putin and his uncharacteristic loyalty for Michael Flynn going so far as to try to get the FBI director to drop his investigation. And the seemingly abundant contacts with the Russians among his campaign staff during the election and of his course his undisclosed tax returns. While I will concede your point that in the end he may serve out his term and even possibly be shown not to be culpable of any real serious wrongdoing, the evidence warranting an investigation is pretty overwhelming and the only thing that is truly unknown is where it will all lead.
8
Sorry. Trump was selected by less than the majority of the American electorate -- and elected by the Electoral College.
A fact that seems to lost on all those making this same kind of sweeping statement about his "win".
Next.
If there is anything that's a "travesty", it's what Trump is doing to the country and the office he's now in.
And just for thre record.
If he isn't guilty of any wrong-doing, he needs to start acting like it by getting out of the way of this ongoing Federal Investigation into Russian activities, instead of issuing out these non-stop tweets.
A fact that seems to lost on all those making this same kind of sweeping statement about his "win".
Next.
If there is anything that's a "travesty", it's what Trump is doing to the country and the office he's now in.
And just for thre record.
If he isn't guilty of any wrong-doing, he needs to start acting like it by getting out of the way of this ongoing Federal Investigation into Russian activities, instead of issuing out these non-stop tweets.
13
"He knows that one of the critical flaws in American jurisprudence is that it too often favors fight over right."
That is the quote that gives me pause!
That is the quote that gives me pause!
9
Trump, the bully, thinks he can push around the opposition. In his experience this has worked, especially with people not as well funded as he is like craftsmen who worked on his properties. Let's see how this works out against a special prosecutor with millions of dollars to spend.
10
It's no surprise that a man like Trump has brought a man like Gingrich out of the woodwork and back into the public eye and ear. I thought we'd heard the last of the Discredited G. No such luck. Another mark against T. Is there no end?
14
We don't know what Trump is guilty of. The investigation will determine that, and perhaps Trump will not be forced to leave office. I suspect otherwise but I'm one of the little people with no power. My hope is that the country will be so sick of Trump and the Republicans by 2018 that the Democrats will gain control of the House or the Senate, or perhaps both. Many of us are heaving on a daily basis over Trump and his ego driven presidency. Better days are ahead.
11
I hope you are correct. My other hope at 75, is that the democrats start finding new voices to run. Get over the Clinton obsession and move forward, and yes I'm a very liberal "old" female!!!!!
1
Trump is a fighter and a bully. He thrives in this environment - it keeps him going. Laws, rules, and any sense of ethics don't apply to him. Winning is all that matters to him and his cohorts. And we, the American people will be the losers.
11
The Trump apologists seem to excuse the most outrageous of behaviors in a man who should exercise leadership. I hear them say, "There is no 'there' there". If that is so true, why the struggle to fight the investigation? I have heard apologists say that Unions fund Democrats so what is so wrong about Russians funding a Republican? My lord, listen to that nonsense. We have a man who has befouled the White House who clearly has much to hide. He is supported by the same gaggle of 30% of the electorate who will happily convert the United States into a banana republic merely so that those deemed unworthy will not get an even break. Not a one of them seem to have read any history. We have been here before. It did not turn out well.
18
Try realizing that for these folks the banana republic is already here. And, it wasn't created by them.
2
As usual Trump surrogates have been sent out to clean up Trump's "twitter mess". We have heard every explanation from the tweets speak for themselves to they are social media and we should ignore them. But Trump is the President and all his tweets can be used as evidence. Instead of surrogates cleaning up his mess they should take the phone away from the Child in Chief.
5
Newt Gingrich is so past his expiration date.
The one belief that Trump shares with Nixon is, as Nixon once said, "If the President does it that means it's not illegal." [close paraphrase] I suspect that another phrase from the Nixon era will soon appear, "Un-indicted therefore innocent."
Besides, it's all Obama's and Clinton's fault anyway ...
The one belief that Trump shares with Nixon is, as Nixon once said, "If the President does it that means it's not illegal." [close paraphrase] I suspect that another phrase from the Nixon era will soon appear, "Un-indicted therefore innocent."
Besides, it's all Obama's and Clinton's fault anyway ...
6
I believe Trump is guilty and I'm glad he's being investigated. He is a blight on America. However, there is a pardon system. If someone other than himself is found guilty Trump may pardon him. If Trump is impeached I think President Pence will issue pardons.
A question I have is, if he is impeached, do the investigation stop? I hope not as we need to shine full light on this. Anyone know the answer to this? If President Pence calls for the investigations to stop will that be the end ?
A question I have is, if he is impeached, do the investigation stop? I hope not as we need to shine full light on this. Anyone know the answer to this? If President Pence calls for the investigations to stop will that be the end ?
1
Of course not.
I'd be interested in Mr. Blow's reaction when it turns out that two of the people being investigated by Mueller are Comey and Loretta Lynch. After all, Comey testified to Lynch's obstruction of justice direction to him and his compliance with it. Perhaps Comey and Lynch will turn state's evidence and give Mueller testimony against the real culprits.
2
Wait, Lynch and Comey spoke to the Russians and initiated this mess? Were the Clintons elected and I missed something? This is just a bad dream that a candidate for the presidency called out in public for a Russian hack on the democrats and got it? Real criminals indeed.
3
Because she asked him to publicly call it a "matter" instead of an investigation? Heavy obstruction
1
Oh, for crying out loud. You think Lynch asking Comey to call something a "matter" instead of an investigation in public is the same as asking someone to swear loyalty and promise not to look into Flynn?
Please. You take us for fools.
Please. You take us for fools.
Trump has never faced a legal team like Mueller and Co. His absurd bluster won't affect his chances with them in court one iota. Just the facts, Ma'am. That's all Mueller needs, and he's got the most powerful force to discover them ever assembled.
5
Until Mueller has to recuse himself due to his friendship with Comey...
These Tweets are one of the stupider things done by President Tweetie-Pie!
Personally, I think Tweets are pretty silly for any serious person to engage in. Although I guess the 140-character expression of opinion just about fits in with the average Americans attention span! Sad!
Personally, I think Tweets are pretty silly for any serious person to engage in. Although I guess the 140-character expression of opinion just about fits in with the average Americans attention span! Sad!
7
Sorry, this is not a comment about this points raised in this column, but.... what happens when trump does not turn over the "tapes" of his conversations with Comey? We haven't seen his tax returns, we haven't seen real medical expert opinions on his physical and mental health, how can he forced to hand over perhaps non-existent tapes? He's not a two year old who stomps on the ground and yells "no" , forcing the adult in the room to pick him up and move him out of the way. What can legitimately be done to trump if the deadline comes and goes?
6
It is obvious to me that Trump* thought he could privatize the presidency and hire enough lawyers and loudmouth jerks like Gingrich to cover his inevitable failures. He got away with it in "business" [sic] hundreds of times by all the usual means and hide in his tower to avoid extensive exposure. Not so with the presidency. Lots and lots of windows.
7
The only people who agree with Mr. Trump are his surrogates, his Lawyer and those in the inner circle at the White House. His supporters who voted for him, may be thinking differently today.
The problem for Mr. Trump is that he is always right. As our POTUS, he cannot be wrong. He continues to show resentment to the Russian probe. And, he does not tell the people why he thinks in that manner.
When you talk about conflicts of interest, it does not apply to Mr. Trump. Because, as POTUS, it does not apply to him.
Mr. Trump feels he is right on the proposed Travel Ban on the six Muslim countries. He also feels he is right in his decision to withdraw the US from the Paris Climate Accord. All the policies which his predecessor signed are to be revoked or have been reversed. The list goes on.
As POTUS, Mr. Trump has a different view of the world. A different view of his position as POTUS.
The problem for Mr. Trump is that he is always right. As our POTUS, he cannot be wrong. He continues to show resentment to the Russian probe. And, he does not tell the people why he thinks in that manner.
When you talk about conflicts of interest, it does not apply to Mr. Trump. Because, as POTUS, it does not apply to him.
Mr. Trump feels he is right on the proposed Travel Ban on the six Muslim countries. He also feels he is right in his decision to withdraw the US from the Paris Climate Accord. All the policies which his predecessor signed are to be revoked or have been reversed. The list goes on.
As POTUS, Mr. Trump has a different view of the world. A different view of his position as POTUS.
1
Trump has increased his wealth dramatically since becoming president, and he wants to tamp down the investigation because he's afraid it might affect his bottom line....
7
It's not an accident that DJT has been sued thousands of times. Sure, people can say it is because he is rich and litigants want to cash in. However, the real reason he is sued is his regular skirting of the law in business and now as the chief executive of our nation. His is the classic "I am a big shot" behavior so common in the corporate sector and among the very wealthy. One would hope that shining a light on DJT will dissuade others from his behavior. It won't. Instead our nation will continue on its downward slide. Unless we stop feting the fetid, our nation is doomed.
7
When Mueller starts flipping over those flat stones, the wiggly critters that run for the nearest swamp make the perfect bait to catch big (and bigly) fish.
But fishing requires patience. I hope Mueller can hang in there till the boat's hold is full and the catch salted down.
But fishing requires patience. I hope Mueller can hang in there till the boat's hold is full and the catch salted down.
7
I believe the collusion matter is beyond disbelief at this point. How many members of the administration met with Russians? I personally heard trump encourage hacking an American Presidential Candidate.
Aside from being traitorous, the people in this cadre of arrogant buffoons are just stupid to have not known what lines they were crossing.
Flynn must have thought he was an "International Man of Intrigue."
Kushner is just sad.
Sessions even sadder.
Sorry, thats the best I can do anymore.
Aside from being traitorous, the people in this cadre of arrogant buffoons are just stupid to have not known what lines they were crossing.
Flynn must have thought he was an "International Man of Intrigue."
Kushner is just sad.
Sessions even sadder.
Sorry, thats the best I can do anymore.
2
Rather than actually work to be a good president, and leader, Donald Trump wants to enforce his brand of stupidity and corruption. Trump resorts to constantly lie, so he can delude himself he has an advantage. So when the lies, as they almost always do, blow up, he blames others, and never takes responsibility. Trump is a bad character. But this bad character, garnered 63% of the white male vote and 53% of the white female vote. These voters liked Trump's brand of hate and racism, for he ran on nothing else.
5
If "the fight" Trump is girding for is a battle of words, Trump will win easily. If the fight involves judgement, intelligence, and normal-sized egos, Trump does not stand a chance.............
2
Too soon to impeach. Let Mueller do his job. Don't want to risk double jeopardy if this even exists in impeachment precedings. (Note to Trump --not a quiz show game). Look for big money laundering cases in Fla mansion, NJ casinos and more revelations regarding the former MI6 operative report.
Man, would I love to be a fly on the wall of history when future generations try to explain how America temporarily went crazy and spent the aftermath cleaning up the mess. See the Trump enablers vying for honorable mention!
Man, would I love to be a fly on the wall of history when future generations try to explain how America temporarily went crazy and spent the aftermath cleaning up the mess. See the Trump enablers vying for honorable mention!
4
Trump declares, “I am being investigated”, then his lawyer says he “is not under investigation.”
Trump's own lawyer says you can't believe what Trump says. This really isn't funny any more.
Trump's own lawyer says you can't believe what Trump says. This really isn't funny any more.
6
Let me see if I understand this correctly and connect it to Watergate.
Nixon was also a lunatic. He was also guilty of crimes and obstruction of justice. He vowed to fight because he was not a "quitter."
So a long national nighmare (Ford's word) endured for 2 years. But eventually, in spite of his paranoid, hateful, corrupt government, he stepped dowm. In his resignation speech he said he did it for the country. I don't know if he meant that. I do know that he knew his presidency was doomed. Oh, and by the way, he won 49 of 40 states in his re-election. But, somewhere inside, he did care and he was willing to go, albeit without moaning about how great he was and how it was all a "witch hunt."
Trump is an entirely different animal. He will not quit. He will fight tooth and nail to the very, bitter end. He will assail the US intel services, he will say he is a victim of a conspiracy, he will jet around and encourage his "fans" to do anything and everything to keep him in power. Journalists will be at risk, moderate democrats and republicans are at risk. He doesn't care. He doesn't care about anything but himself. He is an evil despot. He would likely say "2nd amend. folks should focus on Mr. Mueller." His is the greatest voice against American democracy since George the III. This won't end well. There will be more violence. Since I am a baby boomer, I remember the 60's, Vietnam, Watergate. A new generation is about to feel that same toxic era. RESIST!
Nixon was also a lunatic. He was also guilty of crimes and obstruction of justice. He vowed to fight because he was not a "quitter."
So a long national nighmare (Ford's word) endured for 2 years. But eventually, in spite of his paranoid, hateful, corrupt government, he stepped dowm. In his resignation speech he said he did it for the country. I don't know if he meant that. I do know that he knew his presidency was doomed. Oh, and by the way, he won 49 of 40 states in his re-election. But, somewhere inside, he did care and he was willing to go, albeit without moaning about how great he was and how it was all a "witch hunt."
Trump is an entirely different animal. He will not quit. He will fight tooth and nail to the very, bitter end. He will assail the US intel services, he will say he is a victim of a conspiracy, he will jet around and encourage his "fans" to do anything and everything to keep him in power. Journalists will be at risk, moderate democrats and republicans are at risk. He doesn't care. He doesn't care about anything but himself. He is an evil despot. He would likely say "2nd amend. folks should focus on Mr. Mueller." His is the greatest voice against American democracy since George the III. This won't end well. There will be more violence. Since I am a baby boomer, I remember the 60's, Vietnam, Watergate. A new generation is about to feel that same toxic era. RESIST!
5
Why do people, including you, continue to give the newt a platform? A little man with a little mind. He would go away if you ignored him. At lest, leave him with only fx for a friend.
5
"Trump girding for a fight?" Nothing new there. Trump spends his entire life girding for one fight or another. It's who he is. All world is against him and he relentlessly prepares to joust with those windmills. Trump always has some dour, sour puss expression on his face, indicative of what must be the unhappiest person on the planet.
And Gingrich? Newt Gingrich has absolutely zero credibility to opine on anything.
And Gingrich? Newt Gingrich has absolutely zero credibility to opine on anything.
3
Yes, Trump has pulled the tools he uses to cultivate his daily ritual to "defame, discredit and delegitimize" to get what he needs to nourish his insatiable ego and fill his trove with money and power. His main tool isn't his Twitter account, it's the act of repetitive lying. The man has no boundaries and accountability means NOTHING to him. But here's the thing... Trump's tactics don't work, unless WE THE PEOPLE, (his potential prey) CHOOSE or OPT to fall under Trump's spell. Watching his attorney capitulate to the news interviewer last night that "when Trump claimed on Twitter that he was under investigation, he didn't really mean what he said, he was just limited by the 120-140 characters of social media." I laughed out loud. Spare me the drama. One doesn't have to be an "expert of social media"...what ever that means. Many Americans drank Trump's koolaid but I don't believe the they are hopeless, blithering idiots. Trump and his stressed out team are a "not so merry" band of minions are crooks, liars, thieves, greed mongers and narcissistic, spoiled rich brats. They no longer have an enemy to focus on. We are now watching a panorama of Trumptopia as it devours itself. It's not a pretty picture folks... even if in doses of 120 characters at a time.
