I remember when Jimmy Carter was forced to sell his family's peanut farm when he became President lest he make any profits off of it when he became President. Republicans investigated him to make sure he severed all ties to his peanut farm. How times have changed!
12
The US government has an Ethics Chief? Who knew?
DD
Manhattan
DD
Manhattan
1
Could be the Democrats are laying a trap through this resignation, to lure Trump into even more brazenly breaking the ethics laws, and open himself to more and more investigation. They know he can't resist, and will self-destruct...
That's the only good I think that could come of this.
That's the only good I think that could come of this.
3
Trump will appoint the former floor polisher (with 5 years of floor polishing experience) from one of his hotels and call it a day.
3
One more step in the decline of democracy in the U.S. The rise of authoritarianism conducted by someone who knows nothing about the world outside his own twisted awful one.
4
I'm sure Mr. Shaub will be more effective where he's going , he fought the good fight at the OGE , but was stymied by you know who & co. He's going to be an asset to the Campaign Legal Center and wish him well , totally a class act.
2
Thank you for your service Mr Shaub
Please keep it up and let the rest of us know what we can do to Support you
Please keep it up and let the rest of us know what we can do to Support you
3
Sadly will anyone stand up against this administration of deceitful madmen.
4
Thank you Mr. Shaub.
I hope you have a bright future.
You tried hard to do the right thing.
Clearly, the trump bunch will fight you every step of the way each and every day.
The word "ethics" is not in their dictionary.
They have no honor.
They have no shame.
I hope you have a bright future.
You tried hard to do the right thing.
Clearly, the trump bunch will fight you every step of the way each and every day.
The word "ethics" is not in their dictionary.
They have no honor.
They have no shame.
3
Part of this is resistance to and resentment of having a businessman rather than professional politician of the establishment as President. But Shaub is right. President Trump should follow the example of President Washington who divested himself of his land interests and his working tobacco plantation, Mt. Vernon.
1
CNN should hire him as a correspondent with an hourly show on the most recent non-complient moves. Oh wait, that wouldn't fit in an hour.
4
Expect to see a fox put in charge of the hen house. Nothing this admnistration does shocks me anymore.
5
Please keep digging into this, NYT.
3
Congress allowed Trump's violation of ethics rules - his family in the White House, his lease of the old Post Office - a hotel used for government functions, the weekends at his golf courses al. Paid for by the tax payer. Trump gets a free pass - next it will be tax breaks for him and his family,
4
He couldn't play a part in the charade that many Republicans have made of the office and that Trump would continue to make of the office. Especially Trump.
Another true American bites the dust under the dark skies of our new Trump reality.
May Mr. Shaub help from a different forum now, the way the Dalai Lama has done since he fled China's brutal takeover of that nation.
Another true American bites the dust under the dark skies of our new Trump reality.
May Mr. Shaub help from a different forum now, the way the Dalai Lama has done since he fled China's brutal takeover of that nation.
5
I'm sure Trump will pick a successor with experience in ethics law and a reputation for independence--maybe Bernie Madoff.
5
By "in short order," I presume he means it's coming "in two weeks," like everything else in his presidency.
3
Dismantling of America continues.
7
Mr. Shaub, wish you the best on your newest endeavor. Very grateful for your service, voice & courage. Things have gotten more frightening now that you are leaving. The USA is not what it once was; and now the position that you have held is opened to be filled by ?!?
Very sad to see you go, but wish you well and can't blame you for getting out.
Very sad day for the US and the code of ethics.
Very sad to see you go, but wish you well and can't blame you for getting out.
Very sad day for the US and the code of ethics.
3
He is so correct in leaving now. He knows there is no time to waste. Unlike the GOP he takes his moral, ethical ,patriotic beliefs more seriously. They are first above his or a parties gains. God and country . Please help to bring forth the truth. Don't let the administration bring us down anymore than they all have already. I feel we are in a Shakespearean play tragedy ,of course. And trying to get anything done in side this government is nonexistent.
5
The ethics position can be filled by Trump's caddy. Not counting strokes or reporting rules violations are key requirements for a Trump auditor.
4
you're under attack? better to ask what?
google(Schenectady gate!) Government orders tax payment sent back to create false evidence to be able to proceed in court to take land. No One Blinks A Eye!
Wake Up America! Developer/Government !
google(Schenectady gate!) Government orders tax payment sent back to create false evidence to be able to proceed in court to take land. No One Blinks A Eye!
Wake Up America! Developer/Government !
Best wishes to Mr. Schaub. I can't imagine how frustrating it was to be in his position (and how frustrating it will continue to be for those who remain in that office). To be responsible for calling out the many ethical conflicts and breaches of this administration, knowing full well that strict laws to deal with breaches are not in place, and no action will be taken by the complicit congress, has make every single day feel futile.
2
Federal ethics in the Federal Government is now dead. Imagine who Trump will appoint, if anyone.
As long as "Swamp Thing" and their ilk is running the country, those in the swamp, don't want to get mired. The only thing that is important in this administration, is how much they can personally appropriate for themselves, before their terms end.
Their corruption as noted in this article, is disgusting.
As long as "Swamp Thing" and their ilk is running the country, those in the swamp, don't want to get mired. The only thing that is important in this administration, is how much they can personally appropriate for themselves, before their terms end.
Their corruption as noted in this article, is disgusting.
29
When will the Republicans hold Trump to account? Will they do anything at all to ensure an ethical, high-minded replacement is appointed?
19
Watch closely for a full pardon for Bernie Madoff with the understanding that he will immediately assume the position as chief watchdog of the government ethics office.
