We've been outraged over and over again. It's time now to take the next step--recommending action to deal with it. Add another paragraph to the editorial, maybe urging that the 25th amendment be invoked on the grounds that Trump is unfit to be president, or calling for impeachment, or advocating for a nationwide march to let citizens express their anger and frustration. We all need to step up and get this man out of the White House.
8
Trump's defenders say the politically charged atmosphere has deligitimized his election and impeded his administration.
What?
He has done that all on his own.
What?
He has done that all on his own.
13
I do not agree with much of what Jeff Sessions has done, particularly with his inhumane support of deportations of decent people raising their US citizens children in this country. I dislike his views on incarceration where progress had been made. I think that seizing assets of those not convicted of a crime is wrong.
I particularly dislike his early support of this Trump person for president. What was he thinking?
But now I have one piece of advice for Sessions if there any road to redemption left for him. That is, do not resign. Hold on until Trump, or Scarramucci fires you. Let them show how rotten they are in their quest to get rid of Special Counsel Mueller. Remember just one word. RESIST!
I particularly dislike his early support of this Trump person for president. What was he thinking?
But now I have one piece of advice for Sessions if there any road to redemption left for him. That is, do not resign. Hold on until Trump, or Scarramucci fires you. Let them show how rotten they are in their quest to get rid of Special Counsel Mueller. Remember just one word. RESIST!
14
Mr. Trump may be following in the footsteps of President Maduro of Venezuela--Making America Great Again by jailing his opposition. Maduro's opposition leader Leopoldo Lopez was just released from prison and placed under house arrest after three years in a military prison. Or he could follow Mr. Putin's lead by eliminating the opposition.
7
Trump is beyond ignorance. It is now painfully obvious that he has NO qualifications for the office he holds. We can only hope that his disastrous presidency does not destroy America. I have my doubts.
13
There is nothing about this man's behavior or utterances that is acceptable or normal. He has no sense of what is appropriate and operates totally without filters. it's all about him, it's all about getting attention.
Most people have learned, sometimes the hard way, through interactions with parents, teachers, friends, employers, etc. that there are situations where it is inappropriate to say certain things. Trump never has. He has been insulated, largely because of his wealth, from the repercussions of saying/doing whatever comes into his head whenever it suits him.
Knowing this, and it was obvious since before the inauguration, the Boy Scouts of America exercised incredibly poor judgement when they invited him to come speak at their jamboree.
Most people have learned, sometimes the hard way, through interactions with parents, teachers, friends, employers, etc. that there are situations where it is inappropriate to say certain things. Trump never has. He has been insulated, largely because of his wealth, from the repercussions of saying/doing whatever comes into his head whenever it suits him.
Knowing this, and it was obvious since before the inauguration, the Boy Scouts of America exercised incredibly poor judgement when they invited him to come speak at their jamboree.
14
"...it was hardly surprising". But no less an outrage. How can the press treat any single act of Dear Leader as normal? Exhaustion? He even tweeted that Ukraine supported Hillary and worked to under mine his campaign and there was no mention.
4
Trump has not lowered the bar for what is acceptable. All he has done is demonstrate how crass he is, and that he is unqualified for the position. We all know his behavior is unacceptable and is disgracing the office of the presidency.
15
The Fermi paradox is being tested. If the human race survives this administration, it will be like overcoming several Cuban missile crises.
7
"When Mr. Obama took office, some liberal supporters [read: defenders of the US Constitution] urged him to investigate Mr. Bush, former Vice President Dick Cheney and members of their administration over allegations of torture or war crimes. He rejected that out of hand and even dismissed less incendiary suggestions to establish a commission to examine the Bush administration’s response to the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks."
That's why Obama is now an accessory to the Cheney/Bush regime's war crimes (9/11; war of aggression against Iraq; torture; ...) for refusing to indict and prosecute the Cheney/Bush war criminals for their war crimes.
"President" Trump is also an accessory to the Cheney/Bush regime's war crimes for likewise refusing to indict and prosecute the Cheney/Bush war criminals for their war crimes.
That's why Obama is now an accessory to the Cheney/Bush regime's war crimes (9/11; war of aggression against Iraq; torture; ...) for refusing to indict and prosecute the Cheney/Bush war criminals for their war crimes.
"President" Trump is also an accessory to the Cheney/Bush regime's war crimes for likewise refusing to indict and prosecute the Cheney/Bush war criminals for their war crimes.
1
It seems the only standard the WH now has is like limbo....how low can you go.
4
Impeach this failure of a president. Impeach 45.
He and his administration, far from "making America great again", seem to be doing everything possible to destroy the country: sacking our National Monuments, ignoring science, deregulating in a way that almost ensures another financial crisis.
MAGA? More like MRR: Make the Rich Richer.
He and his administration, far from "making America great again", seem to be doing everything possible to destroy the country: sacking our National Monuments, ignoring science, deregulating in a way that almost ensures another financial crisis.
MAGA? More like MRR: Make the Rich Richer.
17
It's only standard for him. I can't imagine the next president will behave this way. If so, who on earth could that be? Trump is in a class by himself for all eyes to see. The sad part is that he is getting away with everything.
14
Mr. Baker writes that so-called President Trump "has radically shifted the understanding of what is standard [discourse] in the White House." This may be true for the Trump White House, but *only* for the Trump White House. I am optimistic that so-called President Trump will eventually profane himself into a hole from where there is no escape, following which America's plane of civil discourse will soar, and with it so will the "standard" from succeeding White Houses.
5
Every day there is some attention-grabbing transgression committed by Donald Trump. Why are we surprised? During campaign rallies, Trump liked to adapt the lyrics of Al Wilson's "the Snake" into his rambling speeches. Ironically, the cautionary tale actually reflects upon Trump. We've had nearly 50 years of public life, news accounts, legal proceedings, bankruptcy records, and television to tell us exactly the kind of man Donald Trump is. Frankly, the campaign alone should have been enough; many political careers were ended after far less egregious behavior. DJT is being who he has always been; the fault is with the media, politicians and voters who embraced him.
11
"When governments fear the people, there is liberty. When the people fear the government, there is tyranny. The strongest reason for the people to retain the right to keep and bear arms is, as a last resort, to protect themselves against tyranny in government." - Thomas Jefferson
5
Using Trump's logic for states not submitting all the personal information request by his fake voting committee, "What are they trying to hide"? I would ask him the same question regarding the Russian probe, Mr President, what are you trying to hide from the Russian probe into our election being stolen and your staff's and family involvement?
The more you stonewall the more guilty you and your family look. There must be something there because you seem to spend a lot of your time deflecting and trying to shut down Mr Mueller's investigation. What are you trying to hide?
We could also ask the same question of why you refuse to make public your income taxes. You must have a lot to hide. Shameless.
The more you stonewall the more guilty you and your family look. There must be something there because you seem to spend a lot of your time deflecting and trying to shut down Mr Mueller's investigation. What are you trying to hide?
We could also ask the same question of why you refuse to make public your income taxes. You must have a lot to hide. Shameless.
13
RT? You are suggesting that we watch Russian television owned by the Russian government to get our information about how the Russia investigation is going? Really?
1
Enough already. This is not Donald Trump's private country. His family and his fraternity of greedy and opportunistic enablers have left us stunned.... like deer in headlights.
I admit the alternative parties have nothing to offer as we have handed over the keys to the kingdom to a nightmare. BUT...there will come the moment....sooner than expected....when good people will say "enough." We will take the streets, renew the 60's call for civil disobedience...and send Donald, and Bannon, and Jared, and Ivanka, and Jeff...and all the avarice minded cabinet as well as the conscienceless Republicans who put party (really power and greed) over country.... to a special political hell: history books of a failed experiment in governing horror.
I admit the alternative parties have nothing to offer as we have handed over the keys to the kingdom to a nightmare. BUT...there will come the moment....sooner than expected....when good people will say "enough." We will take the streets, renew the 60's call for civil disobedience...and send Donald, and Bannon, and Jared, and Ivanka, and Jeff...and all the avarice minded cabinet as well as the conscienceless Republicans who put party (really power and greed) over country.... to a special political hell: history books of a failed experiment in governing horror.
17
I say think Dems should cross all the lines in the other direction. Let the right wing nut jobs be outraged for real this time. As a Clinton voter, I say we go hardcore Sanders left. No apologies. Let's win and then push the limits of what we can do. First, let's label our current White House occupants neo-nazis - alright is so politically correct. How about proposing 90 percent tax rates for the wealthy. Let's double the environmental regulations that were in place under Obama to pay those greedy corporations back for installing Pruitt. Single payer healthcare. Free university education. Free internet and broadband (aren't we tired of being gouged by these monopolies). Airline regulation for larger seats and passenger rights. A basic universal income paid for by an asset tax on billionaires - that includes Gates and Buffett. And let's jail all the bank CEOs who were in charge at the end of 2007. Yes, I know that much of this was Bernie's platform, but it would seem that extremes have become quite the norm now. So let's go for it. We really truly have nothing left to lose.
10
At what point do we break out the tar and feathers? I'd imagine we'll run short of rails what with all the GOPers that will be riding them out of town.
5
Without shame or guilt he is demonstrating that a bully pulpit really is a pulpit to denigrate, demean, disrespect and bully any and all real or perceived opponents.
How sad that we have provided a public lectern to such a mean, shallow, unethical and untruthful person.
How sad that we have provided a public lectern to such a mean, shallow, unethical and untruthful person.
11
His latest, telling Scouts in W.VA about his political struggles is way beyond outrage! The scouts were excited about POTUS only to be brainwashed by this crybaby. trump, give us all a break and go away. Hope the scout leaders had a discussion about this shameful, bogus man in office.
6
Yay for Trump! I'm so glad he speaks his mind, especially when he confronts the liberals with their own lunacy. The real mystery is that no one else confronts the crazy liberal media with their preposterous and outlandish foolish talk and exaggerations and their false accusations and innuendos and their extreme pompousness. Such arrogance and self righteousness! We have all come to expect it and we arent "outraged" by it anymore.
2
If you're not outraged by trump's behavior, then you are either engaging in willful ignorance or you're just not paying attention.
9
You are certainly entitled to your opinion, McCorf, egregiously wrong though it is.
9
That's why they call you deplorable!
9
I look to the day when Trump and his disgusting family of liars, cheaters and grifters are spoken of in the past tense. It couldn't happen soon enough for me.
15
Trump cannot simply tell Sessions to resign, no, just as Stalin and Mao did, the victim must be held on a leash for a while, and be humiliated first.
9
In my heart--and it's a wicked thought, I know!--in my heart, I hope they WILL attempt a prosecution of Mrs. Clinton.
If anything on the planet could eradicate the last lingering shreds of sympathy for our President, that'd be it.
I know Mrs. Clinton has taken no end of flak for what critics call a bumbling and ineffective campaign. I know Mrs. Clinton arouses loathing in many--passionate loyalty in few. Surprise surprise! The lady has been vilified, demonized in the right-wing press for twenty five years now. A long time.
And yet. .. and yet! Let 'em try it. She would respond with the same poise, the same imperturbable dignity we saw last year. And make no mistake! this lady is cool and unflappable under fire. Look at her eleven-hour interrogation over the whole Benghazi kerfuffle. "Witch hunt" you say? If that wasn't a "witch hunt"--what is?
And that whole Republican crew--from the President on down--would be shown up for what they are. Malignant. Petty. Spiteful. Oh my innards rejoice when I think of it! That fierce, implacable light of the American press--the world press!--shining upon these wretched men and women as they strove to make a case against the former First Lady.
But no! Fiat justitia et ruant coeli! Let justice be done and let the heavens fall. I cannot wish Mrs. Clinton such an ordeal. No. I cannot.
But I can dream can't I?
Can't I?
If anything on the planet could eradicate the last lingering shreds of sympathy for our President, that'd be it.
I know Mrs. Clinton has taken no end of flak for what critics call a bumbling and ineffective campaign. I know Mrs. Clinton arouses loathing in many--passionate loyalty in few. Surprise surprise! The lady has been vilified, demonized in the right-wing press for twenty five years now. A long time.
And yet. .. and yet! Let 'em try it. She would respond with the same poise, the same imperturbable dignity we saw last year. And make no mistake! this lady is cool and unflappable under fire. Look at her eleven-hour interrogation over the whole Benghazi kerfuffle. "Witch hunt" you say? If that wasn't a "witch hunt"--what is?
And that whole Republican crew--from the President on down--would be shown up for what they are. Malignant. Petty. Spiteful. Oh my innards rejoice when I think of it! That fierce, implacable light of the American press--the world press!--shining upon these wretched men and women as they strove to make a case against the former First Lady.
But no! Fiat justitia et ruant coeli! Let justice be done and let the heavens fall. I cannot wish Mrs. Clinton such an ordeal. No. I cannot.
But I can dream can't I?
Can't I?
2
They got nuttin on her. Bring it on.
3
Now is the time for all good people to stage a one-day strike and march against this vulgar man.
4
Nevermind.
Unlike Mr. Obama, Mr. Trump is not concerned with what is good for our country when he tweets. He continues to "believe" that over 3 million people cast illegal ballots so that Mrs. Clinton won the popular vote.
Either the man is seriously ill or he is so seriously narcissistic that the effects of his behavior mean nothing to him.
We have spent millions investigating Mrs. Clinton. There was no "there" there. Mr. Sessions properly recused himself, which Mr. Trump would acknowledge if his own ethics were not serious challenged, possibly invisible.
Mr. Trump tweets his temper tantrums in order to divert attention from the real issues. The hotter the issues get, the more we will see Mr. Trump say outlandish things in an effort to protect himself and his family.
His base wanted someone who wasn't a diplomat or politician. We all got one in spades.
Either the man is seriously ill or he is so seriously narcissistic that the effects of his behavior mean nothing to him.
We have spent millions investigating Mrs. Clinton. There was no "there" there. Mr. Sessions properly recused himself, which Mr. Trump would acknowledge if his own ethics were not serious challenged, possibly invisible.
Mr. Trump tweets his temper tantrums in order to divert attention from the real issues. The hotter the issues get, the more we will see Mr. Trump say outlandish things in an effort to protect himself and his family.
His base wanted someone who wasn't a diplomat or politician. We all got one in spades.
7
So a man with a personality disorder and a thought disorder is now the model of what it means to be an American. He embodies "me first" and has turned it into the national slogan of "America first." What a horror this all is. The worst part is that the country as a whole is too sick and helpless to remove him from his office, where, for all the world to see, he has no business being. Shame on Trump for acting the way he does. Shame on the country for putting up with it.
15
What are the qualifications prescribed for a person to be elected President of the United States? Only two are prescribed in the Constitution. One, that he/she be a natural born Citizen; Two, that he/she shall be at least 35 years of age. Mr. Trump qualifies both ways.
Some of us would prefer additional qualifications, e.g., that he/she should be of a particular race, have a college degree, possess great charm, be an outstanding orator, have many cultivated tastes such as in the arts, music, humanities, sciences, etc., have served in the armed forces in a leading capacity, be a great philosopher and statesman, be fluent in ten or more languages, and preferably be a Nobelist.
We also expect this person to be of sound mind, possess infallible judgement, not be boorish, treat others with great respect, and otherwise be a paragon of virtue.
We have never had a President who fulfilled all of the above expectations.
Our current President is a curious example of one who, many would consider, has a great preponderance of undesirable over desirable qualities.
We are a nation governed by a Constitution. We have to get along with whoever is lawfully elected as President. If we don’t like him, all we can do is endure his reign, and pick a different one in the next election. Congress, if hugely disappointed by the occupant of the Oval Office, can impeach him or just obfuscate him.
Some of us would prefer additional qualifications, e.g., that he/she should be of a particular race, have a college degree, possess great charm, be an outstanding orator, have many cultivated tastes such as in the arts, music, humanities, sciences, etc., have served in the armed forces in a leading capacity, be a great philosopher and statesman, be fluent in ten or more languages, and preferably be a Nobelist.
We also expect this person to be of sound mind, possess infallible judgement, not be boorish, treat others with great respect, and otherwise be a paragon of virtue.
We have never had a President who fulfilled all of the above expectations.
Our current President is a curious example of one who, many would consider, has a great preponderance of undesirable over desirable qualities.
We are a nation governed by a Constitution. We have to get along with whoever is lawfully elected as President. If we don’t like him, all we can do is endure his reign, and pick a different one in the next election. Congress, if hugely disappointed by the occupant of the Oval Office, can impeach him or just obfuscate him.
I doubt there is a way back from this. Donald Trump has basically changed the rules of politics. It's not that politicians were squeaky clean before this. But they simply assumed there were things you could not get away with. But Trump, with a genius for manipulation (or perhaps just an idiot savant,) believed he could shoot someone on Fifth Avenue and not lose any votes. He lied. He insulted. He mingled personal business with powers of office. He scoffed at prohibitions against nepotism. He has a white supremacist in the White House and talks routinely about locking up political enemies and taking down the press. Despite all of this, he is still President of the United States.
Trump proved that an unscrupulous politician can get away with so much more than everybody thought. So perhaps Trump will eventually fall to his own hubris, but the pandora's box has been opened: America is ready for authoritarianism. Even if American democracy survives Trump, sooner or later, somebody just as unscrupulous but smarter will come along - somebody who has a bit more self-control, a bit more subtlety, and even more capacity for manipulation. Then, we might truly see the end of American democracy.
Trump proved that an unscrupulous politician can get away with so much more than everybody thought. So perhaps Trump will eventually fall to his own hubris, but the pandora's box has been opened: America is ready for authoritarianism. Even if American democracy survives Trump, sooner or later, somebody just as unscrupulous but smarter will come along - somebody who has a bit more self-control, a bit more subtlety, and even more capacity for manipulation. Then, we might truly see the end of American democracy.
6
Trump is the epitome of the ugly, garish American and is a disgrace to our beautiful country. The sooner he is removed the better our country will be.
9
I don't really know how you tolerate the President's behaviour. In Canada, our politicians are more polite and less shocking. They are generally respectful and decent, even opposition members. How did your politicians change so much? They never used to be so bad.
7
It was Ronald Ragan, the dog whistle president, that brought all the racist democrats over to the Republican Party. Since then they have grown worse and worse like a cancer.
4
Whoever can get rid of Donald Trump now will go down in the annals of history as an American hero never forgotten.
6
Yes, stop saying "breaking norms." I know it's the language of unbiased reporting, shorn of appropriate revulsion, but this is not the time to pull punches or dilute the horror of what is going on in our country. I suppose it's the editorial writers to whom goes the necessity of expressing outrage.
Our President's execrable, violating behavior is deeply disturbing to witness. It should offend even the most "let's give him a chance" follower.
These transgressions are not the privilege of the presidency. We expect decorum, respect and a semblance of adult behavior. Imagine if you were a father giving a wedding toast to your daughter, and instead of applauding her virtues and the union, you talked about your golf game. Imagine if you were asked to deliver the commencement address at one of our military academies, and rather than raise the speech to an inspiring level, you brought up the short-comings of your adversaries, even your allies, or touted your electoral prowess. YOU WOULD BE BOOED OFF THE STAGE.
Trump has so degraded the Presidency he no longer deserves the deference the office affords. When I see him the deference still accorded him, I think "what a charade," and wonder what could really be in the minds of these sycophants who do not call him out, do not contest his manner, no not walk out in protest. I'll wager the majority do this internally. Well, it's time to bring what we all know and what abhors us all to the light of day.
Our President's execrable, violating behavior is deeply disturbing to witness. It should offend even the most "let's give him a chance" follower.
These transgressions are not the privilege of the presidency. We expect decorum, respect and a semblance of adult behavior. Imagine if you were a father giving a wedding toast to your daughter, and instead of applauding her virtues and the union, you talked about your golf game. Imagine if you were asked to deliver the commencement address at one of our military academies, and rather than raise the speech to an inspiring level, you brought up the short-comings of your adversaries, even your allies, or touted your electoral prowess. YOU WOULD BE BOOED OFF THE STAGE.
Trump has so degraded the Presidency he no longer deserves the deference the office affords. When I see him the deference still accorded him, I think "what a charade," and wonder what could really be in the minds of these sycophants who do not call him out, do not contest his manner, no not walk out in protest. I'll wager the majority do this internally. Well, it's time to bring what we all know and what abhors us all to the light of day.
4
What a talent this man has, to normalize corruption, nepotism, bullying, sexual harassment, racism, hopelessness, and outrage.
8
This junk food presidency is at least becoming more understandable in a larger sociocultural context. There's a large-enough swath of the American electorate that is sufficiently indolent, bigoted, fearful, and addled to more or less sustain the self-serving nincompoop presently defiling the White House. His sorry base constitutes America's ball and chain; and they are nothing new, but never has such a high-fructose corn syrup presidency emerged to excite them til now.
Meanwhile, much of the rest of America is turning away, largely returning to its innovative, ambitious, and democratic self, pausing only briefly to be intermittently appalled by the orange menace. Increasingly, this leaves the administration isolated in a weird, reality show-like, parallel universe that can be quite easily disregarded. The ultimate effect is a decidedly weakened office of the presidency. Beginning with W.'s political collapse, followed by Obama's chronic weaknesses, the Trump administration is the final nail in the coffin of the presidency as the strongest branch of the federal government.
Obviously, Trump can still cause tremendous damage, being a willfully ignorant and reliably vulgar suit at the controls of a tank. But he himself, and his family, have too much to lose if he actually follows through with his darkest and most disturbing pronouncements. Mostly, then, he is just symbols and bluster. The rest of the world carries on with the real issues.
Meanwhile, much of the rest of America is turning away, largely returning to its innovative, ambitious, and democratic self, pausing only briefly to be intermittently appalled by the orange menace. Increasingly, this leaves the administration isolated in a weird, reality show-like, parallel universe that can be quite easily disregarded. The ultimate effect is a decidedly weakened office of the presidency. Beginning with W.'s political collapse, followed by Obama's chronic weaknesses, the Trump administration is the final nail in the coffin of the presidency as the strongest branch of the federal government.
Obviously, Trump can still cause tremendous damage, being a willfully ignorant and reliably vulgar suit at the controls of a tank. But he himself, and his family, have too much to lose if he actually follows through with his darkest and most disturbing pronouncements. Mostly, then, he is just symbols and bluster. The rest of the world carries on with the real issues.
3
My God, how did we elect this dangerous buffoon?
7
He has poisoned the presidency for
decades...he should be punished.
decades...he should be punished.
3
What isn't standard is that we have an insane person as president.
9
He should be dragged out of the White House kicking and screaming if that's what it takes to get rid of this threat to our democracy
5
Peter Baker -- I know journalists can't do math but it wasn't over a century ago, it was over 2 centuries ago when the Burr - Jefferson event occurred (2017-1800)/100.
I'm not outraged at all. I think Trump should use more discretion when tweeting, but as far as actions go, the behavior of the left is really what has crossed a line.
There has been a concerted effort by leftist media, dem politicians & leaders to de-legitimize Trump from day 1. There have been calls for impeachment before he took any action. The dems slow walked nominations. The dems have not tried working with Trump even on issues that might benefit everyone.
If another Dem is elected president, the precedent set by dems will be followed by Repubs. I would say the same for the MSM but it is partisan that there pundits and scribes will be dancing in the streets probably because of the tingles in their legs.
Obama crossed a lot of lines but the Times was strangely silent (lying about Benghazi for political purposes, promising things from the ACA that could never be delivered, demonizing police at every opportunity, etc.).
As for HRC, while it may be impolite to seek legal action against your former opponent (and Trump hasn't ordered an investigation) but HRC has a lot of baggage, some of it may be criminal. Meanwhile the dems, inside the beltway types and MSM vigorously pursue a nonexistent connection between Trump's campaign and Russia.
I'm not outraged at all. I think Trump should use more discretion when tweeting, but as far as actions go, the behavior of the left is really what has crossed a line.
There has been a concerted effort by leftist media, dem politicians & leaders to de-legitimize Trump from day 1. There have been calls for impeachment before he took any action. The dems slow walked nominations. The dems have not tried working with Trump even on issues that might benefit everyone.
If another Dem is elected president, the precedent set by dems will be followed by Repubs. I would say the same for the MSM but it is partisan that there pundits and scribes will be dancing in the streets probably because of the tingles in their legs.
Obama crossed a lot of lines but the Times was strangely silent (lying about Benghazi for political purposes, promising things from the ACA that could never be delivered, demonizing police at every opportunity, etc.).
As for HRC, while it may be impolite to seek legal action against your former opponent (and Trump hasn't ordered an investigation) but HRC has a lot of baggage, some of it may be criminal. Meanwhile the dems, inside the beltway types and MSM vigorously pursue a nonexistent connection between Trump's campaign and Russia.
2
After six months, no one should have any doubt that our government is hijacked by an unethical liar who has no moral compass, no integrity. A shameless narcissist: rotten to the core.
So, no more benefit of the doubts. No more leeways. No more whitewash. We must deal with the liar accordingly. Anytime he doesn’t meet our standard and norm, we must condemn.
Hitler’s rising was not contributed only by blind supporters but also silent bystanders, eventually they were all accomplices to his crime.
As citizens we can no longer take back seat. We must resist against this president forcefully.
So, no more benefit of the doubts. No more leeways. No more whitewash. We must deal with the liar accordingly. Anytime he doesn’t meet our standard and norm, we must condemn.
Hitler’s rising was not contributed only by blind supporters but also silent bystanders, eventually they were all accomplices to his crime.
As citizens we can no longer take back seat. We must resist against this president forcefully.
10
Yes the gauntlet has been thrown!
2
He was attempting to get a badge for " Presidenting". For his collection.
1
Has it not become clear. trump wants a divided America? An America that is not divided is impossible to hand over to Putin and Russia. Handing over America is the way this lying thief is going to pay off the enormous financial debt he owes to the Russians.
One last comment that is slightly off point. A Times headline said that trump's republican support is beginning to crack. Well, I must disagree. The healthcare vote in the Senate didn't show any cracks. I also find it ironic that John McCain, who climbed out his sick bed, and left his taxpayer paid for solid gold health plan, comes to Washington and votes against providing health coverage for the people of America, especially those who can least afford it. Yes, John McCain is truly an America hero. Not!!!
One last comment that is slightly off point. A Times headline said that trump's republican support is beginning to crack. Well, I must disagree. The healthcare vote in the Senate didn't show any cracks. I also find it ironic that John McCain, who climbed out his sick bed, and left his taxpayer paid for solid gold health plan, comes to Washington and votes against providing health coverage for the people of America, especially those who can least afford it. Yes, John McCain is truly an America hero. Not!!!
5
My fears for our country have now reached a peak as I foresee a constitutional crisis so large that I wonder if we will recover. What will my fellow citizens do when Trump fires Sessions, makes a recess appointment and then has the new A.G fire Mueller. Will my fellow citizens take to the streets and stop this madman? Because if they don't, Trump will make his next move: Move us toward a totalitarian state. Taking to the streets appears the only solution as Congress continues to do nothing about this insane person who is the President of the United States. The Republicans have no integrity and refuse to do what they, as a co-equal branch of government, should do: Impeach this crazy person.
11
Trump and the GOP are destroying America. I'm not sure he even hates this country. It's just that nothing can stop him from having to act out in ways that show contempt for everyone who isn't in his fan club. He doesn't care about the 20 million people he will leave without insurance, the beautiful lands he will destroy for fossil fuel development (intended for export), the besieged animals that will be tortured and killed by the lunatic fringe he has unleashed in our wildlife refuges, the water pollution, the climate change which will soon inflict massive death and destruction, the infrastructure he promised. He cares about none of it. He wants to impress the GOP, which never fully supported him, with his "effectiveness" in delivering everything they ever wanted in their wildest dreams. He wants to demonstrate that he had the power to overturn what Progressive Americans most value and certainly everything that President Obama accomplished. It's clear he knows nothing and cares less. He has the psychological development of a 2-year old. He is a dangerous and unstable man unfit for public office and he must go immediately. At the very least, we need a restraining order that prevents him form taking any official action. Everything he has touched and dirtied must be restored to what it was prior to the 2016 (s)election (and I count the GOP as far more guilty of election hacking than the Russians). Yes, we are now officially a "banana republic."