2
Newt Gingrich is an odd duck. He publicly announced that he "got" Obama when that guy D'Souza wrote that Obama was getting political messages at the gravesite of his absentee dad. Newt also had no problem excoriating Clinton for moral reasons while cheating on his own wife. He is as much a moral windmill as Trump.
This is Trump's comfort zone- drama, lawsuits, his imaginary martyrdom. Meanwhile 7 of our sailors get their service and deaths acknowledged by Trump's idiot "tweets".
This is Trump's comfort zone- drama, lawsuits, his imaginary martyrdom. Meanwhile 7 of our sailors get their service and deaths acknowledged by Trump's idiot "tweets".
2
Terrible mistake to use Benedict Donald's track record in civil litigation as some gauge for predicting the outcome of criminal litigation. Here we have treason among the numerous crimes involved, there will be no settlements in this matter because the wrongs are existential.
2
Trump must genuinely believe all Americans are ignorant suckers.
How else could he continue to blatantly contradict himself, think we will agree with him when he falsely accuses others of what he has done himself, flout presidential norms and traditions, and ultimately, think he can get away with profiting from being president?
Now that it looks like he may not be able to buy/bully his way out of this predicament, he is a cornered rabid rat, spitting and fighting dirty. And, in that frame of panic he will bite anyone, even those who try to save him. In the end, they are the real suckers.
How else could he continue to blatantly contradict himself, think we will agree with him when he falsely accuses others of what he has done himself, flout presidential norms and traditions, and ultimately, think he can get away with profiting from being president?
Now that it looks like he may not be able to buy/bully his way out of this predicament, he is a cornered rabid rat, spitting and fighting dirty. And, in that frame of panic he will bite anyone, even those who try to save him. In the end, they are the real suckers.
2
Heck, lets hope, Gingrich is one of them, that goes down, for being an affront to humanity!
1
You can't defame that which is constructed to be defamatory.
1
Why does anyone look to Gingrich as a voice of authority? Why give this blowhard a platform to spew his toxic spew of right wing garbage? I would say the same thing for anyone on the left in his position. Why does this guy get air time? I see that the 4th estate is still on its primary mission. Make money by airing and quoting this caustic has beens' "talking points" to stir the pot and sell more commercials. This is discouraging.
4
Here's the deal.
He agreed to sell Alaska back to the Russians.
He just can't talk about it now because the closing is next week.
He agreed to sell Alaska back to the Russians.
He just can't talk about it now because the closing is next week.
2
Here's an idea - if you haven't done anything wrong why not just go ahead and run the country?
3
Dear Donald: You " won " the election, that can't be taken away, forever.
You don't need this unending hassle. Why don't you just retire, to your own private island. Guantanamo sounds nice.
You don't need this unending hassle. Why don't you just retire, to your own private island. Guantanamo sounds nice.
1
I wish the Democrats would spend more time investigating the proposed new health care plan and less time on the "Russia Stuff", the election is over we may or may not be stuck with trump for four years(I think he will resign for health reasons/embarrassing financial health reasons/ this Jared/
An Bang thing is just the tip of the iceberg, the head of An Bang is already in deep yogurt in China for improprieties)but in the meantime do your jobs don't make matters worse so you can gloat and say 'we told you so". Insist on seeing the health care propsal don't allow it and the tax cut to be pushed through in the dead of night, although just as many limousine liberals would benefit as members of the bible thumping G.O.P.
An Bang thing is just the tip of the iceberg, the head of An Bang is already in deep yogurt in China for improprieties)but in the meantime do your jobs don't make matters worse so you can gloat and say 'we told you so". Insist on seeing the health care propsal don't allow it and the tax cut to be pushed through in the dead of night, although just as many limousine liberals would benefit as members of the bible thumping G.O.P.
2
"Sekulow ... insist that what the president wrote was not what the president meant." That, together with sean Spicer's: "What the president said, is not what he meant" makes is incredibly clear that no matter what form of communication the "president" choses, he either can't tell the truth, or the truth is constantly bent over backwards to accomodate his royal stupidity-ness. This WH is a disgrace of biblical proportions. Inept, stupid and unwilling to comprehend anything: I am ashamed for this clown circus representing the US.
4
"....over 3,500 legal matters.....an unprecedented number for an American presidential nominee."
Or maybe even a human being.
Or maybe even a human being.
3
A message to Newt Gringrich - supposed you tell us why anyone should care what you think.
5
You wrote a telling phrase, Mr. Blow: "whatever the truth may be." That is the point! Trump continues to spin and distort truth, as do his surrogates. Sekulow and Conway tell us to ignore whatever Trump says and move on. (Just have faith in the Fuhrer.) Creating an alternate reality is the way of dictators. Confusion reigns. Read or re-read 1984, folks. While Rome burns, the Trumpsters are busy gutting healthcare, environmental protections, and government regulations that protect workers, students, minorities, women and the disabled. Will Congress step up? Will anyone "get" him before he gets us?
1
All of the angst that is accompanying this administration is beginning to make one thing clear. Trump is being successful in building his wall. It's a big, "beautiful," insurmountable obstacle, preventing anyone on either side to reach the other one. Following the news articles, opinion pages and comments sections, has been an exercise in watching bricks added to bricks as the wall grows between Right and Left, Liberals and Conservatives, Republicans and Democrats, whatever other opposites we can label ourselves. Nothing seems to be able to bring us together. I want to know the truth about Russia's role and anyone else's role in what happened to the U.S. election in 2016. But finding that truth is exacting an incalculable cost on all Americans. We're all paying for and into the building of a wall that may never be able to be dismantled. Can we just let those who are being paid to do the searching do their job? No amount of "litigating" in the Court of Public Opinion is going to make one iota of difference. And meanwhile the wall grows. What will it take to bring us together?
3
Mueller can be relied upon to dig up whatever financial dirt there is, and many in Trump's inner circle and his billionaire/millionaire Cabinet are probably vulnerable as well. Lots of new work for the lawyers and accountants, and maybe, just maybe, a very public look at the financial dealings of the 1%.
3
I hope I'm wrong but I'm not as sure that justice will be served as Mr. Blow is.
Regardless of what Mr. Mueller finds, congress must act to impeach and convict Trump. As long as the Trump base holds, I see little chance of a majority in the House voting to impeach. And even if they do, the prospect of getting at least 67 votes to convict in the Senate is even more remote. Trump knows this, which is why his tweets, statements, and the actions of Trump surrogates is all about keeping the base together, regardless of what the other 60% to 65% of the country wants.
Also, Trump has the power to derail the investigation by firing Mueller, and issuing pardons to his former campaign or administration members who are in the most jeopardy. (Which is basically what George HW Bush did for Caspar Weinberger to derail a trial that may have implicated Bush himself.) Again, short of congressional action, nothing can be done.
Regardless of what Mr. Mueller finds, congress must act to impeach and convict Trump. As long as the Trump base holds, I see little chance of a majority in the House voting to impeach. And even if they do, the prospect of getting at least 67 votes to convict in the Senate is even more remote. Trump knows this, which is why his tweets, statements, and the actions of Trump surrogates is all about keeping the base together, regardless of what the other 60% to 65% of the country wants.
Also, Trump has the power to derail the investigation by firing Mueller, and issuing pardons to his former campaign or administration members who are in the most jeopardy. (Which is basically what George HW Bush did for Caspar Weinberger to derail a trial that may have implicated Bush himself.) Again, short of congressional action, nothing can be done.
10
Mueller's diligent but non-partisan investigation could expose a myriad of conflicts of interest or outright corruption among Trump's inner circle, including Jared and the Trump sons. Justice could come in many other forms.
2
DBman Sadly you may be right. Trump was an apt student of Roy Cohn. Paid attention and learned his lessons well. Be aggressive, pugilistic. don't give quarter, lie. destroy anyone that gets in the way. lie, compromise, defame, control the story, be duplicitous, lie, distract, spin the story, lie, shout loudest and often, cheat, kick the 'enemy when down then go for the jugular, lie!
2
Tump doesn't seem to understand that the manner which he has chosen to attempt a defense or deflection, or diversion, informs the public more about the man's flaws than the formalized proceedings ever will. His tweets have inflated what could potentially been a non-story into daily headlines. Whether Mueller ever concludes Trump attempted obstruction or aided and abetted collusion with the Russians, Trump will be found wanting by a large segment of the voting population. That in turn will tarnish the GOP members who consider it more important to support him than the country and its people as a whole.
8
I appreciate the column, but why in God's name is Gingrich being interviewed and quoted here and elsewhere? He was run out of the House for his incompetence, he holds no elected office now, and his main attraction to journalists seems to be that he'll give bombastic pronouncements to literally anyone who calls him. Seriously, NYT, Gingrich is not a power broker nor an expert nor even very interesting. Raise the bar, folks.
1604
It has long been said that Gingrich is a stupid person's idea of a smart person.
He plays the professorial card to the GOP and for some reason they buy it.
He plays the professorial card to the GOP and for some reason they buy it.
7
I agree - quit seeking out and printing responses from this pathetic and discredited excuse for a public servant.
5
The Newt is The Donald Lite, a loser, narcissist, egomaniac, thug, throws crumbs to the poor unwashed to keep them in line, so forth and so on.
5
Newt Gingrich also made clear (like Alan Dershowitz on multiple occasions), that after all of these months of investigations and more commonly, innuendo, no crime has been identified. So what do you call an investigation where there has been no illegal act? That's right, a witchhunt. Just like you, Mr. Blow, and the rest of the New York Times editorial board, who will resort to anything, including reprinting accusations you all know are categorically false, there is more than plenty to suggest that Bob Mueller may have a severe political bent. No logical person would trust this process.
26
What do you call an investigation where no crime has been identified? You call it an investigation in progress. That's what.
11
We won't know if a crime was committed until the investigation is concluded. How about you people on the far right let this one investigation proceed to its conclusion - after all, Republicans investigated Hillary seven times over Benghazi, found nothing, and admitted their intent was to damage her in the polls.
You know what to call someone who insists that the investigation into them be interrupted before it's finished, don't you? Usually we call them "guilty".
You know what to call someone who insists that the investigation into them be interrupted before it's finished, don't you? Usually we call them "guilty".
5
No crime has been identified yet. Nor has it yet been determined that none was committed. The grand jury is still out.
4
Just a note about Newt Gingrich, some kind of Island Survivor. He has long ago pledged some kind of loyalty to Trump. It's the only explanation for his fealty to someone who is clearly illogical, mean spirited and at times unhinged (see Trump's twitter feed). Gingrich is all about what? Well it seems to me that Gingrich is all about Gingrich. Votes to impeach Clinton on obstruction of justice charges, but now thinks that charge is part of the witch hunt. His latest book is a love song to Trump on the peudo psycho guise of "understanding." The only thing we understand from this flatter paean to Trump is that Gingrich gets $1 million or more for the PR. Please tell me how his wife, Calista, married to thrice divorced Gingrich has any business as ambassador to the Vatican!
There is no honor in Gingrich's words, no truth, either. The mere fact that he descends on tv land's Sean Hannity, another flak, to promote his "deep state" conspiracy theories, is proof that there's nothing to know about Newt that we didn't already know when he dumped his second wife for his third and praised an incoherent bumble brain like Trump. Maybe Mueller should look into Newt's activities, too and vote Newt off the Island?
There is no honor in Gingrich's words, no truth, either. The mere fact that he descends on tv land's Sean Hannity, another flak, to promote his "deep state" conspiracy theories, is proof that there's nothing to know about Newt that we didn't already know when he dumped his second wife for his third and praised an incoherent bumble brain like Trump. Maybe Mueller should look into Newt's activities, too and vote Newt off the Island?
45
Gingrich has a new book to sell, and owes some gratitude to Trump for his wife's ambassadorial appointment to the Vatican. He is long past his expired date as a worthwhile commentator.
1
On of the comments suggested that Trump was only "defending" himself and was innocent until proven guilty. He isn't defending himself. He isn't releasing evidence or documents that would show him to be innocent. He is attacking and using social media to impugn the integrity of others and his position to try to influence others to drop the investigation. As another columnist in the NY Magazine noted (Andrew Sullivan), he may very well be innocent. In fact, no one in a position to do so legally has accused him of anything. Comey did not accuse Mr. Trump of anything until Trump leaned on him to ease up on Mike Flynn and then fired him when he put his oath to uphold the law above his personal loyalty to the president. In fairness, I would note the "vast right-wing conspiracy" accusations of the Clintons, as well as point out that we had eight years without major scandals. Indeed, most of the impeachment of both Comey and Obama's characters seemed to be that they're elitists who just try to be too good for the rest of us.
20
My guess is that many of those 500 plaintiffs whose suits against Trump were dismissed actually received settlements. From what I have read, Trump has lost a lot of the legal fights he has picked, but makes settlements with nondisclosure agreements and then claims to have won the cases because no express finding of liability was made against him.
40
Settlements and/or threats.
1
The nation's resources are now in the hands of a bunco artist whose congress of enablers' only concern is what's in it for them. We are playing out the tawdry drama of a bought government. It's that simple.
32
Facing a cheated contractor with a just call Saul lawyer and facing Bub Mueller with a band of forensic accountants and criminal attorneys are two very different venues.
445
At least that's the hope. What acts are the Republican party yet to attempt to obstruct this investigation every step of the way? AND if there is evidence of collusion or Trump financial mis-dealings will they start impeachment? I think we know the answer to that. No.
Funny how ginned up charges from papers like the NYT implying the President of the United States is somehow a treasonous Russian spy with no actual evidence to back it up along with the refusal of his FBI director who knows it's all rubbish but refuses to throw water on the flames makes the man angry. Who would have thought? What a hot head!
As for the investigation being in it's 'early stages' it's been going now for what 9 months no doubt with all the data mined & available within the 1st few weeks and has already leaked the worst it can come up with which is to say very little. All that's left is to somehow pretend Trump is guilty of obstruction for expressing his exasperation at the whole seedy episode.
As for the investigation being in it's 'early stages' it's been going now for what 9 months no doubt with all the data mined & available within the 1st few weeks and has already leaked the worst it can come up with which is to say very little. All that's left is to somehow pretend Trump is guilty of obstruction for expressing his exasperation at the whole seedy episode.
5
He may not be a Russian spy but he behaves in the open like a Russian Toady. He insults our allies and praises dictators. He admires dictators and strives to be one. I hope our other institutions will not collapse under his regime of confusion and money grabbing. We don't need covert evidence to know Trump is a bad President. He shows us every day in his tweets, his laziness and his ignorance. He's not disciplined enough to be a spy.