Fox, meet henhouse (the door is unlocked of course).
Fox, meet henhouse (the door is unlocked of course).
28
It indicates his clear disdain for the abuse of power, obstruction of justice, emoluments violations
17
Looks like there is another job for Trump's "Go-to Guy."
President Trump-"Jared I've got a new job for you. It'll be great for the business!"
President Trump-"Jared I've got a new job for you. It'll be great for the business!"
21
This President has never been ethical and will not ever become so. The people around him, Kushner, Bannon and Miller, are puppet masters of the most horrid kind, feeding this insecure, immature man with huge flattery about how great he is and how much people love him -- all the while doing everything they can to bring us to war and dismantle the government from the top down.
If indeed it is true, as it says in "Dark Money," that many in Congress took an oath to support the Koch Brothers' decision to kill climate issues, and if it is so that the people who signed such a pledge did so willingly, then talking about "ethics" is simply silly. Who, in the GOP is ethical??
All the men who gathered at that table in the WH to tell the Donald what a blessing it was to serve him have made a pact with Faust. If being a billionaire is a sign of "worthiness" and being less than a billionaire is a sign of "unworthiness" (and they all think so) then nothing anyone can do will make a difference. One thing, and only one thing, might have an impact and that is for some amazing person to "get to" the people who voted for Trump and wake them up to the truly awful situation they created and supported.
Ethics seems to be an antiquarian idea that is dying without anyone to intervene. What's also already gone is class, decorum, propriety, honesty, responsibility, honor, duty, humility and decency.
Every day, it hurts.
If indeed it is true, as it says in "Dark Money," that many in Congress took an oath to support the Koch Brothers' decision to kill climate issues, and if it is so that the people who signed such a pledge did so willingly, then talking about "ethics" is simply silly. Who, in the GOP is ethical??
All the men who gathered at that table in the WH to tell the Donald what a blessing it was to serve him have made a pact with Faust. If being a billionaire is a sign of "worthiness" and being less than a billionaire is a sign of "unworthiness" (and they all think so) then nothing anyone can do will make a difference. One thing, and only one thing, might have an impact and that is for some amazing person to "get to" the people who voted for Trump and wake them up to the truly awful situation they created and supported.
Ethics seems to be an antiquarian idea that is dying without anyone to intervene. What's also already gone is class, decorum, propriety, honesty, responsibility, honor, duty, humility and decency.
Every day, it hurts.
26
A pact with Faust? Don't you mean a Faustian pact?
1
"Every day, it hurts." Good!
Those who lie down with dogs get up with fleas.
Thanks to Mr. Schaub for attempting to instill ethics in the Trump Administration. Congratulations for wisdom and integrity to leave.
Thanks to Mr. Schaub for attempting to instill ethics in the Trump Administration. Congratulations for wisdom and integrity to leave.
16
A Honorable exit of a principled Executive who decided that tilting against Windmills when the President foes not bother to heed advice to liquidate his shoddy trump real estate holdings and decides to hide his Tax returns, is the only way out. With the appointment of a large number of corporate executives in key administration positions, the next Head of the Government Ethics Office has his work cut out if s/he is an honest individual.
11
Disheartening, though, that the exit occurs. Maddening that sidestepping conflict of interest and the appearance of conflict of interest was not somehow insisted. Indicative of a dishonorable leader.
Donald Trump owns hotels and golf courses. He prospers when the rest of the country prospers enough to afford travel and leisure. That's not such a bad conflict of interest to have.
It's not like the guy owns a munitions factory.
It's not like the guy owns a munitions factory.
2
Tell that to the countless glaziers, masons, carpenters, landowners, property owners, law firms, and assorted other people from the lowest to the highest income bracket that have been stiffed by Trump.
To them it likely appears that when Trump prospers, they do the opposite.
Kind of tough to afford fancy hotels and golf courses when the guy whose name is stamped and engraved all over every surface also happens to be the guy who refused to pay you, then lawyered up knowing you don't have the funds to fight back on an equal playing field.
Doesn't take a munitions factory to do damage.
To them it likely appears that when Trump prospers, they do the opposite.
Kind of tough to afford fancy hotels and golf courses when the guy whose name is stamped and engraved all over every surface also happens to be the guy who refused to pay you, then lawyered up knowing you don't have the funds to fight back on an equal playing field.
Doesn't take a munitions factory to do damage.
1
IMHO you are absolutely clueless as to what constitutes ethical behavior and conflict of interest.
You mean those golf courses that cost $250k to join?
Sure makes me feel like i won something.
Sure makes me feel like i won something.
Trump will no doubt appoint someone knowledgable, experienced and articulate. Sarah Palin, Ted Nugent and Kid Rock all have expressed interest.
12
Another one bites the dust. Starting to wonder how many are left in our institutions who will be watchdogs for our democratic values and who will withstand the Trump onslaught to do away with all that we hold dear.
11
"....Mr. Trump, she said, would nominate a successor “'in short order'.”
Someone who's as ethically challenged as his whole cabinet.
Someone who's as ethically challenged as his whole cabinet.
12
Bernard Madoff will receive a presidential pardon (for a share of the hidden loot) and be appointed to replace him.
The GOP senate will offer christian forgiveness and confirmation for a share of the spoils as campaign contributions.
And a promise of favorable rulings.
The GOP senate will offer christian forgiveness and confirmation for a share of the spoils as campaign contributions.
And a promise of favorable rulings.
6
It is a sad day when an ethical human feels the need to leave government service especially when they will be replaced with a lackey. It is America's loss, but then again, with the Republican's in control we have to learn to deal with a number of losses. Loss of allies, loss of income, loss of health care, loss of international esteem, loss of international trade, loss of clean air and water, loss of integrity, loss of etc.