3
Prior to the election of President Trump, I respected the office of the President.
I don't any longer.
I don't any longer.
4
We cannot allow Trump to radically shift what is standard in the White House. Drain the swamp? We need to empty the cesspool!
Our nation remains seriously - but not yet irrevocably - thwarted by his circus from productively pursuing the business of governance. It's not drip drip; it's seemingly every minute of every day that some new diversion is thrown in the way. This has to stop now. Trump must go.
Our nation remains seriously - but not yet irrevocably - thwarted by his circus from productively pursuing the business of governance. It's not drip drip; it's seemingly every minute of every day that some new diversion is thrown in the way. This has to stop now. Trump must go.
3
Headline could've read: Tests a Nation's Capacity for Outrage, lies and embarrassment.
2
I consider myself to be living through a fascist dictatorship. There can be no illusion that there are checks on our reality show host/president. He will do what he wants, if he breaks the law, he will pardon himself. No citizen is too small for him to attack in the most vile ways, he especially takes special pleasure in attacking women for their looks. I have seen exactly who a fascist can rise to power and sadly there is no lesson to learn from it.
4
"He has moved the bar for outrage."
I don't agree with this. I believe one would find that most Americans -- decent people who still hold onto their morals, their ethics, their basic human decency -- are appalled and outraged by the unrelenting stream of ridiculous and abhorrent things that are said and done by Trump and his associates. Problem is, just while we grapple with the latest outrage, we're assaulted by another and another, whether it's via the Twit-In-Chief's stream of unconsciousness, Huckabee Sanders' inane press conferences, or Conway's alt-fact circular-logic arguments on cable news.
No, we haven't stopped being outraged. We're just exhausted.
I don't agree with this. I believe one would find that most Americans -- decent people who still hold onto their morals, their ethics, their basic human decency -- are appalled and outraged by the unrelenting stream of ridiculous and abhorrent things that are said and done by Trump and his associates. Problem is, just while we grapple with the latest outrage, we're assaulted by another and another, whether it's via the Twit-In-Chief's stream of unconsciousness, Huckabee Sanders' inane press conferences, or Conway's alt-fact circular-logic arguments on cable news.
No, we haven't stopped being outraged. We're just exhausted.
4
The self righteousness, extremism and just general petulance of so many of these comments illustrates why there is unlikely to be any voluntary retreat from support of President Trump. The irrational Trump haters are more repugnant than Trump himself. Until the opposition comes to its senses he will continue to win.
2
The ONLY reason Trump is getting away with his antics and sham presidency is because his party is in control. 2018 VOTE THEM OUT!
6
Beyond Trump, it takes millions and millions of people who care so little and the country or what protects our democracy to vote for somebody like this. A little less than half of this country decided to ignore the fact that he is unstable, unprepared, uncaring, ignorant, arrogant, bigoted, corrupt, dishonest, sexist, racist, and supremely unintelligent. What mattered more? Voicing a dislike of Hilary or Obama. You can't have a decent democracy unless most of the people are prepared to draw a line and say that they will not vote for someone like this no matter what. His bizarre behavior is motivated by the calculation that these are the only people he needs to keep on his side.
1
There needs to be a political choice in this country which is hanging in the balance with this administration.
For decades, it has been apparent that Republicans rule while Democrats govern.
That has more to do with conservative principles vs liberal principles not party name.
They are worlds apart and this administration has driven the wedge so deep that it has become more apparent.
Which direction we want this nation to go in the future will soon determined.
For decades, it has been apparent that Republicans rule while Democrats govern.
That has more to do with conservative principles vs liberal principles not party name.
They are worlds apart and this administration has driven the wedge so deep that it has become more apparent.
Which direction we want this nation to go in the future will soon determined.
2
Money does not = Class. The man has no class.
4
We have become that which we have imposed on so many countries: a banana republic.
3
Outrage means little unless expressed at the ballot box. Trump/GOP took that to heart in 2016, to our great cost.
Really, nothing else matters but voting them out. I hope Democrats recognize and rally around this as their do-or-die goal for 2018 and 2020.
Really, nothing else matters but voting them out. I hope Democrats recognize and rally around this as their do-or-die goal for 2018 and 2020.
2
The old way of doing things may not be the best way, but it can be. America is the land between tradition and innovation. We find our own way.
I was stunned by Trump urging the crew of the U.S.S. Ford to lobby their Congressional representatives for a larger military budget and for the Republican health plan.
Politicizing our Armed Forces can lead to an eventual military coup. Such an unprecedented disaster would make Congress and the Presidency - including Trump's Republican apologists - completely irrelevant.
"Ask not for whom the bell tolls ,,,,"
Politicizing our Armed Forces can lead to an eventual military coup. Such an unprecedented disaster would make Congress and the Presidency - including Trump's Republican apologists - completely irrelevant.
"Ask not for whom the bell tolls ,,,,"
5
Take away all health plans from all government workers, particularly Congress and their staffers. When they have to deal with the reality they create, things may begin to improve.
1
The Trump presidency will last 8 years at most, hopefully much less, but what worries me is that the harm he is doing to the American political system may be irreversible...sort of like global warming or ocean pollution.
4
I called the 2015-16 campaign and primaries in the GOP their going out of business sale and it was. What's left of the GOP? It's held together by the fact that it won the presidency against all odds last year. But even with unified government they can't pass a resolution to take lunch. Now this. This is the GOP's Whig moment, the time when the party dissolves. Those left in office have one final job to perform for the country. A dozen of the least zany must vote with the Dems in the Senate to remove Trump from office. The house is a tougher call but surely there must be enough moderate Republicans to vote to impeach. Those who act now can make a home as conservative Democrats, the others will be consigned to the lunatic fringe. It will all happen by May of 2018 so that the "winners" can get on with campaigning for reelection.
1
A fine article that shows how more and more of bad behavior of Trump brings the bar that defines the "normal" lower and lower. Day to day events, that would have been outlandish under any other presidency prior to Trump, do not even stir a leaf in the nation.
It would have been nice if Mr. Baker concluded that such tendency is dangerous in the long run, absent opposition rising up to anything and everything that is unacceptable.
Another important point: The fourth paragraph of the article ... "After six months in office .... he shows no sign of concern" unintentionally describes Trump in a bit of positive tone. It established him as a disruptor, at least to the Trump faithful. It almost implies that Trump does these things in a strategic fashion with an intention to incite desired actions from others. In so doing, Mr. Baker gives too much credit to Trump; and so do other journalists who suggest that Trump is pushing the limits.
Yes he does push the limits. However, it all is from a mindless dictator wannabe. His speech to Boy Scouts yesterday is a case in point.
It would have been nice if Mr. Baker concluded that such tendency is dangerous in the long run, absent opposition rising up to anything and everything that is unacceptable.
Another important point: The fourth paragraph of the article ... "After six months in office .... he shows no sign of concern" unintentionally describes Trump in a bit of positive tone. It established him as a disruptor, at least to the Trump faithful. It almost implies that Trump does these things in a strategic fashion with an intention to incite desired actions from others. In so doing, Mr. Baker gives too much credit to Trump; and so do other journalists who suggest that Trump is pushing the limits.
Yes he does push the limits. However, it all is from a mindless dictator wannabe. His speech to Boy Scouts yesterday is a case in point.
2
I blame America's lack of outrage as the motor that is moving us toward our decline (I'm afraid it will be more an abyss). As imperfect as we were, all we had to do was incrementally fix what was wrong, which we were doing, the Civil Rights movement, women's right to vote, unions protecting workers from venal bosses, Social Security to name a few, were some of the forward steps we were taking.
It seems that now we are regressing, in fact, we are allowing our Republican senators to destroy unions and the GOP wants to reinstate voter discrimination, while if you ask me, I perceive a collective yawn from the general public.
The only ones who are benefitting in this country today are oligarchs while the "little people" have stopped caring.
I pity the "little people" when they wake up from their sleep of denial to the real nightmare they will face. And all it took was an education and a grasp of history, to which we are allergic, to have avoided the coming debacle. So accept your fate, folks, you engineered it.
It seems that now we are regressing, in fact, we are allowing our Republican senators to destroy unions and the GOP wants to reinstate voter discrimination, while if you ask me, I perceive a collective yawn from the general public.
The only ones who are benefitting in this country today are oligarchs while the "little people" have stopped caring.
I pity the "little people" when they wake up from their sleep of denial to the real nightmare they will face. And all it took was an education and a grasp of history, to which we are allergic, to have avoided the coming debacle. So accept your fate, folks, you engineered it.
I'm not sure the premise of the headline identifies the correct problem. Maybe it should be
"Trump White House Tests a Nation's Tolerance of Incompetence" or maybe,
"Trump White Tests a Nation's Tolerance of Culture of Lies"
I also think the premise of the 'nation's capacity' is misdirected as well.
Maybe it should be
"Trump White House Expands a Nation's Capacity for Brutality" or
"Trump White House Expands a Nation's Capacity for Intolerance"
I've listened to the entire speech Trump gave to BSA jamboree. Not much to be outraged about, but plenty to be deeply troubled about, that someone with Trump's lack of vision, competence, maturity, made it to the White House.
"Trump White House Tests a Nation's Tolerance of Incompetence" or maybe,
"Trump White Tests a Nation's Tolerance of Culture of Lies"
I also think the premise of the 'nation's capacity' is misdirected as well.
Maybe it should be
"Trump White House Expands a Nation's Capacity for Brutality" or
"Trump White House Expands a Nation's Capacity for Intolerance"
I've listened to the entire speech Trump gave to BSA jamboree. Not much to be outraged about, but plenty to be deeply troubled about, that someone with Trump's lack of vision, competence, maturity, made it to the White House.
1
Those in charge of the Boy Scout Jamboree know trump. Know his lack of self-control and YET, they inflicted him on 12 to 18 year old boy scouts. Why did not even one parent take his or her son and just walk out? Did anyone see that happen? What does it take for a parent to take a stand when they know something they see or hear is patently wrong. Have people lost all self respect?
If your party controls all three branches of the government I'm not entirely sure how a politically charged atmosphere drives the Russia investigation unless the Republicans are the ones doing the "charging".
In any case Trump and his big, lying mouth has done more to de-legitimize his presidency than the Democrats could ever hope to do.
In any case Trump and his big, lying mouth has done more to de-legitimize his presidency than the Democrats could ever hope to do.
1
Donald Trump is exactly what our country doesn't need.
1
I cant say I'm filled with any sense of confidence for the future of humankind by the median point of views and comments here in the NYT. One assumes its readers are reasonable educated and well informed ... in which event it makes the whole US - Russia scenario even more frightening ... since knowledge and life experience are closely correlated to the practice of insight and wisdom ... very little on show here in this comment column. All appears either left or right in point of view mixed in with excessive emotion to blind things further. Still no factual hard evidence to prove things one way or another. CNN and other news agencies enjoying the airtime that doesn't require of them any additional creativity to keep their ratings up. Their attitude and cliched opinion (read Washington insiders and so-called experts) enjoy their 5 minutes of fame ... significantly with no hard evidence. This is the laziest period of journalistic investigation in modern times. Loudhailers who choose self-supporting views to click on CNN etc. Channel names differ but the brainwashing continues. Corporate controlled MSM ... at the expense of a growing ignorance and disregard for the institutions of free expression and real democracy. I recommend for those who want both sides of the narrative to tune in to RT, you can do it alone without fear someone will know. At least you will have informed knowledge to express an opinion.
OR Is the threat of war about the deep state economy since WW2 onwards ?
OR Is the threat of war about the deep state economy since WW2 onwards ?
1
RT?
1
“His tweet is bizarre and unprecedented,” said James A. Thurber. For this very reason the world should ignore Trump. It's the attention he garners that boosts his ego and motivates him to hang onto office.
He can no longer serve the country and he knows how low his approval rating is. As he can't be fired, the piling pressure might force him to quit. He is doing the same, by putting Sessions in the line of fire, hoping that the AG would resign.
He can no longer serve the country and he knows how low his approval rating is. As he can't be fired, the piling pressure might force him to quit. He is doing the same, by putting Sessions in the line of fire, hoping that the AG would resign.
7
One outrage after another and here's the latest one: The Donald's disgraceful performance at today's "joint" press conference with the Lebanese PM in which virtually sentence involved either a remonstration against his own attorney general or a denunciation of his popularly elected predecessor in the White House. No class, no sense of decorum, nothing but standard Trumpian malice and ignorance. What is desperately needed is for one lone journalist or one lone parent of a boy scout or lone citizen who owes his/her life to the implementation of the ACA to speak out against this pile of rubbish posing as the leader of the free world to speak out against him in the public arena and in this president's face. A politician's doing so would make no difference: it needs to come from "one of us." Any takers?
5
Donald Trump is a very ill man. The damage he has done to our democracy is incalculable. The cowardice from the Republicans in Congress unfathomable.
24
I agree. I am terrified of the man and all he brings with him. Where is my beautiful, wonderful country?
1
I'm hoping that Trump is too stupid to realize that he appears to have just attempted to politically activate an organization that once was deeply rooted in American culture, and that in recent decades appears to have drifted into right-wing militarism to the point of representing a threat to the Constitution itself.
Trump's gangsterism appears to be little more than fascism-on-the-cheap. Maybe the Scouts will find it ennobling to crush the Constitution in order to protect Trump's financial interests in Russia.
Trump's gangsterism appears to be little more than fascism-on-the-cheap. Maybe the Scouts will find it ennobling to crush the Constitution in order to protect Trump's financial interests in Russia.
10
I'm still outraged. Every single time! This odious man is completely unfit for the presidency. I wish he would leave or be impeached.
16
“There was no way,” he said, “to avoid people thinking that Obama was going after Bush. He thought that was bad for the country and declined to do it.”
That is the big difference. Know this: You are so small, so ignorant, so foolish, so crooked, you will never be able to erase Obama legacy.
That is the big difference. Know this: You are so small, so ignorant, so foolish, so crooked, you will never be able to erase Obama legacy.
14
That's what pushed him over the edge. He's jealous!
3
We have to stop comparing Trump with any past president; the reason being up till now we've largely had presidents that embodied (at the bare minimum) the qualities and qualifications to be president. Trump lacks both the characterological qualities and professional experience to be president. Sadly, and for the life of me I still don't get it, it's because of his lack of experience and "outside Washington edginess" that he was voted in. He's a notorious con man. Has no one ever read or heard about him before 2012? He's Roy Cohn's boy. He's a playboy, a liar, and has always only stood for himself. He doesn't stand for anything of substance and it continually baffles me how Americans assign him so many positive leadership qualities when he has none (ruthlessly accruing wealth doesn't equate to strong leadership qualities, bozos). What has he done for society, for communities up till now? Build lavish hotels and properties, live decadently? What has he built and contributed for the good of all, without concern for himself? How has he lived his life? It all seems clear to me, and so that so many Americans still support him, I can only conclude we have a serious problems with morality and gullibility in America today.
15
Part of the blame has to rest on the hypocrisy of the millions of elderly, white evangelicals who voted for him against every value they professed. Part of the blame has to rest on our educational system that failed to teach the voters how awesome the right to vote really is. Part of the blame goes to the devastation of the Great Recession, too. However you apportion it, Donald Trump's presidency has many parents and the result is illegitimate.
4
To say that Trump tests our capacity for outrage is to soft sell the problem. He is not just offensive or bombastic. He is not just disregarding established norms. He is mentally unstable. His utter detachment from truth and his inability to control his base impulses betray his mental illness and instability. This is what needs to be covered and reported by responsible media. He is not just outrageous, he is deranged.
15
Trump is definitely proof that money can't buy manners, class, breeding, or experience.
13
Each one of these articles about Trump seems to inevitably fall into a litany of his past foibles - a growing list, indeed - but why do reporters think reciting the same things over and over again is interesting to their readers? This is supposed to be a newspaper, but has started to sound like a broken record when it comes to Trump. Where is the news? If the Trump story was a Christmas tree, each time it comes to hang a new ornament, we have to sit through yet another description of the entire tree from roots to crown!
1
We are already the laughing stock of the rest of the world, as we continue to ignore the three elephants in the room. Is there nothing so outrageous that the rational officials of this land will finally say, "Enough!"?
4
Trump has no capacity for shame. I am personally offended by his persona, and his attitude toward others. In my community, he would be banished. He has no place in civil society.
12
During last week’s Friday installment on the PBS Newshour, David Brooks summarized it well in saying that “He's like an anti-mentor. He takes everybody around him and he makes them worse.” This comment was made in reference to the White House staff but now we see how it applies equally to the nation’s youth. How unfortunate for the young minds in the audience in West Virginia to hear such unintelligent vitriol from our petulant, toddler-narcissist-in-chief who can only think and speak of his self-interests. President Trump, please spare us your tired catastrophe and avoid at all cost the Girl Scout's October gathering in Ohio. And may Mr. Mueller work with great haste to bring this national disgrace to a thorough and expedient end.
12
He does make everything and everybody worse. That's what bad leaders do.
3
Oh thank Goodness! There is still a progressive person with a lick of sanity in Boise since I left in 2013!
1
I think he's just using the Presidency to set his next reality TV show.
It will be him in his New York apartment pining for the days when the whole world listened to everything he said every, single, day.
It will be called "The Ex-Prez", it will be a hit with his base.
It will be him in his New York apartment pining for the days when the whole world listened to everything he said every, single, day.
It will be called "The Ex-Prez", it will be a hit with his base.
3
" Who's the Greatest President ? ". A game/ reality show.
Trump is more than "outrageous." He is deranged and unfit to govern, as he daily demonstrates by word and deed. Do Congressional Republicans have no fear for the future of this country in the hands of such a man? Failing that, have they no instinct for political self-preservation? If they fail to distance themselves from the appalling conduct and irresponsible leadership of this president, it will not be history that judges them harshly - it will be much sooner than that. Trump's escalating loss of self-control indicates that it will be only a matter of weeks or months before he precipitates a catastrophic constitutional or international crisis. No one can say Trump hasn't given us plenty of warning.
12
What outrage?
3
Mentally unfit to be President. We already know he is physically unfit. He's probably the third largest President, being beaten out by Taft and Grover Cleveland.
5
I'll never understand how this incompetent buffoon was elected president. Or how many people approve of him. The darkest times of my lifetime. There are so many things wrong with our country and we have the man least equipped to lead the way.
14
It was the perfect storm. Fake news, Russian colluding, FBI, and Bernie Sanders.
3
I am not a fan of Jeff Sessions but I am rooting for him to hang I there. I'd like to see his defiance push DJT to the breaking point and then firing the AG directly. I further hope that this would be the final bell for Trump. Although this begs the question of the equally odious VP.
9
"They Thought They Were Free"...is a book about a similar time in Germany with Hitler taking over. Just read it. You will see the parallels. Hitler was not so crude. I agree with one of the comments about how this is the end of America as we have known it. The Age of Degradation is upon us and it is on the heads of those who could not be bothered to vote in the last election.
11
Donald Trump has pushed the borders of behavior beyond what should be allowed. When he called on Russia to hack Hillary Clinton's emails that was be on the board. When he called on the Art in a membership to take care of Hillary Clinton themselves, that was way beyond the border. Right then and there I believe he should've been visited my federal authorities. They should've put him in handcuffs and taking them down to their offices. They should've told him in no uncertain terms he is not above the law.
That his behavior has cross the border of unacceptable behavior.
The fact that they didn't is because he's a wealthy white male. This empowered the anti-government for right from the Ku Klux Klan to the neo-Nazis. Tromp and these groups just want to destroy our rule of law. When Steve can do that they can then rule the day.
Everyone must stand up against trump. He is on the brink of succeeding to take over this country. He must be stopped by any means possible. The Republicans must not protect him any longer
They are enabling the distraction of the America that brought us our freedom's.
That his behavior has cross the border of unacceptable behavior.
The fact that they didn't is because he's a wealthy white male. This empowered the anti-government for right from the Ku Klux Klan to the neo-Nazis. Tromp and these groups just want to destroy our rule of law. When Steve can do that they can then rule the day.
Everyone must stand up against trump. He is on the brink of succeeding to take over this country. He must be stopped by any means possible. The Republicans must not protect him any longer
They are enabling the distraction of the America that brought us our freedom's.
4
The electorate who bought the Trump Bogus Lines are deeply invested in the reality tv show that is "Presidential Apprentice." Ergo, they like the stupid, outrageous, liberal-bashing, illogical drama of it all. Part comedy; part tragedy; none of it real until it hits home, which it will eventually.
And the media, which wrings its hands readily, does see "Presidential Apprentice" as fundamentally good for business. This happened in the primaries, campaign, and now post-election. And it might turn into a "Law & Order: D.C." show pretty soon, too.
The overall public simply gets used to the new abnormal. Until it hits home.
And the media, which wrings its hands readily, does see "Presidential Apprentice" as fundamentally good for business. This happened in the primaries, campaign, and now post-election. And it might turn into a "Law & Order: D.C." show pretty soon, too.
The overall public simply gets used to the new abnormal. Until it hits home.
2
This man is an incompetent and a bully. It is disgraceful and shameful that he addressed the Boy Scouts today. He represents everything you would want a young man to NOT to grow up to be. He stands for nothing, but himself. And greed. And delusion. He's an empty human being who's is full of bluster and bravado. This is what culture feeding on 24/7 TV finds normal. This is what they admire. A culture that can no longer discern and loves to cast blame. They back a party that polarizes and has a narrow every man for themselves attitude, and they have no inner compass for healthy judgement. So sad.
7
By the way shame on NBC for putting "The Apprentice" on the air in the first place. I know that MSNBC leans left supposedly but that show raised his national profile way beyond what it was when he owned the NJ Generals for instance. That show stoked his ego and we are all the lesser for it. He became more comfortable in front of a camera for instance.
3
someone please contact Stephen Hawkins and ask him how we can get off this alternative Universe or better known as the fake universe, where up is down left is right and wrong is right.
1
The headline was all I need to read.
1
Obama thought nothing of starting a civil war in Syria that killed half a million people. Having lived through that some empty threats to adversaries are small beer.
3
You do understand what the "civil" in civil war means, don't you? Then you recognize how utterly ludicrous that statement is.
1
Now Mr. Trump has thoroughly tainted the boy scouts who must decide whether or not they want to be Trump's fascist youth group. The president's speech was both dishonest and inappropriate. The question should receive a formal answer (and not just a claim of nonpartisanship) from the organization, because the president traditionally also serves as the honorary president of the boy scouts.
(These of course must be givens: We don't politicize the military. We don't investigate or imprison political opponents.)
(These of course must be givens: We don't politicize the military. We don't investigate or imprison political opponents.)
4
misinformed, crude, hostile, immature, petty, dishonest, etc. he has the support of only 36%. how is this even happening?
4
Trump is not the problem -- he is a symptom. And without attention, the disease will only get worse.
2
There's only one thing worse than Trump's capacity to test the nation's capacity for outrage: congressional Republicans failing the test by failing to challenge his egregious actions and statements.
23
There used to be a show called boiling point, where a target was selected and pushed to that point. What is our boiling point?
2
There is not one Republican who at this point does not belong in prison. When we regain power, we must use this crossed line to our advantage and begin the civil war with the mass imprisonment of all Republican leadership.
3
I agree, they're like the confederate army. We should give them Texas and that's it. All decent people living in Texas tcould move out.
1
Perhaps Peter Baker is unaware of how many Americans were outraged by the Far Left , economically disastrous , and racially divisive policies of the last administration . That is a typical oversight of the majority of the MSM which continues to blame " Russian collusion " on the Democrats' defeat. .
This comment is simply one falsehood after another. President Obama's administration was relatively centrist. He rescued us from the Bush financial collapse. The principal thing that was divisive for the commenter and many other Americans was the president's race: all recent studies indicate for Trump voters "racial resentment" was more important than "economic anxiety." Finally, the NY Times has done a very fine job overall; nobody knew how to address or deal with a populist demagogue.
Richard wrote:
"Perhaps Peter Baker is unaware of how many Americans were outraged by the Far Left , economically disastrous , and racially divisive policies of the last administration . That is a typical oversight of the majority of the MSM which continues to blame " Russian collusion " on the Democrats' defeat."
Richard wrote:
"Perhaps Peter Baker is unaware of how many Americans were outraged by the Far Left , economically disastrous , and racially divisive policies of the last administration . That is a typical oversight of the majority of the MSM which continues to blame " Russian collusion " on the Democrats' defeat."
3
"Economically disastrous" -- I take it you've never had the opportunity to compare economic indicators from when Obama took office (after the Bush administration's lack of oversight plunged us into Great Depression II) and when he left. MSM is not blaming HRC's defeat on Russian collusion. It's suggesting this may have been a contributing factor but not the only one. However, some of us are disturbed by the idea of a foreign government even attempting to influence the result of an election, regardless of which candidate benefitted. As for "racially divisive", not even worth arguing about.
2
Perhaps you are unaware of the falsehoods that you spread by quoting Breitbart, and how that subsequently strips you of any credibility?
1
I'll comment again, because Trump is Trump, with his already established notoriety, he certainly gets a pass on the most egregious behavior. If anybody not known for such behavior would show it, then it would be a shock. Trump got away with it until too late during the primaries and then the election campaign. Some people highlighted the behavior, but not enough. I'll add another thing again--the behavior is abnormal and not addressed (usually) as such because of the implication, now that he occupies the office of the presidency--too ghastly to admit, but absolutely necessary in order to do something definitive about it!
5
The words of Joseph N. Welch, spoken over 63 years ago, fit well in the wake of the first six months of the Trump presidency:
"You've done enough. Have you no sense of decency, sir? At long last, have you left no sense of decency?"
"You've done enough. Have you no sense of decency, sir? At long last, have you left no sense of decency?"
13
We have all sown the wind,
the media/internet most of all,
and now we are being forced
to reap the Whirlwind.
God have mercy on us all.
the media/internet most of all,
and now we are being forced
to reap the Whirlwind.
God have mercy on us all.
7
He can't even speak appropriately before a gathering of Boy Scouts. This is clearly not a man in control of his faculties. Is there truly nothing that can be done? We don't have time to wait for Mueller's investigation. We have a president whose cognitive functioning is impaired.
20
Investigating the Clinton emails has no importance now. Zero. Zilch.
Investigating Russian suspected perfidy has monumental immediate importance, to our democracy, to the world.
Mr. Trump's inability to recognize the difference is further evidence of his complete unsuitability for being President.
How do we get rid of this guy?
Investigating Russian suspected perfidy has monumental immediate importance, to our democracy, to the world.
Mr. Trump's inability to recognize the difference is further evidence of his complete unsuitability for being President.
How do we get rid of this guy?
17
If were simply a matter of crossing lines and disregarding convention, there wouldn't be a problem.. Irrational reckless behavior is the issue.
4
The office of the Presidency of the United States belongs to George Washington, Harry Truman, Thomas Jefferson, and Abraham Lincoln.
Not one of them would allow Mr. Donald Trump to set foot in the White House.
Our children are witnessing the end of the Republican Party.
Never in our brief history has treason been so widely ignored for the danger it represents.
Not one of them would allow Mr. Donald Trump to set foot in the White House.
Our children are witnessing the end of the Republican Party.
Never in our brief history has treason been so widely ignored for the danger it represents.
15
Rather, tests a nation's capacity to accept dissonance and low standards.
4
I think I'm watching the USA deteriorate into an authoritarian state..the danger seems profound. However, I cannot believe that the USA's democratic institutions will not prevail ultimately. Please USA do not prove me wrong...uphold a free press, an independent judiciary, the rule of law applicable even to Presidents and equality for everyone.
14
He has not moved the bar. A large number of people know without a doubt that he is unfit for office and should not be there. We watch im horror every new outrage. We do all we can to convince those with the power to remove him from office. And we won't forget who supported him when it comes to exercise the power we do have - the vote.
13
Trumps is insane. Why did no one protect the Boy Scouts? Where are the adults in this organization? In this Administration? C'mon--how many Polands are going to be trampled?
20
Commandent #11: "Thou Shalt Not Leave the Stage to the Idiots." Are we violating this?
18
The media needs to stop giving Mr. Trump air time. Report his "news" in 30 seconds or less, with no pictures of him whatsoever. Deprive him of what he thrives on--getting his antics on TV. He's done nothing useful. Let Mr. Mueller continue to investigate and report on that.