2
Show me one article in which the Times accuses Trump of being a treasonous Russian spy, or that he personally colluded with the Russians. Seems I've read in this paper and other papers, and on television reports, that the campaign is being investigated to include several tied to the campaign. Never has it been reported that Trump himself had conversations with Russians. He wants everyone to believe that is the allegation, and because some have said that so far there is no proof of collusion on his part, that he's vindicated. What is suspected is that folks like Flynn, Manafort, Page, Cohen, and Sessions have met with Russians and lied about the meetings. Also the investigation is into corruption, which may lead to Trump, but so far has not named him personally. If you cover things up, hide your taxes, refuse to say negative things about or acknowledge cyber-hacking, fire the head of the investigation, and ask officials to squash the investigation, you start looking guilty. And sir, he is exasperated about it not because it doesn't necessarily exist, but because it tarnishes his "huge" victory
1
It took 2 years to bring Nixon down. Patience . . .
2
There once was a President petulant
Of lawyers he thought malevolent
Insisting they’re unfair
A charge drawn from thin air
Only promotes his Vice President
Of lawyers he thought malevolent
Insisting they’re unfair
A charge drawn from thin air
Only promotes his Vice President
11
On Sunday's talk show, Trump lawyer Jay Sekulow waffled repeatedly about Trump's Twitter acknowledgement that he was being investigated. Sekulow asserted absurdly that the reverse was true, because Trump was only responding to a Washington Post story based on four "anonymous sources." Even that feeble response was a dishonest attempt to spin and discredit the Post story. The Post sources were unnamed, but not anonymous, a crucial distinction. When a gun-for-hire lawyer distorts language in this way, everything he says becomes suspect. I wonder if Sekulow has a top-secret security clearance? I'd hate to think he's privy to the nation's classified documents.
301
The Trumpworld Rules: Truth is dead. Science is not real. Two plus two equal five. Words have no constant meaning. Only what Trump believes matters, and when it changes that's the new truth.
Sekulow is the latest apologist for Trump's tweets, and may be contradicted soon. So what? To his cult, only Trump's reality matters and that is whatever he or his surrogates say it is until it changes.
I am still holding out for "the truth shall set you free." I hope it gets here soon.
Sekulow is the latest apologist for Trump's tweets, and may be contradicted soon. So what? To his cult, only Trump's reality matters and that is whatever he or his surrogates say it is until it changes.
I am still holding out for "the truth shall set you free." I hope it gets here soon.
3
The Russian diplomats in the Oval Office meeting had no clearance - in Trump's WH it doesn't seem to matter.
2
reply to physprof, Santa Fe:
What amazes me is the way DJT is sucking all of these (supposedly) reputable people into his vortex of alternative truths. I never heard of Sekulow until this week, but I have to assume he has been an upstanding citizen - until he was hired by DJT. Now he has wrapped himself in Kelly Conway's cloak. His repetitions on Meet The Press yesterday were classic examples of the strategy that repeating the lie/distortion often enough will bring about the establishment of a real "fake news" item. I'm not on FB so don't know how often his repetitions have been echoed there already.
What amazes me is the way DJT is sucking all of these (supposedly) reputable people into his vortex of alternative truths. I never heard of Sekulow until this week, but I have to assume he has been an upstanding citizen - until he was hired by DJT. Now he has wrapped himself in Kelly Conway's cloak. His repetitions on Meet The Press yesterday were classic examples of the strategy that repeating the lie/distortion often enough will bring about the establishment of a real "fake news" item. I'm not on FB so don't know how often his repetitions have been echoed there already.
2
Like in an Agatha Christie denouement, it seems perfectly plain that the suspect has something to hide, and that it's not what everyone thinks he's hiding. The idea that someone as shambolic as Mr Trump could've had his way with the notoriously corrupted New York construction industry for so long without breaking federal laws seems rather unlikely. Of course, this doesn't see him out of office. That depends on how much ungarnished FBI rap sheet Republicans can consume in a single setting.
17
I understand Mueller has brought on financial crime expert investigators and forensic accountants. Follow the money trail, indeed.
It is well know that after Trump started defaulting on his casino loans to the NY banks, the decision was made they could recover more by allowing the casinos to limp along on life support rather than call in the loans. Don the Con then took the casinos public, suckering unwitting investors into buying co. stock and bonds, while paying himself a salary of $40 million a year. After bleeding out what he could, he then used the bankruptcy laws to walk away, and stiff all the investors with his losses. At that point, none of the NY banks wanted anything to do with him. Look to whom he then turned to for financing- Deutsche Bank, a bank that got fined almost 1 billion for laundering dirty Russian money. Look into the Cypress banks that also launder dirty Russian money- there is a connection there with Manifort, & Trump's Secretary of Commerce. Then you have the FL mansion that Trump bought and flipped w/in a couple of years for twice his price.
Who was the buyer? One of Putin's billionaire buddies - the fertilizer king.
How many murky Russians have bought NY Trump properties?
If the U. S, banks think you are toxic, where is he getting his financing?
Why did Donald Jr. brag about major business with the Russians, then Dad turns around and claims he has no dealings with the Russians?
The truth will eventually come out.
It is well know that after Trump started defaulting on his casino loans to the NY banks, the decision was made they could recover more by allowing the casinos to limp along on life support rather than call in the loans. Don the Con then took the casinos public, suckering unwitting investors into buying co. stock and bonds, while paying himself a salary of $40 million a year. After bleeding out what he could, he then used the bankruptcy laws to walk away, and stiff all the investors with his losses. At that point, none of the NY banks wanted anything to do with him. Look to whom he then turned to for financing- Deutsche Bank, a bank that got fined almost 1 billion for laundering dirty Russian money. Look into the Cypress banks that also launder dirty Russian money- there is a connection there with Manifort, & Trump's Secretary of Commerce. Then you have the FL mansion that Trump bought and flipped w/in a couple of years for twice his price.
Who was the buyer? One of Putin's billionaire buddies - the fertilizer king.
How many murky Russians have bought NY Trump properties?
If the U. S, banks think you are toxic, where is he getting his financing?
Why did Donald Jr. brag about major business with the Russians, then Dad turns around and claims he has no dealings with the Russians?
The truth will eventually come out.
863
Absolutely correct. Jared's business dealings may not look so kosher in the light of day, either. What if Trump survives but Jared goes to jail?
2
Liars, all of them!
2
Cyprus is an island in Europe. Cypress is a wood in Florida.
Newt Gingrich, apparently a Trump surrogate, is just another old-has-been. I don't understand why anyone would listen to him. I hope the press keeps its eye on what is really going on and doesn't get too distracted by all the Trumpnoise.
33
Trump's modus operandi has been attack and try to slime his opponents, or bankrupt them with drawn out legal proceedings. This will fail with the Special Counsel. Trump must either hope to deflect the public (a war with Iran?) or fire Mueller for some (fake) reason.
14
If there are witches to hunt, a witch hunt is not a bad thing, is it? He should remember the famous quote from the Wizard of Oz: "Toto, we're not in Trump Tower anymore!" The parties he is trying to intimidate are not contractors, lawyers, students of the T-U, he is dealing with the US democratic system.
Good luck!
Good luck!
24
Trump's lawyer is as ridiculous as Trump, 'no, what the president tweeted he didn't mean to say', so says the lawyer. Second rebuttal, 'it was Twitter's fault in not character counting the message correctly'. First of all I am sick and tired of Trump insulting our intelligence en masse, and everyone around him is an enabler as far as shielding a 71 year old man from taking responsibility for his own actions.
Meanwhile the GOP had to jump in to place sanctions against Russia as retribution for their cyber attack, and possibly continuing acts of cyber terrorism on America. Trump wasn't going to do it. Our president is pro-Russia and pro-Trump business and the latest news on the Trump holdings front is an excess of 100 Trump trademarks registered in Russia with a shelf life of 10 years, though activation, by establishing businesses, needs to happen in 3.
The Trump version of American foreign policy is to travel the world to build up his personal empire, as in China, Saudi Arabia.
Being president and wielding power as an American king has not proven easy, the people won't let him. So, when he is not frustrated that his fake news has not made the Russian probe go away, he is doing what he does best, making business deals for clan Trump.
The Eau de Trump stench of corruption can be smelt across America. I hope the Robert Mueller investigation clears the air for all of us.
Meanwhile the GOP had to jump in to place sanctions against Russia as retribution for their cyber attack, and possibly continuing acts of cyber terrorism on America. Trump wasn't going to do it. Our president is pro-Russia and pro-Trump business and the latest news on the Trump holdings front is an excess of 100 Trump trademarks registered in Russia with a shelf life of 10 years, though activation, by establishing businesses, needs to happen in 3.
The Trump version of American foreign policy is to travel the world to build up his personal empire, as in China, Saudi Arabia.
Being president and wielding power as an American king has not proven easy, the people won't let him. So, when he is not frustrated that his fake news has not made the Russian probe go away, he is doing what he does best, making business deals for clan Trump.
The Eau de Trump stench of corruption can be smelt across America. I hope the Robert Mueller investigation clears the air for all of us.
18
Crooked lying Trump has always behaved mafia-like, a scoundrel benefited from bending the rules, stealing from people working for him, creating 'losses' to benefit from tax loopholes, and intimidating his rightfully upset victims into submission, in giving up their fight for Trump's trampling on them. The fact that our fraudster in chief won't release his tax returns is most suspicious of graft, and likely a point of contention in Mueller's investigation. Let's hope the buck stops now, before this vulgar bully gets his way...and we hit the highway. Incidentally, why are we listening to deceitful Gingrich's nonsense, irrelevant as he has become, after his ousting from congress?
24
It's not Mueller's fault that most of the most accomplished and ethical people happen to have left-of-center (i.e. Democratic) politics. That's just the way of it.
42
And, what's a little corruption between accomplished and ethical people, right?
How many times have we heard "what the president wrote (or said) was not what the president meant"? Is Trump a child that needs to have his words and actions constantly explained and excused? Are those who reinterpret his words saying what they mean or wish the president meant? Do we have a president or a spoiled child whose parents are always making excuses for his words and actions?
9
Trump goes after small contractors who can't afford protracted legal battles. I somehow don't think the Feds will have that kind of resource constraint. And knowing how greedy Trump is, what are the chances he'll pony up to help defend his confederates in this shameful debacle?
11
Trump's choices are letting Mueller find evidence of crimes Trump committed or getting rid of him and the investigation. It might be a political firestorm but that beats what Mueller will find.
5
Trump's ham-handed attempt to intimidate Mr. Comey, by claiming that their private Oval Office conversations were recorded will, I feel, come back to haunt him. It is most likely that this assertion, like many of his prior ones, will be established as false and recklessly so. This will be used as one more circumstantial element, to a growing list of such evidence, to further solidify a case of obstruction of justice against him. Trump's impulsive, self-incriminating rants clearly are among his worst enemies, and gifts to any prosecutorial authority.
The column refers to Trump's previous record of courtroom successes. These should provide him with no confidence or solace. Those were civil actions against private litigants, many of whom lacked the financial resources to counter his attorneys' well-reported "scorched earth" tactics. His opponent this time is, in reality, the U.S. Government, with the wide breadth of confidential investigative resources and deep pool of legal talent such an adversary has available to it. Trump's disingenuous attempts to crudely impugn the integrity of Mr. Mueller and his assembled team will only backfire on several fronts. He truly "does not know what he does not know" but, as the investigation methodically proceeds, will be give an "education" he has never previously experienced.
The column refers to Trump's previous record of courtroom successes. These should provide him with no confidence or solace. Those were civil actions against private litigants, many of whom lacked the financial resources to counter his attorneys' well-reported "scorched earth" tactics. His opponent this time is, in reality, the U.S. Government, with the wide breadth of confidential investigative resources and deep pool of legal talent such an adversary has available to it. Trump's disingenuous attempts to crudely impugn the integrity of Mr. Mueller and his assembled team will only backfire on several fronts. He truly "does not know what he does not know" but, as the investigation methodically proceeds, will be give an "education" he has never previously experienced.
15
His enemies list must be pretty long by now , everyday he adds a new name, the dujour menu changes hourly.
1
This is all going to come down to money. When they start digging down into Trumps connection with Russian money, which means a level of control by Putin, its going to be very clear to everyone what Trump has been hiding and why.
10
If President Trump lands in jail after he leaves office (whether through resignation, end-of-term, or impeachment) does he retain his secret service protection even behind bars? And his Presidential pension? It's clearly time to begin thinking about such things.
8
First, I don't think the FBI and/or Dept of Justice engage into investigations just to do so.
They must have had enough prima facia evidence to prove a case they are investigating or else they would have wasted a lot of money for no reason.
With the firing of James Comey and especially the way he did so, it was like, a little boy slapping another, blindsiding him, so as to cause embarrassment.
It was a boneheaded move.
Then Trump, all by himself said on national TV, that he was going to fire Comey before he got the 'recommendation' to do so from Rosenstein because of the 'Russia thing'. He just gave substance to the investigation on himself.
Maybe it was one of those Freudian slips or something.
But even more so, if Trump and friends really feel they (he) haven't done anything wrong to cause this much attention, why not just let the investigation go forward and if nothing is found, he (they) would have a chance to brag about how right they were and the overreach of government.
They must have had enough prima facia evidence to prove a case they are investigating or else they would have wasted a lot of money for no reason.
With the firing of James Comey and especially the way he did so, it was like, a little boy slapping another, blindsiding him, so as to cause embarrassment.
It was a boneheaded move.
Then Trump, all by himself said on national TV, that he was going to fire Comey before he got the 'recommendation' to do so from Rosenstein because of the 'Russia thing'. He just gave substance to the investigation on himself.
Maybe it was one of those Freudian slips or something.
But even more so, if Trump and friends really feel they (he) haven't done anything wrong to cause this much attention, why not just let the investigation go forward and if nothing is found, he (they) would have a chance to brag about how right they were and the overreach of government.
5
Trump's lawyer saying the president is not under investigation allows Trump to to get rid of Mueller and feign innocent of obstruction of justice.
4
Gingrich says: "... I don’t think they’re going to get the president, but they’re going to get somebody..."
Right. Sounds familiar."They" didn't get Cheney for outing a CIA agent, but "they" got Scooter Libby.
The buck doesn't stop where it ought to stop. (Yes, I know, Cheney's TITLE was only VP.)
Right. Sounds familiar."They" didn't get Cheney for outing a CIA agent, but "they" got Scooter Libby.
The buck doesn't stop where it ought to stop. (Yes, I know, Cheney's TITLE was only VP.)
5
If you have an acquaintance who is still supporting Trump, I find it best to ask questions such as what has he done for America. There is usually a pause and it is all the fault of Obama. The Press gets beaten up next. By the time you have worked his ally into a loyal steam, it is time to agree that The World According to Trump is unhealthy.
Now. Having just looked at an interview for two minutes with Alex Jones, who also is not going away, why does America have time or money to waste on these cult figures. If you had the misfortune to be seated at dinner with Jones sitting on your right, would you try to get him red under the collar or ask him about his family ties.
Then there is the free spirit and independent who has the choice not to vote and tells you that either way it is not good but at least it was 'Not Hillary'. Maybe the above does not like women. He does not know how to use a computer so it cannot be about the email server. He is also the Town Crier and has nothing good to say about anybody.
The bleeding heart Liberals are still weeping? America needs a President. At the moment we have a cardboard one. While he goes on a wax about his tribulations, Time is our most precious commodity and it could be used to get our Nation in motion.