I have to congratulate Mr. Shaub as well as one of his predecessors, Richard Painter. Richard is someone I had never heard of, but despite his being a Republican, he is one of the most impressive, straight talkers I have heard over the past few years. Hopefully Mr. Shaub's voice will join Mr. Painters.
I have to congratulate Mr. Shaub as well as one of his predecessors, Richard Painter. Richard is someone I had never heard of, but despite his being a Republican, he is one of the most impressive, straight talkers I have heard over the past few years. Hopefully Mr. Shaub's voice will join Mr. Painters.
9
This administration cares little about ethics... as they walk along the fine line of legality, especially with conflicts of interest. Mr. Shaub likely got tired of dealing with it - no one else cares and there's nothing he can do.
"Mr. Trump .. would nominate a successor “in short order.” "
Sounds like Bannon or Kushner will get added responsibility ... certainly the job won't take much time.
"Mr. Trump .. would nominate a successor “in short order.” "
Sounds like Bannon or Kushner will get added responsibility ... certainly the job won't take much time.
20
They don't walk a fine line at all. They are ethically and morally bankrupt and they simply do not care what people think.
11
Decades ago when appointed to the Planning Commission of a relatively small city, the direction was should I feel a sense of conflict recuse yourself.
The Appearance of Conflict laws have been better clarified over time. However, it now feels that no one person should stand so significantly separated from the ethic standards held by smaller entities.
Perhaps it is time to review the ethic standards and laws that now apply to our President of the United States.
The Appearance of Conflict laws have been better clarified over time. However, it now feels that no one person should stand so significantly separated from the ethic standards held by smaller entities.
Perhaps it is time to review the ethic standards and laws that now apply to our President of the United States.
5
What does it take to impeach someone ?
8
Proof of a crime rather than wishful thinking.
2
When Trump supporters and alt-right man-children talk about swamps and the Deep State, Schaub is who they're referring to. So is Comey. And the FBI after Comey was fired. And Mueller. And the CIA. And the CBO. The autonomous, well-respected, neutral institutions of government that Trump perceives to be an impediment.
This is what revolution looks like in a country as wealthy and stable as ours. People are absolutely convinced their lives are terrible, and that it's the government's fault. Your party can't get enough votes to pursue a highly partisan agenda in Congress? Supreme Court split down the middle? Blame the structures that help maintain the status quo then take them out by whatever means necessary.
It's why I hate the language of revolution and radical restructuring. There's been a lot of it from the left, too, over the past eight or so years—no small amount of which was directed at the man who showed the kind of prudence, restraint, and respect for our government our current president lacks.
This is what revolution looks like in a country as wealthy and stable as ours. People are absolutely convinced their lives are terrible, and that it's the government's fault. Your party can't get enough votes to pursue a highly partisan agenda in Congress? Supreme Court split down the middle? Blame the structures that help maintain the status quo then take them out by whatever means necessary.
It's why I hate the language of revolution and radical restructuring. There's been a lot of it from the left, too, over the past eight or so years—no small amount of which was directed at the man who showed the kind of prudence, restraint, and respect for our government our current president lacks.
10
Draining the swamp? The current white house with Trump in it is not only a swamp, it also has dangerous alligators (sorry for referring to an animal- which only kills when hungry) who will drag the US down into a ditch. Some alligators - the attorney general who lies, a president who lies and cheats - a religious humbug like Hobby Lobby who accepts stolen property, the new supreme court judge?
21
Hopefully Mr. Shaub will continue to serve and be even more effective now that Donald Trump is no longer his boss.
15
He's seen it all. Obstruction of justice, emoluments clause violations, conflict of interest!. Worst president in history
24
As a federal employee, I concur with Mr. Shaub that he can make more of a difference outside the government than in. So much bureaucracy, and so many constraints. Mr. Shaub likely recognized that all effort to persuade this White House on ethics concerns was for naught. More power to him for recognizing that he can make more of a difference at the Campaign Legal Center.
17
They all go to "non-partisan" groups, don't they? Seems like it's time for someone to take a serious look at all the tax-exempt non-profits claiming to be non-partisan and non-political. We obviously can't trust the IRS until the rules are reexamined.
Taxpayers are getting stiffed. But at least the Swamp seems to be draining itself as these folks are getting out of government service.
Taxpayers are getting stiffed. But at least the Swamp seems to be draining itself as these folks are getting out of government service.
4
You have it backwards, Parkbench.
Shaub was trying to increase the transparency around the potential conflicts of this administration and all he got was pushback. 45 has filled the swamp with plutocrats (who are just out to make America greater again for their industries to collude, pollute, and fill their pockets with tax cuts they don't need and by throwing your grandmother out of a nursing home by cutting Medicaid) until it is flowing over more than ever.
Now freed from the constraints of his position, Shaub can be an even stronger advocate for ethics in government.
Who do you think the "swamp" is? It starts with 45.
When you have a President who refuses to step away from his holdings - as Michael Bloomberg agreed to do and did when he was mayor of New York - no one should be surprised that the filth trickles down...
Shaub was trying to increase the transparency around the potential conflicts of this administration and all he got was pushback. 45 has filled the swamp with plutocrats (who are just out to make America greater again for their industries to collude, pollute, and fill their pockets with tax cuts they don't need and by throwing your grandmother out of a nursing home by cutting Medicaid) until it is flowing over more than ever.
Now freed from the constraints of his position, Shaub can be an even stronger advocate for ethics in government.
Who do you think the "swamp" is? It starts with 45.