Meanwhile the media should feature panels of the "anti-Clinton" voters (Trump, Sanders, Johnson, Stein) together from around the country. Instead of rehashing the latest Trump outrage(s) of the day, ask these "ordinary people" to respectfully discuss realistic solutions to America's problems--without saying who they voted for or mentioning any other candidate. They will find common ground.
Anti-Clinton voters are alike, in that they wanted to shake up Washington (got that in spades!). They want their religion (or no religion) respected without being called "morons" or "hateful," they want fair police and judges, they want jobs, they want healthcare that costs their families less than $100 a month, if that. They want roads, bridges, airports, bus stations, school buildings, and rail systems rebuilt and fixed. Let the people talk about real solutions for the whole country, since Congress isn't debating anything right now. Take the focus off Trump, since he's unfocused anyway. Give Americans a voice--we have a job to do.
Meanwhile the media should feature panels of the "anti-Clinton" voters (Trump, Sanders, Johnson, Stein) together from around the country. Instead of rehashing the latest Trump outrage(s) of the day, ask these "ordinary people" to respectfully discuss realistic solutions to America's problems--without saying who they voted for or mentioning any other candidate. They will find common ground.
Anti-Clinton voters are alike, in that they wanted to shake up Washington (got that in spades!). They want their religion (or no religion) respected without being called "morons" or "hateful," they want fair police and judges, they want jobs, they want healthcare that costs their families less than $100 a month, if that. They want roads, bridges, airports, bus stations, school buildings, and rail systems rebuilt and fixed. Let the people talk about real solutions for the whole country, since Congress isn't debating anything right now. Take the focus off Trump, since he's unfocused anyway. Give Americans a voice--we have a job to do.
7
Clinton tried to give us a voice; she was drowned out by "lock her up" Trump cult followers. Now we have a corrupt, ignorant, bankrupt loser in the White House. We also have his dishonest predatory family in the White House. Don't blame Hillary Clinton; she gave 26 years of public service: benefits for women with dependent children, medical care for First Responders; and, she was elected by voters in New York State, a big, diverse Blue State. Trump was elected by an old electoral college gimmick from Reconstruction days. He lost the popular vote by 3,000,000 votes. He is a bankrupt crook who will exploit us; he will allow Putin and the Saudis to exploit us; he will sell us out to whoever pays him the most money. Hillary Clinton would not have sold out her own country to a Russian adversary. And, FYI Trump voters, Clinton did not give away our uranium; it is illegal to export uranium from the United States. Canada sold its uranium; yell at Canada, not Clinton. Yell at Canada for sending toxic bitumin fuel through a 3,000 mile pipeline to the Gulf. There are no refineries for that mess; it will have to be offloaded to ships for China. It is way past time to stop blaming Hillary Clinton for the current corrupt President and his enablers in Congress. If you voted for the crook, own it. The rest of us voted for Clinton.
3
Mr. Trump, there isn't a merit badge for grabbing other people's genitals, yet, is there? You know what those boys are giggling about when you left the stage, don't you?
15
Trump is not just Putin's useful idiot. He is paving the way for Pence to finish the Republican assault on democracy and justice. Trump is the dumpster fire that will make Pence's quiet and contained incineration of civil rights and protections look dignified and "normal."
The Democrats are enabling this travesty by trying to sell us "a better deal," wherein they propose programs and make bipartisan gestures to a corrupt regime that means to destroy anything that is even associated with "liberalism."
A coups d'etat is unfolding, the press and the people are complaining about the tweets of the lawless regime's figurehead, and the nominal opposition party is retooling the sound bites they used to talk their way out of power in the twenty-first century. Given this scenario, does it really matter whether Trump persecutes Clinton or the ACA is repealed when the whole point of the ruling regime is to turn the institutions of government against its citizens?
The Democrats are enabling this travesty by trying to sell us "a better deal," wherein they propose programs and make bipartisan gestures to a corrupt regime that means to destroy anything that is even associated with "liberalism."
A coups d'etat is unfolding, the press and the people are complaining about the tweets of the lawless regime's figurehead, and the nominal opposition party is retooling the sound bites they used to talk their way out of power in the twenty-first century. Given this scenario, does it really matter whether Trump persecutes Clinton or the ACA is repealed when the whole point of the ruling regime is to turn the institutions of government against its citizens?
19
Maybe he has moved your bar for outrage, but he sure hasn't moved mine. If I didn't periodically give myself a break from the news, my head would explode. I'm plenty outraged and I expect to stay that way until 2020 unless this madness somehow stops before that. If we accept this as some kind of bizarre, "new normal" this country as we know it is doomed.
30
Break out the Caribbean music, bananas, rum drinks, scantily clad beach bunnies. Etc. We are finally turning into a -------- Banana Republic. Right before our very eyes. All we need now is the machine guns.
16
The only thing sacred to Trump is his own 'win'.
The only thing sacred -it would seem- to the GOP is their own 'win'.
Hundreds of years of American 'exceptionalism' down the drain by abject greed & power madness.
Only fitting that the Boy Scouts was one of the remaining tests of propriety defaced by Trump...par for the course.
The only thing sacred -it would seem- to the GOP is their own 'win'.
Hundreds of years of American 'exceptionalism' down the drain by abject greed & power madness.
Only fitting that the Boy Scouts was one of the remaining tests of propriety defaced by Trump...par for the course.
14
What about people who put fake "service animal" vests on their dogs so they can shop in the grocery store together? Why is there no "national outrage" over that type of fraud? Yes Trump is a flagrant impostor- but our nation is full of impostors yet we only unmask and castigate the ones we don't agree with.. Just like our elected leaders- WE Americans are two faced hypocrites.
4
Please, Aaron, don't try to make it sound like all frauds are on a par. If we can't see the vast difference between a fake service dog and a Commander-in-Chief who blatantly lies about matters large and small every day, God help us.
10
Did you really just compare the US president to your neighbor and her yorkie service dog?
6
Aaron: There aren't enough people with "fake" service dogs to matter, in grocery stores or anyplace else. And, they are not running the government; they are not wandering through the White House with their "fake" service dogs. If that is your main concern, you need to get a bigger life.
2
He puts the "id" in "idiot."
24
I'm actually starting to get bored with Trump's outrages. They are just turning into noise. I suspect I am not alone in this sentiment.
What is striking is just how little of substance is happening. That is comforting.
Little by little this pig of a president is getting emasculated. I can't wait to hear the final squeal...
What is striking is just how little of substance is happening. That is comforting.
Little by little this pig of a president is getting emasculated. I can't wait to hear the final squeal...
10
Many Americans seem to care most about what presidents say. "Outrage"? Because of tweets that are clearly not meant to be taken seriously?
I care little about what presidents say but I care a lot about what presidents accomplish. Barack Obama said all the right things but accomplished nothing of any import. That practice even won him the Noble Peace Prize. But it did nothing to bring peace in the world.
So what if Donald Trump "crosses [imaginary] lines" and gets someone like Peter Baker's panties in a knot? It's tough to get anything done in Washington DC these days. Maybe impossible. At least Donald Trump is shaking the trees with his trying.
I care little about what presidents say but I care a lot about what presidents accomplish. Barack Obama said all the right things but accomplished nothing of any import. That practice even won him the Noble Peace Prize. But it did nothing to bring peace in the world.
So what if Donald Trump "crosses [imaginary] lines" and gets someone like Peter Baker's panties in a knot? It's tough to get anything done in Washington DC these days. Maybe impossible. At least Donald Trump is shaking the trees with his trying.
1
John Smithson, thanks to Obama, Iran will not have nuclear weapons for at least 10-15 years meaning that our current and next presidents don't have to worry about being in the same position as they are in with N. Korea.
Obama brought home all the troops home from Iraq and 90% from Afghanistan. Your claim that Obama did nothing to achieve or pursue peace is belied by the evidence.
Obama brought home all the troops home from Iraq and 90% from Afghanistan. Your claim that Obama did nothing to achieve or pursue peace is belied by the evidence.
12
I guess you didn't get the memo on Obama's accomplishments.
http://www.npr.org/2017/01/10/508606465/scorecard-for-a-departing-presid...
http://www.npr.org/2017/01/10/508606465/scorecard-for-a-departing-presid...
4
Jonathan, I'm not sure why you use Iraq as an example of Barack Obama's peace prowess as he left Iraq to be overrun by ISIS on the one hand and Iran on the other. Afghanistan too is not exactly a success story.
And Iran is more of a problem than just whether they have a nuclear weapon or not. That is pretty much irrelevant when Israel and Pakistan have had nuclear weapons for years.
I'm not saying Barack Obama was a poor president. Certainly he was much better than George W. Bush who foolishly invaded and occupied two countries abroad and wrecked our economy at home.
But Barack Obama was not a good president either. He tried for little and didn't even accomplish that. The Paris convention on climate change is a good example. Meaningless, even if it works.
And Iran is more of a problem than just whether they have a nuclear weapon or not. That is pretty much irrelevant when Israel and Pakistan have had nuclear weapons for years.
I'm not saying Barack Obama was a poor president. Certainly he was much better than George W. Bush who foolishly invaded and occupied two countries abroad and wrecked our economy at home.
But Barack Obama was not a good president either. He tried for little and didn't even accomplish that. The Paris convention on climate change is a good example. Meaningless, even if it works.
1
So what did folks expect from an emotionally immature, narcissistic thug? What a shame that the Republicans never learned enough history to know that empires fall from within. Trump is literally fiddling while the US burns!
16
Donald Trump is a disgrace to humanity.
25
Trump declaring that his Justice Department should investigate Hillary Clinton generated relatively little reaction for several reasons. Trump is held to an extremely low bar. He is coarse and common, which his most ardent supporters actually seem to like. His speech to the boy scouts was typically ungentlemanly and undignified. Also, his outrageous statements and tweets come with such regularity. That our self-described "exceptional"country is led by such a man is a great blow to our dignity and standing in the world.
10
Ya know, I have finally stopped caring about Trump's outrageous tweets. A whole week-end passed where it seemed he out did himself, and I only listened or read 1 or 2. His ongoing temper tantrums via Twitter no longer matter to me. As with my children when they were young, I just ignored them, made necessary corrections and got on with my life.
That "Fake News" NYT even granted him a interview was troubling to me. As usual he said nothing of consequence. Sessions will probably leave, and Scarramuchi will be the new head of communications is so not news. He will have the same problem of Trump undercutting him as have all others in his administration.
My only hope is that congress will jointly pick its head out of the sand and impeach him. If I were his mother, I'd send him to his room and lock the door.
That "Fake News" NYT even granted him a interview was troubling to me. As usual he said nothing of consequence. Sessions will probably leave, and Scarramuchi will be the new head of communications is so not news. He will have the same problem of Trump undercutting him as have all others in his administration.
My only hope is that congress will jointly pick its head out of the sand and impeach him. If I were his mother, I'd send him to his room and lock the door.
7
If I were his mother I would move to a new State and change my name.
2
Can't he just be satisfied with the title of 'Greatest Con-Man of All Time' and go away.
8
While speaking politics to the Boy Scouts last night, I thought Trump looked like a washed up and worn out Shecky Green or Don Rickels doing their stand up routine on Sesame Street. Sad.
11
I don't engage with Trump voters anyone. It's a waste of time. They drank the koolaide amd there is no antidote.
15
They are common and course just as he. Republicans must like this class of people. They use them. Most of them vote Republican and they keep them uneducated by defunding public education. They give them no healthcare they put them in wars and fill them out for the slaughter.
3
covfefe is not normal, no matter how frequently he is abnormal.
6
Trump's Presidency and his crony Republicans' Scrotalcare need to be acid bleached from the annals of history.
12
By tweeting for investigations into Hillary Clinton for alleged Russia ties, trump is trying to deflect attention from himself, his close aides, presidential campaign, transition & administration.
Investigators must be getting close to evidence showing collusion with Russian officials & the Russian Government, which he wants to suppress. What other motive would he have?
He's spent his whole life bullying others to get his way, no matter whether he's resorted to illegal or extra-legal methods or not. When he's been pressed he fights back until others exhaust their resources to fight him or are exhausted by his efforts to block the truth from coming out. As such, he believes he's above the law.
Whether or not there was collusion, his actions appear to be obstruction of justice. This time he's up against the United States Government. Hopefully, those looking into these charges will not be cowed & this excuse for a president will finally be forced to answer for his arrogance, lies & illegal actions.
The outrage should be directed towards trump & his actions, not in support of him!
Investigators must be getting close to evidence showing collusion with Russian officials & the Russian Government, which he wants to suppress. What other motive would he have?
He's spent his whole life bullying others to get his way, no matter whether he's resorted to illegal or extra-legal methods or not. When he's been pressed he fights back until others exhaust their resources to fight him or are exhausted by his efforts to block the truth from coming out. As such, he believes he's above the law.
Whether or not there was collusion, his actions appear to be obstruction of justice. This time he's up against the United States Government. Hopefully, those looking into these charges will not be cowed & this excuse for a president will finally be forced to answer for his arrogance, lies & illegal actions.
The outrage should be directed towards trump & his actions, not in support of him!
7
I've worked with seriously mentally ill adults for over 40 years, and thus have some euphony BUT this clown is supposed to be the President. Enough is enough. Pence should have invoked the 25th Amendment months ago. Today is not too late. Tomorrow could well be too late. Lyin' Mentally Ill Disgusting Demented Donald has the nuclear launch code, for God's sake.
11
He is like a houseguest who never flushes.
13
Only The Chump could turn the Boy Scouts of America into Die Hitler Jugend with one clueless and classless performance. Evidently, in advance of the speech, the scouts were told to be kind and courteous. I guess The Chump missed the memo.
8
I am going challenge the NY Times to have one day a week with no mention of Donald Trump. I am sure that there is plenty of news in the world that the Times staff can investigate, research and report on.
You see, one of the issues here is that we are saturated with the outrageous behavior of this man and how his demeanor is affecting our country. This daily barrage of childlike Frat Boy conduct will one day take it's toll on the public and our nation.
So, one day a week, report on something else. Cal it a Trump Day Off, if you will. There will be no mention of him or his antics.
Remember, Adolph S. Ochs put "All the News That's Fit to Print" on this newspaper in 1897. Trump is not always the news.
You see, one of the issues here is that we are saturated with the outrageous behavior of this man and how his demeanor is affecting our country. This daily barrage of childlike Frat Boy conduct will one day take it's toll on the public and our nation.
So, one day a week, report on something else. Cal it a Trump Day Off, if you will. There will be no mention of him or his antics.
Remember, Adolph S. Ochs put "All the News That's Fit to Print" on this newspaper in 1897. Trump is not always the news.
4
Yes, Trump has many faults. It's too bad the author neglected to slap mention the shabby conduct of the Dems and Never-Trumpers. They tried to subvert the Electoral College, boycotted the inaugural, leaked intelligence, overplayed the Russia collision and obstruction allegations, etc. Both parties stink if you ask me.
1
I want to see which colleges invite him to be a commencement speaker. Given his crude imitation of a Hitler Youth rally at the Boy Scout Jamboree, no responsible non-political entity should invite him to speak again. Ever.
What a pitiful spectacle of an American president debasing both his office and the country he is supposed to represent.
What a pitiful spectacle of an American president debasing both his office and the country he is supposed to represent.
9
It doesn't matter. The NRA will always be willing to let him babble in front of them!
why is this imbecile always wandering around clapping - so narcissistic that he is his own applause.
9
We need to start recall proceedings in every state for the sole purpose of emptying Congress and the White House.New elections are our only hope, slim though it be.
3
Just when I thought Trump couldn't stoop lower he gives his disgusting and reprehensible speech to the Boy Scouts. Whomever in that organization that made that happen needs to resign, be removed from office, or publicly apologize for his inappropriate blather. Trump is the opposite of valor and citizenship. He is a vulgar specimen of a person and the poster child for everything you don't want your children to emulate.
8
It takes a real degenerate to on an average day, pervert the venue of the Boy Scouts of America to breed hate in young boys, while simultaneously using its 11 year old progeny as a twitter shield.
6
Look,
the man is mentally ill. His manifestations of his mental illness, his authoritarian desires, results in "unconventional" behavior.
He simply will not follow rules or traditions in his mania.
When put in comparison to Barack the Bold's failure to pursue potential war crimes by the Cheney/Bush Crime Family,
investigating Hillary does not seem too unpalatable.
Except there is no evidence that a crime was committed at all.
Dear Leader Don should loose the investigators he sent to Hawaii and found all those amazing things around Obama's birth.
the man is mentally ill. His manifestations of his mental illness, his authoritarian desires, results in "unconventional" behavior.
He simply will not follow rules or traditions in his mania.
When put in comparison to Barack the Bold's failure to pursue potential war crimes by the Cheney/Bush Crime Family,
investigating Hillary does not seem too unpalatable.
Except there is no evidence that a crime was committed at all.
Dear Leader Don should loose the investigators he sent to Hawaii and found all those amazing things around Obama's birth.
5
OMG. What is wrong with the American population? How could a man like this still be at the top of their political establishment?
When the Doctor says you have a tumour on your body that will kill you, do you not have it removed as soon as possible?
There are no words!
When the Doctor says you have a tumour on your body that will kill you, do you not have it removed as soon as possible?
There are no words!
6
President Trump is a vindictive nut-job! How does America escape this madness? Ideas needed now!
6
By any means possible!
2
Are trying to normalize Trump's aberrant behavior? He hasn't pushed the line. He has crossed it, violated it. Say so. He's a freak.
6
The real sin is with the GOP leadership of the House & Senate that allow this conduct to continue just so they can get a few pieces of philosophically driven legislation passed.
I'm not for removing Trump from office if it can't be shown he's done something wrong, legally speaking. That's what Mueller's investigation is for and if Trump only gets a few black eyes for outrageous conduct but broken no laws then so be it.
At the same time, many of these GOP leaders should be conscious of the fact that history will judge them as "Patriots" by their present day actions and by realizing that Mike Pence would serve as a better example in the Oval Office than its present occupant.
But for Wales?
I'm not for removing Trump from office if it can't be shown he's done something wrong, legally speaking. That's what Mueller's investigation is for and if Trump only gets a few black eyes for outrageous conduct but broken no laws then so be it.
At the same time, many of these GOP leaders should be conscious of the fact that history will judge them as "Patriots" by their present day actions and by realizing that Mike Pence would serve as a better example in the Oval Office than its present occupant.
But for Wales?
3
Just heard portions of the president's speech to the Boy Scouts. I was reminded that the Nazis had the "Hitler Youth" and my stomach turned at the thought that any president of the United States of America would stoop so low as to rile up young boys to cheer his hateful words. Our country is hovering at a precipice and as long as the republican party continues to kow-tow to the president's insane rants, we are in great danger.
3
To our Protestant forebears, he would have been another "anti-Christ"--a lewd, lascivious, Mammon-serving hypocrite. Now he's openly un-American--an anti-Scout.
3
Trump's presidency will stain us all. Beyond the immediate effects--the hate crimes, the widespread threats against healthcare, the obvious corruption--we will all be remembered as the people who elevated a corrupt vandal and put him in the White House.
We like to call the WWII cohort the Greatest Generation. What will future generations call us? The Stupidest Generation? The Generation Whose Pathetic Resentments of the "Elite" Made Them Vote for a Corrupt Traitor?
We like to call the WWII cohort the Greatest Generation. What will future generations call us? The Stupidest Generation? The Generation Whose Pathetic Resentments of the "Elite" Made Them Vote for a Corrupt Traitor?
3
Drama Don and the runaway Whitehouse.
1
This president stinks.
3
My ex-father-in-law said insane, bigoted, ignorant things all the time. We were used to it. Difference is, he wasn't the leader of the executive branch of the U.S. government.
4
Donald Trump is a degenerate, a reprobate, a liar, a thief and worse. Much worse. In six months he's done more damage to this country than the last dozen presidents combined. Sooner or later, the GOP - who own this Frankenstein now - is going to have to do something about getting rid of him before he nukes California. Hurry up, Republicans. You pledged to serve this country. Please do the right thing. NOW.
8
The word that comes to mind for me is deplorable.
4
Reading through the comments here, and elsewhere, it is clear that Trump's supporters care more about "giving the finger to liberal lefties" than they do about nearly everything else. In their worldview, there is no room for discussion or compromise, and progress means returning the country to an idealized, sanitized version of 1955 USA when high school dropouts could get good factory jobs and blacks knew their place was at the back of the bus.
The outrage felt by the Left will never be felt by those on the Right, and exhorting the Republican party to stand up and "do the right thing" is a waste of time. Liberal, progressive, Democrat, Independent, whatever you call yourselves, whether you were for Hillary, or Bernie, or Jill, everyone need to band together and vote the rightwingers out at all levels of government. Then build a lasting coalition to keep them out.
The outrage felt by the Left will never be felt by those on the Right, and exhorting the Republican party to stand up and "do the right thing" is a waste of time. Liberal, progressive, Democrat, Independent, whatever you call yourselves, whether you were for Hillary, or Bernie, or Jill, everyone need to band together and vote the rightwingers out at all levels of government. Then build a lasting coalition to keep them out.
3
Nothing Trump says surprises me any more.
Go ahead and fire Sessions and see if you can get anyone else stupid enough to take the job. The only person who'd take the job would be Chris Christie, and that's only if the post includes an all you can eat burrito bar.
Go ahead and fire Sessions and see if you can get anyone else stupid enough to take the job. The only person who'd take the job would be Chris Christie, and that's only if the post includes an all you can eat burrito bar.
3
Please. No. You are normalizing DT's behavior by claiming that "he has radically shifted the understanding of what is standard in the White House." No, no, no. Whose understanding - i.e., acceptance - are you referring to? Not mine, nor the majority of the US population, or majority of civilized democratic peoples worldwide. Our understanding has not shifted. We clearly see the situation as it is - a disaster, truly unbelievable but wholly unacceptable to continue as is or ever be repeated (once this clown shoots himself in the foot).
5
'Outrage' at Trump implies that he is a rebel against constricting norms. Not true. He is a spoiled bully with no class, despite his wealth and endless supply of chinese ties. His supporters revel in the narrative that he is upsetting the 'liberal' media, that they are 'befuddled'. Actually the progressive media leans over backwards to talk to and about him as tho he deserves respect. The only respect he deserves is for the office he occupies.
The republicans, who control congress, talk 'around' him a lot, with little criticism of substance. They have nothing better. His approval rating of 40% is low. More important; it is 80% of republican voters.
Impeachment? Republican behavior during the Obama administration consisted mainly of obstruction, along with the use of 'code'. They allowed Trump to turn the primaries into an orgy of infantile insults. No one uttered a peep when he dismissed John McCain's service, insulted a disabled reporter, disrespected the Syrian couple who lost a hero son in the U.S. military, bragged about grabbing women ... They will not impeach; they have nothing better. Pence is a nightmare.
Unless the democrats win really big in the midterms we have Trump for his entire 1st term. Hopefully. History has shown that during wartime a sitting president has never failed to be re elected. It helped Bush against Kerry. War? ... that's an idea ! Imagine THAT meeting; unfortunately, a scenario which is no longer outside the imagination.
The republicans, who control congress, talk 'around' him a lot, with little criticism of substance. They have nothing better. His approval rating of 40% is low. More important; it is 80% of republican voters.
Impeachment? Republican behavior during the Obama administration consisted mainly of obstruction, along with the use of 'code'. They allowed Trump to turn the primaries into an orgy of infantile insults. No one uttered a peep when he dismissed John McCain's service, insulted a disabled reporter, disrespected the Syrian couple who lost a hero son in the U.S. military, bragged about grabbing women ... They will not impeach; they have nothing better. Pence is a nightmare.
Unless the democrats win really big in the midterms we have Trump for his entire 1st term. Hopefully. History has shown that during wartime a sitting president has never failed to be re elected. It helped Bush against Kerry. War? ... that's an idea ! Imagine THAT meeting; unfortunately, a scenario which is no longer outside the imagination.
1
No, Trump's outrages have not 'radically shifted the understanding of what is standard in the White House.'
Trump's outrages are not standard. It may be that his outrages have radically shifted the understanding of what can be expected from the White House while Trump retains the presidency. But that doesn't change the understanding of what is standard in the White House.
Also, I'd argue that anyone expecting few outrages from Trump simply wasn't paying attention during the last 30 years. Trump is a bloviating vulgarian with narcissistic personality disorder, inescapably.
We're getting exactly what the Republican party wants, even if it might cost us our democracy.
Trump's outrages are not standard. It may be that his outrages have radically shifted the understanding of what can be expected from the White House while Trump retains the presidency. But that doesn't change the understanding of what is standard in the White House.
Also, I'd argue that anyone expecting few outrages from Trump simply wasn't paying attention during the last 30 years. Trump is a bloviating vulgarian with narcissistic personality disorder, inescapably.
We're getting exactly what the Republican party wants, even if it might cost us our democracy.
5
"What's best for the country" does not appear to ever figure into Trump's machinations! This is an administration geared for expanding power, remaining in power and abusing power. Anyone who is still on their side really needs to ask themselves what matters more, country or politics?!
2
Articles like these are exactly why the NYT, the WAPO and the rest of "mainstream" media got the last election wrong. As every conservative leaning person who comments on your reporting makes very clear, there is large segment of the population that simply does not care about any of this. Until the Times acknowledge this fact and starts providing meaningful dissonance to the liberal-echo chamber, Times readers are simply going to remain completely clueless about how the rest of the country views this president.
The new Democratic plan is going to fail to yield results not because not it's not "liberal" enough but because there is no emotional appeal to the folks who put 45 in office. Hillary lost because she perceived as a robotic, cold-blooded calculating statistics machine. The only way Dems are going to change hearts and minds, is if they appeal to the emotional needs of red-state America and not the condescending moral outrage of urban elites. And, I'm one of those liberal urban elites.
The new Democratic plan is going to fail to yield results not because not it's not "liberal" enough but because there is no emotional appeal to the folks who put 45 in office. Hillary lost because she perceived as a robotic, cold-blooded calculating statistics machine. The only way Dems are going to change hearts and minds, is if they appeal to the emotional needs of red-state America and not the condescending moral outrage of urban elites. And, I'm one of those liberal urban elites.
"President Trump has crossed so many lines that he has radically shifted the understanding of what is standard in the White House."
I believe we can recover from the Apprentice if we can remove him sooner than later from the Presidency.
The longer his "anything goes " approach is tolerated, the more difficult it will be to remove the stigma of his administration.
I believe we can recover from the Apprentice if we can remove him sooner than later from the Presidency.
The longer his "anything goes " approach is tolerated, the more difficult it will be to remove the stigma of his administration.
2
It would be a mistake for Democrats to focus on whatever crimes, misdemeanors, and ethical outrages President Trump is committing. It would be even a greater mistake to press for, or even talk about, impeachment.
Mr. Trump was elected president, and so the Democrats should try to defeat him politically: by opposing his attempts to dismantle health care, to weaken the Dodd-Frank law regulating banks, to enact tax cuts for the wealthy, and to privatize public education, prisons, infrastructure financing, etc.
If the Democrats were "machiavellian", they would permit Obamacare to be repealed, depriving millions of voters of adequate health care. But that would undermine their core values.
Furthermore, they don't need to do that to defeat Trump. Depriving him and the Republican party of any significant legislative achievements should be sufficient for the voters to reject both in 2020.
Mr. Trump was elected president, and so the Democrats should try to defeat him politically: by opposing his attempts to dismantle health care, to weaken the Dodd-Frank law regulating banks, to enact tax cuts for the wealthy, and to privatize public education, prisons, infrastructure financing, etc.
If the Democrats were "machiavellian", they would permit Obamacare to be repealed, depriving millions of voters of adequate health care. But that would undermine their core values.
Furthermore, they don't need to do that to defeat Trump. Depriving him and the Republican party of any significant legislative achievements should be sufficient for the voters to reject both in 2020.
President Donald Trump is the "perfect storm" in an environment plagued by two obsolete political parties, Reality TV, and Social Media that is anti-social. He has been forty years in the making, and may only be a prototype.
I've been riveted to MSNBC and CNN since Trump's electoral victory. Their advertisers are benefitting from my outrage.