Keep writing, Mr. Blow, this reader and American always find that you have something of interest to relay.
Now. Having just looked at an interview for two minutes with Alex Jones, who also is not going away, why does America have time or money to waste on these cult figures. If you had the misfortune to be seated at dinner with Jones sitting on your right, would you try to get him red under the collar or ask him about his family ties.
Then there is the free spirit and independent who has the choice not to vote and tells you that either way it is not good but at least it was 'Not Hillary'. Maybe the above does not like women. He does not know how to use a computer so it cannot be about the email server. He is also the Town Crier and has nothing good to say about anybody.
The bleeding heart Liberals are still weeping? America needs a President. At the moment we have a cardboard one. While he goes on a wax about his tribulations, Time is our most precious commodity and it could be used to get our Nation in motion.
Keep writing, Mr. Blow, this reader and American always find that you have something of interest to relay.
5
Remember the old adage: A bully is always a coward. And this is how a cornered bully behaves.
7
I seem to recall that Mueller himself is a Republican but i guess everyone is smear-worthy when the Trump crime family's well-being is threatened.
5
Again Newt Gingrich was making Sunday roundups as I saw him at a distance in one of the TV monitors at the exercise health-plex. Saw him vigorously making hand and facial gestures all one has to see his body movements. Only FOX will give him any air time.
You know why ?
Newt Gingrich has to sell a book that`s all about it.
You know why ?
Newt Gingrich has to sell a book that`s all about it.
2
Lest We Forget;
The "Bones" of the Mueller Investigation is about Protecting Our Country !
All of our Security & Intelligence Agencies "Agree" that there is Verifiable Proof that the Russians had Interfered with our 2016 Election -
No "Credible" groups are denying this - Even the GOP - with Exception of "The White House" !
Trump - as always and forever - is a "Show-boater" - and this is the nicest thing I can say about him; ET AL.
Any "Real President" and Any Real Republicans would be absolutely Outraged of this foreign interference with our free Democracy !
We The People would "expect" that our Leadership would be pulling out all the stops to get to the bottom of this - But NO !
Trump has made this "all about him" - with absolutely no regard whatsoever for the real threat to our country . . . and it seems like the GOP and T-Base is right behind the president - also without any proper response to the election hacking.
Mr. Blow, you cite some terrifying statistics - as to how many times has "been in court" and how few times he succumbed.
Hopefully, "this time" will be different and the real power of the Judiciary Branch will come to bear !
The "Bones" of the Mueller Investigation is about Protecting Our Country !
All of our Security & Intelligence Agencies "Agree" that there is Verifiable Proof that the Russians had Interfered with our 2016 Election -
No "Credible" groups are denying this - Even the GOP - with Exception of "The White House" !
Trump - as always and forever - is a "Show-boater" - and this is the nicest thing I can say about him; ET AL.
Any "Real President" and Any Real Republicans would be absolutely Outraged of this foreign interference with our free Democracy !
We The People would "expect" that our Leadership would be pulling out all the stops to get to the bottom of this - But NO !
Trump has made this "all about him" - with absolutely no regard whatsoever for the real threat to our country . . . and it seems like the GOP and T-Base is right behind the president - also without any proper response to the election hacking.
Mr. Blow, you cite some terrifying statistics - as to how many times has "been in court" and how few times he succumbed.
Hopefully, "this time" will be different and the real power of the Judiciary Branch will come to bear !
2
And if it is proved that those in his administration are liars, cheaters, and quislings, but are not removed from office, he will have won. For his base, continued tenancy amounts to ownership. For his supporters, that is all that matters.
1
Newt's hawking his new book. Period.
4
Gingrich and Fox attacking Mueller and his aides for the politics explains why people, especially in red states doubt respect law and order.
Trump has been fighting his whole life - it's his favorite pastime. His father sent him to military school to help solve his fighting problem - it failed. Not really the best mindset for the leader of the biggest military on the planet.
1
Trump is just "being Trump". There is no 'strategy', just tactics... the same kind of tactics that got him out of financial ruin in the past - bluster, intimidation, and appeals for pity on him because he's being treated unfairly.
He is on the very edge of using those same tactics to launch attacks on his erstwhile "friends" (Paul Ryan and Mitch McConnell) as they are not acting loyally enough. Roy Cohn taught Trump the only lesson he has ever shown any indication that he learned - anybody who is not completely, unquestioningly "loyal" (unquestionably, without doubt, loyal) is an enemy who must be attacked as viciously as possible lest they cause damage - especially "friends" (and Mr. Trump has more "close personal friends" than Sammy David Jr. ever had) know stuff that can be dangerous.
After Ryan and McConnell, he will go after his older sons whom he will blame for running the Trump "business" (branding) into the ground and claim that they have been incompetent and enriched themselves at the expense of the "business" and HIMSELF.
Alternatively, we may be witnessing Mr. Trump struggling with the late stages of undiagnosed or poorly treated syphilis - which would not surprising given his personal physician's own eccentricities and Mr. Trump's years of trolling the depths of New York's most decadent "clubs" during his 20's and 30's.
Perhaps this is a good time to reread "KIng Lear" (with Reince Priebus as the fool)??
He is on the very edge of using those same tactics to launch attacks on his erstwhile "friends" (Paul Ryan and Mitch McConnell) as they are not acting loyally enough. Roy Cohn taught Trump the only lesson he has ever shown any indication that he learned - anybody who is not completely, unquestioningly "loyal" (unquestionably, without doubt, loyal) is an enemy who must be attacked as viciously as possible lest they cause damage - especially "friends" (and Mr. Trump has more "close personal friends" than Sammy David Jr. ever had) know stuff that can be dangerous.
After Ryan and McConnell, he will go after his older sons whom he will blame for running the Trump "business" (branding) into the ground and claim that they have been incompetent and enriched themselves at the expense of the "business" and HIMSELF.
Alternatively, we may be witnessing Mr. Trump struggling with the late stages of undiagnosed or poorly treated syphilis - which would not surprising given his personal physician's own eccentricities and Mr. Trump's years of trolling the depths of New York's most decadent "clubs" during his 20's and 30's.
Perhaps this is a good time to reread "KIng Lear" (with Reince Priebus as the fool)??
2
How low the mighty have fallen. Newt Gingrich, from Speaker of The House of Representatives to Trump crony.
1
Mr. Trump clearly learned well the lessons taught him by Roy Cohn. He'll fight to the end. He'll never admit anything. He'll outspend his opponents. He'll attempt to make it too painful and too expensive to battle him. He'll settle if necessary, but always for far less than he owes.That's the business model he has always employed, so why would anyone think he's going to change now?
Believe Mr. Blow's many readers would appreciate it if he showed initiative, creativity and did some investigative reporting among the folks who have stood by Trump, those living in small towns and rural hamlets, ask them their opinions,and above all whether inside the Beltway goings- on have had any personal effect on their lives and ability to earn a living: "bref," bread and butter issues. It would also be helpful to venture where many journos fear to tread, into housing projects where daily living for honest folks is perilous ,
and solicit their opinions.Recall that not once during his two terms did Obama visit the "projects,"whether on the south side of Chicago, Compton, Bedford Stuyvesant or anywhere down and out folks, barely scraping by, reside.Now, living in a mansion on Kalorama Road, wealthiest, most exclusive quarter in Washington, former c-in-c is more isolated than ever from millions of the folks, white and black, who elected him."Entre parentheses," is it unreasonable to think that a percentage of the 60 million advance Pres. pocketed from a publisher should be returned to the [people, voters who elected him? Were he not a former c-in-c, would any publisher care? Topics for future columns, Mr. Blow. Finally, Deray Mckesson:Did he try our for the Dallas police force, or did he get cold feet?You knew him personally. Please inform us of his present activities. He is a public figure. We have a right to know.
and solicit their opinions.Recall that not once during his two terms did Obama visit the "projects,"whether on the south side of Chicago, Compton, Bedford Stuyvesant or anywhere down and out folks, barely scraping by, reside.Now, living in a mansion on Kalorama Road, wealthiest, most exclusive quarter in Washington, former c-in-c is more isolated than ever from millions of the folks, white and black, who elected him."Entre parentheses," is it unreasonable to think that a percentage of the 60 million advance Pres. pocketed from a publisher should be returned to the [people, voters who elected him? Were he not a former c-in-c, would any publisher care? Topics for future columns, Mr. Blow. Finally, Deray Mckesson:Did he try our for the Dallas police force, or did he get cold feet?You knew him personally. Please inform us of his present activities. He is a public figure. We have a right to know.
1
That Donald Trump is a habitual liar is well known, and thankfully both the New York Times and the Washington Post have accepted that they have to use the word "like" and "liar" in relation to him.
But does't fairness dictate that Newt Gingrich's proven record of mendacity (and infidelity) be also referenced. After all, if Gingrich is providing a character reference for Donald Trump, shouldn't readers at least know the character of the man supply the reference? His second divorce led to a particularly unedifying, if amusing festival of mendacity.
This is a man who gave a a Congressional speech that Tip O’Neill called it “the lowest thing I’ve ever seen in my 32 years of Congress,” and republican leader Trent Lott demanded be stricken from the congressional record, a demand the , presiding congressional officer ruled in favor of. Perhaps showing the way to Trump, a Gingrich charity paid a Gingrich for-profit company $220,000 for cases of his books and DVDs; he called Justice Sotomayor a “latina woman racist;” he has inflated his follower count on Twitter by creating fake user accounts, making up as much as 92% of his followers; he pushed to "abolish the Congressional Budget Office because it lies;" he compared the left and democrats appeasers “If in fact we are to follow the Chamberlain liberal Democratic line of withdrawal from the planet" ignoring the detail that Chamberlain was a conservative.
He's a deeply sleazy man - defending an even sleazier one.
But does't fairness dictate that Newt Gingrich's proven record of mendacity (and infidelity) be also referenced. After all, if Gingrich is providing a character reference for Donald Trump, shouldn't readers at least know the character of the man supply the reference? His second divorce led to a particularly unedifying, if amusing festival of mendacity.
This is a man who gave a a Congressional speech that Tip O’Neill called it “the lowest thing I’ve ever seen in my 32 years of Congress,” and republican leader Trent Lott demanded be stricken from the congressional record, a demand the , presiding congressional officer ruled in favor of. Perhaps showing the way to Trump, a Gingrich charity paid a Gingrich for-profit company $220,000 for cases of his books and DVDs; he called Justice Sotomayor a “latina woman racist;” he has inflated his follower count on Twitter by creating fake user accounts, making up as much as 92% of his followers; he pushed to "abolish the Congressional Budget Office because it lies;" he compared the left and democrats appeasers “If in fact we are to follow the Chamberlain liberal Democratic line of withdrawal from the planet" ignoring the detail that Chamberlain was a conservative.
He's a deeply sleazy man - defending an even sleazier one.
4
He is guilty. Choose from the menu that has been floated. My real worry is the fallout. His sycophants will never, ever accept reality. The last election, if not Obamas presidency (the daily Republican attacks in Congress that spilt and festered in the minds of ignorant bigots), proved how divided we are. Isn't it time we seriously talked about breaking up this so called "Union"? From our nation's very beginning (read any book examining the decades of 1770, 1780 and 1790), we struggled and battled. Isn't it time we stop the charade? We all know what states would rightfully and gladly form two or three new nations. The map of today does not have to be the map of tomorrow. History is replete with borders being redrawn, new nations being born and others ceasing. It's time. And there will be peace.
3
Mr. Mueller hired some of the best lawyers in the country whose expertise is to prosecute money laundering, corruption and other monetary crimes. And that fact obviously scares the bejesus out of Trump and Jared-Dearest.
Right-wing circles, led by Gingrich et. al., insist that these lawyers donated tons and tons of money to democrats, and are thus ultra-partisan.
Actually, three of the lawyers that have mostly contributed to Democrats donated just a bit under $2,000 per year over the last 10 years. That is pocket change for almost all of Trump's cabinet members compared to what they gave to his campaign to get a cushy job.
Right-wing circles, led by Gingrich et. al., insist that these lawyers donated tons and tons of money to democrats, and are thus ultra-partisan.
Actually, three of the lawyers that have mostly contributed to Democrats donated just a bit under $2,000 per year over the last 10 years. That is pocket change for almost all of Trump's cabinet members compared to what they gave to his campaign to get a cushy job.
3
Look at the bigger picture, though. Newt is trying to get people to believe that lawyers have to be put into categories.....just like Crooked Donnie tried in the Trump University case. "He should recuse himself because he's Mexican!" Trump cried.
We don't assign female lawyers only to cases where the defendant is female. We don't assign Indian lawyers to cases where the defendant is from India.... and on and on.
We don't assign female lawyers only to cases where the defendant is female. We don't assign Indian lawyers to cases where the defendant is from India.... and on and on.
1
the man i his worst enemy. that is how it will collapse. in a storm of tears about his victimization. yeah this guy in charge is a TOTAL BUST. I Fold
1
How rich (yes) that Newt claims members of the Mueller's team cannot be impartial because they may or may not have given to Democrat candidates in the past. First, fake forty five gave to Democrats since he was one until about 2016. Second, Newt's adulterous wife (with Newt who was married at the time) is up for an ambassadorship to the Vatican!? What an irrelevant hypocrite and one the real media should shun; he's be irretrievably compromised.
4
And while all this happy horse hockey is happening Congress is cheerfully dismantling every good thing accomplished by the Obama administration and several administrations before him because they can. It seems that whenever the press starts to take a look at what they're doing some "leaker" lobs another smoke bomb and everyone goes chasing after the "breaking news". By the time Mueller is done with Trump we're not going to recognize our own government after the Republican majority has had their way with it. There is as much corruption going on with McConnel's band of bros doing their closed-door super-secret no girls allowed maneuvering and plotting as there is in the White House. Please shine a bit more light on that end of the swamp.
2
Yes, but can DT throw the clowns off the bus in time? Or will they save themselves by ratting?
The correct usage, given the context for this story is,\
"GIRDLING for a FIGHT" THEN shift to the Donald...
From The secretary sitting outside the Oval Oriface (Donald himself is to busy)
Dear Mom and Dad,
We are writing to inform you that Donald and his best friend “Darth Vadar" [aka Stephen K. Bannon] are both in over their heads when it comes to Afghanistan (and probably a whole lot of other things) as neither has ever run a nation or an army or navy or air force or spoken personally with the parents of dead or wounded soldiers before, or, unlike President Obama and other past Presidents who saw it as their sole responsibility to weigh and publicly accept the consequences of ratcheting up troop levels by personally informing the nation of his escalation of any conflict.
Instead, The Donald and his Most RIGHT hand-man of all his extremely to-the-RIGNT and beyondreasoningwith advisory panel of extremist men and women (to the point of witlessness, Stevie Bannon).
But rest assured, they remain masters of blaming orthers for their non-mistakes, so you can go sleep well and avoid your own responsibility for having elected them.
"GIRDLING for a FIGHT" THEN shift to the Donald...