When you have a President who refuses to step away from his holdings - as Michael Bloomberg agreed to do and did when he was mayor of New York - no one should be surprised that the filth trickles down...
17
Exactly. It seems particularly odious when the leader cannot be compelled to do the honorable thing and at the same time applaud changes when helpless grandmother stands to lose her bed.
Thank you Mr. Shaub. Sorry to see you go. This country needs people standing up for ethics right now.
32
Ethics director under President Trump. Who in their right mind is going to take that job? With or without the Senate: The applicant is either corrupt, incompetent, or both. Ms. Finlayson's name is being floated because that's the only viable option. Someone set their stopwatch. We should have a pool going for the month in which she resigns. My money is on February. Six months to train your replacement, one month taking unused vacation, one day to find a new job.
5
Very good riddance, I say!
2
Yeah, they don't need no stinking' ethics!
5
Why? Do you feel like tRump & Co. should be allowed to run amok?
When the ethics chief sees no way to complete their mission, you are way over the falls.
4
It indicates his clear disdain for the abuse of power, obstruction of justice, emoluments violations
2
He will probably elect the caterer from one of his children's weddings since he recently appointed the Wedding Planner to the head of housing! The hardest thing about being the government Ethics Chief is having to deal with a President who has no ethics!
17
Goof 45 has never heard of this man nor his office, regretfully. We will certainly miss him. But there's more to the story. He had to be gotten out of the way, like Trumpster roadkill. Hope he's not just paid, parked and muzzled at the new job. Good luck to you sir, and thank you.
3
I was very sorry to see the news of Mr. Shaub's resigning. His fair and balanced belief in the value of ethics has been a ray of sunshine since the January inauguration.
Should the current President see his way to naming a new Ethics Director, I would hope that the Senate would carefully question the nominee about loyalty oaths.
Perhaps after Mr. Shaub takes on his new role, he will be able to be a regular informed guest on television news programs.
Perhaps there is also some assistance that Mr. Shaub might be able to offer to Mr. Mueller's investigation.
Should the current President see his way to naming a new Ethics Director, I would hope that the Senate would carefully question the nominee about loyalty oaths.
Perhaps after Mr. Shaub takes on his new role, he will be able to be a regular informed guest on television news programs.
Perhaps there is also some assistance that Mr. Shaub might be able to offer to Mr. Mueller's investigation.
7
Why bother filling the position? Under Trump, it's redundant.
3
Trump and the GOP have become a criminal organization.
Actually, to be fair, the GOP was working to become a criminal organization since Reagan was president and then when Newt was speaker- so nothing new here except the sheer audacity, shamelessness and transparency of the corruption. Even Newt would not have dared to steal a SCOTUS appointment the way O'Connell did.
Trump meme: Ethics? Ethics? We don't need no stinking ethics......
Actually, to be fair, the GOP was working to become a criminal organization since Reagan was president and then when Newt was speaker- so nothing new here except the sheer audacity, shamelessness and transparency of the corruption. Even Newt would not have dared to steal a SCOTUS appointment the way O'Connell did.
Trump meme: Ethics? Ethics? We don't need no stinking ethics......
10
Another opportunity for this "administration" to disgrace itself.
2
A government left unchecked is a totalitarian government. And that's what we have now with a trifecta of gutless, amoral Republicans running this country and a Supreme Court that looks back to the conditions in 1787 to see whether a particular government action is permissible.
Good luck to us all, for we all need it.
Good luck to us all, for we all need it.
9
The grifting begun in January will continue unabated and at break-neck speed.
7
Who will be new U.S. Govt Ethics Chief? Steve Bannon? Stephen Miller? Ivanka?
6
El Chapo
3
We need to ramp up push to jail Trump.
1
New Director of the Office of Government Ethics - Corey Lewandowski.
2
KellyAnne?
1
Nice letter that made that it clear what the problem is without naming him.
4
The importance of Special Prosecutor Mueller's mission to uncover the facts behind so much disconcerting behavior by Mr. Trump and his associates has just been kicked up to a higher level of urgency. In addition to Mr. Mueller's investigation of potential illegal acts, ethical norms in government have been under assault since Trump took office. Mr. Shaub and the OGE are the best defenders of philosophical and religious precepts despite a nation founded on separation of church and state.
3
We will miss you
3
"U.S. Government Ethics Chief " an oxymoron
4
Ethics? Look at the expose on the company Trump keeps as in Trumps Indonesian business dealings in the development of a huge themed park on Bali. Never mind the people, the Java forest, a revered temple, rare spotted leopards as long as it fills Trump pockets. So why should an Office of Government Ethics stunt his style. I wonder what's in his tax returns on foreign dealings.
7
Didn't mention Mr. Trump's name in his letter of resignation.
Will the Trump appointee be required to pledge loyalty to the President over his own ethical beliefs?
6
Of course! That's what everyone he has does isn't it?
2
Yes. No one trustworthy in the administration or the Republican Party.
The entire GOP is scared of him and bows to him. Not one can defy him obviously except Rand Paul who feels that the health bill should be way more destructive to Americans.
The entire GOP is scared of him and bows to him. Not one can defy him obviously except Rand Paul who feels that the health bill should be way more destructive to Americans.
1
"Ethics" - an all-important concept. Unfortunately, the exploration of whether or not behavior is ethical, is not mandatory. Where there is a will, there is a way and only some of us have the will these days.
1
Bravo to Schaub, a man of principle, who, in speaking out, will find a grateful nation along with a right wing media spin machine with slings and arrows at the ready-( I'm sure the paragons of public service at fox are on it already)- but I am still hopeful that the truth will set us free.