2
It's great to see the Times moving towards normalization, instead of outrage. While we're at it can we make burglary just extreme borrowing, murder can just be really severe injury or maybe just a tickle gone wrong.
Of course the Times loved extreme interrogation instead of torture. I'm remember when people lost their homes and unemployment went up during the last recession, it was the new normal.
With Time moral and ethical behavior appears to get hazy for the Times. It really puts the gray in the gray lady.
For the record, it wasn't okay then and it isn't normal now.
This might be everyday in Trump's America where the Republicans shrug and try to ignore it, but it isn't fine and it isn't normal any more than a normal day in North Korea.
Of course the Times loved extreme interrogation instead of torture. I'm remember when people lost their homes and unemployment went up during the last recession, it was the new normal.
With Time moral and ethical behavior appears to get hazy for the Times. It really puts the gray in the gray lady.
For the record, it wasn't okay then and it isn't normal now.
This might be everyday in Trump's America where the Republicans shrug and try to ignore it, but it isn't fine and it isn't normal any more than a normal day in North Korea.
As an officer in the military, when the officer knowingly makes a false official statement, the officer is subject to dismissal under Article 133 - Conduct unbecoming an officer and gentleman. In the case of Trump, he would have been dismissed long ago, so then why is a military officer held to higher standard then the Commander and Chief. Trump is unfit to serve as the Commander and Chief of the brave men and women in the military and should be impeached for his continual lies.
5
Nations rise and fall. The US is on its way to becoming a third world country. The only question is whether the rot can be stopped. Right now, the odds don't look so good.
Which brings up the interesting question: Was the decline of Rome a result of barbarians invading from the outside or was it totally internal?
Which brings up the interesting question: Was the decline of Rome a result of barbarians invading from the outside or was it totally internal?
We are leaving the country within the year and feel fortunate we are able to do so.
1
My mother-in-law would often quote a lesson learned from a nun in primary school about corruption. She described a life of goodness being like a tightly packed jar of pickles. Getting that first pickle slice out of the jar was usually pretty difficult, but once out, the others slipped out with increasing ease. Trump's behaviors have never been called to account, nor has he suffered any repercussions for them. In fact he is being richly rewarded and any criticism is deemed sour grapes or fake news. It may be too lake, but someone needs to put the lid on that jar and throw the pickles away.
1
President Chaos
4
Trump is not a stupid or insane. He is very intelligent and mean street smart from New York city. He won the presidency by defeating 16 veteran Republican governors and senators in primary and Clintons in final race by being outrageous and vulgar. His main weapon in winning elections was insulting the opponents. He started with insulting our American hero John McCain. After Access Hollywood video , his popularity soared. When he insulted Megyn Kelly, the Republican voters were overjoyed. Trump successfully converted the Republican Party a pro-Moscow political party. Moreover Trump's dirty vulgar and insulting words are supported by FOX TV , state media. As a nation, we have become immune by poison pill. Because we are politically ignorant and stupid. Now we are laughing stock in the world.
5
"... he has radically shifted the understanding of what is standard in the White House."
No. None of this is standard or even marginally OK. We won't forget and we won't forgive. I wonder if it is possible to repair the damage when his term is over.
No. None of this is standard or even marginally OK. We won't forget and we won't forgive. I wonder if it is possible to repair the damage when his term is over.
9
First, I personally agree. It's neither OK nor up to the standards of conduct set by the post-Nixon administrations. Trouble is, we - as a nation - WILL forget. People, instinctively, do not like to admit when they're wrong (even to themselves) on any given topic. This is because it forces us to acknowledge a potential flaw in our own thought processes and question our firmly-held beliefs. Admitting err is an assault on the ego/intellect, which we instinctively try to avoid/repel.
People who support this man WILL forget, and won't even bother forgiving. To support Mr. Trump is to burden yourself with the task of defending/excusing behavior which we ALL know - in our heart of hearts - to be irreconcilable with basic decency. One must literally exert effort and build defenses within one's own psyche to cope with irreconcilable realities which Trump personifies. The alternative is, after swallowing some pride, to allow the basic values innate in all of us to once again wash over us so that we can save our own dignity. This has nothing to do with politics, this is a human condition.
Oh, and secondly, it IS possible to repair the damage, but it will take at least a generation. Trust and respect are tough to regain after it's been spat upon, trampled and betrayed. It will require a toilet flush on American values, but it is possible.
People who support this man WILL forget, and won't even bother forgiving. To support Mr. Trump is to burden yourself with the task of defending/excusing behavior which we ALL know - in our heart of hearts - to be irreconcilable with basic decency. One must literally exert effort and build defenses within one's own psyche to cope with irreconcilable realities which Trump personifies. The alternative is, after swallowing some pride, to allow the basic values innate in all of us to once again wash over us so that we can save our own dignity. This has nothing to do with politics, this is a human condition.
Oh, and secondly, it IS possible to repair the damage, but it will take at least a generation. Trust and respect are tough to regain after it's been spat upon, trampled and betrayed. It will require a toilet flush on American values, but it is possible.
This is a deliberate strategy on his part.
Trump has dealt with the issue of untruth as a tool in several ways.
One is to utter so many untruths--even interrupting one falsehood in order to insert another--that listeners will be able to focus on any one of them.
His hope is to "flood the zone" of falsehood--and thereby direct those more promising horses to their intended conclusion, enshrouded within a blanket of distractions, additional falsehoods, indirection, and outright lies.
What is needed is persistence of memory for all of his falsehoods--and holding his feet to fire for all of those that affect our lives, again and again, refusing to let them fall into the memory hole that he uses as a storage device for his continuing stream of violation of truth.
Trump has dealt with the issue of untruth as a tool in several ways.
One is to utter so many untruths--even interrupting one falsehood in order to insert another--that listeners will be able to focus on any one of them.
His hope is to "flood the zone" of falsehood--and thereby direct those more promising horses to their intended conclusion, enshrouded within a blanket of distractions, additional falsehoods, indirection, and outright lies.
What is needed is persistence of memory for all of his falsehoods--and holding his feet to fire for all of those that affect our lives, again and again, refusing to let them fall into the memory hole that he uses as a storage device for his continuing stream of violation of truth.
1
Another long and somber list of things about President Trump that outrage the New York Times ... and the people still do not care.
Trump's appeal was, and is, to people tired of being ignored and dismissed by both major political parties. Members of the media and self-annointed intellectual elites can spend the rest of their lives exchanging complex condemnations of Trump, but they will never sway the beliefs of the masses they so openly despise.
Trump's appeal was, and is, to people tired of being ignored and dismissed by both major political parties. Members of the media and self-annointed intellectual elites can spend the rest of their lives exchanging complex condemnations of Trump, but they will never sway the beliefs of the masses they so openly despise.
3
Trump's rambling, completely inappropriate babbling to the Boy Scouts established a new benchmark for outrage.
Hey, Trumpster, leave the kids alone . . .
Hey, Trumpster, leave the kids alone . . .
10
The Art of the Con as the clown car rolls along.
6
While the media is talking about a Trump speech to a group of boys largely too young to vote, they are not talking about the fact that the man married to the president’s daughter testified about four meetings with Russian spies and their envoys during the election. The president’s behavior in the speech---lies, disproven legal claims against Clinton, how great he is at winning--- is nothing new. What is new is the timing.
In the chaos of everyone’s outrage, the president is attempting to normalize the firing or forced resignation of the attorney general at a time when Congress will likely be on recess. This will allow the president to appoint an acting attorney general, not yet be ratified by Congress, who can fire Mueller and derail the investigation into the election. Eye on the ball--- the nation cannot allow this to happen.
In the chaos of everyone’s outrage, the president is attempting to normalize the firing or forced resignation of the attorney general at a time when Congress will likely be on recess. This will allow the president to appoint an acting attorney general, not yet be ratified by Congress, who can fire Mueller and derail the investigation into the election. Eye on the ball--- the nation cannot allow this to happen.
2
“'As a policy matter, I would’ve said a few months ago that it was a bad idea,' said David B. Rivkin Jr., a former Justice Department official under Republican presidents. 'But with what’s going on in the Russia investigation, I am not sure that this is true anymore.'”
I suppose David Rivkin, long-time apologist for Republicans, would have similarly thought it would have been OK for Nixon to have his Justice Department start investigating George McGovern or threatening to sue the Washington Post on antitrust grounds because of "what's going on in the Watergate investigation." (Oh, wait. Nixon actually did the latter.) Perhaps the implication is that the Russia investigation is purely political with no real underlying aroma of criminal activity. That's what the Rivkins of 1973 said about Watergate, with about as much credibility.
I suppose David Rivkin, long-time apologist for Republicans, would have similarly thought it would have been OK for Nixon to have his Justice Department start investigating George McGovern or threatening to sue the Washington Post on antitrust grounds because of "what's going on in the Watergate investigation." (Oh, wait. Nixon actually did the latter.) Perhaps the implication is that the Russia investigation is purely political with no real underlying aroma of criminal activity. That's what the Rivkins of 1973 said about Watergate, with about as much credibility.
1
This is a gross- vulgar pathological liar; period. What he's brought to the W.H. is himself. It is a foolish and useless exercise to expect him to act any better just because he is President.
This reminds me of slobs who move into a new home; the new abode quickly turns into a pig pin just like the others. One doesn't change who they are just because they change locales.
The real outrage- the offense of sensibilities should be directed at every member of the GOP Congress- aiding this morally, intellectually unhinged being while the rest of us bite our nails off- terrified of what comes next.
This reminds me of slobs who move into a new home; the new abode quickly turns into a pig pin just like the others. One doesn't change who they are just because they change locales.
The real outrage- the offense of sensibilities should be directed at every member of the GOP Congress- aiding this morally, intellectually unhinged being while the rest of us bite our nails off- terrified of what comes next.
3
The Puerile President.
3
It's easy to belittle and bemoan Trump. He is a pathetic character --- in the wrong position and there is never a right time.
More problematic is the citizenry that elected (and may very well re-elect) this buffoon. Yikes! How to solve that problem?
Now, we have Mr. McCain coming in to vote under the most serious of health conditions. The irony is that he will vote to deny millions of Americans coverage for the kind of condition he presently faces.
No one is thinking about solving real problems. Just posturing. Just thinking up tactical campaign slogans (better deal) and sticking to tactical promises (repeal), without a sense of the larger vision or good of the people and our country.
Amidst all this, people are stuck in Facebook and tweets. It may get worse before it gets better.
More problematic is the citizenry that elected (and may very well re-elect) this buffoon. Yikes! How to solve that problem?
Now, we have Mr. McCain coming in to vote under the most serious of health conditions. The irony is that he will vote to deny millions of Americans coverage for the kind of condition he presently faces.
No one is thinking about solving real problems. Just posturing. Just thinking up tactical campaign slogans (better deal) and sticking to tactical promises (repeal), without a sense of the larger vision or good of the people and our country.
Amidst all this, people are stuck in Facebook and tweets. It may get worse before it gets better.
5
Not outrage. Disgust.
6
. . . and Republicans continue rearranging the deck chairs . . .
2
The grotesque loathsome character masquerding as a president sunk to a new low today with his remarks at the Boy scout Jamboree. He constantly surprises me each and every time he opens that insane, vile mouth to utter remarks that degrade the presidency, and embarrass the rest of the nation. Just whenever I think he reached unsurpassable low, he manages to convince me that there is no negative limit to his deplorable character.
He delights in being the obnoxious , loathsome, immature, idiotic fool that he is. We all knew that the office would not change, or humble him, but who would have thought that this creature would be just so deplorable ?
He delights in being the obnoxious , loathsome, immature, idiotic fool that he is. We all knew that the office would not change, or humble him, but who would have thought that this creature would be just so deplorable ?
6
Maybe, with some help from his jurist sister, Mr Trump could develop a friendly, consensus-building, creative, constructive strategy--without sacrificing his core principles?! It would also validate his claim of being a good man!
Q to Anthony Scaramucci, Kellyanne Conway, ..................is it a GOOD idea?
Q to Anthony Scaramucci, Kellyanne Conway, ..................is it a GOOD idea?
"As the head of the executive branch, Mr. Trump can legally order investigations started or stopped, his advisers say." Nah, Trump's advisers wouldn't say that. Who are these "so-called" advisers? Let's get their names and look at all of the possible conflicts of interests and other their other financially suspicious and compromising ties.
5
Mr. Baker, your paymaster (NYT) wants outrage and the voters to "turn" on Mr. Trump, but that has not happened and is not likely to happen in the future.
Unfortunately, this publication has outstepped the bounds of normal NEWS REPORTING, in being 100% biased and in favor of the opponent, Mrs. Clinton -- so their perspective and reportage HAS NOT BEEN fair or unbiased.
Therefore, most people now simply ignore it, except for hysterical lefties who want a place to rant and rave about "impeachment!" and "declare the election invalid and put Clinton in the White House without a new election!".
Ordinary people in the US are going about their business, secure in the knowledge that we have defeated lefty liberal -- at least, until next time -- the battle continues!
This kind of constant faux outrage in the press is accomplishing nothing.
Unfortunately, this publication has outstepped the bounds of normal NEWS REPORTING, in being 100% biased and in favor of the opponent, Mrs. Clinton -- so their perspective and reportage HAS NOT BEEN fair or unbiased.
Therefore, most people now simply ignore it, except for hysterical lefties who want a place to rant and rave about "impeachment!" and "declare the election invalid and put Clinton in the White House without a new election!".
Ordinary people in the US are going about their business, secure in the knowledge that we have defeated lefty liberal -- at least, until next time -- the battle continues!
This kind of constant faux outrage in the press is accomplishing nothing.
The only ignoring going on is by trump who is ignoring his voters needs by pushing for them to lose their health insurance, ignoring north korea building a missile that can reach the us, and ignoring russian and chinese growing power in the world including the americas and ignoring injustice here and abroad.
2
So..... what about Putin? Millions of Americans hate Trump because of what he does. I'll repeat it: Because of what he does. Get over Hillary.
1
We have an inarticulate, incoherent, inept idiot as president of the United States.
He and his supporters have tarnished the presidency and its office.
Worst President Ever!!!
He and his supporters have tarnished the presidency and its office.
Worst President Ever!!!
12
He's not Hitler or Mussolini, but he is a knucklehead. Had the Democratic Party not blindly supported Clinton or had Clinton been a halfway decent candidate, none of this would be going on. Or, had Biden ran, history would be different.
DC IS broken and there's just too much hatred and partisanship in that town. It needs to change but not the way Trump is doing it. He's only adding to the hatred and vitriole.
DC IS broken and there's just too much hatred and partisanship in that town. It needs to change but not the way Trump is doing it. He's only adding to the hatred and vitriole.
5
When does Trump's repeated accusations of "Crooked Hillary" rise to slander (or libel since it is broadcast via Twitter)?
9
Remember when he once opined publicly that she had probably cheated on Bill?
This is now war, get a strategy how to help bring down your representative and/or senator in 2018. If they don't lose and lose badly, this kind of stuff will continue.
3
Fortunately, the constitution was designed precisely to deal with the likes of a President Trump. In the frustration of the moment, we tend to forget the multiple levels of redundancy built into our system, layers of protection that will eventually purge the poisonous fruit of a man who believes he has been elected king. Yes, there may be damage and yes, he may not be impeached. Even with all of this, every two years American citizens are given a chance for corrective action. Every four years, they can directly remove the cancer of demagoguery itself. Every eight, the constitution also acts in its own to give an errant electorate a direct reprieve from its own worst tendencies. In a connected world of instant news and amplified impatience, our most celebrated legal document document remains a work of pure genius. Thanks to the brilliant work of men who grew tired of kings, republic will eventually be saved from itself.
2
My "capacity for outrage" meter has been pegged for a long time. Irrespective of one's agreement with or disagreement with the policies Trump endorses, I cannot envisage anything but outrage at the manner this man treats people and institutions. I'm a second generation American serviceman, and my son is considering becoming the third. How can I endorse him serving at the pleasure of a man (note I did not use the word leader) who treats people like dirt, doesn't understand the basis behind America's institutional norms, and is squandering American influence at home and abroad, all at the service of his own narcissistic vanity?
4
No, Trump has not shifted our understanding of what is standard in the White House. He has simply confirmed that he is not fit to be president. This is a crucial distinction. Leaving aside Trump's diehard supporters for whom he can do no wrong, we all know Trump's antics are unacceptable behavior for a president and many people are working hard at damage control. But when it comes to being outraged, we haven't lowered our standards, we have simply moved on. No one - including congressional Republicans - is taking this man seriously anymore. And he knows it. His call for Hillary to be investigated is laughably pathetic while lashing out at his own cabinet appointees is just sad. These are the desperate flailing of a man who knows he's becoming irrelevant. Which actually is the best punishment Trump could receive. He thrives on attention. Whether adulation or outrage, it doesn't matter to him. But if we just shake our heads and turn away, that he can't bear.
3
It is time for a new amendment to the Constitution, facilitating the ability of the people to call for and remove a President from office.
5
Where is the real leadership that is needed in this country? When will politicians -- and the media -- call out his actions for what they really are? They are the steps of a tyrant in the making.
It's time to stop explaining away, and to begin calling for an end to this force that is dragging down the country and, eventually, the world.
It's time to stop explaining away, and to begin calling for an end to this force that is dragging down the country and, eventually, the world.
2
And the liberals and democrats pray to their god daily. Their god is the media. Whatever the media reports they believe as gospel. Some even know the falseness of their god but are afraid to disbelieve for fear of being outcasts. Beyond pathetic, immoral, and dishonest they knowingly are now bordering on abetting treasonous behavior against the United States of America. Time to bring down their mighty god.....
In 1998 Bill Bennett wrote a screed called The Death of Outrage with the subtitle Bill Clinton and the Assault on American Ideals. Bennett's partisan look gave little weight to the impeachment and the fallout that has followed Clinton ever since. Outrage did not die when Clinton's sexual sins became known. But outrage is clearly on its deathbed now as Republican leaders, Senators and Representatives stay mum and put their careers and party before the good of the nation. There has been an assault on our democracy by Donald Trump who has no appreciation of our history and no sense of honor. I thought better of the men and women who control the Congress, but their silence, their lack of outrage is most disheartening of all.
2
I love hearing the progressive outrage over these Trump allegations of corruption when you all sat silent over Hillary's corruption, and voted for her. Hypocracy, writ large.
On the Boy Scout speech: tradition aside, did you not hear the cheers from the audience? Reality check indeed.
That would be Hillary Clinton his "former opponent" not "opponent," surely. Trump may wish the campaign was still going on but few other people do.
1
II think when they do prove collusion between Trump and Russia, the GOP will abandon him so they can put Pence in and continue to pass all the agendas. Pence is worrisome but he will be weakened by Trumps debacle before him. The Dems need to find a new, younger, and charismatic candidate for 2020. They need to take a cue from Trudeau and Macron and not push Bernie or Warren into the race. Obama was so dynamic and after 8 years of Bush the country was ready. The mid-terms has the be the goal for the Dems to make major changes in the Congress and state levels--especially with Governors! Make a strong economic plan and stick to it! People are hurting all over on that issue. No more tax cuts for the 1%. And finally Trump must be stopped at all cost---he will likely do it to himself!
I agree! Let the Dems find a strong voice from NY or CA to carry the banner. That would help strengthen the red wall that is being erected in the rest of the country.
1
This is the first time that I can remember in my 62 years that I am truly afraid for the democracy of my country. I have no doubt in my mind that Trump is an illegitimate president, only in office because of the help of Russian government. As the investigations get closer to revealing this Trump will do whatever it takes to obstruct justice. I have to try and be hopeful that the Republican Party will not let Trump run over the rule of law. If they don't stand up I feel we are doomed as a country.
5
Trump creates chaos as a distraction to deflect from his business dealings for personal gain i.e. daughter Ivanka Trump, a federal employees. huge merchandise marketing deal initiated from the Chine visit to the White House and followed by aide with top security clearance and son in law Jared Kushner soliciting investors in China for his 150 million dollar Jersey City real estate complex with a promise to investors of expedited citizenship and White House access. Trump will distract us with health care, bogus and unfounded voter issues, Hillary and Obama smashing all to create a fog to keep us from looking at how deep the influence of foreign investors in his family business and international relations is, however the king and winding the road of LLCs, off shore accounts is and the obvious influence upon him. Saudis, Russians, Chinese and others characters and bad actors Anyone who complies is his friend "a good guy". The foreign money and influence goes back 30 years with a cast of oligarchs, arms merchants and gunrunners like Adran Khashoggi The focus should be on obstruction of justice, emoluments clause violations and conflict of interest. Ken Starr's concise historic memo run in the NYT a few days ago is clear that a President can be indicted Paraphrasing the late great Johnny Cochran,"If the evidence is right, we must indict."
1
Trump is a moral travesty.
I am constantly outraged by his lies and abhorrent behavior which I do not consider normal, nor do I frame that behavior and his lies as parting with tradition or the norms of presidential behavior. He degrades those traditions and behavior.
By using those very terms this column is assisting in normalizing Trump's outrageous behavior, ignorance and vile hypocrisy.
None of Trump's insidious and despicable behavior has shifted what we consider standard. It, and Trump, remain as outside the norms of adult and professional standards, and that he is in the White House serves to emphasize his total absence of morality and ethics.
I am constantly outraged by his lies and abhorrent behavior which I do not consider normal, nor do I frame that behavior and his lies as parting with tradition or the norms of presidential behavior. He degrades those traditions and behavior.
By using those very terms this column is assisting in normalizing Trump's outrageous behavior, ignorance and vile hypocrisy.
None of Trump's insidious and despicable behavior has shifted what we consider standard. It, and Trump, remain as outside the norms of adult and professional standards, and that he is in the White House serves to emphasize his total absence of morality and ethics.
1
No reaction to what Trumps says? Perhaps the majority is sick and tired of the guy, so we ignore him.
Perhaps it's time for the media to stop feeding his need for attention, ignore his outrageous tweets, and make him get on with the business of running the country. If you ignore a child's ploy for negative attention, they often begin to behave correctly - Trump is behaving like a 12 year old and it's disgraceful.
1
How low can you go President Trump?
2
I am with the Girl Scouts and Andy Borowitz on this one -
Girl Scouts Obtain Restraining Order Against Trump -“They’re prepared to deal with bobcats and bears,” a Girl Scouts spokesperson said. “They can handle a malignant narcissist.”
Girl Scouts Obtain Restraining Order Against Trump -“They’re prepared to deal with bobcats and bears,” a Girl Scouts spokesperson said. “They can handle a malignant narcissist.”
3
'By now you may have been to the voting polls although you mentioned it entailed a long walk - a worthy 'dutiful' one - "Politics are a dirty game", to quote Orwell, and if not Party-affiliated, it is mandatory to vote the Parliamentary and (?)...well, one might look at it as one's Civic Duty, although some of us in the States are feeling mighty dumb about our State of Affairs.
I guess we have fallen on our crowns (it is actually quite intriguing in a morbid kind of way, and although not as disciplined as you when it comes to the PC, the T.V. and its 113 channels remain silent). If I have to sum up America the Great now, We have an excellent selection of ice-scream and Trump gave a speech to the Boy Scouts. Saki, the British author, might have enjoyed some of this, and it is slightly reminiscent of his brilliant short story The Cure-All, but let Us pray that it does not end badly'.
I guess we have fallen on our crowns (it is actually quite intriguing in a morbid kind of way, and although not as disciplined as you when it comes to the PC, the T.V. and its 113 channels remain silent). If I have to sum up America the Great now, We have an excellent selection of ice-scream and Trump gave a speech to the Boy Scouts. Saki, the British author, might have enjoyed some of this, and it is slightly reminiscent of his brilliant short story The Cure-All, but let Us pray that it does not end badly'.
Trump hasn't shifted my understanding of what's normal within the White House. I continue to be utterly disgusted and outraged single day, as should we all. It's crucial not to get used to our so-called president's behavior if that means accepting it at all.
2
In almost every instance, whatever words flow out of Trump's mouth are lies, the exact opposite of the truth in fact. If he were somehow cursed - like Jim Carrey in "Liar, Liar" - and could only speak the truth, he would be struck mute.
Were it not for the impact of even his lies on the world, I would urge the media to enforce a blackout of him. This tragic turn of events in our history makes "Alice in Wonderland" seem right-side up.
Were it not for the impact of even his lies on the world, I would urge the media to enforce a blackout of him. This tragic turn of events in our history makes "Alice in Wonderland" seem right-side up.
1
What do you expect from a leader who does not have any idea on how to lead the country at a time when a strong leadership in the US is most needed. It is so sad..
With Trump and the GOP it is time for "show me the beef." They haven't delivered on their promises to grow the economy and provide jobs (except for lawyers and comedians). Remember what Trump said about about improving health care, another lie. Instead of draining the swamp Trump has grown the swamp.
Donald is freaked out about the Russia investigation, looking very guilty. What to do? Divert attention away from him and focus it on someone else. His rallies still include chants to "lock her up". He is a scared child.
1
Trumps willingness to call for the prosecution of his political opponents shades my view of everything he does. If he would "Lock her up" for his own gain he would "Lock you up" as well—something to bear in mind, especially when his loyalty to his own supporters is always in question.
Trump told the truth when he said the world is laughing at America; but it's the kind of laughter one has when one one is cornered by a lunatic at a party.
1
When 62 million ignorant voters put a clueless ignoramus with no vision, plans or programs in the Whitehouse, all they will get is the pettiness that we are witnessing. A President who has nothing substantial to say or do, must engage in outrageous behavior to remain relevant in the eyes of those 62 million ignorant souls. Jared Kushner said yesterday that President Trump won the Election because he was a better Candidate who ran a better campaign. Anything to the contrary would be an insult to the people who voted for him. And I argue that they deserve all the insult that they can receive for they have inflicted such an irreparable damage to this Nation that no Foreign Enemy would have been capable of. And all in the name of Racism and Bigotry.
1
We're all suffering from P.T.S.D.-- Post-Trump Stress Disorder! We can only hope this national and world walking political Typhoon Trump will soon wear out its welcome and be swept out to the sea of oblivion.
3
PTSD = Present Trump Stress Disorder
If ONLY it were already Post-Trump!
If ONLY it were already Post-Trump!
2
A coworker, who thought he and his wife were shielding their children from this horrible political climate, showed me a picture that his 5-year old drew. It shows our president behind bars with the message "this is where you should spend your vacation". I can't even begin to grasp the damage being done to our children.
1
None of this is standard, and if we accustom ourselves to the shock of it all, shrug our shoulders, or even laugh at this reality show clown, then we're complicit. Trump proves daily -- and sometime hourly -- how unfit he is to govern on a world stage -- from intellect, personal integrity and morality.
I for one not be inured by this total joke of a venal president.
On November 18, I hope every spineless Republican senator is booted from the hill.
I for one not be inured by this total joke of a venal president.
On November 18, I hope every spineless Republican senator is booted from the hill.
1
"Lying Donnie, Don the Con" and any other moniker that fits, day by day continues to lower the bar of decency and decorum. Not just the bar or standard for our presidency, leadership in general. He and his behaviour are vile, loathsome and abhorrent. This is the kind of behaviour and demeanor we want our youth, our next generation of leaders, to emulate? Does not one Republican leader have the conscience or gumption to repudiate disgusting example of a leader. It's a sad sad time for our country.
Trump is the festering pustule atop a national infection. A significant percentage of the U.S. has become so coarsened by Jerry Springer hair-pulling matches and other reality TV fare. that they now expect the same vulgar displays from political discourse. Trump is the ugly manifestation of our descent into an infotainment culture. In that respect, Trump truly is a candidate of the people.
The NYT has crossed a few lines itself. A transition from "All the News That's Fit to Print" to "Resist". Not exactly journalism anymore.
After you insult and/or embarrass enough people, enough times, eventually most of them start remembering it and your popularity falls.
Most people learn this in fourth grade or earlier.
Most people learn this in fourth grade or earlier.