From The secretary sitting outside the Oval Oriface (Donald himself is to busy)
Dear Mom and Dad,
We are writing to inform you that Donald and his best friend “Darth Vadar" [aka Stephen K. Bannon] are both in over their heads when it comes to Afghanistan (and probably a whole lot of other things) as neither has ever run a nation or an army or navy or air force or spoken personally with the parents of dead or wounded soldiers before, or, unlike President Obama and other past Presidents who saw it as their sole responsibility to weigh and publicly accept the consequences of ratcheting up troop levels by personally informing the nation of his escalation of any conflict.
Instead, The Donald and his Most RIGHT hand-man of all his extremely to-the-RIGNT and beyondreasoningwith advisory panel of extremist men and women (to the point of witlessness, Stevie Bannon).
But rest assured, they remain masters of blaming orthers for their non-mistakes, so you can go sleep well and avoid your own responsibility for having elected them.
Whatever the prosecutors uncover about Trump, it will be up to a GOP congress to impeach. Better chance of seeing a unicorn dancing in the Lincoln Memorial.
3
" but in the end “someone is probably going to go to jail.”
That would be nice but I will settle for impeachment of the most dangerous president in the history of the country.
That would be nice but I will settle for impeachment of the most dangerous president in the history of the country.
1
Trump knows something about investigations. Look at all the interesting and surprising facts his own investigators turned up in the Obama birth certificate fiasco. The biggest difference with this investigation...Mueller knows what he's doing.
1
While it is true that there is as of now no definitive proof of criminal behavior by Drumpf, he sure does act like a guilty man.
Trump's been 'girding for a fight' since birth. His particular insanity necessitates he create conflict in every situation. This likely makes him miserable to know & caused his 6 bankruptcies, chronic legal problems, divorces & immature oppositional presidency w/ legal landmines he's placed in his own path.
People who must always make chaos because they "need" the emotional gratification it provides are generally regarded as self-destructive & mentally ill. Trump's inability to respect others hints at major family dysfunction in his past. All that's known is Trump was sent to military school as a teenager (he brags he assaulted a teacher as a child) & his older brother died of alcoholism in his 40s.
Reportedly Trump's dad wasn't particularly loving. One wonders about a childhood that left Trump embattled, hostile, pathologically lying, chronically threatening others & generally operating without evidence of a conscience. Coupled w/ his constant whining NATO & China are "raping" us (as are "Mexicans") & the world is "laughing at us" & there's a man obsessed with the fear of humiliation.
His chaotic presidency is, of course, the object of constant & universal ridicule.
Trump's ability to bribe, bully & threaten away his lifelong self-made crises bought him out of dire consequences most people would have recognized as self-destructive behaviors they needed help with.
Trump's never met a problem he didn't want to pour gas on & light on fire. We should be terrified.
People who must always make chaos because they "need" the emotional gratification it provides are generally regarded as self-destructive & mentally ill. Trump's inability to respect others hints at major family dysfunction in his past. All that's known is Trump was sent to military school as a teenager (he brags he assaulted a teacher as a child) & his older brother died of alcoholism in his 40s.
Reportedly Trump's dad wasn't particularly loving. One wonders about a childhood that left Trump embattled, hostile, pathologically lying, chronically threatening others & generally operating without evidence of a conscience. Coupled w/ his constant whining NATO & China are "raping" us (as are "Mexicans") & the world is "laughing at us" & there's a man obsessed with the fear of humiliation.
His chaotic presidency is, of course, the object of constant & universal ridicule.
Trump's ability to bribe, bully & threaten away his lifelong self-made crises bought him out of dire consequences most people would have recognized as self-destructive behaviors they needed help with.
Trump's never met a problem he didn't want to pour gas on & light on fire. We should be terrified.
Its in the blood , can't deny genetic makeup .
Mr. Blow: once again I must compliment you on your choice of words and your fine-tuned use of them. "Coterie of corruption" is priceless and paints a perfect picture of Trump. And regarding Gingrich: "this is how truth becomes degraded; by being casually disregarded".........Mr. B., you described the whole Trump presidency in one sentence. Thanks......
1
The quickest way to Trump is through Flynn. Give Flynn immunity.
1
GOP will not give Flynn immunity.
If that was my father and he bullied my husband with his ego maniacal personality disorder to break the law and work with the Russians to rig the election and then my husband had to take the fall and leave our three children and go to jail I wouldn't be too happy. But that's me. I can't speak for someone else.
I'm glad Trump is fighting, as he delivers one knockout punch after another.....to himself.
1
So why should anybody care what an irrelevant failure like Gingrich thinks or says? He is just making a few Rubles out of the Dopey Donald fiasco while he can... Am sure he is cursing the non election of Hilary... Would have given him more lucrative, kvetching time with Hannity.
It is better to be silent and be thought a fool than to open one's mouth and remove all doubt. A bigger fool would prove that adage by posting the evidence on Twitter.
Why is anyone even paying attention to Newt Gingrich anymore?
1
Note Trump's telltale OK sign that he makes with his right hand, all the time. Perhaps this is to indicate that he is confident that he will always win.
==========================================================
I would suggest the Democrats might try to use the same OK sign, maybe with both hands at the same time, to cast doubt on Trump's invincibility.
OK, OK?
======
==========================================================
I would suggest the Democrats might try to use the same OK sign, maybe with both hands at the same time, to cast doubt on Trump's invincibility.
OK, OK?
======
1
Trump preparing for a fight...picturing thumb curls.
1
A team of lawyers who have gotten rich in Washington D.C. charging hundreds, perhaps even over $1000 per hour is 'above reproach' and a guy who is working for free is corrupt and has conflicts of interest??? Right!!!
1
I don't have any crockadile tears for Donald Trump: he acts as though he is above the law -- a dictator of sorts. "I want to make America Great Again," is in the shadows.
Several times in these letters the term "collusion" is used to describe Trump et al. agreements, arrangements, business dealings and other economic transactions (money laundering) with Russia, Russians or their associates. As of now, little is publicly known of these activities, except that the Russians attempted to interfere in the 2016 electoral process.. The Special Counsel is charged with discovering the existence/ facts of the above described activities. Should he do so and there exist bases for criminal charges, one that looms large is conspiracy or conspiracies. I believe the word conspiracy should be substituted for collusion going forward, since this is legally what most probably happened in the Trump-Russia relationships. Sprawling, yes, Felonious, yes. But hopefully the Counsel will obtain the evidence of same.
1
Actually, methinks what is really spooking Trump is the threat of this leading to a subpoena of his tax returns. How could it not? One of the Congressional investigations has already called for materials related to "business interests." If there are Russian or Russian-related companies showing on them, and profits gained, that would be strong evidence of a motive for collusion.
13
It certainly seems like a witch hunt and President Trump is correct to be concerned. He has been cleared of any wrongdoing with Russia's involvement with our election and yet they continue to appear as though he is guilty. He did not obstruct justice and yet the liberal media like the Washington Post keeps saying there are unnamed officials. Why aren't they naming names? They must be revealed. It appears that there are leaks and these too must be investigated.
With Robert Mueller hiring four (at least) lawyers who have contributed to Democratic candidates, how can Mr. Trump be treated fairly. Newt Gingrich is correct in being upset with what appears to be a biased selection.
The media has already convicted President Trump without any justification. They want to bring him down and unseat a legitimately elected president but will never succeed. He has the best lawyers money can buy and he should clear his name at all costs. He has done nothing wrong but they continue to probe. He must fight this to the end and he will win.
With Robert Mueller hiring four (at least) lawyers who have contributed to Democratic candidates, how can Mr. Trump be treated fairly. Newt Gingrich is correct in being upset with what appears to be a biased selection.
The media has already convicted President Trump without any justification. They want to bring him down and unseat a legitimately elected president but will never succeed. He has the best lawyers money can buy and he should clear his name at all costs. He has done nothing wrong but they continue to probe. He must fight this to the end and he will win.
4
Could you please provide any evidence whatsoever that the so-called president has "been cleared of any wrong doing with Russia's involvement in our election"?
300 million Americans must have missed something...
300 million Americans must have missed something...
20
Let's see his tax returns and then we'll see whether you're right or wrong.
15
Trump supporters keep trying to denigrate the "liberal media," and miss a basic point: Donald Trump is desperate for the approval of the New York Times, the Washington Post and CNN. He told the New York Times last December, in a taped meeting, that a big goal of his was to have them say, by two years hence, that he was doing a good job. He doesn't care about right wing outlets -- he considers them small time but he'll take them because he can get nothing else. He cares about the media of the Central Park West set, and is frustrated because somehow they won't come around.
4
I am a Canadian and may be that is why my perspective is somewhat different.
A year before the election when nobody thought Trump would be elected the Western Democracies had already started preparing for shrinking economies. Here in Canada that was things like negative interest rates by the end of 2017.
The election of Donald Trump and his GOP legislature meant what was going to happen in a calm orderly manner was going to require fast and furious actions.
I can't help but think that the Trump administration is what you get when you play a 33 and a third long play record at 78 rpm.
A year before the election when nobody thought Trump would be elected the Western Democracies had already started preparing for shrinking economies. Here in Canada that was things like negative interest rates by the end of 2017.
The election of Donald Trump and his GOP legislature meant what was going to happen in a calm orderly manner was going to require fast and furious actions.
I can't help but think that the Trump administration is what you get when you play a 33 and a third long play record at 78 rpm.
8
The same Trump who campaigned as the candidate of "law and order" himself operates on the wrong side of the law.
65
Gingrich who had a major a role in impeaching a Bill Clinton, essentially for having an extramarital affair while he [Gingrich] was himself having an extramarital affair, is now defending Trump for something worse than an extramarital affair.
As Trump supporter Don King used to say, "Only in America!"
Republicans take hypocrisy to levels so high that it makes us dizzy.
Remember Kevin McCarthy, who was supposed to succeed Speaker Boehner, saying, “Everybody thought Hillary Clinton was unbeatable, right? But we put together a Benghazi special committee, a select committee. What are her numbers today? Her numbers are dropping...."
McCarthy who initially said AG Sessions should recuse himself from the Russia investigation then tried to take that back by saying, "I'm not calling on him [Sessions] to recuse himself. I was asked on 'Morning Joe' if he needs to recuse himself going forward, and, as you just heard, Attorney General Sessions said he would recuse himself going forward [if] appropriate, and that's all my answer was...."
Until it became a real problem, the Congressional Republicans weren't even serious about the Russia investigation and were it not for Comey firing, they'd have fought any Special Counsel appointment.
Now the likes of Gingrich are being dispatched to fight the Special Counsel. Amazing.
As Trump supporter Don King used to say, "Only in America!"
Republicans take hypocrisy to levels so high that it makes us dizzy.
Remember Kevin McCarthy, who was supposed to succeed Speaker Boehner, saying, “Everybody thought Hillary Clinton was unbeatable, right? But we put together a Benghazi special committee, a select committee. What are her numbers today? Her numbers are dropping...."
McCarthy who initially said AG Sessions should recuse himself from the Russia investigation then tried to take that back by saying, "I'm not calling on him [Sessions] to recuse himself. I was asked on 'Morning Joe' if he needs to recuse himself going forward, and, as you just heard, Attorney General Sessions said he would recuse himself going forward [if] appropriate, and that's all my answer was...."
Until it became a real problem, the Congressional Republicans weren't even serious about the Russia investigation and were it not for Comey firing, they'd have fought any Special Counsel appointment.
Now the likes of Gingrich are being dispatched to fight the Special Counsel. Amazing.
61
RK--Let's recall Gingrich's infamous exit from Congress, under a black cloud of accusations and suspicion. Just the guy I want on my side! :-D (Hint: don't tweet, and don't listen to losers like Gingrich.)
3
Trump's shouting "witch hunt!" I can handle. What keeps me up at night are thoughts of what he might do when he really gets cornered and desperate, and wants a BIG distraction...
88
A real "Tail wagging the dog."
1
There is strong evidence that our President is indeed a Witch, the wicked one of Manhattan; he cast spells on millions of our citizenry in the ways of false promises knowing fully he would throw them under the bus in order to enrich his own life. So when he whines about a "witch hunt", it seems to be a rare moment of honesty and self awareness.
31
Do a blind test. Tell Trump supporters that there's reason to believe that HRC and people working with her have done what Mueller's investigating Trump and his people for. Would they be as solidly behind HRC?
14
It sounds like Trump might be experiencing some fear, not just frustration and rage.
17
And, he does not behave well under pressure. Bring on MORE pressure!
1
If Trump, and many of those in his campaign, did nothing wrong, they should cooperate. They should get this investigation over as quickly as possible, and get on with destroying the lives of 80% of Americans. But he knows there are so many acts of corruption, manipulation, probably collusion, and money laundering, that his only defense is to attack the investigation. I thik he believed that when he got elected he would have the power to protect himself. Now that is crumbling, so he only has the power of his followrs to defend him. Meanwhile, the world looks on with horror, and America suffers in so many ways.
36
Many Americans who do not know DJT were conned into voting for him based on misdirection. The "Art of the Con" team will now have to do the same thing around thisTrump self-made idiotic fiasco. This time serious people will be looking at the con.
It is funny that anyone takes Newt seriously. Remember, when he had to resign from office to avoid being investigated for corruption? Those were good times.
It is funny that anyone takes Newt seriously. Remember, when he had to resign from office to avoid being investigated for corruption? Those were good times.
55
If somebody is going to jail, somebody better be impeached as well. With all the vicious barbs he has cast towards Obama and Clinton, he needs to realize that as President it is HIS administration or transition or campaign. He is ultimately responsible.
13
You mean his generals aren't responsible? That is who he likes to blame...
I have a feeling that Trump will fight as long as someone else takes the body blows. He's too cowardly to stand toe to toe with an opponent and slug it out in the public arena. He's already loosing on points with the Media not to mention the cartoons and comedians that get him against the ropes regularly and jab at his midsection with glee as he cries foul.
25
Newt Gingrich as the bearer of truth is inconceivable and actually pretty funny. Cheaters always cheat. Newt was a cheater on his first two wives and a cheater of the government. (Collected 37M as a "consultant," but was really an unregistered lobbyist) Why he's invited on news programs is beyond me. He doesn't even have the comic value of Roger Stone.
32
Trump's lawyer got so tangled up trying to explain the tweets of his chief it was laughable. "He is not under investigation....he is under investigation...I just swallowed my tongue...." The hypocrisy of others with a faulty memory in Washington is staggering. Gingrich forgot what he said about curbs on presidential power when they applied to President Clinton. McConnell forgott what he accused Democrats of doing with Obamacare in justifying Republican secrecy about the Senate's health care bill. And Trump, of course, seems to have forgotten what he told Lester Holt in blaming Rosenstein for Comey's firing. The clown car keeps careening around our capital.
20
Gingrich is clearly trying to work the refs. Unfortunately it doesn't work when cheaters and hypocrites try to do that.
16
Where exactly is loony Gingrich getting his evidence from about Muller's lawyers? He is an avid employee of Trump's fake news factories, going on any show that will have them and spinning InfoWar type conspiracy theories that too many Americans unfortunately fall for. If only these networks had an ounce of dignity they would stop inviting them on TV.