2
Wow, this is depressing. First the Office of Science & Technology has lost everyone (there were 100 positions during the Obama administration) and now we lose our ethics leader. Likely Trump will leave the job vacant.
Hopefully, an independent prosecutor will take care of the Trump international crime family and team and proof will come out publicly about the taint of the election, voiding the result.
We can either declare the runner up the winner, or run a new election for president/vice president; paper ballots only, and secured by the League of Women Voters and similar respected groups. South Korea accomplished this in 60 days after the fall of a corrupt leader.
Then perhaps the US can get back to governing and protecting our valued citizens.
Hopefully, an independent prosecutor will take care of the Trump international crime family and team and proof will come out publicly about the taint of the election, voiding the result.
We can either declare the runner up the winner, or run a new election for president/vice president; paper ballots only, and secured by the League of Women Voters and similar respected groups. South Korea accomplished this in 60 days after the fall of a corrupt leader.
Then perhaps the US can get back to governing and protecting our valued citizens.
4
It looks like he has found a better job: fixing the voting system. It's clear that special interest groups have taken at least undue influence over members of Congress and their policy choices, having a greater voice than the median wage earning worker who has no idea what will happen to him if a major tax overhaul makes it more expensive to employ him than say a foreign worker.
A professor once cited a collective action problem in stopping measures that are collectively bad for the American people but good for few individual corporations. Then again, maybe the cost is worth it, but it's difficult to tell whether bias has been accounted for.
I'd personally like to see whether it is worth it for consumers to have lower prices on their products than a decrease in wages in factory employment. Congress seems to have made that decision for us by making these trade deals, but there is no accountability to the people, and the people do not know enough about them to hold their representatives in check. If it comes down to a battle of economic theories, so be it. But we would like to know.
China is increasingly nationalistic on their products: they buy Chinese. How will this help American markets and the American consumer? Will trade with China continue to be sustainable? I am sure President Trump is looking into these issues, but he seems too focused on selling products and preventing jobs from leaving than having a focus on the American worker.
Thank you for your reports.
A professor once cited a collective action problem in stopping measures that are collectively bad for the American people but good for few individual corporations. Then again, maybe the cost is worth it, but it's difficult to tell whether bias has been accounted for.
I'd personally like to see whether it is worth it for consumers to have lower prices on their products than a decrease in wages in factory employment. Congress seems to have made that decision for us by making these trade deals, but there is no accountability to the people, and the people do not know enough about them to hold their representatives in check. If it comes down to a battle of economic theories, so be it. But we would like to know.
China is increasingly nationalistic on their products: they buy Chinese. How will this help American markets and the American consumer? Will trade with China continue to be sustainable? I am sure President Trump is looking into these issues, but he seems too focused on selling products and preventing jobs from leaving than having a focus on the American worker.
Thank you for your reports.
"Mr. Trump, she said, would nominate a successor “in short order.”. We will either see another unqualified crony, Jared or none at all if Trump should nominate anyone. What better way to silence the office that is critical of his lack of ethics-appoint a yes-man.
64
Oh boy- I can't wait for Trump's nomination for this role. Who could it be? Bernie Madoff? Charles Manson? Maybe Ted Nugent?
89
Mr. Shaub has resigned himself to the fact that in order to violate ethical standards, you need to have some. Maybe he figures he can get more done on the outside by suing the government. Lawsuits seem to be one of the few things Trump understands.
59
Chris Christie will need a job soon. Could be a fit.
48
Only if they widen the office door!
3
True - after seeing those beach pictures.
For him, better than a day at the beach!
You tune will change when a few hundred thousand Tennesse residents get dumped off of Medicaid and Social Security Disability Benefits. Trump could care less about people like you once you voted for him. Keep watching Fox News and drinking the Republican Kool-aid and see what happens.
47
The Office of Government Ethics -- one more position Trump won't fill, and one more agency the Republicans will shut down.
54
Great news now a real professional can take his role and really work to improve things.
2
You have no problem with Trump making money off of his position via his companies? With countries currying favor with him by staying in his hotels so that we're now not sure if he's making decisions because of what's best for the country or what's best for his bottom line?
What *should* the office of Ethics be looking at, in your un-humble opinion?
What *should* the office of Ethics be looking at, in your un-humble opinion?
Irony. Nice job!
No one Trump appoints will dare to challenge this unethical president.
1
I'm surprised more people haven't left their jobs -- anyone around this toxic group must be suffering great, great depression.
40
Yes. Let's start with the Oval Office.
Thank you for the work you did.
45
Each day, a step forward to authoritarianism.
47
This is too bad. Surely the Campaign Legal Center could have waited for 6 months before hiring Mr. Shaub, knowing how important this position and his independent stance has been?
46
He can't do anything about the many ethical problems he sees, so he might as well go somewhere where he can. Why spend six more months of frustration?
1
They probably would have waited. But he didn't want to just sit and be unable to do anything to stop the corruption. He is also not the 1st to resign because of the inability to work under trump.
No use banging your against a wall. Good luck, we're stuck.
28
Clearly, Mr. Shaub has chosen to resign now instead of later because he has come to the realization of what the old adage confirms about this admiistration,
"sometimes there is just no reasoning with outright stupidity".
"sometimes there is just no reasoning with outright stupidity".
36
A few more good men like him and Trump is gone.
14
"another victory like that and we are done for."
I read recently that trump appointed his caddie to head a social service agency in New York, so I expect him to appoint his chauffeur to head up Ethics.
There is no God.
There is no God.
57
One more position that Trump will coincidentally find himself without the time to appoint a replacement.