1
After I read about Trump's speech to the Boy Scout Jamboree I decided to watch Hitler's 1935 speech to the Hitler Youth imagining that there would be some comparison. Happily there was no comparison. Trump's speech was rambling and self serving, hardly likely to sway the Boy Scouts to "take up arms" in Trump's defense. While Hitler's speech was chilling and jingoistic it stayed on message and spoke to the principles, however misguided, of the Hitler Youth. I could see how Hitler's speech would, within a decade, lead to many of these children losing their lives for the ideas expressed in that speech. Maybe our greatest hope is that Trump is too unfocused and petty to drive our country into collective suicide.
2
Based on this speech I would not approve of Trump being my son's scout leader. What kind of a model was this for young boys who are viewing the behaviour of a bully? I cannot understand how any adult can support this behaviour.
4
Work faster, Robert Mueller. Grow a spine faster, Senate Republicans. While it might be fun to watch Republicans twist in the wind, throw them an olive branch Congressional Democrats, this is getting too damaging to the nation.
3
"Americans seem to be immune...he has radically shifted the understanding of what is standard...moved the bar for outrage."
No, Mr. Baker.
Emphatically: No.
But living one's life as something other than a 24/7 anti-Trump is not the same thing as "immune." As a news and politics junkie, I go about in chronic nausea. My sister, though, opts to radically disengage from all media, and step up volunteering in her community--she doesn't need an hourly report ("Breaking!") to know its bad, and likely to stay that way for a while.
No, Mr. Baker.
Emphatically: No.
But living one's life as something other than a 24/7 anti-Trump is not the same thing as "immune." As a news and politics junkie, I go about in chronic nausea. My sister, though, opts to radically disengage from all media, and step up volunteering in her community--she doesn't need an hourly report ("Breaking!") to know its bad, and likely to stay that way for a while.
3
Once again, the NYT's has it wrong.
Obama made America immune to this outrageous conduct-- Fast and Furious, AG held in contempt of Congress, IRS targeting civilians and IRS perps pleading the 5th, leaning over to the Russian Prez and saying on a hot mike, "I'll be more flexible with you guys after the election," Dem candidates calling Reps "enemies," voting a bill that seized control of 1/7th of the economy without reading it, designing a bill planned to fail!, allowing ISIS to grow and seize territory, removing stability in Libya with no plan, handing the Crimea to Russia, alienating Poland, seizing huge swaths of land, Clinton's tarmac meeting with AG, etc.
Yeah, yeah. NYTs covered a couple of these things on below the fold page 8 for a day. Nothing like your Trump coverage that leaves us all wondering "with all this leaking, why have we not seen any evidence of a crime after all these months?"
I'm convinced the NYT is trying to steal the Nat. Enq.'s spot at the grocery store checkout rack, and they think "scandalous" stories with no basis in fact is the way to do that.
Obama made America immune to this outrageous conduct-- Fast and Furious, AG held in contempt of Congress, IRS targeting civilians and IRS perps pleading the 5th, leaning over to the Russian Prez and saying on a hot mike, "I'll be more flexible with you guys after the election," Dem candidates calling Reps "enemies," voting a bill that seized control of 1/7th of the economy without reading it, designing a bill planned to fail!, allowing ISIS to grow and seize territory, removing stability in Libya with no plan, handing the Crimea to Russia, alienating Poland, seizing huge swaths of land, Clinton's tarmac meeting with AG, etc.
Yeah, yeah. NYTs covered a couple of these things on below the fold page 8 for a day. Nothing like your Trump coverage that leaves us all wondering "with all this leaking, why have we not seen any evidence of a crime after all these months?"
I'm convinced the NYT is trying to steal the Nat. Enq.'s spot at the grocery store checkout rack, and they think "scandalous" stories with no basis in fact is the way to do that.
When a Trump supporter presents an argument that does not rest in great part, sometimes exclusively on references to Obama, Clinton, the Liberal Media, etc, I'll listen, because I'm truly curious. For once, just talk about your man: his accomplishments, vision for the country, specific positions on the wide range of issues facing the country. You know, the elements that informed voters generally consider in choosing a candidate. Personally, I have a hard time because his positions -- except on Obama, Clinton, the Liberal Media, etc -- swing back and forth, sometimes within a span of 24 hours.
No. There is absolutely no shift in my opinion of what is "standard" in the White House. His outrageous behavior will never be "standard". He has shamed us repeatedly and is an embarrassment to the majority of Americans. We must not allow his actions to become standard procedure. We must return to decency and kindness, no matter how long this incredibly immature man occupies the White House.
96
Many of us would like to apologize to Australia for Trump's insults. Those of us who remember our fathers, uncles et al going off to war also remember Australia was, and remains, our ally. Australia has always had our back; please don't think this lying draft dodger represents all Americans. 3,000,000 of us outvoted Trump's followers. That matters. The Electoral College does not represent a true vote; it represents a Reconstruction era gift to the South. Stay with us. We said it before: "We shall overcome", and we will.
1
In fact, however, his type of behavior reflects the type of behavior of many of the Americans who elected him, so does not seem abnormal to them.
The question before this country is: What makes this American? If we are willing to give this administration a polite pass and hope for better we are branding ourselves as cowards who never really understood that the Constituion rests on the will of the people. That contract can be destroyed, not by tyrants, but by its beneficiaries who do not support it.
3
Trump's threats to have Clinton persecuted again by "his" FBI should serve as a warning to anyone thinking of running against him in 2020.
Only a guilty person behaves like Trump and shows the disdain he has for everything and everyone. The failed base of voters cannot bare to have failing Trump brought down even if it is for treason and for making America Embarrassed Again and Again.
There is zero doubt that had President Obama or the winner of the popular vote Secretary of State Clinton crossed any of the red lines Trump has, the GOP gangsters would have crucified them both.
Tyrannical Trump will continue taking a sledge hammer to this nation and its institutions as Putin and his ilk LOL. While we are in disarray Russia, China and Europe will take over the leadership as the intellectual buffoon in the oval office wrecks his nation.
Trump Derangement Syndrome has no cure. He has Divided the States of America all to fire up the pro-Trump brown shirt base so he can declare a win for himself.
Only a guilty person behaves like Trump and shows the disdain he has for everything and everyone. The failed base of voters cannot bare to have failing Trump brought down even if it is for treason and for making America Embarrassed Again and Again.
There is zero doubt that had President Obama or the winner of the popular vote Secretary of State Clinton crossed any of the red lines Trump has, the GOP gangsters would have crucified them both.
Tyrannical Trump will continue taking a sledge hammer to this nation and its institutions as Putin and his ilk LOL. While we are in disarray Russia, China and Europe will take over the leadership as the intellectual buffoon in the oval office wrecks his nation.
Trump Derangement Syndrome has no cure. He has Divided the States of America all to fire up the pro-Trump brown shirt base so he can declare a win for himself.
3
With the most self indulgent and disgusting president in our history, this Republican Congress has been proven to be the most hypocritical and shallow. What we do as a nation in subsequent elections will prove our mettle.
I'm in for the fight- I believe that we are better than the current circumstances indicate.
I'm in for the fight- I believe that we are better than the current circumstances indicate.
3
I keep waiting to see the bottom. Apparently - there isn't one.
5
Trump's immoral behavior will never be normal to me and millions like me who still hold the bar high for those who serve in our nation's most powerful positions. He is a thug pure and simple, someone who thinks of himself and only himself and will do anything to advance his dirty agenda. He lies everyday and there is no filter, no self governance, no empathy, just dark empty greed. The day he is removed from office (even though it means Pence) will be very satisfying and too long in coming!
3
Investigating the losers? What we need, is to develop a policy of investigating the winners as soon as they leave office.
That practice, would have made the Trump Presidency impossible, due to his apparent goal; which can be best described as: "Rip Off America and Get Away With It".
Trump may have gone into the 2016 campaign as a "fake" billionaire, but rest assured, that after 8 years of "public service", he and his family will be real billionaires.
Trump Thievery, will leave our nation with a shattered work force living in an ecologically bombed-out land.
Any lawful action that would prevent that from happening, is a action that we should all strongly support.
Let's be sure, that Trump knows, that we will be turning him upside down, and shaking hard, after he leaves office.
----------------------
Note: Why investigate Presidents after they leave office?
Because people are really bad at investigating themselves, and the President is in charge of all administrative activities. Investigations, while a President is still in office, will rarely find anything.
Worse still, an incumbent could, as Trump is already doing, pose as a martyr to their alleged cause, and gain a second term.
So let's stop focusing on Trump's sleazy campaign, and start focusing on his thievery in office. That is the only way to knock Trump off of his "Rip, Run again, and Run Away" trajectory. We owe it to our country.
That practice, would have made the Trump Presidency impossible, due to his apparent goal; which can be best described as: "Rip Off America and Get Away With It".
Trump may have gone into the 2016 campaign as a "fake" billionaire, but rest assured, that after 8 years of "public service", he and his family will be real billionaires.
Trump Thievery, will leave our nation with a shattered work force living in an ecologically bombed-out land.
Any lawful action that would prevent that from happening, is a action that we should all strongly support.
Let's be sure, that Trump knows, that we will be turning him upside down, and shaking hard, after he leaves office.
----------------------
Note: Why investigate Presidents after they leave office?
Because people are really bad at investigating themselves, and the President is in charge of all administrative activities. Investigations, while a President is still in office, will rarely find anything.
Worse still, an incumbent could, as Trump is already doing, pose as a martyr to their alleged cause, and gain a second term.
So let's stop focusing on Trump's sleazy campaign, and start focusing on his thievery in office. That is the only way to knock Trump off of his "Rip, Run again, and Run Away" trajectory. We owe it to our country.
1
Its hard to be outraged every day for six months.
1
I don't know how you judge what "the people" find outrageous. It is hard to keep up with what awful thing Trump has said or done and when or how to respond since it is a daily attack on the national psyche. I was not shocked but was angered and disgusted by Trump's return to the Hillary attacks but how many times a day can any one person write and let you know that, yes, we are even more disgusted than yesterday, and outraged by pretty much every statement and tweet this president utters. I think a lot of us are just waiting now, for the final outrage that even a Republican congress cannot ignore. We really do not have a President right now, just a man filling that position who has no understanding of what his job is. We all await the day when he leaves office and that cannot happen soon enough.
1
Trump has NO standards moral or otherwise - all he cares about is his own greed and the wealth of his egregious family.
2
This President wants to "sell off" 22 million plus lives like stock that is not performing. Getting rid of dead weight so to speak. Who knew life could be so cheap in a country with "We the People" Preamble??
2
Mr. Trump,
We know some of what you are doing for yourself, but what are you doing for America?
We know some of what you are doing for yourself, but what are you doing for America?
2
As an Eagle Scout, I'm outraged at Trump's politicizing the National Jamboree. That was neither the time nor the place for another bash and boast rant, particularly in front of tens of thousands of youth excited to see the president. Or what they were told is a president. Again, it reflects an utter lack of judgment.
Scouting's ideals emphasize respecting and serving others, appreciating preserving the outdoors, and self-reliance. Trump defies all of them them with every word and every action. He knows nothing about scouting. He'd would have lasted about five minutes the first time he was in the woods before he would have be crying to go home.
Fact is, he know nothing about anything. He demonstrates his ignorance constantly in his twitter diatribes.
Many of us grow more outraged every day at his immaturity. So should the rest of the country. Instead, much of the outrage is now resignation, even acceptance, of an infantile narcissist who can't get enough of himself.
On second thought, maybe it was appropriate in one respect that the Boy Scouts, many of them adolescents, got to see and hear another adolescent--one who is 71 years ago.
Scouting's ideals emphasize respecting and serving others, appreciating preserving the outdoors, and self-reliance. Trump defies all of them them with every word and every action. He knows nothing about scouting. He'd would have lasted about five minutes the first time he was in the woods before he would have be crying to go home.
Fact is, he know nothing about anything. He demonstrates his ignorance constantly in his twitter diatribes.
Many of us grow more outraged every day at his immaturity. So should the rest of the country. Instead, much of the outrage is now resignation, even acceptance, of an infantile narcissist who can't get enough of himself.
On second thought, maybe it was appropriate in one respect that the Boy Scouts, many of them adolescents, got to see and hear another adolescent--one who is 71 years ago.
5
No, I'm not inured to Trump. My outrage is alive and activated. But, I am exhausted. It's hard to keep up with it all, even though I feel it is my duty as a citizen to do so. I have to limit my exposure to Trump, because he is a waste of my endurance. His words and actions no longer shock me, because, as a majority of us know, Trump is a crazy narcissistic dangerous monster. That does NOT mean, however, that I have lowered my expectations for the Presidency, for Congress or for the press. Quite the opposite. I put my focus and support on their efforts to bring documented transparency to the disaster our country is in, and my hope and expectation that this horrible, illegitimate administration will be removed from office as soon as possible, and Republican destroyers of government be voted out at the next election.
5
What bothers me the most is the lack of outrage from people in leadership positions. Trump's speech at the BSA Jamboree was appalling, yet where is the condemnation from the BSA leadership? The lukewarm statement they released doesn't come close to saying what needs to be said. I feel more outrage at that then anything Trump has said, or tweeted, to this point.
We don't need more SNL skits poking fun at him, we need people, aside from liberals, saying what he is doing is wrong and start to shun him.
We don't need more SNL skits poking fun at him, we need people, aside from liberals, saying what he is doing is wrong and start to shun him.
2
It is difficult at this stage to be shocked and greatly disappointed by the President's comments (It is his modus operandi). However, his comment to the Boy Scouts regarding President Obama's failure to attend a Scout Jamboree was especially boorish, unbecoming and totally shameful. And it was simply embarrassing. He continues to exceed our worst expectations.
2
Some presidents have been disliked. Dislike of a president occurs when he is of another party and pursues an agenda that does not align with yours. They were however, our president, and we accepted that.
Trump is despised. Deeply hated and broadly repulsive. Many do not accept him as president. Many do not accept him as anything other than a huckster scam-artist charlatan windbag, a bloviating blemish on our country's complexion. He serves no purpose other than to serve himself.
He is the sticky residue which clings to the liner of social media. he is the champion of those America forgot, the incarnation of reality TV viewers and employment challenged white males who love to hate.
If nothing else, it is interesting to realize what America seems to have become to select such a disgrace to take the highest office.
Trump is despised. Deeply hated and broadly repulsive. Many do not accept him as president. Many do not accept him as anything other than a huckster scam-artist charlatan windbag, a bloviating blemish on our country's complexion. He serves no purpose other than to serve himself.
He is the sticky residue which clings to the liner of social media. he is the champion of those America forgot, the incarnation of reality TV viewers and employment challenged white males who love to hate.
If nothing else, it is interesting to realize what America seems to have become to select such a disgrace to take the highest office.
4
Trump is the one who is "beleaguered", and when he is beleaguered he whines and lashes out like a schoolboy bully - which is Trump's level of function.
Those who are weak enough to be prone to follow bullies will continue to do so and that goes for members of Congress
Those who are weak enough to be prone to follow bullies will continue to do so and that goes for members of Congress
1
President Trump encouraged sailors in uniform to call their members of Congress to support his military spending plan. I hope he told the sailors to do it on their own time, with their own phone or computer, because otherwise he would be encouraging them to violate the Hatch Act. But then again, Trump is so ignorant that he doesn't know what the Hatch Act is. And if he did, he wouldn't care because he thinks he is above the law.
2
Under the rubric of 'Silence is Betrayal', for Obama not to investigate Bush & Cheney was a dereliction of duty, & set an untenable precedent for presidents ordering the nation into war under manufactured pretext, with clear conflicts of interest/war-profiteering.
Whatever is going on with Russia is some sort of sideshow on all sides. But the crime was virtually victimless, if any crime occurred (and no, Russia didn't swing the election, Democratic voters simply failed to mobilize, motivate & inspire, and their hubris thinking they had it in the bag for Hillary was their undoing).
But that horror Bush/Cheney did with the Iraq invasion, and everyone that colluded, profiteered, and sustained that atrocity, should have been forced to face the consequences, if only in the name of justice, but certainly to set a precedent that no, presidents cannot order us into war based on fabricated intel & intimidation (forget not that they outed a CIA agent to keep the intelligence agencies under their thumbs, and I'm no fan of conspiracy theories, but the plane crash that eliminated the opposition in congress embodied in Paul Wellstone, this is all too much circumstantial evidence to not investigate).
So, Russia-schmussia, it's just all more reality TV, whether HRC or Trump. But they should have, and likely still should, investigate the former Bush admin for Iraq, that was, and remains, real.
Whatever is going on with Russia is some sort of sideshow on all sides. But the crime was virtually victimless, if any crime occurred (and no, Russia didn't swing the election, Democratic voters simply failed to mobilize, motivate & inspire, and their hubris thinking they had it in the bag for Hillary was their undoing).
But that horror Bush/Cheney did with the Iraq invasion, and everyone that colluded, profiteered, and sustained that atrocity, should have been forced to face the consequences, if only in the name of justice, but certainly to set a precedent that no, presidents cannot order us into war based on fabricated intel & intimidation (forget not that they outed a CIA agent to keep the intelligence agencies under their thumbs, and I'm no fan of conspiracy theories, but the plane crash that eliminated the opposition in congress embodied in Paul Wellstone, this is all too much circumstantial evidence to not investigate).
So, Russia-schmussia, it's just all more reality TV, whether HRC or Trump. But they should have, and likely still should, investigate the former Bush admin for Iraq, that was, and remains, real.
1
Choose your enemies well, because it is your enemies you become most like.
Trump is outrageous enough without added drama. He talked about pardons, but never mentioned himself. This kind of conjecture dilutes your message.
Trump is outrageous enough without added drama. He talked about pardons, but never mentioned himself. This kind of conjecture dilutes your message.
Time for a coup... let the army do its constitutional duty and remove a dangerous and traitorous man from power, clearly Congress can't or won't perform its oversight and check-and-balance functions; the president proves his guilt of high crimes and misdemeanors each day without regard for the constitution or his oath of office. Shameful.
Could the NYT please stop referring to Trump endlessly as 'Mr. Trump'? His name is Trump. Trump as in trumpet. Got it? No 'Mr' is ever needed with this person.
Stop treating this charlatan with the respect and deference that he does not deserve. If the NYT, WaPo and all the rest of the US quality press had treated Trump with the contempt he deserved from the outset, then perhaps the whole world would not be in this present mess.
Many here will blame Comey. Others will blame uneducated and racist white Americans of little education and less brains. Personally, I believe that most of the blame for the election of this appalling braggart as the 45th rests with the US media that did a third rate job of exposing this narcissistic megalomaniac for what he is before it became too late.
Stop treating this charlatan with the respect and deference that he does not deserve. If the NYT, WaPo and all the rest of the US quality press had treated Trump with the contempt he deserved from the outset, then perhaps the whole world would not be in this present mess.
Many here will blame Comey. Others will blame uneducated and racist white Americans of little education and less brains. Personally, I believe that most of the blame for the election of this appalling braggart as the 45th rests with the US media that did a third rate job of exposing this narcissistic megalomaniac for what he is before it became too late.
2
And they have a history of not vetting candidates for us, which left us with that incompetent Obama. Finally a NYTs reader whose post I can agree with. Thanks.
I teach a class with trump supporter-students who have no idea what's going on because they rely solely on Fox. They argue that the news services are making up the stuff that he [indeed he actually] says.
It's maddeningly frustrating.
Every news outlet is reporting on the disgust over the Boy Scout speech, but I could not find where the speech is even mentioned on Fox News.
It's maddeningly frustrating.
Every news outlet is reporting on the disgust over the Boy Scout speech, but I could not find where the speech is even mentioned on Fox News.
5
Every Trump supporter I know relies exclusively on Fox and similarly biased media for all of their news and information. They even brag about it as though it were a badge of honor to be informed by these esteemed tellers of the truth.
Sometimes I wonder whether I could be equally as misinformed because I rely almost exclusively on the NYT, The Washington Post, NPR, and other traditional and supposedly "liberal" sources for my own information.
I do take the occasional foray into the opinion columns of WSJ columnists or the writings of other Trump apologists, but when I do I'm left reeling at their ridiculous attempts to apply logic to anything this administration does.
No, I've decided, I am on the right side here, we are truly living in an Orwellian dystopia.
Sometimes I wonder whether I could be equally as misinformed because I rely almost exclusively on the NYT, The Washington Post, NPR, and other traditional and supposedly "liberal" sources for my own information.
I do take the occasional foray into the opinion columns of WSJ columnists or the writings of other Trump apologists, but when I do I'm left reeling at their ridiculous attempts to apply logic to anything this administration does.
No, I've decided, I am on the right side here, we are truly living in an Orwellian dystopia.
1
It's like the Trump supporters can't take off their Trump Dunce Caps, to let their brains breath a little, and it causes their brains to atrophy.
1
I think it's a little bit more shocking just how quickly the big liberal news organizations stooped to join Trump in the mud. Trump apparently doesn't mind being down there, but I don't know if the NYT and WP realize just how badly their credibility has been damaged by getting down and dirty. Most everyone in my neck of the woods consider the liberal outlets about on par with the Onion as far as newsworthiness goes. That's why there's no real outrage anymore...sounding the alarm about the newest Trump idiocy is little more than a random dude preaching to the choir while everyone else goes about their business.
Or perhaps the NYT and WP do know and just don't care, since incendiary Trump articles/opinions are good click-bait and ethical journalism isn't a thing anymore.
Or perhaps the NYT and WP do know and just don't care, since incendiary Trump articles/opinions are good click-bait and ethical journalism isn't a thing anymore.
Please educate us as to why Trump is good for the country, instead of the tired harangue about Clinton.
Mr. Trump was elected precisely because he was going to be unconventional, cross lines, and say and do many things that other presidents would not. Those who voted for him were desperately trying to keep another Presidency from getting subsumed by the nation's political establishment, and resulting in another four or eight years of governmental inertia. Their only major party option was Trump. Instead of all these experts grumping about the President, who is only doing what he was expected to do, the real issue should be what comes next. Assuming that this administration fails, there's no telling who his voters will turn to in their pain.
16
There is a vast difference between "unconventional" and unacceptable. He has crossed lines of decency, courtesy and kindness.
1
Not to mention the fact that he in fact mirrors the behavioral patterns of many of the people who elected him, something that seems to have been overlooked by the media.
I think while Trump voters wanted certain things, i.e., the "wall" with Mexico and so forth, they nevertheless expected that the holder of the Office of the President would act presidential. No one wants a baffoon representing our nation.
the capacity of his supporters to continue to support him despite all evidence of incompetence [to say the least!] is the really troublesome aspect of this national disaster.
1
There is a "Trump base" who hate Democrats and political liberals, and they are ready to embrace anything that defeats Democrats or liberals, regardless of whether it is an external enemy of the United States. This base exists because of false, exaggerated and biased political propaganda fed to it by the likes of The National Rifle Association, Robert Mercer, Rupert Murdoch, David Bossie, Steve Bannon, Tucker Carlson, Christopher Ruddy, Sean Hannity, David Smith and more recently, Vladimir Putin. These folks, and the rest of the wealthy oligarchs who use media properties to present false propaganda as fact and demean the real facts, are the root cause of the problem. Trump is just another two bit con man without them.
2
Pres. Trump is doing Precisely what we, the American People Elected Him to do!! It is an Outrage that DC, and the liberal media have gone on so warped, out of touch, and unchecked as they have for so long.
Despite all this so-called "outrage" (which is mostly the liberal media stoking the rabid Hillary voters who are in denial) Trump supporters are stronger than EVER. AND government is functioning, and moving forward on the Republican agenda. Trump has crossed the line DEFTLY on many things, and taken risks no other modern President has had the toughness to do.
Despite all this so-called "outrage" (which is mostly the liberal media stoking the rabid Hillary voters who are in denial) Trump supporters are stronger than EVER. AND government is functioning, and moving forward on the Republican agenda. Trump has crossed the line DEFTLY on many things, and taken risks no other modern President has had the toughness to do.
1
Sorry, but the media is supposed to be "unchecked." Otherwise, Fox, Breitbart, cable, radio, print, and online right-wing media would be shut down immediately by the Truth Police.
I'm just afraid that more and more people are becoming desensitized to this, and thus tolerant to bad policies because those policies are not horrible. The Republican party is shock-and-awing Americans' expectations into submission with all the craziness. We should demand nothing less than decency from a President, and nothing less than good healthcare from Congressional Republicans who are using Trump-drama as cover to enact horrible policies that harms America but enriches their real base, the elites.
44
I am currently reading an out of print "Berlin Diary" by William Shirer who was in Berlin as Hitler rose to power. He sent dispatches home to the Times, not always published. America didn't want to know what was happening in Germany; Chamberlain didn't want to believe that Hitler was insane and dangerous. Churchill and FDR stood alone against madness; eventually American boys died to save European democracies and to create a democratic Japan. Trump would not have fought; he would have dodged the draft with fake bone spurs. He would have called Shirer's reports fake news. That is where we are now: a President in debt to Putin; a President who was willing to betray NATO allies; a President willing to betray an old ally, Australia. A President who appears to be an angry senile old man with a corrupt family business run out of the White House. FDR would have thrown Trump in prison. Churchill would have buried him with honest speech.
I assume that journalists, Peter Baker in this case, don't compose the headlines for their pieces. No doubt there is outrage in the back-and-forth between the White House and sooner or later most everyone else. But I think the important test in this instance is not the capacity to express outrage, but courage.
Last night, Trump found himself addressing an adoring crowd of thousands who at this moment are at a level of development that he seems to have been stuck at for decades. Once again, a new problem has emerged that might eclipse the others that have come but never completely left. The challenge must not be ignored. All of us, but parents, teachers, scout leaders, community leaders especially, and members of the media in their capacity as journalists, must be prepared to show courage by documenting and diminishing the impact of his hateful, divisive, ignorant discourse on impressionable young people.
Last night, Trump found himself addressing an adoring crowd of thousands who at this moment are at a level of development that he seems to have been stuck at for decades. Once again, a new problem has emerged that might eclipse the others that have come but never completely left. The challenge must not be ignored. All of us, but parents, teachers, scout leaders, community leaders especially, and members of the media in their capacity as journalists, must be prepared to show courage by documenting and diminishing the impact of his hateful, divisive, ignorant discourse on impressionable young people.
1
It is very sad to see that the president has set a very low bar on the ethics, the professionalism and the moral - this is the time to question what kind of government and what kind of leadership that the people want for themselves for now and the future.
1
My wife is a loyal American and although she has said nothing I am still ashamed of what I said yesterday while we listened to Trump's speech at the Boy Scout Jamboree.
While my wife was in tears I said, Thank goodness there are no Canadians at the jamboree."
The Boy Scouts and the Girl Guides of Canada have banned travel to the United States because some Canadians crossing into the USA are not equal to others. I was grateful to the Girl Guides and the Boy Scouts when the travel ban was enacted but I was guilty of the same kind of nationalism that has sent the American Ship of State straight into the iceberg.
I have been thinking about the great metaphysical poet John Donne too much lately and my outburst is for me unforgivable.
While my wife was in tears I said, Thank goodness there are no Canadians at the jamboree."
The Boy Scouts and the Girl Guides of Canada have banned travel to the United States because some Canadians crossing into the USA are not equal to others. I was grateful to the Girl Guides and the Boy Scouts when the travel ban was enacted but I was guilty of the same kind of nationalism that has sent the American Ship of State straight into the iceberg.
I have been thinking about the great metaphysical poet John Donne too much lately and my outburst is for me unforgivable.
3
Sometimes we can learn from the worst examples. Just because Trump acts like a boar and worse doesn't mean we have to admire his behavior much less emulate it. Principles and values are easy when the role model exemplifies them but when they don't, it takes everything we have inside ourselves to continue on being the best we can. Trump has no class, crass values and does not represent what is the best in American values (hard work, honesty, charity the list goes on). This too shall pass, key is to make sure we are true to our own values.
Dems lose the election and then their minds. Obama appeased Russia for eight years, and Dems were fine with that. Now they are screaming about Russia because they have nothing else. How about coming up with a decent candidate, actual ideas that resonate with most Americans (instead of ones that alienate most Americans) and a leader? Have you ever thought of that?
The "outrage" has been there since the early days of the Trump campaign and has only grown in size and depth. Unfortunately, the majority of Americans, all of which live with the daily rage against his conduct and actions, are not the ones who can remove this nightmare from the oval office.