13
Intriguing how he seems unable to appreciate that, as president, the buck stops with him. He fired the FBI director because the deputy AG told him to? What if the deputy AG told him to jump off a bridge? Doesn't the president get some say in this? And if - as he seems quite certain - Hillary Clinton is a crook who has done very bad things, well, why not just have the AG prosecute her?
How can a president who works so hard to project a tough guy image be incapable of resisting his own subordinates, and unable to tell them to do what needs to be done? Who's the boss here, sir?
How can a president who works so hard to project a tough guy image be incapable of resisting his own subordinates, and unable to tell them to do what needs to be done? Who's the boss here, sir?
1
"You can fool all the people some of the time and some of the people all of the time, but you can't fool all the people all of the time."
His popular appeal is sinking, polls at all time lows, even some GOP and base populists are leaving this sinking ship as he goes down the rabbit hole of mental derangement.
His popular appeal is sinking, polls at all time lows, even some GOP and base populists are leaving this sinking ship as he goes down the rabbit hole of mental derangement.
11
So Gingrich says they will get somebody huh? So we know that the Trump vanguard are interviewing potential fall guys. Wonder what they are promising after said fall guy wins the prison tennis tournament and gets out?
3
The federal investigators are getting to get somebody, probably many somebodies. Lordy, let's hope one of them is Gingrich. He has been a blight on our political discourse for over 20 years, and now he serves as a hitman for Mr. Trump. I remember when he was the GOP "idea man" with his contract on America. He was in a league of his own--until Paul Ryan came of age. Now the GOP contract is much more like one in the Mafia world.
26
All this man does is tweet, at all times of the day. Ever wonder what work is being done during the week from 8 to 5?
11
Trump will be pardoned in the name of "national unity". And his son in law will likely get the same consideration.
But the rest? They are on their own.
White House staff: Don't stick your necks out for someone as colossally undeserving as Donald Trump.
But the rest? They are on their own.
White House staff: Don't stick your necks out for someone as colossally undeserving as Donald Trump.
16
If you look at the pictures of the Russians recently visiting with Trump in our Oval Office, there is one thing that stands out; joy. The laughter was palpable. Our democracy is being made a fool. I don't care a whit about Trump as he is self destructing, spectacularly, in record time. But, the GOP not being concerned about the Russians, well, that makes us all happy comrades doesn't it?
27
Al Franken: "They just haven't been acting like people who have nothing to hide."
31
Quoting Al Franken is way worse than quoting Gingrich.
It is unbelievable, here we are, the worlds oldest democracy and the envy of the world, and we wind up electing (by default) a super unqualified individual who is steeped in entertainment and up to his ears in scandals to lead the free world.
2
I know what Trump is because not only does he do what he says he will do, as reprehensible and repulsive it may be but because he does seem to win battles, with all the money in the world as resources. He is the embodiment of psychopathy, whose mantra, is: " I win and everyone else is muck under my shoes, unless you praise me of course." But now? He has the power of the presidency to not only win but taint the very history and the existence of this nation----and he could care less. That's right, he could care less. He cares about himself and maybe his family but it is clear who is first in his mind. If he feels attacked as he should now, he fights. If he feels wronged, as he should not, because his grievances are his doing, he discredits and delegitimizes his opponents. Enough! We must win this time. We must win because losing truly means the end.
3
Waste of time and money. He will spend his term how long it may be on legal battles defending his stupidity, while the American people are deprived of a government and leader who is supposed to benefit the populace and create positive solutions to global problems. Time to move on and get the bad apples out of the barrel.
4
Can we please stop seeing the words "...said Newt Gingrich" ? The man has nothing to offer, other than lies and hypocrisy. In the future, please find someone with integrity to provide an opinion, please.
7
There is only winning and losing. For Trump, the Presidency is a win, not a calling. He's on top, baby. He's President, and you're not. Truth has no value unless there's some way to leverage it for a win. Policies have no value in themselves. They have value only if Trump can use them to get a win. And winning for him has been thumbing his nose at the establishment by accumulating gobs of money and strutting it as ostentatiously as possible. See, suckers. I made it. I made it despite you. I'm the king of Manhattan. The king of the world. Trump isn't cozy with Putin for ideological reasons. He's cozy with Putin because Putin is another lever to exploit for wins. The whole Russia thing for Trump has been about deals, not any grand vision of remaking the West according to some neonationalist fever dream. What Trump fears from Mueller, I suspect, is that Mueller indeed will find stuff when he begins turning over rocks. He'll find the financial hanky panky that Trump has been at pains to hide by refusing to release his tax records. What we might have within six months to a year is the pulling of a thread or threads by the investigators with the result that a rot at the heart of the Trump empire will be laid bare.
8
We elected a New York bully who is used to bullying his way through everything. Now, he's run up against the federal government. My bet is on them.
3
This necessary but superficial essay hardly mentions the dinosaur on our plate. This nation’s Democracy has been seriously and effectively cyber attacked by Russia and no adequate future defence has even been mentioned. Erosion of public confidence in the shining light that America used to be for the world is a major Putin goal and his success at this with nut case Trump goes way past his loss with any renewed sanctions.
6
Donald Trump and his emissaries girding for a fight?
No news there. That has been the strategy and plan all through his life.
"Double down". "Hit back harder". "Never admit defeat".
Just like Daddy and Roy Cohn taught him to do.
No changing now.
And while denying every allegation of having any involvement with Russia, even in light of mounting evidence, has become the norm -- that Trump should suddenly resort to bringing up the ghost of "Crooked Hillary", comes across as nothing short of desperate.
Of course, he's forgotten that he and his cronies were the ones instrumental in forming the very first "Witch Hunt"...against her.
Not the first time Donald Trump has plagiarized material.
Nor is it the first time he's attempted to use Clinton, Obama, and "Dems" as a heat-shield.
But that, along with trying to discredit and undermine the entire U.S. Intelligence community, unfortunately gives the impression of someone trying to hide something, instead of bringing it to light to prove one's innocence.
And as the light of day and the light of all the legal matters and past litigations start to come into focus, expect more squirming and tweets. More declarations of exculpability. More lawyers. More denials.
If we have learned anything from "Crooked Hillary", it's that Federal Investigations take a long time, and often take on a life of their own.
The Court of law may favor the excessively litigous, but that doesn't mean it will translate into winning any elections.
No news there. That has been the strategy and plan all through his life.
"Double down". "Hit back harder". "Never admit defeat".
Just like Daddy and Roy Cohn taught him to do.
No changing now.
And while denying every allegation of having any involvement with Russia, even in light of mounting evidence, has become the norm -- that Trump should suddenly resort to bringing up the ghost of "Crooked Hillary", comes across as nothing short of desperate.
Of course, he's forgotten that he and his cronies were the ones instrumental in forming the very first "Witch Hunt"...against her.
Not the first time Donald Trump has plagiarized material.
Nor is it the first time he's attempted to use Clinton, Obama, and "Dems" as a heat-shield.
But that, along with trying to discredit and undermine the entire U.S. Intelligence community, unfortunately gives the impression of someone trying to hide something, instead of bringing it to light to prove one's innocence.
And as the light of day and the light of all the legal matters and past litigations start to come into focus, expect more squirming and tweets. More declarations of exculpability. More lawyers. More denials.
If we have learned anything from "Crooked Hillary", it's that Federal Investigations take a long time, and often take on a life of their own.
The Court of law may favor the excessively litigous, but that doesn't mean it will translate into winning any elections.
4
There may not be a clear winner in a court case against Trump but there will be a clear loser...our country's status in the global community.
5
I'm sixty-four, and can't remember any other president that was so constantly and persistently whiny as is Donald Trump. He's not just unpresidential in demeanor and behavior, he's as whiny and petulant as a third-grader; and I've taught third-graders.
Trump has so far succeeded, after a fashion, in business because he's usually had more money to throw at a legal issue than his opponents have. Also, in business he's usually been able to move on to the next thing, whatever it was.
Now, however, he can't move on. He's like some whiny, overweight, out-of-shape whale washed up on a beach for all to see. He can't say the investigation is interfering with the people's business because he's made no attempt to do the people's business. He's used up pretty much all of his bag of tricks from business, and none of them work in the world of Washington, DC, politics.
I, too, believe someone will go to jail. I don't necessarily believe Trump himself will be caught up in Russian collusion, but I think the investigation will reach into, and snare members of, his inner circle and family. If and when that happens, it must be remembered that no American - no American - is above the law.
Trump has so far succeeded, after a fashion, in business because he's usually had more money to throw at a legal issue than his opponents have. Also, in business he's usually been able to move on to the next thing, whatever it was.
Now, however, he can't move on. He's like some whiny, overweight, out-of-shape whale washed up on a beach for all to see. He can't say the investigation is interfering with the people's business because he's made no attempt to do the people's business. He's used up pretty much all of his bag of tricks from business, and none of them work in the world of Washington, DC, politics.
I, too, believe someone will go to jail. I don't necessarily believe Trump himself will be caught up in Russian collusion, but I think the investigation will reach into, and snare members of, his inner circle and family. If and when that happens, it must be remembered that no American - no American - is above the law.
10
I doubt anyone will go to jail. This presidency and its cronies have become stale material for journalists. Yes, they are all corrupt, but when congress and most of the senate are corrupt, we're stuck with this quagmire of immorality. I agree with Blow, but I suppose writing eliminates the helplessness that many of us feel.
2
Why do Trump's supporters still love this guy? I don't want to sink to calling fellow Americans bad names - but look at this man's behavior. An unhinged narcissist, megalomaniac with the emotional level of a spoiled child despite his 71 years. It is glaringly obvious that this man is profoundly disturbed and completely unqualified to hold any public office let alone President, embarrassing the nation before the world. How did we get here? Can his supporters honestly say he has any redeeming qualities? Throw the bum out of office and lets start over.
4
At first Trump said he couldn't release his tax returns because he was being audited. He promised that he would release them just as soon as it was completed. Now that he is president, he no longer is using that questionable pre- election excuse.
An aide dismissed any discussion of his tax returns as a non issue.
That spin is ridiculous and self serving. The question is why doesn't Trump want his taxes scrutinized.
Those tax returns seem to be key. Surely with this widening investigation by the F.B.I.on Russia's interference with our election, Trump's tax returns will be of interest. His son has already stated how deeply involved Trump business dealings are with Russia.
If his tax returns are supoenad, is there such damaging information in them, that he will choose to resign rather than have the contents revealed?
An aide dismissed any discussion of his tax returns as a non issue.
That spin is ridiculous and self serving. The question is why doesn't Trump want his taxes scrutinized.
Those tax returns seem to be key. Surely with this widening investigation by the F.B.I.on Russia's interference with our election, Trump's tax returns will be of interest. His son has already stated how deeply involved Trump business dealings are with Russia.
If his tax returns are supoenad, is there such damaging information in them, that he will choose to resign rather than have the contents revealed?
499
It is more important to find out the extent if any, of collusion with Russia
in our election....If that proves to be true. then
Pence is not President
the Cabinet is dismissed, along with other appointments
and Ryan is not third in line to a Presidency which is nullified
and even if Hillary Clinton's 3 million votes will not put her in office......
then the US should hold an election to be completed in 6 weeks as the British
manage to do.
No one person or party should benefit, down the ladder in any way from illegal
and possibly treasonous actions
from a campaign charged with and proven collusion.......
Square one is the only option to try to help the country heal from the
disaster caused to our system.
A big disruption?.....Isn't this situation a big disruption?
Joe Biden on the Democratic side....
in our election....If that proves to be true. then
Pence is not President
the Cabinet is dismissed, along with other appointments
and Ryan is not third in line to a Presidency which is nullified
and even if Hillary Clinton's 3 million votes will not put her in office......
then the US should hold an election to be completed in 6 weeks as the British
manage to do.
No one person or party should benefit, down the ladder in any way from illegal
and possibly treasonous actions
from a campaign charged with and proven collusion.......
Square one is the only option to try to help the country heal from the
disaster caused to our system.
A big disruption?.....Isn't this situation a big disruption?
Joe Biden on the Democratic side....
One can only hope.....
Why can't more resources be directed at completing the audit? How hard can it be, why would it take a team of competent, focused auditors this long? Can't they pretend it's an emergency of national importance?
Since the "collusion" conspiracy theory has collapsed, Democrats and their willing accomplices in the media (or is it the other way around?) have moved the goalposts to "obstruction" and now there is an investigation in search of a crime.
Was it Stalin's deputy who said "show me the man and I'll find you the crime?"
It will be sad day when Dems-Media-Celebrities will be faced with the fact that, despite their best efforts, Hillary actually lost the election - all on her own.
Was it Stalin's deputy who said "show me the man and I'll find you the crime?"
It will be sad day when Dems-Media-Celebrities will be faced with the fact that, despite their best efforts, Hillary actually lost the election - all on her own.
3
Nothing has collapsed. The investigation has just started. It took from June 16 1972 until August of 1974 to complete the Watergate investigations.
Have patience. Let the investigators do their job and get to the truth about all of Russia's involvement with our government.
It's the patriotic thing to do.
Have patience. Let the investigators do their job and get to the truth about all of Russia's involvement with our government.
It's the patriotic thing to do.
3
So, what about the Russian thing? Seems you too have no interest in the actual subject of the investigation. That's what shocks me about this affair: The absolute willingness of folks like you to ignore foreign subterfuge of our democratic process, look fondly at Putin's smirking face, and call celebrities your enemy. How does that work? *coughFoxcough*
1
I see little indication that Trump and his team are attempting to derail the "Russia investigation". But, then, I define that investigation differently than Charles does. The legitimate investigation looks into how Russia interfered with our election and also should result in recommendations to physically prevent such actions and to disincentivize future similar attempts -- such as by sanctions against Russia. Charles, of course, defines it as the attempt to destroy a presidency he despises.
To the extent that the "investigation" seeks the latter objective, I don't blame Trump one bit for demonizing it and "girding for a fight". NO evidence has come to light thus far that supports articles of impeachment: all we have is ideologically self-interested innuendo and he-said-he-said.
Democrats do themselves and America no favors by focusing single-mindedly on destroying Trump, instead of bending themselves to the hard work of engaging with both Trump and congressional Republicans to moderate the arc of policies with which they disagree. And refusing to do this while applying ALL their energies merely to demonize and seek to destroy is no way to convince Americans to return them from the political wilderness to relevance in our governance.
To the extent that the "investigation" seeks the latter objective, I don't blame Trump one bit for demonizing it and "girding for a fight". NO evidence has come to light thus far that supports articles of impeachment: all we have is ideologically self-interested innuendo and he-said-he-said.
Democrats do themselves and America no favors by focusing single-mindedly on destroying Trump, instead of bending themselves to the hard work of engaging with both Trump and congressional Republicans to moderate the arc of policies with which they disagree. And refusing to do this while applying ALL their energies merely to demonize and seek to destroy is no way to convince Americans to return them from the political wilderness to relevance in our governance.
3
He's publicly libeled the last president and the last fbi director. He could easily be removed for that alone. But the extent of the broader financial and russian misbehavior will have him resign.