29
I did not vote for Mr Trump, but after he won I begrudgingly gave him respect and urged others to do so as well. I had convinced myself he had the moxie to appoint people who would surprise all of us. It appears I was very wrong.
Although in office a few short months this administration will undoubtedly haunt our nation for for a long, long time as it may be very difficult to recover the losses I fear are incubating within his Cabinet as I write.
Even as a quid pro quo it is tough to consider Mr Trump would appoint the blatant opportunists he has to fill spots requiring far more than a person willing to dress the part.
While some of his cabinet choices are certainly capable and skilled, few show sign of thoughtful leadership. Given this record whoever he picks to fill this vacancy will be immediately suspect.
Although in office a few short months this administration will undoubtedly haunt our nation for for a long, long time as it may be very difficult to recover the losses I fear are incubating within his Cabinet as I write.
Even as a quid pro quo it is tough to consider Mr Trump would appoint the blatant opportunists he has to fill spots requiring far more than a person willing to dress the part.
While some of his cabinet choices are certainly capable and skilled, few show sign of thoughtful leadership. Given this record whoever he picks to fill this vacancy will be immediately suspect.
65
What is "thoughtful leadership"? What we are going to get is improvement, and soon.
Anything where the people in power are more than just a mouthpiece for their industry friends. Right now, industry is writing all the new rule changes. That is a conflict of interest. Where is that whole bit about draining the swamp. This is just naked nepotism at best.
26
Soon? You trump supporters have been saying that since day 1 and all we get is more scandal every day. He has done nothing and will continue to do nothing except line his pockets at your expense. Trump has had months, with a republican congress to do something, anything of some consequence and yet all we see is efforts to kick people off insurance, no job bills, no foreign policy, nothing but empty rhetoric to divide people.
2
Walter M. Shaub Jr.,
Your are the Man!
Thank you,
An Educated and Taxpaying American
Your are the Man!
Thank you,
An Educated and Taxpaying American
61
Ethics... The Grifter cannot even spell the word. Now, he could nominate Christie, a man knows how to get around getting things done. Giuliani? I know. Newt or the Palin bear from not far away from Russia. The list of buffoons is quite long.
45
Oh, Mr. Shaub!
It is people like you who give bureaucrats a GOOD name.
We are happy for you...but so fearful for ourselves!
It is people like you who give bureaucrats a GOOD name.
We are happy for you...but so fearful for ourselves!
101
The only good bureaucrat is an unemployed bureaucrat.
1
This new administration is getting away with murder.
43
This so called president of ours is doing irrevocable destruction to this country .
We are no longer the United States that stood for freedom and respected the rule of law . This man is taking a sledge hammer to everything right it's that our country has stood for .
Instead of aligning with our allies of the free world , he is maligning the press and aligning with the leader of Poland calling the press in the US " fake news" while Poland's president is taking away freedom of the press in his country
This makes me sick to my stomach . He has no shame .
We are no longer the United States that stood for freedom and respected the rule of law . This man is taking a sledge hammer to everything right it's that our country has stood for .
Instead of aligning with our allies of the free world , he is maligning the press and aligning with the leader of Poland calling the press in the US " fake news" while Poland's president is taking away freedom of the press in his country
This makes me sick to my stomach . He has no shame .
82
Your idea of harm is my idea of improvement, such that I hope will never be reversed.
1
He's not even making America great again as promised. He's making America a truly foreign country that none of us recognize and most of us don't want to live in. Ugh! And furthermore it has only been six months. Just think what will be left of us in another three and a half years!
Given the President's pattern on matters such as these, he will probably appoint a cashier from one of his casinos, as those people are good with, uh, ethics stuff, right? Winning!
44
Why resign now? Why can't you wait till your full term expires or be terminated? This leaves a lot more question than answer.
Two things are for sure - people's disheartened to lose one of few reliable check and balance for Trump and Trump's obvious glee of one less thorn on his side.
Disappointing.
Two things are for sure - people's disheartened to lose one of few reliable check and balance for Trump and Trump's obvious glee of one less thorn on his side.
Disappointing.
67
I guess this is just too easy. Most people who have dealt with Mr. Trump before his election have little good to say about him and his rather slimy business practices. So it has become painfully obvious that his election victory was the chance of a lifetime; not to keep America as the greatest county in the world, but to enrich himself, his family and the rest of the 1%. Also to make his brand more well known around the world because I don't think many businesses or banks in the U.S. want anything to do with him. As for a replacement, well, Donald is having enough trouble filling vacancies, I doubt if filling the "Ethics" job will be high on his list.
21
When ethics and D.C. collide
There’s little enough left, outside
Of settling dust
And scruples of rust,
That settle upon the wayside
There’s little enough left, outside
Of settling dust
And scruples of rust,
That settle upon the wayside
10
Nobody who knows what ethics are would work for this administration.
61
This is disheartening. I've never before recalled an ethics official's public statement, or even an ethics official's name, but Mr. Shaub's speech about Trump's "blind trust" arrangement was indelibly memorable, especially this singular statement:
"It’s important to understand that the President is now entering the world of public service. He’s going to be asking his own appointees to make sacrifices. He’s going to be asking our men and women in uniform to risk their lives in conflicts around the world. So, no, I don’t think divestiture is too high a price to pay to be the President of the United States of America."
Mr. Khan was right. Trump makes no personal sacrifices. Evidence suggests he doesn't even understand what sacrifice or public service means.
"It’s important to understand that the President is now entering the world of public service. He’s going to be asking his own appointees to make sacrifices. He’s going to be asking our men and women in uniform to risk their lives in conflicts around the world. So, no, I don’t think divestiture is too high a price to pay to be the President of the United States of America."