A good guess is that a constitutional crisis will happen at Trump's own making. Maybe then people will have had enough and take to the streets in protest in order to force congress to finally take the actions necessary to remove him from office.
A good guess is that a constitutional crisis will happen at Trump's own making. Maybe then people will have had enough and take to the streets in protest in order to force congress to finally take the actions necessary to remove him from office.
Vulgarity is ok now, the President swears a lot from his podium, unabashedly.
The truth is now blurred, the President lies all the time about what is true and what isn't.
In your face racial remarks are ok now, the President is a racial provocateur.
Denigrating name-calling is fine now, endorsed by the President.
Politeness and kindness are out, rudeness and hatred are in.
The truth is now blurred, the President lies all the time about what is true and what isn't.
In your face racial remarks are ok now, the President is a racial provocateur.
Denigrating name-calling is fine now, endorsed by the President.
Politeness and kindness are out, rudeness and hatred are in.
106
I think the Pardon issue was raised to send a signal to potential witnesses against him in an effort to obstruct justice.
1
The unwritten rule that Presidents don't order investigations of their predecessors has merit. Except for whoever the next President is.
4
It's only a matter of time until the constitutional crisis created by Trump will need to be adjudicated by the Supreme Court (deciding whether or not a president can pardon anyone, including himself). What then? Will Trump try to fire the Supreme Court?
Please Republicans, stand up for the country and get rid of Trump before something catastrophic happens in the world and Trump is too obsessed with his election and his money to correctly act.
Please Republicans, stand up for the country and get rid of Trump before something catastrophic happens in the world and Trump is too obsessed with his election and his money to correctly act.
4
This isn't a dictatorship. He admires the absolute power of dictators.
The idea of Trump pardoning himself is really for Saturday Night Live, but why even mention pardons unless you've broken the law?
6
Donald Trump seems to be considering pardons to stop what he says is a witch hunt rather than an investigation. I have to agree with him about the witch hunt.
When Congress is hearing testimony about someone holding a meeting with Russians and some call it treason to do so, then something is wrong. When the so-called "ethics expert" Richard Painter says Donald Trump should be impeached because he pressured Jeff Sessions to investigate Hillary Clinton, then something is wrong.
Donald Trump has his faults, I'll grant you that. But there is no evidence that he broke the law and this effort to try to find political crimes to topple him is something I have seen in other countries but never thought I would see here in the United States. I think it's shameful.
When Congress is hearing testimony about someone holding a meeting with Russians and some call it treason to do so, then something is wrong. When the so-called "ethics expert" Richard Painter says Donald Trump should be impeached because he pressured Jeff Sessions to investigate Hillary Clinton, then something is wrong.
Donald Trump has his faults, I'll grant you that. But there is no evidence that he broke the law and this effort to try to find political crimes to topple him is something I have seen in other countries but never thought I would see here in the United States. I think it's shameful.
1
Publicly Trump has handily demonstrated minimal literacy and numeracy. I suspect his literacy and numeracy may even be below that of the average U.S. adult.
5
I think that at least half of Americans were highly outraged by Trump's behavior before he even got elected. But then he got elected and we are stunned and flabbergasted. Our disappointment comes not as much from the totally crude and off the wall stuff that he says and does, as from the realization that so many people who live in this country find his behavior acceptable. How do we fix that?
5
Each republican in Congress took an oath to preserve, protect and defend the Constitution, which they have deliberately abandoned for the Trump train. What will trigger THEIR outrage? Nothing short of ouster in 2018 I fear.
4
"The people" wanted this. Sad
2
Where is the outrage? I am extremely outraged, (for all the good that does.) Trump is showing just how corrupt our government is and the fact that we need more laws that can protect us from despots like Trump coming into power and hiring his family and firing anyone who disagrees with him or anyone that actually wants to protect the constitution and the American people. Our nation is in a very dark time and it is time for Trump's followers to understand that he is an extreme danger to us all; as are the rest of the republicans who kowtow to the wealthy 1% thereby giving them the largest form of government welfare there is in this country. Boycott the oxymoron Fox news and write your senators and congress people! We must protect each other. Like Martin Luther King said, "Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere."
5
Where is the "red line" Trump steps across that triggers the concerted efforts of our five living former presidents, major party nominees, current and former governors and retired and conscientious Supreme Court Justices to come together and fight?
What will it take? I truly have no idea. I fear there is no moment of truth.
What will it take? I truly have no idea. I fear there is no moment of truth.
5
Evidently this country will put up with ANYTHING Trump says or does. When Trump asked Russia to hack Hillary's emails, he crossed the line but he was still supported. We've become so apathetic that we take whatever Trump and the GOP says as possible truth, with no fact checking. Wonder if No. Korea had done the hacking, would Trump be protecting them too?
2
Of course Trump would be supporting the North Koreans if they'd done the hacking on his behalf. The election and the Presidency has always been and will always be only about Trump winning. He needs the adoration and the illusion of power so badly that he will stop at nothing.
President Trump's term has trapped me between two poles. On one, I just don't care. I have asked myself, rhetorically, many times since November, "What real influence does the president have on my day to day life? I don't rely on the changes in Obamacare, even though I generally support the ideas in it. Foreign policy does not really effect me. In fact, the only real reason I care is that I pay attention to the news cycle. Maybe I should just stop doing that and go about my life. I would likely be happier.
On the other side, I am worried. I don't know if that is because I am a left of center thinker and therefore prone to see many on the Right, especially the jingoistic nationalism espoused by President Trump and many of his supporters, as inherently dangerous. Does he represent an objective threat to my perception of democracy? Intellectually, I think, yes.
I have read twice, once years ago and then another time after the November election, Sinclair Lewis' It Can't Happen Here. The movement toward authoritarianism is a relatively slow one. In a time of relative chaos, a strongman takes charge, promising to create stability for those apparently aggrieved. The media then falls into line, the culture changes, and like the frog in the ever warming pot, we don't really know what has happened until we conclude, to late, that it can happen here.
On the other side, I am worried. I don't know if that is because I am a left of center thinker and therefore prone to see many on the Right, especially the jingoistic nationalism espoused by President Trump and many of his supporters, as inherently dangerous. Does he represent an objective threat to my perception of democracy? Intellectually, I think, yes.
I have read twice, once years ago and then another time after the November election, Sinclair Lewis' It Can't Happen Here. The movement toward authoritarianism is a relatively slow one. In a time of relative chaos, a strongman takes charge, promising to create stability for those apparently aggrieved. The media then falls into line, the culture changes, and like the frog in the ever warming pot, we don't really know what has happened until we conclude, to late, that it can happen here.
5
“As a policy matter, I would’ve said a few months ago that it was a bad idea,” said David B. Rivkin Jr., a former Justice Department official under Republican presidents. “But with what’s going on in the Russia investigation, I am not sure that this is true anymore.”
Mr. Rivken's statement is completely insufficient. He should explain exactly "what's going on in the Russia investigation" that is a bad policy idea. The CIA, FBI and NSA all concluded that Russia interfered with the US election including releasing stolen emails (a crime) and false stories about Mrs. Clinton. Many members of Trump's inner circle denied ever meeting with Russians and these denials have been shown to be untrue, to the point of the emails to Donald Trump Jr. explicitly offering compromising information about Mrs. Clinton from representatives of the Russian government to which he replied, "I love it" - basically an attempt, even if unsuccessful (which has yet to be determined) at collusion with an adversarial foreign government to alter the presidential election. Mr. Rivken is obligated to explain exactly why investigation into these matters might legitimately be stopped under these circumstances.
I am disappointed that the Times did not press him on his unacceptably vague answer, or, if they did, that they did not publish his explanation. The news media allowing Trump apologists to get away with such unsubstantiated comments is also a lamentable development of the Trump era.
Mr. Rivken's statement is completely insufficient. He should explain exactly "what's going on in the Russia investigation" that is a bad policy idea. The CIA, FBI and NSA all concluded that Russia interfered with the US election including releasing stolen emails (a crime) and false stories about Mrs. Clinton. Many members of Trump's inner circle denied ever meeting with Russians and these denials have been shown to be untrue, to the point of the emails to Donald Trump Jr. explicitly offering compromising information about Mrs. Clinton from representatives of the Russian government to which he replied, "I love it" - basically an attempt, even if unsuccessful (which has yet to be determined) at collusion with an adversarial foreign government to alter the presidential election. Mr. Rivken is obligated to explain exactly why investigation into these matters might legitimately be stopped under these circumstances.
I am disappointed that the Times did not press him on his unacceptably vague answer, or, if they did, that they did not publish his explanation. The news media allowing Trump apologists to get away with such unsubstantiated comments is also a lamentable development of the Trump era.
3
Donald Trump has all but eliminated the notion ethics in his role as President, witness to the departure of Walter Shaub who quickly concluded that the Office of Government Ethics had been rendered impotent. Unethical behavior is not illegal and whatever Trump's current legal team says is or might not be illegal enables him to push the envelope. His state of mind is still that of an unscrupulous real estate mogul where losing a court battle or law suit simply means a fine which is the cost of doing business. That state of mind has not changed but his job description has.
2
If one assumes, arguendo, that Hillary should be investigated, would the rationale be that her alleged conduct put US national security at risk? If the answer is affirmative, then the same rationale mandates that Trump's alleged conduct be investigated because it puts US national security at risk. Mr. Trump cannot have it both ways.
4
The President is simply reminding the nation that his opponent was under criminal investigation during the campaign, and was found to have mishandled classified information and likely obstructed justice by destroying hard drives and deleting emails she was under direction to keep. Then literally nothing happened, no prosecution, nothing. With the tweet he is pointing out the hypocrisy of both the media's coverage of his administration and the increasingly incredulous "special counsel" which is now straying from issues of Russian interference and looking at matters totally unrelated. Trump is very effective in this form of juxtaposition and it is why his base will stick with him. As long as they do, there will be no charges or impeachment.
Really? At what point was HRC under criminal investigation? Remind me again what documents were classified prior to the review and what was classified after. Trump is a con-artist nothing more, do not give the man credit for being anything other than a snake oil sales man.
1
I agree with Mr. Feaver. The military politicization is deeply disturbing. Taken in context, the military has been politicized for a very long time. The debate concerning strength of arms arguably predates the nation. However, we've never heard our President lobby specific self-interest to general military personnel. More disturbing, Trump appears genuinely unaware of his overreach. The message is clear though: This is *my* military and you will love and support me. You'd be forgiven for taking the President's fawning narcissism as an order. James Comey did.
I can only think of one example in U.S. history that even comes close: General Douglas MacArthur. However, the differences still outweigh the similarities. MacArthur was genuinely a war hero at times. He did actually serve his nation although not always wisely. You might also notice Eisenhower was elected President whereas Douglas MacArthur's later years were politely forgotten. So yeah, I'm rather alarmed by these developments. You'd think Trump imagined himself in ancient Rome.
I can only think of one example in U.S. history that even comes close: General Douglas MacArthur. However, the differences still outweigh the similarities. MacArthur was genuinely a war hero at times. He did actually serve his nation although not always wisely. You might also notice Eisenhower was elected President whereas Douglas MacArthur's later years were politely forgotten. So yeah, I'm rather alarmed by these developments. You'd think Trump imagined himself in ancient Rome.
“The search for a scapegoat is the easiest of all hunting expeditions.”
--Dwight D. Eisenhower
--Dwight D. Eisenhower
2
Trump's suggestion that Hillary be prosecuted "generated relatively little reaction" because most reasonable people who followed the Hillary/Comey private server debacle of an investigation understand that many laws, regulations and policies were broken by Hillary and Comey without consequence. Additionally, no "president in modern times" was ever so inundated with bogus demands for investigation and impeachment beginning on election night. The New York Times has led this unprecedented chorus calling for a coup.
1
I for one have certainly not become more immune to Trump's outrageous statements and insane shenanigans: I become more outraged and agitated with each day that passes with him in office. Psychologists are now documenting increasing numbers of clients seeking treatment for depression, anxiety, and kindling of past traumatice disorders. Trump has not set new norms, but continues to display horrifying and aberrant behavior that just sets the bar lower for his successor. It's a national nightmare - "a cancer on the presidency".
4
Is it possible that the framers built into the Constitution the loopholes and levers that would allow a tyrant to destroy it? The idea of presidential pardons being a magic shield for any of the wrongdoings that are being investigated (as well as those that are yet to be discovered or even committed) really scares me.
1
What Trumps says and the ways in which he behaves are nothing new. They are part of the fascist "playbook", which includes having the dictator-in-training exerting as much power as possible on behalf of the capitalists he favors. The rule of law means little to Trump, unless any given rule favors his buddies. Government exists only to support the empires the fascist desires, and any benefits to the masses are allowed only to get the masses "in line." If you do not speak out against Trump, start accepting less freedom, fewer rights, and a world in which the United States cedes power to Russia and China. Start coming to terms with no longer being a patriot. Our democracy and republic are not self-sustaining; there are no natural forces that can protect us. Maybe our will to resist and protect comes from some natural force, but that "force" will be meaningless without our voices and actions. Start by getting out the vote to change Congress.
1
I'm deeply concerned that we have crossed a line and are headed down a path from which we may never recover. In the process of turning our country into Trump Inc. he and his acolytes are wrecking it from the inside out. Congress
has the power, but not the moral fortitude it would seem to hold him in check. As he is able to hold a pen he will continue to get away with his outrageous behavior.
has the power, but not the moral fortitude it would seem to hold him in check. As he is able to hold a pen he will continue to get away with his outrageous behavior.
3
I don't think he's moved the bar at all. I think anyone who is outraged by Trump (i.e., non-supporters) has that feeling almost hourly. I don't feel outraged any less today than I did when he announced he was running and disparaged Mexicans.
2
I already live in a blue state, it's up to the citizens of red states to stand up, tell their representatives that Trump's behavior is not okay, and if they continue to follow him around like abused puppy dogs, then they're going to get voted out in 2018.
1
Are we really not better than this?
1
It really bothers me that Peter Baker and the rest of the media won't properly label why trump can cross so many lines. It's called white privilege and white supremacy. To continue to express faux outrage without acknowledging the basis for it is irresponsible. President Obama was excoriated for many trivial infractions: feet on desk, tan suit, "paling around with terrorists," not handing over his transcripts, not coughing up his birth certificate when trump first asked for it.
For trump, there is no line, because that's how white supremacy works.
For trump, there is no line, because that's how white supremacy works.
2
Give up the shock; give up the outrage; give up on thinking that his supporters will soon say "enough".
Trump feeds on the shock and outrage. It makes him feel more powerful, and, encourages him to continue. It also saps the energy of those of us who want and end to,this abomination.
Instead, get angry, seething long term, energizing angry and wait for every election. Then, never, ever, vote for any Republican for anything...ever again.
Trump feeds on the shock and outrage. It makes him feel more powerful, and, encourages him to continue. It also saps the energy of those of us who want and end to,this abomination.
Instead, get angry, seething long term, energizing angry and wait for every election. Then, never, ever, vote for any Republican for anything...ever again.
22
There are many adjectives that would describe Donald J. Trump but they could all be summarized-up in the word 'Thug'. His self aggrandizement, self promotion and self adulation is without shame. without any sense of guilt and without any conscience.
The man is emotionally wanting if not unstable. He is intellectually deficient and morally bankrupt.
His legacy will be that he brought Washington into convulsions and immense harm and pain to Americans. The planet's health has been harmed and the world's well being has been jeopardized by the Trump presidency.
The old adage has proven to be so true: Be careful what you wish for.
The man is emotionally wanting if not unstable. He is intellectually deficient and morally bankrupt.
His legacy will be that he brought Washington into convulsions and immense harm and pain to Americans. The planet's health has been harmed and the world's well being has been jeopardized by the Trump presidency.
The old adage has proven to be so true: Be careful what you wish for.
60
Your word is apt, particularly in relation to Russia, a country run and overrun by Thugs!
1
A man whose career was based on dodgy dealing, frivolous law suits, bullying, lying, associating with mobsters and dark money, unrestrained greed and vulgarity can hardly be expected to morph into a statesman. The runaway train of his presidency could not be kept on the tracks by a bevy of supplicants, sycophants and family members resembling more closely the mafia than an administration. Aided and abetted by Republicans who think this is their big chance to cut taxes on the rich and corporate America, and undo Obama's policy legacy, a train wreck was inevitable. All that remain are assessing the magnitude of the damage and counting the number of casualties.
49
Cephalus, I think you captured this cretin as accurately as I've read.
1
Do not forget that it is the Senate that approved all those incompetent destructive department heads, an along with them Jeff Sessions, Judge Gorsuch. The GOP senators are just as responsible for putting our Republic in peril as tRump is.
They are his enablers, the GOP is not longer the party of patriots and financial restraint; it is the party of rewriting civility and common cause, it is the party of destruction.
They are his enablers, the GOP is not longer the party of patriots and financial restraint; it is the party of rewriting civility and common cause, it is the party of destruction.
51
The U.S. is in serious trouble....Berlusconi had so much more class than this guy...
29
This president has no shame. Attacking his AG, showing up and talking smack with boy scouts, threatening Congress, huddling with Putin, playing musical chairs with White House staff, ridiculing the press, acting like a five year old out of control in a supermarket and whipping off silly twitters creates a picture of man who would be better off in a mental institution than trying to play president. For shame!
And here we find the Republican Party (Paul Ryan) smiling stupidly and sitting on its hands while Trump utters one outrageous muddle headed thing after another.
He makes Faulkner's "stream of consciousness" dreamlike compared to the dreck he offers the public. Call it in coherence. C'mon, Republicans, speak up. Your silence spells complicity.
And here we find the Republican Party (Paul Ryan) smiling stupidly and sitting on its hands while Trump utters one outrageous muddle headed thing after another.
He makes Faulkner's "stream of consciousness" dreamlike compared to the dreck he offers the public. Call it in coherence. C'mon, Republicans, speak up. Your silence spells complicity.
44
Trump doesn't have the rhythm. By now, should have something. Nothing. Nada. His MO is a jilted lover who actually did the jilting. Nasty, Bitter, Obsessed. Either you have it or you don't
11
This strikes me as complaining that the burglar didn't wipe his shoes.
15
The closer Trump gets to being shown up for the guilty fraud that he is, the crazier he will get, the more vindictive he will get, the more impulsive he will get. But I don't think he has damaged our country for good. Too many people understand, and more joining every day, that this man is mentally off the rails. We will recover. This is a great nation and the majority of us are hard working, honest, kind people. Our ethic from the get go has always been neighbor helping neighbor and whether in crisis or not, this is what we do. It isn't always easy but we will pull through this disaster. If he doesn't blow us up first.
27
Deprive his tweets of oxygen. DON'T even report them.
28
How about the capacity of the rest of the sane world....6 months was more than enough I can assure you.
Only despots, dictators or reactionary regimes seem to recognise something worthwhile in this weird White House mob.
It is ultimately the GOP which is responsible for these developments. Trump is simply the, I admit vèry talented sociopath, the awful result of their complete corruption. Pence shares the same ideas, so be careful what you wish for...
If the dirt around this family and cons cannot be dug up sufficiently to get rid of the lot by juridical means then go for it in next elections. Let's face it; Trump won't stay forever and these antics may change the course of next elections, if the Democrats can modernize themselves, give young progressive people a change and get a good opposition and campaigns organized.
Only despots, dictators or reactionary regimes seem to recognise something worthwhile in this weird White House mob.
It is ultimately the GOP which is responsible for these developments. Trump is simply the, I admit vèry talented sociopath, the awful result of their complete corruption. Pence shares the same ideas, so be careful what you wish for...
If the dirt around this family and cons cannot be dug up sufficiently to get rid of the lot by juridical means then go for it in next elections. Let's face it; Trump won't stay forever and these antics may change the course of next elections, if the Democrats can modernize themselves, give young progressive people a change and get a good opposition and campaigns organized.
16
Donald Trump is a disgrace to this country and has managed in a short period of time to undermine all that the US has stood for in the eyes of its citizens and the world. The Republican leadership is standing by and allowing this fiasco called the Trump presidency. Is personal power more important than taking decisive action to rid us of this mess? How is congress allowing this man to act in this manner? What a mess!!
256
Our problem is that most Republicans in Congress hate government. They hate true democratic values and our social compact, They are disrespectful of the federal government and worship anarchy. They preach a religious philosophy based on hate and resentment, of greed and avarice.
Just like we're inured to the breathtaking advances of technology we are also taking in stride one outrage after another that Trump causes. It's quite terrifying that we are willing to sit politely sit down and talk about the novelty of this phenomenon and behave ourselves. Even worse than this terror is that tens of millions of Americans enthusiastically support Trump escalating his rude totalitarian demeanor into actions that are dictatorial -- I know I hear them speaking daily and read about them in the news.
What's wrong with us, why don't we stop this, why don't Republicans stop this, why are we letting this one man walk all over us, and why do so many love this disgusting and dangerous behavior? Well, I'd say it's no different than any time in the past when decent, average people looked the other way when awful things happened, and even contributed to the campaign when asked.
What's wrong with us, why don't we stop this, why don't Republicans stop this, why are we letting this one man walk all over us, and why do so many love this disgusting and dangerous behavior? Well, I'd say it's no different than any time in the past when decent, average people looked the other way when awful things happened, and even contributed to the campaign when asked.
14
Sorry, but Trump can't have written the "beleaguered" tweet. He doesn't know what "beleaguered" means and even if he did he can't spell it.
36
President Obama was himself a Scout, and followed protocol on addressing the Jamboree. I'm sure his speech was tailored to his audience, and included appropriate examples of how Scouting had made a difference in his life and the lives of others. Unfortunately, 45 cares not for others, or how his actions impact their lives, so the BSA got what it should have expected. A narcissistic megalomaniac using inappropriate language and discussing non-scouting themes. SHAME!
19
What... a cub scout?
No one in my circle of family and friends is anything other than outraged by the Trump catastrophe.
As Americans conditioned over a lifetime to experience appropriate presidential comportment, Trump has not created a new normal.
What is perhaps the most significant and disturbing phenomenon in this chapter of our history is that we average Americans are impotent to step in and stop the savaging of our democratic system. We see the limits of democracy.
Demonstrations, petitions and voting are alarmingly ineffective in immediately ending this madman's rule.
One faint hope is that Republicans muster the requisite courage and patriotism to tell Trump that his behavior has cost him their support.
Just maybe if he understood that he was viewed as a pariah who no longer had the Republican party's support he might at last understand that being president is nothing at all like being a tyrannical tycoon.
The very best hope lies in Mueller's investigation.
It will unearth crimes that will force Trump from office.
I say this because Trump discussing immunity, his panicky tweets and boasts of innocence tell me he's up to his neck in criminal wrongdoing.
As Americans conditioned over a lifetime to experience appropriate presidential comportment, Trump has not created a new normal.
What is perhaps the most significant and disturbing phenomenon in this chapter of our history is that we average Americans are impotent to step in and stop the savaging of our democratic system. We see the limits of democracy.
Demonstrations, petitions and voting are alarmingly ineffective in immediately ending this madman's rule.
One faint hope is that Republicans muster the requisite courage and patriotism to tell Trump that his behavior has cost him their support.
Just maybe if he understood that he was viewed as a pariah who no longer had the Republican party's support he might at last understand that being president is nothing at all like being a tyrannical tycoon.
The very best hope lies in Mueller's investigation.
It will unearth crimes that will force Trump from office.
I say this because Trump discussing immunity, his panicky tweets and boasts of innocence tell me he's up to his neck in criminal wrongdoing.
15
Don't lose hope, Ricardo. As our Founders demonstrated, when all else fails there's always Revolution.
On this side of the Atlantic, there's a widespread feeling of shock that 'America' keeps rolling over and letting this amoral monster do what he likes. A sizeable part of the US population apparently can't even see anything wrong in what he's doing. The Republican party are shockingly complicit. At this point, Trump could indeed shoot someone on 5th Avenue and I suspect GOP lawmakers would simply murmur 'inappropriate' as they scuttle past the cameras. 'America', sadly, seems to have been a fiction.
37
There is a clear Disconnect between the headline of this Article & its rather rambling content. The Author appears intent in providing historical precedents to diffuse the Outrageous actions of this so-called President. The Reader is conveyed the various viewpoints which normalize the President's actions. The American people are provided the rationale to accept the Outrageous Actions ! The Free Fall of American Democracy into a Cesspool of LIES & FRAUD & ANTI-NATIONAL COLLUSION is destined to continue for a long long time.
3
Only the republicans can isolate and remove him. Of course they have behaved as Republicans first and Americans second for some time now, fighting ANYTHING Obama wanted to do, whether it made sense or not. And now they wont break with sociopath Trump. Self interest, selfishness and no sense of American community are these Republicans .
15
He is no different than what he ever has been, a 70 year old man with behavior you would not want your toddler to emulate.
It is a test of only the GOP as to how far they will allow him to decimate our own democracy and global reputation. The tax returns no. The conflict of interest, nothing. The nepotism, nothing. Russian lies, nothing. Belittling the intelligence agencies, nothing. Tweets and tirades, nothing. And now, the massacre that is about to bestow the AG, well stay tuned.
Why should this man get such a free pass? The hypocrisy is beyond. This guy is still bringing up Clinton. Hey Prez, Clinton is so last year.
Put country before party, everyone please.
Thank goodness for the press.
It is a test of only the GOP as to how far they will allow him to decimate our own democracy and global reputation. The tax returns no. The conflict of interest, nothing. The nepotism, nothing. Russian lies, nothing. Belittling the intelligence agencies, nothing. Tweets and tirades, nothing. And now, the massacre that is about to bestow the AG, well stay tuned.
Why should this man get such a free pass? The hypocrisy is beyond. This guy is still bringing up Clinton. Hey Prez, Clinton is so last year.
Put country before party, everyone please.
Thank goodness for the press.
16
That Trump won't release his tax returns is very telling. What is he hiding?
For the past 40 years every President has released his tax returns indicating to me that they had nothing to hide. Though not legally required, it should be, Trump’s refusal to release his tax returns leads me to this conclusion. He is hiding illegal financial dealings with despot governments, especially Russia, with banks, and with individuals linked to criminal networks.
Until he releases his tax returns and proves me wrong, I will stick with my conclusions. The same is true for his family and in-laws.
The 4th Estate’s leading question at every press conference should be about the president’s refusal to release his tax returns. If the White House uses the same canned response, every press member should get up and walk out. Why should the press stay? What’s the point? One would think by now that the press should know better that what comes from the White House is lies and distractions from the real issues of the day, but the press seems so oblivious that they’re being used. I find today’s press corps very disappointing, more interested in Trump's antics than substance and truth.
Again, Mr. President. What are you hiding?
For the past 40 years every President has released his tax returns indicating to me that they had nothing to hide. Though not legally required, it should be, Trump’s refusal to release his tax returns leads me to this conclusion. He is hiding illegal financial dealings with despot governments, especially Russia, with banks, and with individuals linked to criminal networks.
Until he releases his tax returns and proves me wrong, I will stick with my conclusions. The same is true for his family and in-laws.
The 4th Estate’s leading question at every press conference should be about the president’s refusal to release his tax returns. If the White House uses the same canned response, every press member should get up and walk out. Why should the press stay? What’s the point? One would think by now that the press should know better that what comes from the White House is lies and distractions from the real issues of the day, but the press seems so oblivious that they’re being used. I find today’s press corps very disappointing, more interested in Trump's antics than substance and truth.
Again, Mr. President. What are you hiding?
13
Perhaps instead of walking out the very next question should be " Mr. President: why won't you answer that question?" That answer should be quite telling and amusing to boot.
LOCK HIM UP.
Why go after Clinton? Unless you know you stole the election? Why appoint a partisan Committee on ineligible voters unless you need an excuse to cover up fraud. Why push through a bill supported by 17% of the public that no one has read. It all smacks of the beginning of the Trump dictatorship. Nobody in the GOP standing up for the Constitution.
Why go after Clinton? Unless you know you stole the election? Why appoint a partisan Committee on ineligible voters unless you need an excuse to cover up fraud. Why push through a bill supported by 17% of the public that no one has read. It all smacks of the beginning of the Trump dictatorship. Nobody in the GOP standing up for the Constitution.