4
Ah, Richard, I guess you haven't noticed that King McConnell is creating legislation ex nihilo and in secret. What's to "work with?" Even his fellow Republicans haven't a clue about what is in his bill.
3
Right, America needs to stop tweeting stuff that incriminates Trump! You guys are really reaching here. The investigation goes forward as designed except for Newtie, Trump et al frantically assuring us to look elsewhere, everyone but Trump is a liar, etc.
Spare us your "single-minded focus" of Democrats to destroy this guy. Tell you what: Let's spend the exact same time on Russian interference as we did on Benghazi, and with the same tone, K? Sounds fair and balanced to me.
Spare us your "single-minded focus" of Democrats to destroy this guy. Tell you what: Let's spend the exact same time on Russian interference as we did on Benghazi, and with the same tone, K? Sounds fair and balanced to me.
1
Those with the most bluster generally have the most too hide. This isn't a matter of questionable business decisions. Trump's presidency is being investigated for potentially conspiring with a foreign power to win the election. The special prosecutor doesn't care about how good a deal maker Trump is. All Mueller's team cares about is protecting the interests of the US.
They will turn over as many stones as possible to get to the truth regardless of where the investigation leads them. Trump will not be able to stop them nor will he be able to settle to make the investigation go away. He may try to control the narrative but he's going to fail miserably.
Trump is a national embarrassment. He'll be a stain on our country long after he leaves office. We did this to ourselves and that doesn't say much for our judgement. His scandal is our shame.
They will turn over as many stones as possible to get to the truth regardless of where the investigation leads them. Trump will not be able to stop them nor will he be able to settle to make the investigation go away. He may try to control the narrative but he's going to fail miserably.
Trump is a national embarrassment. He'll be a stain on our country long after he leaves office. We did this to ourselves and that doesn't say much for our judgement. His scandal is our shame.
1131
Good luck trying to get any of Trump's supporters or any of the Republican Party minded supporters to even consider any of this. I know. I've tried and all I hear is twisted logic excuses of some kind for explanations that Trump is "beholdin to no one".
To Ami & to a number of other NYT readers commenting on articles like this, please refrain from allotting blanket blame/praise to all U.S. voters, NYT readers & commenters etc because Trump won the election.
Ami, you write, "Trump is a national embarrassment. He'll be a stain on our country long after he leaves office.”
I agree with what you posted--but only up to this point. We part ways when you continue, WE DID THIS TO OURSELVES ...THAT DOESN'T SAY MUCH FOR OUR JUDGEMENT. “WE”neither did nor could do this to ourselves. By our individual & voluntary election choices, some citizens did this to the rest of us. More than half of those voting their choice for president last Nov didn't vote for Trump -- Therefore we did nothing to our fellow citizens with regard to "His scandal" or our [national] shame." This shame is very real, but there's no reason for non-Trump-supporters to 'take a share of ownership of it". The shame does not belong to anyone who voted against Trump..
We all -do- have a responsibility to try to set things right in this country especially by venturing outside our individual experential bubbles--the better to empathize with our fellow citizens whose lives differ greatly from ours.
We have enough differences of opinion without insisting every U.S. voter is wrong about everything.
Ami, you write, "Trump is a national embarrassment. He'll be a stain on our country long after he leaves office.”
I agree with what you posted--but only up to this point. We part ways when you continue, WE DID THIS TO OURSELVES ...THAT DOESN'T SAY MUCH FOR OUR JUDGEMENT. “WE”neither did nor could do this to ourselves. By our individual & voluntary election choices, some citizens did this to the rest of us. More than half of those voting their choice for president last Nov didn't vote for Trump -- Therefore we did nothing to our fellow citizens with regard to "His scandal" or our [national] shame." This shame is very real, but there's no reason for non-Trump-supporters to 'take a share of ownership of it". The shame does not belong to anyone who voted against Trump..
We all -do- have a responsibility to try to set things right in this country especially by venturing outside our individual experential bubbles--the better to empathize with our fellow citizens whose lives differ greatly from ours.
We have enough differences of opinion without insisting every U.S. voter is wrong about everything.
1
In all fairness to your reply and the comment, I think Ami and the rest of us are merely saying that the "American People" as the Republicans now call all us as a voting block allowed someone like Donald Trump to get into the White House.
I admit, Ami probably should've reread the comment and typed a better choice of words.
I admit, Ami probably should've reread the comment and typed a better choice of words.
"This is how truth becomes degraded: by being casually disregarded." Mr. Blow has distilled the essence of the matter for me in this one sentence. When we are lied to we are robbed of the information we require to make a wise and just decision. All Americans of conscience should support the attempts of honorable investigators such as Robert Mueller to uncover the realities of how and why the presidential election was manipulated by Russia, whether or not Trump played a part in it, and how this president may be using his office to further his personal wealth and power. I find it disturbing though that a goodly majority of the people polled by Quinnipiac think Trump is abusing the powers of his office, and nearly half believe Congress should begin impeachment proceedings, yet significantly more than half believe Trump will be allowed to stay for his full four years. Can this mean that no matter what Mueller and his team uncover, our Congress cannot be relied upon to do the right thing? While the truth can set us free, it may not in the end, unless we demand integrity from our representatives on the Hill.
723
Vote out many Republicans and that will force those who are there to go back to compromising when they create legislation. It is the only way out of this horror show. One party rule under our system is deadly to democracy.
Progressives are going to have to get off of our hineys and vote while encouraging others to vote. There is no integrity left in the GOP, it appears.
"Can this mean that no matter what Mueller and his team uncover, our Congress cannot be relied upon to do the right thing? "
Big difference between polls and evidence. Good thing that the courts aren't based on public opinion, but are based on evidence. But Facts and Evidence matter not to Hillary voters.
Big difference between polls and evidence. Good thing that the courts aren't based on public opinion, but are based on evidence. But Facts and Evidence matter not to Hillary voters.
Although trump has been involved in a great deal of litigation, he is not prepared for what is now coming at him. Litigating for, I am sure, ridiculous slights because of his shady business dealings is a far cry from Robert Mueller bringing top talent to bear in order to investigate him and this entire Russian situation. This maybe the first time in trump's life that he is being held accountable and he is behaving like a cornered animal. He can fight away, giving himself away in the process as he seems to do, but the truth will be revealed.
1013
The truth may be revealed but does that mean President Trump will go? A man who stubbornly refuses to show his taxes could just as likely refuse to step down. Maybe not impossible given the power of the presidency and the greed that stands behind him.
Scorched earth as a defensive strategy has worked in the past and could work for Donald Trump. What other choice does he have? Sadly, doing what's best for the country is not on his list.
I hope you are right for the sake of this country and the survival of democracy.
"Collusion" as such, will never be demonstrated as having occurred between the President and the Russians. Flynn, probably, and others, but not Trump. That in fact is not what this is about. This is about Trump's tax returns, emoluments, illegal deals and evasion. It's all coming out, bit by bit, and it will ultimately bury Trump and Co. The GOP is already keenly aware of all this. They are trying to squeeze every last drop out of their majority before it all falls apart in 2018. When they finally dump Trump, they'll portray themselves as patriots putting nation before party. Watch and see.
19
What gives me hope, is that the intelligence community, which trump attacked frequently, will be his undoing. They have the means, and hopefully the motivation, to uncover every last shred of evidence to prove him guilty and put him behind bars.
937
Seriously. So now we are all supposed to be in love with the CIA. I remember when I was in grad school, most Faculty didn't even want them on campus to recruit for positions. They were the devil. Wow. Times have definitely changed.
1
While I applaud your goal, I urge you to be careful in what you wish for. Do you really want to cajole the intelligence community, who do indeed have the resources, though not the legal authorization, to divulge information they have gleaned, in order to unseat the President of the United States? It would have to be obtained unlawfully and leaked to the press, in order to trigger an official inquiry to "re-discover" the information in a manner that would make it admissible in a court of law. Even with one as egregiously unsuited for the job he holds, I fear the precedent it would create would do more to undermine democracy than almost anything the Trumpster can stumble upon.
David, all the left has become statist. Freedom is so sixties.
I wonder if the president had focused on the problem - foreign interference in the election - If we'd be in a different place. It seems his own inability to focus on the facts has helped make his behavior the focus.
His need to constantly be on the attack is now bringing the fight to his doorstep. I think Shakespeare had something to say about "protesting too much."
His need to constantly be on the attack is now bringing the fight to his doorstep. I think Shakespeare had something to say about "protesting too much."
24
Tuesday's election, and the special elections that follow may well determine his legal strategy.
Democratic wins will cause an resignation with pardon strategy to be seriously considered. No billionaire wants all his dark corners brought to light.
Blowouts will cause some Republicans to exercise self preservation.
And the aforementioned strategy to be put on a front burner.
Democratic wins will cause an resignation with pardon strategy to be seriously considered. No billionaire wants all his dark corners brought to light.
Blowouts will cause some Republicans to exercise self preservation.
And the aforementioned strategy to be put on a front burner.
4
This is what djt doesn't grasp: the government doesn't go away. You can insult, you can rant and rave, you can demean, but the next day the DOJ prosecutors will leave their homes and go to work--investigating trump. That is the beauty of being a government attorney. Regardless of who insults you in court, or even if a colleague takes over for you, the government's mission does not change. The rules don't change. The law doesn't change. And the dedication of the these attorneys does not change. djt is only faithful to himself. The DOJ prosecutors are faithful to the rule of law and to the Constitution. That is why they will prevail.
3
The wealthy know how to game the system because they created the system to their own advantage. I wonder how many of Trump's legal "wins" we're based on legal technicalities, not on the merits of the case? How many plaintiffs dropped cases against Trump because they simply couldn't afford to fight any longer? The well publicized Trump University case wouldn't have been settled if he wasn't running for president. But make no mistake, this is a guy who would stab his own mother in the back, deny he did it, and fight tooth and nail against the charges against him. And he would win mainly because, to him, money most of the time can turn wrong into right. He may "win" in the legal and business arenas, but in all other areas, that matter so much more, he is a loser. Big time. Too bad Lionel Barrymore has passed away. He would have portrayed Trump perfectly.
20
Newt Gingrich's expiration date has long passed. He seems to have an insatiable need for media attention; but, seriously, given his political and personal history, and his inflated sense of self-importance, does anyone still listen to anything he has to say? On the bright side, I suppose one could say, the longer and closer Gingrich (and company) hangs around Trump and hangs onto Trump, the worse Trump appears.
38
Of course he is girding for a fight. It's the one thing he knows how to do. His entire universe of existence revolves around hostility -- he MAKES enemies in order to maintain this inner anger and keep the fight going, day and night. What kind of childhood must he have had? Well, I don't care any more about that, and I have no pity for him. He just needs to leave.
26
I couldn't agree more: he just needs to leave.
It seems we just can't get our heads around the fact that the Trump administration isn't just stumbling along in ineptitude but is engaged in deliberate obstruction and destruction of government. When will we stop trying to "explain" actions whose effect clearly demonstrates treachery?
20
One thing that makes Trump less susceptible to impeachment or (later) criminal conviction is that too many of us have been told and have accepted for decades that every politician and government is assumed equally corrupt, inefficient and even oppressive. If that's true, then Trump will seem no worse than any other pol.
And we have also been brainwashed for decades into believing that the private sector -- business, banks and corporations -- embodies the realm of "virtue" and rationality via the operations of some depoliticized, mystical and illusory "inviable hand." We need to start respecting and becoming genuinely informed about our gov't and society (i.e., ALL our fellow American citizens) and not just about ourselves or our particular "tribe" if we want to rid this body politick of "infections" like Trump's egoism, rabble-rousing, greed and angry, self-righteous rhetoric. If we aren't willing to do that then we should stop worshipping the increasingly hollow word/notion "democracy" and quit trying to pose "our system" as an exemplar for the rest of the "benighted" world.
And we have also been brainwashed for decades into believing that the private sector -- business, banks and corporations -- embodies the realm of "virtue" and rationality via the operations of some depoliticized, mystical and illusory "inviable hand." We need to start respecting and becoming genuinely informed about our gov't and society (i.e., ALL our fellow American citizens) and not just about ourselves or our particular "tribe" if we want to rid this body politick of "infections" like Trump's egoism, rabble-rousing, greed and angry, self-righteous rhetoric. If we aren't willing to do that then we should stop worshipping the increasingly hollow word/notion "democracy" and quit trying to pose "our system" as an exemplar for the rest of the "benighted" world.
2
While the fight is going on he continues to enrich himself using his position, and his minions implement policies that favor their billionaire patrons.
When it is all over, what will be left behind? While it is going on, what kind of country will we be living in?
When it is all over, what will be left behind? While it is going on, what kind of country will we be living in?
8
Trump is under investigation for obstruction of justice. We all know this. That wasn't really Mr. Sekulow's point though. He was attempting to distance Trump's tweets from the President's intentions. He's building a legal defense around discrediting Trump's public statements. That's a truly terrifying development no matter what happens. What the President says is not what he means. In that case, how does the President ever issue an order? Is there a secret code word to know when the President is telling the truth?
I agree Trump is slippery as a slime when it comes to legal disputes. However, I think he's going down all the same. If not for obstruction then he's going to get roasted when Mueller starts subpoenaing financial documents. There's a reason Kushner looked a little pale after his meeting with Sergey Gorkov hit the news. His business dealings are fair game now. That opens a rabbit hole that's sure to lead somewhere. Even if Trump has nothing to do with Gorkov directly, he's going to show up in incidental collection.
The entire Trump dynasty could easily find itself in exactly the place they've wanted to avoid: under scrutiny. Trump normally throws money at his legal problems. Guess what? The United States government has very deep pockets. The public just needs the stamina to fight back.
I agree Trump is slippery as a slime when it comes to legal disputes. However, I think he's going down all the same. If not for obstruction then he's going to get roasted when Mueller starts subpoenaing financial documents. There's a reason Kushner looked a little pale after his meeting with Sergey Gorkov hit the news. His business dealings are fair game now. That opens a rabbit hole that's sure to lead somewhere. Even if Trump has nothing to do with Gorkov directly, he's going to show up in incidental collection.
The entire Trump dynasty could easily find itself in exactly the place they've wanted to avoid: under scrutiny. Trump normally throws money at his legal problems. Guess what? The United States government has very deep pockets. The public just needs the stamina to fight back.
24
" Is there a secret code word to know when the President is telling the truth? " – Nobody knows-- it hasn't happened yet.
1
Trump's strategy isn't all that different from the way the GOP operates all the time. What they have to hide is that their policies don't work, are a disaster for the people who they supposedly represent, and they do a lot of stuff that doesn't pass the smell test so they keep it behind closed doors whenever possible.
Their way around this is to attack the messengers, work the refs, smear their opponents, and rig the system any way they can in their favor. They avoid fact-based argument and go right for the gut.
Is it really a surprise Trump is such a good fit for the Republican Party? They're all con-men when push comes to shove.
Their way around this is to attack the messengers, work the refs, smear their opponents, and rig the system any way they can in their favor. They avoid fact-based argument and go right for the gut.