Mr. Khan was right. Trump makes no personal sacrifices. Evidence suggests he doesn't even understand what sacrifice or public service means.
172
ANOTHER non-partisan, admirable career civil servant forced out by the despot-in-waiting?
Another sad sign for our government and the last tattered remnants of our democracy...
And WHERE'S the public outcry, or even a peep from our elected representatives...?
Another sad sign for our government and the last tattered remnants of our democracy...
And WHERE'S the public outcry, or even a peep from our elected representatives...?
75
More like a totally biased and over his head person. Good reddens, probably a cost reduction to not replace him with someone making as much.
2
Ethics? What do Trump, his family, his organization and the Republican facilitators know about ethics? Just an inconvenience, easily ignore, denied, disrespected, just as they treat the American people.
49
Since Trump has no ethics. does not believe laws and regulations apply to him - after all, he considers himself a ruler and a dictator - what is the point of an Ethics Office?
24
Shaub's letter of resignation is brilliant.
"They are committedf to protecting the principle that public service is a public trust, requiring employees to place loyalty to the Constitution, the laws, and ethical principles above private gain."
What a perfect indictment of Trump and his corrupt administration.
"They are committedf to protecting the principle that public service is a public trust, requiring employees to place loyalty to the Constitution, the laws, and ethical principles above private gain."
What a perfect indictment of Trump and his corrupt administration.
82
Not a moment too soon.
3
Why?
15
Being the director of the Office of Government Ethics in the Trump administration is like being in charge of Journalistic Integrity at Fox News. It's a nice title to have, but you have to know that no one takes you seriously, right?
42
We've obviously reached the point where our leaders are longer concerned about even the appearance of having no ethics.
43
Many in government seem to have come to the realization that they can get away with murder, even while the public closely observes them, yet there will be no consequences to pay.
8
As he should!
We need ethics attack dogs to let loose on the Trump administration.
13
What a shame. Bullied into it resignation, I would guess. The Trump stain on our country is getting larger and larger.
27
Schaub is my hero.
37
Shaub for President! You at least are trustworthy.
2
This is a tragedy! One more experienced, Ethical Watchdog, leaving government service. Under the most transgressive administration in our history.
I salute this man! He obviously knows his job and has tried his mightiest to keep things clean on his watch. Under immense pressure to give in to the sycophants in the White House.
You will be sorely missed, Mr. Schaub! You deserve a Medal of Honor for your your tireless work on behalf of We the People, under a Weasley Creature from the Dark Side.
Your nation is grateful. And will miss you. More than we can even imagine right now, I'm pretty sure.
I salute this man! He obviously knows his job and has tried his mightiest to keep things clean on his watch. Under immense pressure to give in to the sycophants in the White House.
You will be sorely missed, Mr. Schaub! You deserve a Medal of Honor for your your tireless work on behalf of We the People, under a Weasley Creature from the Dark Side.
Your nation is grateful. And will miss you. More than we can even imagine right now, I'm pretty sure.
30
Yet another good, decent, honest, and intelligent civil servant bites the dust!
Scary, indeed.
Scary, indeed.
41
I am sorry to hear this as that sick unethical sorry excuse of a president will not appoint anyone to replace him and will gut that department. This is very bad news indeed.
22
Bad timing....now who's going to hold Trump and his minions accountable for their corruption?
13
Themselves? Or an ineffective Congress who will surely turn a blind eye to the antics to protect the party, and themselves.
6
Ultimately, it's up to us, the citizens. Keep pressing your elected officials, engage with your local political organizations, and keep informed.
1
Hopefully, now he will be free to testify for Mueller and any of the several ongoing Congressional investigations into this corrupt klepto-administration.
34
The nation has just lost a true patriot. Good luck in your new adventures Mr. Shaub. Let your voice be heard!
22
We have an outlaw president of a banana republic with a greedy set of henchmen called his advisers and cabinet. Whoever fills the Office of Government Ethics will have a futile task until a lily-livered, feckless Congress decides that Trump must go. What will it take, I wonder? Certainly not the conflicts of interest that define the current administration.
17
The ethics of Trump is a classic psychopath. He will always be right no matter what. Blame others, whine. Take more and more and more.. Rules do not apply.
The new Ethics Chief will likely be another Trump High Roller Campaign Donor. But this time it may be someone that pledges a few million to the Trump 2020 camp. Position for $ale.
The new Ethics Chief will likely be another Trump High Roller Campaign Donor. But this time it may be someone that pledges a few million to the Trump 2020 camp. Position for $ale.
23
So, now it is confirmed that bullying, gaslighting, and beating the drum of lies works to wear people down. Great. Expect it all to rise to an even higher level now and reach fever pitch until there are nothing but rancid swamp creatures left to run this country.
12
Schaub will probably have more resources available to him on the outside than he had inside that snake-infested swamp. He'll surely have more room to swing the machete.
46
We have not seen the last of Schaub. He is on it.
17
Really hope so !
8
Mr. Shaub leaving six months early is not helpful.
12
He has possibly been "shopping" himself around since January, 20, 2017, and, finding a job much less stressful and toxic, he made the leap.
It is sad he is leaving, but, you can only bang your head against the wall so many times...
It is sad he is leaving, but, you can only bang your head against the wall so many times...
8
The "swamp" was "drained" and is now refilled with ten times the toxic poison.
46
Thank you for your dedication to public service and to ethics in government, Mr Shaub. I am really sorry that you will not be there at least calling attention to the Liar in Chief's and his staff's unethical behavior. Our only hope now is the special prosecutor.