12
The continued outrage will end when this administration comes to an end. So much for the GOP's saintly, cherished, "family values" mantra. Just HOW does Trump embody family values?
13
Trump has absolutely no in-depth knowledge or understanding of any political issue. To cover up for that, he sings a song with an astounding number of lyrics, but only one note: me, me, me, me, me. Without substance, he does what he has always done, repeat the same lie over and over again until it bears a semblance of truth to the gullible. His talent is to brainwash, and he has done that successfully enough so as to test the strength and limits of Democracy.
22
At the moment, I am more outraged at the behavior of Mitch McConnell. His degradation of the Senate legislative process to gain partisan advantage has greater negative consequences than any of Trump's tantrums. Focus on the policies...ignore the personalities.
9
I learned in elementary school, that "anyone can become President of the United States." Of course, the teachers who uttered those words in the late 1940's and early '50's qualified the remark by stating that 'anyone' should have requisite knowledge and a certain standard of behavior. We've arrived at the time when 'anyone' doesn't need to know much and 'anyone' can behave as he chooses.
2
Sure, it's shocking, but by now we should be aware that our president is a man detached from reality and any sense of propriety. I no longer pay attention to his rantings as, one suspects, is the case for the leaders of other countries and the inner circles of our own political leadership.
2
Thats why Don the Con will REMAIN YOUR PRESIDENT and CONTNUE to wreak havoc with your countrys and familys future.............because you and "the inner circle" of, what you call, the" senior" political leadership are no longer paying attention to the incompetent,destructive, and treasonous rantings of the POTUS!
Americans deserve the government they choose and then tolerate...........I didnt like Hillarys "hollow and facetious political elitism" but the "Despicables" ( her terminology) certainly elected one of their own!
Americans deserve the government they choose and then tolerate...........I didnt like Hillarys "hollow and facetious political elitism" but the "Despicables" ( her terminology) certainly elected one of their own!
".... remember that all through history the way of truth and love has always won. There have been tyrants and murderers and for a time they seem invincible but in the end, they always fall – think of it – always.”
Gandhi
Unfortunately though, much is damaged in the process. Some irreparably.
Gandhi
Unfortunately though, much is damaged in the process. Some irreparably.
2
It is obvious that our Nation has lost its capacity for outrage.
We were thrust into a war in Iraq.
Some 14 years later, we are still there.
We have lost and maimed thousands of our citizens.
We have lost our international stature.
We have spent over a trillion dollars.
We passed through Republican and Democratic administrations.
We are still there.
And it doesn't even warrant coverage in the media.
We do have a capacity for outrage.
All humans do.
But we have been crushed.
So now we are content to just be allowed to buy some food and go home.
We were thrust into a war in Iraq.
Some 14 years later, we are still there.
We have lost and maimed thousands of our citizens.
We have lost our international stature.
We have spent over a trillion dollars.
We passed through Republican and Democratic administrations.
We are still there.
And it doesn't even warrant coverage in the media.
We do have a capacity for outrage.
All humans do.
But we have been crushed.
So now we are content to just be allowed to buy some food and go home.
3
It started a long time before that - apart from an honourable but reluctant entry into WWII, the US has more often been on the side of despots and dictators from the Iranian coup, messes in most of Latin America and then the quagmire of Vietnam. It was too timid to stand up to anything in Europe and we watched Hungary, Czechoslovakia fail and stood by through most of the events leading up to the fall of the Soviet Union. We did little to keep Afghanistan from failing after the Soviets fled and have done little positive, as a country, for the world since. At home we have squandered, divided, baited, and now have para-military police forces, crumbling infrastructure, a joke for public education, services and healthcare and a rapidly evolving plutocracy. Is the direction not clear enough?
The man thinks he was elected King. And it seems that many of his followers like that idea. What a sad state for a nation that started by rebelling against monarchy.
15
“he has made so many outlandish statements, Americans seem to be immune to this latest call for investigating Hillary"
Not this American. Trump outrages and disgusts me on a daily basis. But what are we to do? There's no election for 3 years. Are we to rise up en masse, revolt, and oust Trump?
We have the legislative branch to provide balance. Why has Congress repeatedly let the response to this abhorrent and abnormal behavior remain a partisan issue? Republicans ought to feel existential pain over their toadying to this anthesis of a democratically-elected president. It is beyond reason that Republican legislators, blinded by intense hatred for Democrats, support this threat to their future.
This country used to benefit from the push and pull of bipartisan debate. This country is not solely Republican or solely Democratic. It's time Congress acknowledge this and act to challenge and censure the petulant, incompetent person currently holding the position of President.
Not this American. Trump outrages and disgusts me on a daily basis. But what are we to do? There's no election for 3 years. Are we to rise up en masse, revolt, and oust Trump?
We have the legislative branch to provide balance. Why has Congress repeatedly let the response to this abhorrent and abnormal behavior remain a partisan issue? Republicans ought to feel existential pain over their toadying to this anthesis of a democratically-elected president. It is beyond reason that Republican legislators, blinded by intense hatred for Democrats, support this threat to their future.
This country used to benefit from the push and pull of bipartisan debate. This country is not solely Republican or solely Democratic. It's time Congress acknowledge this and act to challenge and censure the petulant, incompetent person currently holding the position of President.
8
The German establishment thought that Hitler was a clown they could handle. They held their noses and supported him because he was anti-leftist. When they realized they no longer could control him, they still kept quiet because he gave them the prosperity of a wartime economy. Trump is showing major signs of being a dictator, perhaps without even being fully aware of it since he seems to have no historical perspective, and his silent backers in the Republican leadership seeming to be falling into the same trap as the Weimar establishment, lured now by the promise of tax cuts and unrestrained plutocracy. We are in great danger.
41
Susan says, "Why yell and scream? No one in government with the power to protect our nation is listening."
THAT is why WE THE PEOPLE must yell and scream, Susan. It's up to every single American who opposed this mock "administration" and their operatives in OUR United States government. OUR yelling and screaming - together on the streets - is all that will stop them.
THAT is why WE THE PEOPLE must yell and scream, Susan. It's up to every single American who opposed this mock "administration" and their operatives in OUR United States government. OUR yelling and screaming - together on the streets - is all that will stop them.
24
Trump is a disaster and needs to be removed from office. He has the Republican congress, the Right Wing Christian movement, the military, and now even the Boy Scouts, under his mass-hypnosis.
Trump insults our former leaders in front of the Boy Scouts and our military who stand in a trance from Trump's gibberish. They'll believe anything. That's not serving America, as Trump condescendingly complimented them.
Trump truly is the Larry "Lonesome" Rhodes character in Bud Schulberg's movie, "A Face in the Crowd". Trump controls the poorly educated masses with his nonsensical speeches and tweets. He services their fears, uncertainties and doubts with his childish rhetoric.
And Trump people have been groomed by Right Wing media that sees a lucrative market in spinning fantasies to its followers. Trump supports that strategy; Right Wing media isn't going to get rid of its market.
That Trump people are in a trance that suspends their disbelief is evidenced by Trump's rumination about pardoning himself. That statement should wake them from their trances, among other outré statements that he's made. But they continue unswayed from their unquestioning acceptance of Trump.
The U.S. is in for some dark times, unless it corrects this mistake of its electoral process.
Trump insults our former leaders in front of the Boy Scouts and our military who stand in a trance from Trump's gibberish. They'll believe anything. That's not serving America, as Trump condescendingly complimented them.
Trump truly is the Larry "Lonesome" Rhodes character in Bud Schulberg's movie, "A Face in the Crowd". Trump controls the poorly educated masses with his nonsensical speeches and tweets. He services their fears, uncertainties and doubts with his childish rhetoric.
And Trump people have been groomed by Right Wing media that sees a lucrative market in spinning fantasies to its followers. Trump supports that strategy; Right Wing media isn't going to get rid of its market.
That Trump people are in a trance that suspends their disbelief is evidenced by Trump's rumination about pardoning himself. That statement should wake them from their trances, among other outré statements that he's made. But they continue unswayed from their unquestioning acceptance of Trump.
The U.S. is in for some dark times, unless it corrects this mistake of its electoral process.
11
This president, might i remind all, is from the Republican Party, the party of "family values." That designation is and always was bogus campaign sloganeering. Their damage to the nation, including this president, is damage from which we might never recover. Keep holding them in account.
24
DT's performance at the BSA Jamboree is shameful and disgusting. The man's words, deeds and behaviors belie everything that Scouting stands for. Whoever at BSA worked on facilitating this abhorrent speech deserves to be fired and barred from the Scouting movement. Baden-Powell, for all his faults and colonial arrogance, must be spinning in his grave. As an ex-Cub and -Scout I am horrified.
33
I wonder what trump will tell the Brownies of the Girl Scouts?
12
I think I know what the Girl Scout leaders will tell their Brownies before Trump's visit.
You think he's going to go talk to a bunch of girls? Unlikely. And, dangerous for their self-esteem.
Given his "grabbing" hands hopefully he'll never be allowed near them.
1
It is time to impeach this man.
Pick an easy charge, like obstruction of justice. He has admitted he fired the FBI Director to stop the investigation of Russian involvement with his campaign.
Pick one that blatant and in court already, his violation of the emoluments clause (I heard Mr. Kushner is bidding on a $1.7 construction project on behalf of Trump).
You could easily impeach him for his un-presidential behavior, like lying all the time. Dividing us from our allies. Embarrassing our children. Name it. He's unfit. He cannot lead. He is totally ignorant in that he refuses to learn or even take advice. The reality TV show needs to be cancelled immediately.
None of his appointments can be trusted, and the off-the-books nepotism has to go. How many people has he appointed who have ties to the Russians in one way or another, a dozen, if you count Brian Benczkowski?
It's sick. Look at Manafort's work getting Putin's man Viktor Yanukovych elected Ukraine, using the same Russian-supplied hacking and planting and trolling as employed here for Trump under his leadership of the campaign. Yanukovych fled to Russia after being charged with high treason. Look at the dictator's Manafort has worked with over the years. It's disgusting.
More disgusting is before the testimony this week Trump came strong to say he had the power to pardon his advisers, his family, and even himself. Why even talk of pardons if there is no guilt.
Pick an easy charge, like obstruction of justice. He has admitted he fired the FBI Director to stop the investigation of Russian involvement with his campaign.
Pick one that blatant and in court already, his violation of the emoluments clause (I heard Mr. Kushner is bidding on a $1.7 construction project on behalf of Trump).
You could easily impeach him for his un-presidential behavior, like lying all the time. Dividing us from our allies. Embarrassing our children. Name it. He's unfit. He cannot lead. He is totally ignorant in that he refuses to learn or even take advice. The reality TV show needs to be cancelled immediately.
None of his appointments can be trusted, and the off-the-books nepotism has to go. How many people has he appointed who have ties to the Russians in one way or another, a dozen, if you count Brian Benczkowski?
It's sick. Look at Manafort's work getting Putin's man Viktor Yanukovych elected Ukraine, using the same Russian-supplied hacking and planting and trolling as employed here for Trump under his leadership of the campaign. Yanukovych fled to Russia after being charged with high treason. Look at the dictator's Manafort has worked with over the years. It's disgusting.
More disgusting is before the testimony this week Trump came strong to say he had the power to pardon his advisers, his family, and even himself. Why even talk of pardons if there is no guilt.
27
Trump dishes the dirt to Scouts. Trump demands allegiance from sailors on an aircraft carrier.
The new world order.
What can the season ending show do to top what he has done to date?
What can the next president do to top Trump?
The new world order.
What can the season ending show do to top what he has done to date?
What can the next president do to top Trump?
10
What this conclusively demonstrates is that Americans have continued the recent policy of choosing simply horrible one President after another. Does anyone remember that LBJ was touted as the "Peace Candidate"? It's all a joke. Maybe George Carlin was right when he said "It dose not matter who you vote for because you always get the same government." I won't list Clinton's, Bush's or Obama's sins. I don't have that long to live. Thank God.
4
It's Reagan's sins you should truly mourn.
With Trump, repugnance is no surprise, just par for the course.
5
I have long passed the "outraged" phase.
Anyone sympathetic to him now certainly deserves the "deplorables" tag--or worse.
Incompetent, insane and in the grip of Putin.
Anyone sympathetic to him now certainly deserves the "deplorables" tag--or worse.
Incompetent, insane and in the grip of Putin.
42
As for me, I believe people who support him are the enemies of America and democracy. Anything they suffer under his incompetent reign is fully deserved.
6
And the day will come when many of his supporters will deny they ever voted for him.
2
What can we do? My friends and I have gotten tired of being constantly outraged, so we share his latest tweet vomitings, sigh, shrug our shoulders and move on.
5
You go to a Boy Scout jamboree and talk about how the organization will help them to be prepared when they leave home and become our nations' future.
You go to a ships' commissioning and talk about the dedication of the crew as they get ready to defend our country from all enemies foreign or domestic.
You put the health and welfare of all the people you chose to serve 1st and foremost on your list of things to do, and since our current POTUS can't do any of this it's time for congress to get it's act together and throw this POS out.
You go to a ships' commissioning and talk about the dedication of the crew as they get ready to defend our country from all enemies foreign or domestic.
You put the health and welfare of all the people you chose to serve 1st and foremost on your list of things to do, and since our current POTUS can't do any of this it's time for congress to get it's act together and throw this POS out.
27
Trump is not "refreshing", or "draining the swamp", or "shaking things up". He is obnoxious in the way that the idiot in the pickup truck with two American flags on the back and no muffler insists on blasting past your house rattling the windows. It has nothing to do with transformative change, or for that matter delivering a positive message meant to move the masses, or even patriotism
" Trump being Trump" is Trump testing the limits of his power for self-aggrandizement because he equates this narrow measure, and only this with political capital. The Healthcare Bill is a prime example of a horrifically unpopular and flawed legislation that has lingered too long on the stage of political theater, yet now mounted on the back of the Trump pickup truck barreling, once again through town rattling the windows and disturbing the peace, proclaiming it is good for America, when it is anything but.
" Trump being Trump" is Trump testing the limits of his power for self-aggrandizement because he equates this narrow measure, and only this with political capital. The Healthcare Bill is a prime example of a horrifically unpopular and flawed legislation that has lingered too long on the stage of political theater, yet now mounted on the back of the Trump pickup truck barreling, once again through town rattling the windows and disturbing the peace, proclaiming it is good for America, when it is anything but.
29
Brilliant analogy.
4
I don't think those are American flags on the pickup truck...
1
Trump is America, just more transparent. The rich want nothing but to get richer, oppress others and lord it over everyone. Let all the poison in the mud seep out.
9
As Linoln said "You can fool some of the people some of the time, but you can't fool all of the people all of the time. "
3
May be Lincoln was wrong. Trump can make lot of people fool all of the time. He is a CULT like figure to lot of us. Sad and stupid.
After his diagnosis, I had hope John McCain would break the lockstep of Congressional Republicans
Rather than fomenting hatred, he responded to a supporter’s words that Obama was a Muslim born in Kenya by stopping her mid sentence with, ""No, ma'am. He's a decent family man and] citizen that I just happen to have disagreements with on fundamental issues and that's what this campaign's all about. He's not an Arab."
Contrast this response with the man who won the Presidency only eight years later, who accused his Democratic opponent of “Founding” the most vicious terrorist cult of recent years, known as ISIS, Islamic State of Iraq and Syria. This was not a random throwaway insult, but a concerted intentional calumny that was repeated over the course of a full week, even when he was offered the opportunity to withdraw or re-define the word “found” meaning conceptualizing and nurturing a movement into existence. And this individual, as President of the United States, has never withdrawn that accusation.
When we accept the norm of showing respect for "President Trump" we are, in effect" validating his copious calumnies. To be honored as a President is to adhere to the standards of integrity and dedication to country that Mr. Trump has flouted in ways that defy enumeration.
Rather than fomenting hatred, he responded to a supporter’s words that Obama was a Muslim born in Kenya by stopping her mid sentence with, ""No, ma'am. He's a decent family man and] citizen that I just happen to have disagreements with on fundamental issues and that's what this campaign's all about. He's not an Arab."
Contrast this response with the man who won the Presidency only eight years later, who accused his Democratic opponent of “Founding” the most vicious terrorist cult of recent years, known as ISIS, Islamic State of Iraq and Syria. This was not a random throwaway insult, but a concerted intentional calumny that was repeated over the course of a full week, even when he was offered the opportunity to withdraw or re-define the word “found” meaning conceptualizing and nurturing a movement into existence. And this individual, as President of the United States, has never withdrawn that accusation.
When we accept the norm of showing respect for "President Trump" we are, in effect" validating his copious calumnies. To be honored as a President is to adhere to the standards of integrity and dedication to country that Mr. Trump has flouted in ways that defy enumeration.
22
I think most sane individuals have never, and will never refer to this buffoon as the president, Liar n' Cheat, Buffoon, and a few expletives but never will call him President. That title is reserved for someone who upholds our constitution and laws, and is not out to enrich himself or his family at the expense of the american people. God Help America, we are going to need it so long as this idiot holds our highest office!
1
YOU KNOW You're A Bad PRESIDENT WHEN
You can't get any bills passed.
You are being investigated for anything
You are six months in and a newspaper has enough lies of yours to fill a page.
You can't go a day without name calling
You attack your appointed officials
You are linked to foreign power
You destroy another's work because you're jealous
You denigrate people who have been loyal to this country
You demean our intelligence agencies
You lead as if this country is your company,for your profit
You believe you are above our laws
You don't pay share of taxes.
You and your family use tax payers money with wild abandon
You constantly lie
You make most of this country very sad and hopeless
You frighten senior citizens with healthcare,social security,taxes
You don't know what you are doing, or just don't care
You are a BAD PRESIDENT!
You can't get any bills passed.
You are being investigated for anything
You are six months in and a newspaper has enough lies of yours to fill a page.
You can't go a day without name calling
You attack your appointed officials
You are linked to foreign power
You destroy another's work because you're jealous
You denigrate people who have been loyal to this country
You demean our intelligence agencies
You lead as if this country is your company,for your profit
You believe you are above our laws
You don't pay share of taxes.
You and your family use tax payers money with wild abandon
You constantly lie
You make most of this country very sad and hopeless
You frighten senior citizens with healthcare,social security,taxes
You don't know what you are doing, or just don't care
You are a BAD PRESIDENT!
62
None of this new. Trump is what he has always been: psychologically disturbed and dangerously unfit for high office. This was well-known when he ran for office. He was elected because he served very effectively as the middle finger of a large number of voters who felt excluded and angry.
The challenge now is for everyone to maintain a grip--a tight one. There are ways within governments to contain the damage from mad kings. We need now to focus even more sharply on policy and legislation and executive actions--and less on celebrity reporting. Trump and his Party are willing to do damage to the very people who put them in power. If we can focus there, and be politically smart, and re-enfranchise the folks the Democratic Party ignored, we can restore our democracy and our government.
The challenge now is for everyone to maintain a grip--a tight one. There are ways within governments to contain the damage from mad kings. We need now to focus even more sharply on policy and legislation and executive actions--and less on celebrity reporting. Trump and his Party are willing to do damage to the very people who put them in power. If we can focus there, and be politically smart, and re-enfranchise the folks the Democratic Party ignored, we can restore our democracy and our government.
24
I don't disagree with one 1 single bit - the problem is going to be getting his fanatical supporters to see the damage he's done and is doing to our country - here and abroad. Additionally, as the article illudes to, is that he and his stupidity are becoming 'normalized'. And with every normalization - drives a wider wedge between the parties and their supoprters. I really do fear that returning to a semi-intelligent normal will be a very long time process. Throw in an Alex Jones and the Alt-right fanatics - recovery isn't a given.
6
David Axelrod and Van Jones say that Trump voters should be treated with respect and deference for their deeply held authoritarian convictions. They are not to be ridiculed or held responsible for the mess we are in. It's Bernie Sanders' fault.
2
As long as this "administration" continues to break laws, shame the country, and promote disorder, I will continue to be outraged.
My country is worth my time and effort. Please join me in ensuring the future of the Constitution and the United States.
My country is worth my time and effort. Please join me in ensuring the future of the Constitution and the United States.
13
What fool thinks the United States is still a worthwhile government? The country has failed, and it has a fitting president. Anyone who values decency and truth should be trying to get their state independent of the U.S.
#calexit
#calexit
5
Meh.
Impeaching Trump will be much easier and more effective than seeking permission to secede.
Impeaching Trump will be much easier and more effective than seeking permission to secede.
Outrage by the mainstream has become the norm. The more dangerous reality is the anger and violence of Trump supporters who have been conned at every turn to support a straw man. The lack of logic and coherence that won these people over is scary, and it will be something to contend with.
6
America will never live this down. Trump has permanently soiled the office of President. If history is any measure this is now the new standard of "anything goes". I'm embarrassed to be an American. Time to roll up the flag and put it away with the rest of nostalgia.
38
Here is what will explain the advice of the Trump "advisors": The Trump crime family owns the presidency and Trump may freely use the power of the presidency to behave like a fascist dictator until his fellow republic s try to stop them, whereupon he will use the power of the presidency to crush them just as he is now doing with his toadies who were insufficiently toady like Sessions.
Trump is a sociopath surrounded by fascists drawn to him.
He ain't stopping. He has a crush on the Putin crime family. Bannon is beynd delighted. A third of Americans and an overwhelming majority of republicans most of who are sulking racists are getting ready to Salute Their Leader with utter contempt for the majority of their countrymen, reality, and 239 years of democracy.
This is no surprise. Everyone was warned The elites all had better things to do than protect the United States of America and that includes the Hillary nuts still waging war on Sanders.
Trump is a sociopath surrounded by fascists drawn to him.
He ain't stopping. He has a crush on the Putin crime family. Bannon is beynd delighted. A third of Americans and an overwhelming majority of republicans most of who are sulking racists are getting ready to Salute Their Leader with utter contempt for the majority of their countrymen, reality, and 239 years of democracy.
This is no surprise. Everyone was warned The elites all had better things to do than protect the United States of America and that includes the Hillary nuts still waging war on Sanders.
8
Trump's behavior would be unacceptable from anyone working in a school, hospital, law firm, deli, advertising agency, bowling alley, first aid squad, newspaper, produce stand, roller rink, corporate headquarters, arts & crafts supply store, app development firm, retail establishment, fast food restaurant, dry cleaner, the military... Anywhere, basically.
Why does it continue to be tolerated at the highest levels of government?
I have zero respect or admiration for Mike Pence, but Trump and the swamp-things he brought in with him need to be ousted from the White House. The sooner the better.
Why does it continue to be tolerated at the highest levels of government?
I have zero respect or admiration for Mike Pence, but Trump and the swamp-things he brought in with him need to be ousted from the White House. The sooner the better.
35
No, Trump's behavior would be entirely acceptable in many a deli, law firm, private office space. As another commenter once put it, we have become the abuse society, with Trump as abuser and flouter of the law in Chief. My fear throughout this process is that the will and spite of the elite have so hardened the average person by all that they have seen and had done to them at work and on a daily basis that the reaction to Trump will be "So?" I'm a Work Comp and civil lawyer and what I have seen in recent years gives me little hope...
Elected someone with the blended traits of a sociopath, malignant narcissist, and extreme passive-aggressivism, and this is what you get. No surprises here.
10
"President Trump has crossed so many lines that he has radically shifted the understanding of what is standard in the White House."
Just as one swallow does not make a summer, the exception that proves (i.e., tests) a rule does not change the rule. So, what has been standard in the White House is still standard in the White House — just not _this_ White House, alas.
Just as one swallow does not make a summer, the exception that proves (i.e., tests) a rule does not change the rule. So, what has been standard in the White House is still standard in the White House — just not _this_ White House, alas.
9
Let's see-- if I talk to thousands of impressionable young boys about fake news, bad Democrats and how my adversaries are out to get me, so that enough sane people claim I'm acting like Hitler, maybe I can distract people from the Senate healthcare vote and my aides testifying before Congress.
Maybe I'm not really as dumb as people say.
Maybe I'm not really as dumb as people say.
14
Too much credit to Trump for strategically baiting the press, flouting conventions, and creating outrage. This is the behavior of the rejected, the guy who somehow got to lead but has no clue how to do that, the guy who will never be cool. It's childish, petty, self-aggrandizing, ignorant, the prolonged tantrum of a child who doesn't get his own way and tells his parents, "Don't wanna! Can't make me!" Thanks to a 24/7 "news" cycle and plenty of outlets to either echo or condemn his behavior, he'll continue this way until someone or something stops him or his base rejects him.
5
Memo for the Girl Scouts of America:
(1) learn from the Boy Scouts' experience
(2) keep Trump away from Girl Scouts
(1) learn from the Boy Scouts' experience
(2) keep Trump away from Girl Scouts
20
I've searched the comments and I can't find any Ohio/Michigan/Wisconsin voters saying, "This guy is great. He's keeping his campaign promise to take my healthcare away. What a guy!"
6
Trump voters don't read the NYTimes, indeed many read nothing - - they watch Fox.
5
And then there was the speech for the Boy Scouts. His supporters continue to defend him. There is apparently nothing he can do that would offend them. It makes me think that there is a significant sector of the American public that is basically uncivilized in the most literal meaning of the term. They yammer on about political correctness, but they haven't even mastered the notion that there is value in common decency and courtesy. I would add that a good number of those truly deplorables are in the House, the Senate and they are especially concentrated in the Cabinet.
11
We have a president whose sole commitment is to himself. Nobody else matters to him. The question is, when will his enablers overcome their penchant for power and think about where this country and its government is going. For every filthy Trump tweet, I am much more livid at people like Paul Ryan, Orrin Hatch, the "grown-ups" like McMaster, and the toadies like Rep. Chris Collins and their ilk. As someone on cable news stated, for these people the only thing that matters is that Trump has a pen to sign their pathetic, Know-Nothing bills. History tells us that we will wake up one day and Trump will be pulling all the levers and calling on ICE (his convenient Gestapo) to round up anybody who will not kiss Trump's hand or any other body part in Macy's window.
7
I really think he is mentally ill. His behavior is not only unbecoming of a president, it is abnormal for an adult. That speech to the boy scouts is the latest evidence of this.
21
Welcome to the Banana Republic of America, where nepotism, cronyism, conflict of interest, collusion, lies, and treachery and treason are all routine.
I feel like Alice in the looking glass. Shocked and horrified.
I feel like Alice in the looking glass. Shocked and horrified.
11
Unless Trump starts a war - which is possible as the ultimate diversion in case the Hilary thing doesn't work out - I believe the truth will come out that Trump has a long record of dealings with Russian oligarchs, mobsters, etc. He was put into the White House by a hostile foreign government, and the GOP are using this opportunity (with glee) to erase Barack Obama's legacy, and line the pockets of the rich while dismantling the social and environmental safety nets. People will die as a result of these policies. Across the country his supporters are idiots - many of whom have the most to lose by supporting the GOP.
13
Peter Baker's news "analysis" and gossip are a paradigmatic example of creeping banal evil.
Now Baker is shocked, shocked, there is gambling going on in the Casino.
Now Baker is shocked, shocked, there is gambling going on in the Casino.
2
The Boy Scout motto is Be Prepared. It doesn't take much to understand that Trump was anything but prepared in his remarks to the Scouts last night. With no pre-organized text, Trump merely dumped his usual crude campaign rhetoric on these fine young people, again demonstrating his tastelessness and lack of class.
9
"“I think that he would hope that the Department of Justice would look into any potential area where the law could have been broken,” Sarah Huckabee Sanders, the newly promoted White House press secretary, told reporters on Air Force One en route here."
It's ironic that this is exactly what has him going off the rails of rationality; the DoJ investigating his crooked dealings, and the collusion with Russia.
It's ironic that this is exactly what has him going off the rails of rationality; the DoJ investigating his crooked dealings, and the collusion with Russia.
3
Trump is such an embarrassment to this entire nation. He is ignorant, lazy, self obsessed to the point of megalomania and paranoia, and completely unfit for his present role.
Yesterday's bizarre speech to the Boy Scouts was totally inappropriate and full of falsehoods. For example, he asserted that the scouts, like himself, believe in America First.
Goodness, anyone who's ever been in scouting learns how and where scouting began. And it wasn't in America! It was in England.