Is it really a surprise Trump is such a good fit for the Republican Party? They're all con-men when push comes to shove.
14
It must be Gingrich knows that this is going to catch someone on team Trump and he's auditioning to fill the seat. After all, he -- along with Ken Starr -- have seen this process up close before. That's the only reason that I can see why he's even talking about this investigation, and the only reason why anyone is listening to him.
1
Why are we even listening to Gingrich? He is a failed politician with a history of being corrupt. He has had his chance at fame - it's over now for him. Keep him off the air and out of the headlines. He's a waste of time and has no value to the news.
24
Great column Charles!
Remember Trump saying he had a teacher in military high school who punched him and Trump said it felt great- that he felt some kind of respect from the punch- that he was singled out for the punch and ' I loved it'. That says it all -- decent people don't like to get punched, keep this in mind when you think Trump is going to give up -even for one second -during this investigation. In a sick way he's enjoying this whole spectacle. Hard to believe?
Remember Trump saying he had a teacher in military high school who punched him and Trump said it felt great- that he felt some kind of respect from the punch- that he was singled out for the punch and ' I loved it'. That says it all -- decent people don't like to get punched, keep this in mind when you think Trump is going to give up -even for one second -during this investigation. In a sick way he's enjoying this whole spectacle. Hard to believe?
7
just as Trump is prepared to throw any of his apostles and hangers-on under the proverbial bus to save his own skin, toadies like Gingrich will step away quickly to preserve themselves at the first sign that Trump is in serious jeopardy. Don't listen, watch.
4
For decades the Republican Party has been one of law and order. Tougher sentencing, death penalty, expand the definition of criminal activity, three strikes and you are out - vote Republican. And now we face the greatest crime in American's history -election tampering by a foreign government and suddenly we are looking at a party of bleeding hearts! The Republicans don't want to hurt anyone's feeling except the people representing the law and order investigation. As much as the Republicans want to sell this as all about Trump it is not - it is about foreign intervention in an American election. The Republicans should be supporting supporting Mueller 100% no matter what Trump is trying to sell his base. If the evidence leads to Trump or his campaign they should be supporting the Mueller investigation not Trump's attempt to cover up of criminal activity.
6
Trump needs Russian financial backing for his business, and his tax returns would probably confirm that he's been getting it. His patents in Russia, mysteriously, have not expired. His cronies all have Eastern European and Russian connections and make a lot of money off of them. Trump's son-in-law also needs to find money for his own failing investments.
Who but the most gullible could think that Trump, whose life has revolved around sex, money, and publicity, was concerned about America? For him, the White House was another property to acquire, and the Presidency a way to make sure he got the influence and monetary backing he's always required.
Who but the most gullible could think that Trump, whose life has revolved around sex, money, and publicity, was concerned about America? For him, the White House was another property to acquire, and the Presidency a way to make sure he got the influence and monetary backing he's always required.
20
And received the requisite ego-stroking and revenge against those who mocked him -- reasonably so --as nothing but a big-scale NYC con artist.
What dismays me the most about the political carnival we have created for ourselves is the persistent and growing disregard for facts and the pliability of truth. We have willingly elected to govern us figures who lie serially with not a whit of shame. Yes, much of the mendacity is self-defeating, but we must woder who "self" is: the liars or the lied to?
9
The more upset trump gets, the more he tweets. The more he tweets, the more he gets himself in trouble.
Trump will be the one who does himself in.
Hope it's very soon!
Trump will be the one who does himself in.
Hope it's very soon!
5
If Newt is so sure they're going to get somebody for something, even if he "doesn't think they're going to get the president", he might ask himself why he's defending such people. When they eventually lock them all up, I 'd be happy for Newt to go along and share a cell. He's been a vile poison for both sides for decades...every time he opens his mouth, hate and hypocrisy spill out. And btw, since he's the spouse of a diplomat, doesn't it seem like it's time for him to refrain from such talk and act a little more, I don't know, diplomatic?
2
I've always had respect for Newt Gingrich though I've never voted for him. For him to think Donald did nothing wrong...leaves me scratching head. Because i cant find anything he has done thats right. When Trump fired Comey, alarm bells should've been going off. That is obstruction. But I do agree with Newt, on the point that they will find other things than obstruction.
Donald should've never been backed by the Republican party. There were so many better candidates to choose from. His mental stability should've been the #1 thing to disqualify him. Our country is in a very sad state now because of the Republican party. All the world leaders are laughing at us. And thats a shame.
Donald should've never been backed by the Republican party. There were so many better candidates to choose from. His mental stability should've been the #1 thing to disqualify him. Our country is in a very sad state now because of the Republican party. All the world leaders are laughing at us. And thats a shame.
1
Newt Gingrich, a serial adulterer like trump, has been a damaging force in the Republican Party. He shut the government down and is a racist through and through. To what extent a man of such poor character can be admired, is a true head scratcher.
2
Mr. Blow, are you not bothered that "When federal investigators start looking for something, they often find something." In other words, the lawyers and investigators will find something to justify their inquiry, regardless of whether culpability really occurred. It that is true, and I think you are generally correct (I hope that Mueller can rise above that tendency), then Donald Trump has every reason to be upset and paranoid about the investigation. I note that you did not address any of Gingrich's concerns. You would be very upset if an investigation of Hillary Clinton was being led by people who had overwhelmingly donated to the Trump campaign, but what really bothers me is the concealing of evidence. I don't like Trump, and I believe he is own worst enemy in these matters. Nevertheless, I don't want to see an Administration brought down or even embroiled in some sort of witch hunt. If we have another Scooter Libby situation wherein a special counsel prosecuted someone completely divorced from the underlying crime for a false statement on a minor matter based on a differences in memory, it will not be good for the country. If people in the Trump campaign colluded with the Russians in an illegal way (which I doubt), then prosecute them. If they did not, then exonerate them, and if you hate Trump defeat him in the next election.
3
What do you say to Valerie Plane?
What do you say about "the smoking gun could be a mushroom cloud?"
What do you say about "the smoking gun could be a mushroom cloud?"
1
Right on, Charles, but the Dems have no one to run. This is all rope a dope while they try to get Kamala (or someone, anyone) in shape. I just don't know that tough questioning with no results will be the ticket.
The country has two problems: 1. Trump is obviously unfit to govern, and on top of that he is incompetent. 2. Russia tampered with the election.
It is absolutely critical that we know the depth and means of tampering, and that remedies are in place to mitigate the risk of further and more effective tampering by the Russians - and there is a very short timeline for doing that.
Trump is doing the equivalent of jumping in front of a speeding train in order to stop that investigation, which makes no sense unless 1. he is disloyal to the United States either by virtue of his own actions or those of others around him, or 2. he is just plain incredibly stupid (back to competence).
Only people not loyal to the United States would fight like this - anyone else would be concerned with the integrity and health of our country.
It is absolutely critical that we know the depth and means of tampering, and that remedies are in place to mitigate the risk of further and more effective tampering by the Russians - and there is a very short timeline for doing that.
Trump is doing the equivalent of jumping in front of a speeding train in order to stop that investigation, which makes no sense unless 1. he is disloyal to the United States either by virtue of his own actions or those of others around him, or 2. he is just plain incredibly stupid (back to competence).
Only people not loyal to the United States would fight like this - anyone else would be concerned with the integrity and health of our country.
4
WE are in for a scary ride. Innocent till prove guilty. Except when an army of lawyers are involved. THen no matter how guilty, a slap on the hand, a settlement, and even remaining on as the President, I fear is the result. But then Vice President Pence is just as scary with his outdated, fundamentalist views. It amazes me people are still supporting this nightmare. But then there are people stubborn a enough to hold on to who they voted for no matter how it will hurt them in the long run. We are in for a very rocky four years (.... Help us if this person gets reelected). I feel sorry for the middle class and the poor. The winners will be the super wealthy like the Trump's, the Kushner's, and the GOP politicians who will be even more rich, then establish shell companies. These people are dishonest and totally self serving.
When Trump was pushed into office by whatever means, I foresaw disaster at every turn. So far Donald has not contradicted my expectations.
Nixon famously said "I'm not a crook!"
Donald has proven far worse!
Nixon famously said "I'm not a crook!"
Donald has proven far worse!
2
I STILL have no understanding of why Trump does not express outrage and anger over the intelligence agencies who have declared that Russia actively interfered with the election in several ways.
Why doesn't he cooperate if he has nothing to hide or his friends, Flynn and Sessions have had only above board and innocent meetings with Russians before the election?
Why is he only concerned about himself. As our president, he is supposed to be concerned about what affects America both negatively and positively. But all I see is a man who is angry that what he wanted, to be president, is not a job where he is deeply admired and everyone is loyal as a pet dog.
Why doesn't he cooperate if he has nothing to hide or his friends, Flynn and Sessions have had only above board and innocent meetings with Russians before the election?
Why is he only concerned about himself. As our president, he is supposed to be concerned about what affects America both negatively and positively. But all I see is a man who is angry that what he wanted, to be president, is not a job where he is deeply admired and everyone is loyal as a pet dog.
3
All I want is the truth. I will be satisfied with that. Trump, Newt "politics of personal destruction" Gingrich, et al, appear quite afraid of the truth.
Carry on Mr. Mueller. A nation turns its lonely eyes to you.
Carry on Mr. Mueller. A nation turns its lonely eyes to you.
17
Being a bully has worked for him so it's no surprise that he employs that tactic here. He want the fights and is pushing the ultimate envelope with this one. How sweet it will\would be when\if the full truth is revealed.
7
Think what Republicans would be saying if Hillary had been elected and wouldn't disclose her income tax records.
And if Hillary had been elected and her campaign had all the Russian contacts we are seeing with the Trump campaign, Jason Chaffetz would already be drawing up impeachment papers.
Instead, Chaffetz is quitting the House rather than be tainted by not wanting to investigate Trump.
And if Hillary had been elected and her campaign had all the Russian contacts we are seeing with the Trump campaign, Jason Chaffetz would already be drawing up impeachment papers.
Instead, Chaffetz is quitting the House rather than be tainted by not wanting to investigate Trump.
11
We all need to keep applying pressure to protect the integrity of the investigations from the wild haymakers being thrown by Donald Trump and his surrogates.
There is no reason, however, to react hysterically whenever one of the usual suspects makes the rounds of the TV talk shows and spouts nonsense.
Newt Gingrich, for example, has absolutely no credibility, as most Republicans agreed in 2012. Gingrich selected a few facts for the weekend and shamelessly assigned innuendoes of wrongdoing to them.
Yes, of Justice Department attorneys who made contributions for the 2016 presidential election, the overwhelming majority gave to Hillary Clinton’s campaign. Big deal.
We have to keep our powder dry for the big attacks on Robert Mueller, Rod Rosenstein, the F.B.I. and the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence. Those attacks will come, because it has finally dawned on this president that he is in a mess he cannot sweep under the rug of a glitzy condo tower.
There is no reason, however, to react hysterically whenever one of the usual suspects makes the rounds of the TV talk shows and spouts nonsense.
Newt Gingrich, for example, has absolutely no credibility, as most Republicans agreed in 2012. Gingrich selected a few facts for the weekend and shamelessly assigned innuendoes of wrongdoing to them.
Yes, of Justice Department attorneys who made contributions for the 2016 presidential election, the overwhelming majority gave to Hillary Clinton’s campaign. Big deal.
We have to keep our powder dry for the big attacks on Robert Mueller, Rod Rosenstein, the F.B.I. and the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence. Those attacks will come, because it has finally dawned on this president that he is in a mess he cannot sweep under the rug of a glitzy condo tower.
1
Girding for a fight? Pffft. That's Trump's natural state. I think he's going to pull a Palin and quit. He just turned 71, the clock is ticking and he isn't having very much fun. Trump has never had to be accountable before. If he hasn't already, some time soon he will realize that lies and tweets and stalling and bravado aren't going to get him through four years in the presidency. Meanwhile, his playboy lifestyle is on hold and he isn't getting any younger. No one can take away the fact that he won the presidency, but serving out his term amidst the investigations, with the real possibility of a humiliating conclusion? He'll build 20 miles of border wall, declare victory and quit.
5
"As USA Today reported last year, Trump has been involved in over 3,500 legal matters, which was an unprecedented number for an American presidential nominee."
Trump always boasts about how is doing things in " an unprecedented way". His proclivity to mix it up in court is about the only truth to be verified about his tenure in office.
Trump always boasts about how is doing things in " an unprecedented way". His proclivity to mix it up in court is about the only truth to be verified about his tenure in office.
Chaos and confusion. His lawyer now says Trump is not under investigation despite Trump acknowledging that he is. Newt Gingrich crawling from obscurity, trying to matter just one more time. Veiled threats to Rosenstein.
It's Steve Bannon at work. But Mueller is oblivious to all of this, Trump will have to fire him. What happens after that depends on Mitch McConnell, Paul Ryan, and the pressure we apply to them now, and in 2018.
If democrats of all ages and stripes don't put aside their Bernie-Hillary differences and vote in 2018, they're going to win again. Simple as that.
It's Steve Bannon at work. But Mueller is oblivious to all of this, Trump will have to fire him. What happens after that depends on Mitch McConnell, Paul Ryan, and the pressure we apply to them now, and in 2018.
If democrats of all ages and stripes don't put aside their Bernie-Hillary differences and vote in 2018, they're going to win again. Simple as that.
The threats and bluster tactics that may have worked for #45 in the past aren't going to cut it now. Spreading his lies and petty grievances across the front pages of the tabloids no longer provide amusement. Will he offer to pay the legal fees that his posse has already begun to accumulate?
His own VP held a fundraiser last weekend to help pay his attorney fees.It becomes quite obvious that his inner circles deeply worried and
have retained legal defense, including his son in law switching to a criminal lawyer .
His own VP held a fundraiser last weekend to help pay his attorney fees.It becomes quite obvious that his inner circles deeply worried and
have retained legal defense, including his son in law switching to a criminal lawyer .
3
Truth will win out. The truth is that Trump does not have an ethical bone in his body and laws to him, are nothing but obstacles to be ignored or tread upon, at his peril.
Newt is fighting so desperately to keep his wife's Vatican appointment legit. It's a much bigger deal to her (and keeping his third marriage together) than another Tiffany's gift. He might want to start lobbying President-elect Pence.
5
I suspect that Mueller is getting a lot of chuckles as he methodically proceeds with his investigation. Meanwhile, Newt Gingrich continues with his desperate attempts to be relevant.
5
If I were accused of being a sleazy, no-count, low-classed crook, and if I were not a sleazy, no-count, low-classed crook, I would be doing everything in my power to prove just how innocent I was. I would release all vital information, like my tax records and my accounting books and would welcome a full and thorough investigation in order to clear my good name. I would not publically question the integrity of the investigators or employ a bunch of sleazy lawyer tricks. On the other hand, if I were accused of being a sleazy, no-count, low-classed crook, and if I were in fact a sleazy, no-count, low-classed crook, I would be doing exactly what Trump is doing.
5
Um, Whitewater? Clinton impeachment?
The pot calling the kettle black.