48
I really really wish Mr Schaub would not resign because Trumps administration needs an ethics watchdog desperately.
31
Sounds like another perfect job for Jared Kushner - ethics being one of his many, many strong suits....
Good luck Mr. Shaub - I've a feeling we're going to miss you. A lot.
Good luck Mr. Shaub - I've a feeling we're going to miss you. A lot.
110
Did he say he got an offer he couldn't refuse?
2
This is a shame - a good man out at a time when ethics in government are under attack in many countries.
24
Don't look to the Republican leadership to curb his dreadful habits
25
Oh goody, now we get to see the institutionalization of corruption as a core American value
30
Trump clearly will not be changing his style, personality, or level of moral ineptitude due to voluntary compliance with pressure from any agency which does not have the power of enforcement. Arguments, custom, ethics and simple human decency have no place in his world--it's all about power, greed, and ego. Short of impeachment or indictment I wouldn't count on any modification of behavior from this small, insecure and dangerous person. The only person likely to take on this position, soon to be vacated by Mr. Shaub, would be a Trump toady--better that it be left vacant.
29
This is - without question - the most depressing story of the day.
The 'ethics free' Trump Administration now has full permission to operate on a scale of squalor unprecedented in American history.
Swamp indeed...
NOT my president
The 'ethics free' Trump Administration now has full permission to operate on a scale of squalor unprecedented in American history.
Swamp indeed...
NOT my president
107
Why do we have an Office of Government Ethics if those in the current administration freely ignore the Director's advice? Assuming previous administrations cared about such foolish and trivial things as right and wrong, now that we are in the Age of Trump Decadence, why not save some tax money and close the office. We know how committed they are about cutting taxes,
2
Is Bernie Madoff available?
50
The foxes are taking over the henhouse. FBI we need you.
56
Are you sure? The new appointee by Trump is a Chris Christie lackey who has Russian ties.
1
Jared Kushner will no doubt be given the job.
73
Eric or Don Jr. would be perfect picks too. No conflicts of interest there.
11
The most powerful watchdog would be a Private Company. Probably, as I write this comment, they are working-on not only Ethics violations but also prevention and education. Business usual practices must change. The landscape of power is shifting from Country Level to World Level, as the World becomes more connected and production becomes "on the same page". So, production is more composed, choreographed, orchestrated, and perhaps, some might say: controlled. One Economy. There are way too many products that "don't make the cut" and are dragging down the Economy, the MainStream, and the quality of daily living. People are in positions of leadership because they have the Highest Standard Resume Higher Education Credentials.
1
You had my interest until that last sentence.
2
Thank you for your service Walter. You represent the best in government. These past several months could not have been easy. But your commitment to the underlying principles of your office should serve as an inspiration to all Americans as I am sure it does your staff.
210
The best in government? Just another partisan.
His commitment to the underlying principles of his office should be an inspiration to Americans but it appears instead his warnings and oversight were met with a great big yawn in the land of Trump chaos and distractions. This has a sinister promise when we lose our ethics oversight as more and more ethics waivers are forthcoming from this corrupt White House.
1
We will certainly miss Mr. Schaub. He has done a fine job of speaking ethics to the Trump administration, but I can certainly see why he didn't feel like hanging around and taking more guff from Trump.
Alas, now Mr. Trump gets to appoint his own watchdog. Things just keep getting worse and worse for the US.
Alas, now Mr. Trump gets to appoint his own watchdog. Things just keep getting worse and worse for the US.
52
The Trump Swamp Administration is doing right-wing cartwheels as Trump will either leave the position vacant or fill it with the ethically dead Chris 'Soprano' Christie.
Ethics are for the 'little people', not the Trump Swampers.
The most corrupt Administration in modern American history just got a promotion.
Ethics are for the 'little people', not the Trump Swampers.
The most corrupt Administration in modern American history just got a promotion.
299
No worries, it's not like Kushner's sister was trying to entice foreign investors with visa programs for foreign workers... It's all about the jobs, right?
Sad days for our country.
Sad days for our country.
202
Ethics?
We don't got to show you no stinkin ethics.
We don't got to show you no stinkin ethics.
138
".. but with little chance of renewal and an appealing offer in hand from a nonpartisan advocacy group," -- you mean a leftist liberal group?
5
What an interesting interpretation.
If you'd bothered to spend two minutes on Google, you could have learned (as I did) that the Campaign Legal Center — the group Mr. Shaub is joining — is a nonprofit legal advocacy group founded by Trevor Potter, who served as a Republican appointee to the Federal Election Commission.
But I realize it's inconvenient when reality intrudes on your conspiracy fantasies.
If you'd bothered to spend two minutes on Google, you could have learned (as I did) that the Campaign Legal Center — the group Mr. Shaub is joining — is a nonprofit legal advocacy group founded by Trevor Potter, who served as a Republican appointee to the Federal Election Commission.
But I realize it's inconvenient when reality intrudes on your conspiracy fantasies.
127
So, help us out here. Just what is it about ethical standards that you do not like?
66
I suppose that any group with ethics is now, by definition, a leftist liberal group.
147
Which fox will be appointed to watch the chicken coop??
167
Christie.
1
I think it's safe to say that Trump can now act with impunity. Let kleptocracy reign! I'm sure Trump has a dog walker he can appoint to replace Shaub.
148
What, isn't Jared available?
Mr. Shaub no doubt studied the fate of James Comey and saw his own future. That is how Trump operates - dismiss and intimidate those who stand in his way.
And it is imperative that checks remain to Trump's dubious ethical conduct.
And it is imperative that checks remain to Trump's dubious ethical conduct.
256