Plus, all scouting values contradict this sociopathic man, who is a serial liar and cares about no one but himself.
Parents in attendance were horrified!
For the good of this nation, for the Good of this world, we have got to get rid of this noxious blight upon the earth! He is vicious, spiteful, and dangerous. To national security. To our Republic. To the planet and it's well being.
Yesterday's bizarre speech to the Boy Scouts was totally inappropriate and full of falsehoods. For example, he asserted that the scouts, like himself, believe in America First.
Goodness, anyone who's ever been in scouting learns how and where scouting began. And it wasn't in America! It was in England.
Plus, all scouting values contradict this sociopathic man, who is a serial liar and cares about no one but himself.
Parents in attendance were horrified!
For the good of this nation, for the Good of this world, we have got to get rid of this noxious blight upon the earth! He is vicious, spiteful, and dangerous. To national security. To our Republic. To the planet and it's well being.
10
Thank you for a concise review of the Trump administration thus far. The troubling thing is that his supporters appear to encourage his always sophomoric conduct. WHY? The political class is doing so in hopes of getting what they want. The public is doing so in their reaction to the so called liberal elites.
I am embarrassed for our wonderful country. This man is vile on every conceivable level. The only solution is to invoke the 25th Amendment. Unfortunately there is not a republican in government who would have the courage to stand up to this man child. The leaders of the free world continue to laugh.
I am embarrassed for our wonderful country. This man is vile on every conceivable level. The only solution is to invoke the 25th Amendment. Unfortunately there is not a republican in government who would have the courage to stand up to this man child. The leaders of the free world continue to laugh.
3
It's not really "the public," though, it's a minority of the public. Since election day, when he lost the popular contest by millions of votes, Trump has always been favored by fewer than a majority of voters. He's always been unpopular.
Mr. Trump urged uniformed sailors aboard the aircraft carrier Gerald R. Ford to call their members of Congress to lobby for his military spending plan and his proposed repeal of Mr. Obama’s health care program.
That sounds to much like a dictator on a banana republic, not the president of the USA.
That sounds to much like a dictator on a banana republic, not the president of the USA.
10
This was the Boy Scouts Annual Jamboree. What a wonderful event to have our American President address. What he could have said to inspire these youth, to laud their achievements and their lofty goals. A memory forever in the minds of these youth. What they got was a political rally by an egoistic celebrity billionaire who used coarse language and jingoist slogans to demonize our first Black President and Democratic voters and to ask that they adore him and do his bidding. A man who never joined the Boy Scouts or even a branch of our military, who raises a son in a walled off shimmering tower with golden accents and the name "Trump" emblazoned on the outside. a 10 year old boy he does not encourage to be a Boy Scout himself and who he doesn't even think to bring with him to the Jamboree to share the experience of the 40,000 boy scouts and volunteers practicing the Boy Scout Law:
A Scout is:
Trustworthy,
Loyal,
Helpful,
Friendly,
Courteous,
Kind,
Obedient,
Cheerful,
Thrifty,
Brave,
Clean,
and Reverent.
But then, Mr. Trump doesn't practice these virtues himself so like his pandering to Evangelicals, he doesn't care about the virtues, it is the adulation he wants. Sad day for American youth.
A Scout is:
Trustworthy,
Loyal,
Helpful,
Friendly,
Courteous,
Kind,
Obedient,
Cheerful,
Thrifty,
Brave,
Clean,
and Reverent.
But then, Mr. Trump doesn't practice these virtues himself so like his pandering to Evangelicals, he doesn't care about the virtues, it is the adulation he wants. Sad day for American youth.
566
Trump bragged about sexually assaulting women. His loyalty to his wives was nonexistent. His friendship is limited to Putin and a few confidants. His courtesy? Like most of the virtues listed, he exemplifies none.
This is so outrageous that he would be cheered for his political ranting and disparagement of a previous president and others at the Jamboree, including a joke about firing Price.
The Boy Scouts of America may never be able to regain their honor now. It was hard enough before with their discrimination against gay and transgender boys and others.
The parents of any boy scouts, the scout leaders, and everyone else involved just saw a corrupt president acting like the boy scouts were Hitlerjugend and they enthusiastically participated. Encouraging the scouts to boo a former president, to cheer for 32 million Americans to lose their healthcare, to see a president acting liking personal loyalty to himself no matter what the issue, and all his other comments are despicable.
The Boy Scouts of America should no longer be supported financially, membership-wise, or in any other way. This was too much.
This is so outrageous that he would be cheered for his political ranting and disparagement of a previous president and others at the Jamboree, including a joke about firing Price.
The Boy Scouts of America may never be able to regain their honor now. It was hard enough before with their discrimination against gay and transgender boys and others.
The parents of any boy scouts, the scout leaders, and everyone else involved just saw a corrupt president acting like the boy scouts were Hitlerjugend and they enthusiastically participated. Encouraging the scouts to boo a former president, to cheer for 32 million Americans to lose their healthcare, to see a president acting liking personal loyalty to himself no matter what the issue, and all his other comments are despicable.
The Boy Scouts of America should no longer be supported financially, membership-wise, or in any other way. This was too much.
5
And doesn't it just break your heart for poor Barron, the 10 year old who could have been one of the Scouts there the other day. Sadly, his father doesn't seem to spend five minutes with him ever. I fervently hope those Scouts who were there, and cheered wildly, someday realize the Trump Reign was just a bad dream.
and the evangelicals pander to Trump I might add. What a crew...
He's not testing me in any way .I find him and his actions and verbalized thoughts as filthy ,unfounded, and without humane content as he was when he
First appeared as a candidate for the Presidency.
He is without any limit on his behavior and given what we see,how much is hidden? This man is unable to control his need to punish others and his need
for constant praise,real or made up like his insistence on having won the popular vote.If he was not in a position to wreak havoc on our country,which he is doing,he'd be an object of pity and under psychiatric care in an institution.
First appeared as a candidate for the Presidency.
He is without any limit on his behavior and given what we see,how much is hidden? This man is unable to control his need to punish others and his need
for constant praise,real or made up like his insistence on having won the popular vote.If he was not in a position to wreak havoc on our country,which he is doing,he'd be an object of pity and under psychiatric care in an institution.
3
i'm past outrage. i'm ready to march.
8
It seems to me that the media is testing the nation's capacity for outrage. They continue to construe facts in the worst possible light against any Trump associate or action. I don't have any regard for Trump, he is arrogant, rude, and an embarrassment to the county. Still, I think the media's attacks using partial truths construed in the worst possible light are at least as bad and likely worse.
2
What partial truths? This article and others are verified, whereas Trump has been proven to have lied several hundred times since he became president.
Is there a positive light to view this person in any way? What about Trump's attacks on the media and on democracy.
At some point, you have to stand on principle and not tolerate evil or turn a blind eye to it.
Is there a positive light to view this person in any way? What about Trump's attacks on the media and on democracy.
At some point, you have to stand on principle and not tolerate evil or turn a blind eye to it.
3
I wouldn't call Trump's lies "partial truths."
1
Living together means sometimes voluntarily giving up cherished policy goals for the sake of comity, decency, or good governance. But our policy goals have become so wedded to our identities that we can't give them up. To put a conservative justice on the Supreme Court, people will vote even for Trump: literally nothing is more important than getting a win for your side. Until we again learn to voluntarily give up wins for the country's sake, nothing will improve.
4
No! He is not changing our understanding of what is "standard" in the WH. The media including the NYT is trying to get us to ACCEPT his behavior as standard. You're as much a part of the gaslighting as he is!
1
I think too much is being made of the Boy Scout appearance. As my kids explained to me this morning, kids will always cheer and clap whenever there's a clown onstage.
10
Let me sum up the "advisors" position on Trump: He can behave like a fascist dictator until stopped.
6
What bothers me most about all this is that Mr. Trump continues to say/do these completely unethical things, and a large part of his supporters seem to be just fine with it. Politics has gotten so polarized that one side is willing to put up with almost anything (and I use the word 'almost' with hope that it is actually needed in that sentence) because he is "their guy".
4
But polarization doesn't create an authoritarian president. I don't know why his supporters still support him, but it might be because they never took a civics class.
Sorry its not the Nations capacity just the liberals capacity... everyone else pretty much has Hillary pegged
2
Danplorable, you seem to fear Hillary Clinton just as much as Trump does...
1
You've described someone similar to Duarte: "He has a taste for provocation and relishes challenging Washington taboos." (I'd say all taboos, such as not sexually assaulting women.) He not only tests our capacity for outrage, he tests it for resilience (Democrats') and integrity (Republicans') or lack thereof. I feel like I'm living in some kind of time warp in which history is repeating the slow descent into dangerous apathy by a nation's people, much like Germany pre-WWII. The only place I see outrage and warnings is in the objective press and in "comedy" shows. On social media people continue to post about their "amazing" kids, pets, holidays, etc. - elevating their everyday existence to illusions of the extraordinary while appearing to be blind to the truly harrowingly exceptional events happening in DC and red states.
3
Thank you, Mr Baker. Please keep reminding us of the "not normal" actions of the current President. "Outrage" may be a useful descriptor in "normal" times; we are beyond those. "Destructive" seems to be appropriate, and we all will do well to pay attention, and determine our own action, in these not normal circumstances.
2
It is clear Trump is quickly establishing, by his daily actions, a new norm for presidential demeanor. The American people were primed to accept such based on a parade of ineffectual presidents who failed to serve the people's needs and have principally served large corporations. Even Obamacare, which helped many obtain Medicaid, fed the rest of us to large insurance companies' and hospital systems' profit-driven motives. The resulting monetary waste comes to 10% of our national GDP.
And Trump is smart to continually attack big media, whose own profit-driven operations lead to nightly hysterics about Trump allegedly being involved in an active conspiracy with the Russians, which is turning out to be a big nothing-burger.
The reaction to Trump will turn out to be the worst result of all. We no longer even pretend to try to work with or even respect other Americans with whom we disagree, and are abandoning the tradition of addressing each other according to the decorum of a courtroom, so to speak.
We met the beast and quickly adopted its ways. That is possible because we were already headed in that direction. The stage was already set for Trump. This is the real lesson of Trump everyone seems to be ignoring. Rather like the proverbial frog which is boiled by slowly turning up the flame so the frog doesn't notice the water getting hotter.
And Trump is smart to continually attack big media, whose own profit-driven operations lead to nightly hysterics about Trump allegedly being involved in an active conspiracy with the Russians, which is turning out to be a big nothing-burger.
The reaction to Trump will turn out to be the worst result of all. We no longer even pretend to try to work with or even respect other Americans with whom we disagree, and are abandoning the tradition of addressing each other according to the decorum of a courtroom, so to speak.
We met the beast and quickly adopted its ways. That is possible because we were already headed in that direction. The stage was already set for Trump. This is the real lesson of Trump everyone seems to be ignoring. Rather like the proverbial frog which is boiled by slowly turning up the flame so the frog doesn't notice the water getting hotter.
2
Is anyone comforted by the fact that Trump's tweet-positions seem to have a limited shelf-life? Me neither.
2
PLEASE, please stop using phrases such as that Trump has "discarded conventions" or "challenged Washington taboos"!! These could give the impression that there is something potentially admirable in his atrocious behaviour.
Trump has simply been unwinding the fabric of civilised professional conduct in the U.S. In fact, he is eroding the public norms for decent interaction among human beings. Period.
Personal integrity and respect for fellow citizens are what suffers here, not "Washington conventions."
It is hard to fathom when or how this damage will be repaired.
Trump has simply been unwinding the fabric of civilised professional conduct in the U.S. In fact, he is eroding the public norms for decent interaction among human beings. Period.
Personal integrity and respect for fellow citizens are what suffers here, not "Washington conventions."
It is hard to fathom when or how this damage will be repaired.
29
A joke prior to the election showed 4 photos:
Washington, The First President", Obama, "The First Black President", Clinton, "The First Female President", and Trump, "The Last President".
Unless Trump’s successor, and institutions of government, do something notable to put the bar back where it was, that "joke" will turn out to be prescient.
Washington, The First President", Obama, "The First Black President", Clinton, "The First Female President", and Trump, "The Last President".
Unless Trump’s successor, and institutions of government, do something notable to put the bar back where it was, that "joke" will turn out to be prescient.
4
"Neither did that, of course, nor has any president in modern times sought to prosecute the candidate he beat at the ballot box."
There is a difference. The present one didn't "beat at the ballot box" if you recall.
There is a difference. The present one didn't "beat at the ballot box" if you recall.
5
The headline "Trump White House Tests a Nation’s Capacity for Outrage" isn't correct. It tests HALF a nation's capacity for outrage.
4
Actually, it's a lot more than half. Most Americans aren't uneducated swing-state voters, and Trump's approval ratings are at record lows.
House Democrat From California Seeks Support to Impeach Trump
https://www.nytimes.com/2017/06/12/us/politics/brad-sherman-impeachment-...
Donald Trump is a controversial character. From the moment he entered the presidential race in 2015, he has been criticized and scrutinized for his racist, misogynistic, bigoted and what would be by both Democrats and Republicans considered “Unconstitutional”. He has been hated by Democrats and Republicans alike, and nearly half the country paused when he won the election. Ever since he has been elected the president of the United States people have stirred up controversy for him. Now that he has been elected president, he has only grown more and more controversial.
His recent actions, such as his firing of James Comey have also stirred up a lot of controversy. However is it going to bad enough to the point where he will get impeached? House Democrat from California, Brad Sharman who plans on gaining support in order to follow through with the impeachments on Donald J. Trump. However in a primarily Republican congress, that is very unlikely.
I think that Trump if he continues down the path he is going on, will NOT get immediately impeached because the incidents haven’t been bad enough, however if he continues down this line his actions will have consequences.
https://www.nytimes.com/2017/06/12/us/politics/brad-sherman-impeachment-...
Donald Trump is a controversial character. From the moment he entered the presidential race in 2015, he has been criticized and scrutinized for his racist, misogynistic, bigoted and what would be by both Democrats and Republicans considered “Unconstitutional”. He has been hated by Democrats and Republicans alike, and nearly half the country paused when he won the election. Ever since he has been elected the president of the United States people have stirred up controversy for him. Now that he has been elected president, he has only grown more and more controversial.
His recent actions, such as his firing of James Comey have also stirred up a lot of controversy. However is it going to bad enough to the point where he will get impeached? House Democrat from California, Brad Sharman who plans on gaining support in order to follow through with the impeachments on Donald J. Trump. However in a primarily Republican congress, that is very unlikely.
I think that Trump if he continues down the path he is going on, will NOT get immediately impeached because the incidents haven’t been bad enough, however if he continues down this line his actions will have consequences.
Every time we think it's the lowest of the low, the floor falls away and we are plunged into yet another ethics, rational and moral crevice. We've barely gotten a hand hold as the president continues to slash and burn anything resembling protocol or the rule of law.
Potus' free floating psychosis is doing real and significant damage to the United States and our allies while emboldening our adversaries yet the GOP Congress continues to enable him, gunning him on to further distractions from their own nefarious and deadly, yes deadly, deeds.
When will the rule of law provide a barrier to further damage? Believe it, Mueller's role is imperiled and we could be looking at years of lurching from deadly disaster to deadly disaster: healthcare, piquing the equally insane into war, destroying the U.S. economy with all it's knock-on effects around the world thus worsening foreign relations.
It's fair to say the GOP and trump supporters have installed and supported a madman at the White House. The backlash will be devastating for the GOP and trump supports but also for our way of life. It is still beyond me how anyone could turn their head (GOP) or vote for someone so clearly mentally ill.
Potus' free floating psychosis is doing real and significant damage to the United States and our allies while emboldening our adversaries yet the GOP Congress continues to enable him, gunning him on to further distractions from their own nefarious and deadly, yes deadly, deeds.
When will the rule of law provide a barrier to further damage? Believe it, Mueller's role is imperiled and we could be looking at years of lurching from deadly disaster to deadly disaster: healthcare, piquing the equally insane into war, destroying the U.S. economy with all it's knock-on effects around the world thus worsening foreign relations.
It's fair to say the GOP and trump supporters have installed and supported a madman at the White House. The backlash will be devastating for the GOP and trump supports but also for our way of life. It is still beyond me how anyone could turn their head (GOP) or vote for someone so clearly mentally ill.
6
Trump’s speech at the Boy Scout’s jamboree was one of the saddest things I have witnessed in this very sad year of public moments that have diminished our country.
Trump’s utterly inappropriate speech cast a shadow of bitterness, pettiness, and divisiveness over their celebration. He not only showed the Scouts how to be disrespectful of a former beloved President, but how to be a soar winner too. A President who feels the need to keep saying “I won, I won,” and “she lost” eight months after an election is a sorry example, indeed. A president who feels the need say this to a group of children celebrating good citizenship and helpfulness is downright pathetic.
The Scouts deserved better—and I have no doubt that deep down, they each knew better, too.
Trump’s utterly inappropriate speech cast a shadow of bitterness, pettiness, and divisiveness over their celebration. He not only showed the Scouts how to be disrespectful of a former beloved President, but how to be a soar winner too. A President who feels the need to keep saying “I won, I won,” and “she lost” eight months after an election is a sorry example, indeed. A president who feels the need say this to a group of children celebrating good citizenship and helpfulness is downright pathetic.
The Scouts deserved better—and I have no doubt that deep down, they each knew better, too.
14
This should not surprise anyone. It was predicted. Only his sycophants said he would moderate his behavior. Only his most rabid supporters believed that "he and he alone" could handle health care, etc.
His behavior won't change. Nothing will change until his poll numbers drop so low that Ryan and McConnell will begin to worry about their own reelections.
His behavior won't change. Nothing will change until his poll numbers drop so low that Ryan and McConnell will begin to worry about their own reelections.
2
I was one of those people who thought he might change his behavior once he accomplished his election. Thought he was just saying and doing whatever he thought it took to get elected. Turns out he was telling the truth for once, he really isn't just a politician; that hateful, lying, egotistical bully is really him 24/7.
1
Whatever smoke bombs he may throw in any direction at any given time, the actions of this President that are most troubling are those that have been made repeatedly and in a straight line...the line of "loyalty" that begins at each citizen's feet and end at the President himself...a line of "loyalty" that, as we have seen, runs in one direction only.
Actions like having children at a Boy Scout Jamboree cheer against a black President...children who only possess the knowledge and wisdom of children, being taught to hate...and to obey.
Actions like publicly ridiculing his own appointed officials when he perceives a slight or inability to do for him what he regards as his "right" but which is grounded in a higher authority, such as a law or a Constitution.
Outrage is a useful tool for people like Trump, because it confounds rational and logical thought, thereby throwing his would-be opponents off balance.
What causes outrage is dangerous, but what is going on underneath may be fatal...to our democracy...and possibly even to each of us, as our loyalty is questioned more and more the longer he remains on his throne.
Actions like having children at a Boy Scout Jamboree cheer against a black President...children who only possess the knowledge and wisdom of children, being taught to hate...and to obey.
Actions like publicly ridiculing his own appointed officials when he perceives a slight or inability to do for him what he regards as his "right" but which is grounded in a higher authority, such as a law or a Constitution.
Outrage is a useful tool for people like Trump, because it confounds rational and logical thought, thereby throwing his would-be opponents off balance.
What causes outrage is dangerous, but what is going on underneath may be fatal...to our democracy...and possibly even to each of us, as our loyalty is questioned more and more the longer he remains on his throne.
4
There is plenty of outrage with Mr. Trump, real and justified, on the left and among every rational, reasonable, and objective person on the right (which are shamefully few). The real problem is with the lack of outrage from the Republican Party.
However, outrage at Trumps behavior, or rather lack there of, is not a measure of the level of outrage with Trump, but rather a measure of Republican hypocrisy. We can imagine where they would be if Obama or Hillary did anything even remotely similar to Trump.
However, outrage at Trumps behavior, or rather lack there of, is not a measure of the level of outrage with Trump, but rather a measure of Republican hypocrisy. We can imagine where they would be if Obama or Hillary did anything even remotely similar to Trump.
5
Trump incited Boy Scouts to boo President Obama. When are the Republicans going to say they have had enough? They'd best wake up. The baby boomers are still alive. We stopped the Vietnam war, ended the draft, removed Nixon and got Johnson to quit. I don't think we have a constitutional crisis coming, I think we have the next American Revolution coming.
17
"After six months in office, Mr. Trump has crossed so many lines, discarded so many conventions, said and done so many things that other presidents would not have, that he has radically shifted the understanding of what is standard in the White House" My question is when or if this family leaves the White House will we get the respect for the office back or is this the new normal?
4
"Mr. Trump has crossed so many lines, discarded so many conventions...."
Are you kidding me??? Those dignified words show just how how much we have gotten used to this mentally ill man who is a terror to this country and the world. He and his cohorts have BROKEN THE LAW, brought vulgarity and crassness to our nation, and he is CRAZY. How on earth can we continue to have him in office? Is there no tool to get rid of him quickly?
I am angry and appalled that the Republicans can in any way justify the continuation of this unstable man as President.
Are you kidding me??? Those dignified words show just how how much we have gotten used to this mentally ill man who is a terror to this country and the world. He and his cohorts have BROKEN THE LAW, brought vulgarity and crassness to our nation, and he is CRAZY. How on earth can we continue to have him in office? Is there no tool to get rid of him quickly?
I am angry and appalled that the Republicans can in any way justify the continuation of this unstable man as President.
10
Because of his emissions, everything he says has no credibility and deserves no respect. I can't get to the remote control fast enough to mute him. Does this mean the public has become immune or do we decide to ignore him because there's nothing there? I propose that the media ignore him until he says something intelligent and insightful, that shows leadership and gravitas - then cover that event - this would truly be newsworthy.
2
Why is Trump not being sued for slander and libel by dozens of his targets? Why has Obama not sued about the claim that he ordered "tapping" of the Trump Tower?
Why has Hillary not sued him for calling her criminal?
Failure to strongly, legally challenge bullying falsehoods allows them to stand. It is incumbent upon those who are libeled and slandered to assertively counter "alternative facts".
If they fail to do so, reality slips away and paranoid fiction takes its place.
Why has Hillary not sued him for calling her criminal?
Failure to strongly, legally challenge bullying falsehoods allows them to stand. It is incumbent upon those who are libeled and slandered to assertively counter "alternative facts".
If they fail to do so, reality slips away and paranoid fiction takes its place.
5
Great questions. From what I understand, it's almost impossible for public figures like Obama and Clinton to win slander or libel actions, which is why we rarely see such suits.
And then there's the old truth about what happens when you mud-wrestle a pig.
And then there's the old truth about what happens when you mud-wrestle a pig.
This display of shock and outrage at Trump's circus antics by otherwise sensible commentators is getting old, specially when it comes with nary a morsel of analysis on the quite plausible reasons our clown in chief would favor this strategy. In the case of dragging poor old Hillary yet again through the mud, isn't it obvious that Trump is in desperate need of a diversion from the increasingly fraught Russia matter? Is it not also obvious by now that Trump has opted, by default of character or otherwise, to both campaign and govern for that minority of the American public that still support him, a group so riven with class resentment, so driven by passionate intensity that any gibberish in 140 characters has its members foaming on the barricades, in the process scaring less unhinged but cowardly Republicans into submission? Trump does not foster friends: He cultivates enemies. Our current climate of brainless partisanship make his work easy, as does facile outrage in his opponents which only convinces his sorry tribe that he's doing something right, the rabid conservative equivalent of "sticking it to the Man".
136
Dear Follanger,
It's not clear that Trump is doing these idiotic things out of clever strategy, or if he's just acting on impulse. From his history and how he always acts, I'd say it's not planned out, it's just what strikes him on the spur of the moment. He's not someone who thinks long and hard about things.
And if the outrage bores you, well that's just too bad. I'm going to be outraged at Trump until the day I die. There is no more hated human in my book, and I will not let my outrage fade out. If people don't like it, I couldn't care less.
It's not clear that Trump is doing these idiotic things out of clever strategy, or if he's just acting on impulse. From his history and how he always acts, I'd say it's not planned out, it's just what strikes him on the spur of the moment. He's not someone who thinks long and hard about things.
And if the outrage bores you, well that's just too bad. I'm going to be outraged at Trump until the day I die. There is no more hated human in my book, and I will not let my outrage fade out. If people don't like it, I couldn't care less.
5
Except now they are "The Man" lol
Hillary has some of the worst faults that Trump manifests -- narcissism, unwillingness to admit mistakes, though she evenutally does, but too late, and she blames others for her failures, as in the election. These are fatal flaws in both of them, but hers are tempered by knowledge, competence, intelligence, and eventual repentance. In him they are everything. They are orders of magnitude apart. He is irredeemable, incorrigible, and doomed. She may still have a respectable future in public service.
What frightens me is the lack of outrage. After almost two years of Trump's vitriol taking center stage in our politics, 40% of the electorate approve of his performance, and if recent portrayals of communities of Trump supporters are to be believed, his core base love Trump's nihilism and spit-in-your-face antics. The Republican congress doesn't want to see him out of office, and they will happily put up with his denigration of our constitution and national values if it clears the way for tax cuts and gutting social programs. We need more outrage. Where are true patriots when you need them?
281
One of the patriots is Senator John McCain, who is returning to Congress to cast a vote while recovering from brain cancer treatment. The man has character. Our POTUS could learn a lot from him.
Not in the GOP.
"Lack of outrage" may be another empty phrase for apathy. The shift from apathy to outrage can be instantaneous.
Pundits and Washington observers are making a troubling mistake when examining Trump. They based their analysis on the assumption that Trump voters wanted "change" in order to "drain The swamp." This is called "conventional wisdom." But the conventional wisdom cannot only be wrong, but Is too simplistic to explain what's currently going on. Unfortunately, there is something more ominous occurring, if not threatening, for our democracy. Trump voters didn't solely vote for economic change, repeal of the ACA, but they also voted for blind nationalism, hateful xenophobia, and political authoritarianism. Attacks on the press, attacks on the courts, and assaults on our cherished political institutions were designed with that thought in mind. Trump is an authoritarian at his inner core and is moving in the direction of outright fascism. The Latin phrase "cui bono," who benefits, sums it all up. Who benefits from persecuting Hillary Clinton? Who benefits of making the FBI director report directly to him? Who benefits of forcing Jeff Sessions to be either fired or driving him to resign? Who benefits if Robert Mueller is fired? Who benefits if our country is torn apart by political violence? The answer is obvious, Donald J. Trump and Vladimir Vladimirovich Putin. It is happening before our very eyes and yet we don't see it.
428
If you have eyes you do see it.
Very well said. The outrageous blurs what is really happening.
Trump has always been for one thing only - Himself. He has moved from private business to government and Putin found his willing dupe.
Trump has always been for one thing only - Himself. He has moved from private business to government and Putin found his willing dupe.
@ Christopher would like to add: those who benefit most from this distracting man & chaos,and they are? : they are the members of the uber conservative, alt right wing 1%ers. They've been planning their strategy for the past 40 years in 'by invitation only' meetings 3x a year! Reagan was their man, latest is Trump.
It seems to me that the architecture of government, and the separation of powers, are working well to contain the often irrational impulses of a would be dictator. His election seems to be a sequel to the unjustified and troubling lionization of businessmen who make big money but do little else. Trump demonstrates--assuming he is somewhat financially successful behind all the puffery--that he knows almost nothing other than business. Further, he demonstrates the tendency at higher business levels to view the law as simply a mild impediment, as if there was no reason behind the existence of the law. America needs to start looking up to people who are worthy of their admiration.
89
I would have to disagree.
Trump fired Comey with barely a word from the supposed checks inherent in our constitution- Republican said barely a word and took nary an action.
He is attacking all forms of checks to his power: journalists/feds/Mueller etc... He is plainly laying out his plan to fire Mueller or find another way to interfere with the Russian investigation. It remains to be seen whether any republican will avoid further abdication of their responsibility. I suspect we will all continue to be disappointed and watch as they lie on the ground and allow trump to walk all over them and the constitution.
I wish you were right but in the end it appears clear to me that Trump does not respect anyone or anything unless it is to his benefit. Who believes that after all the actions he has taken to date with no measurable repercussions (outside of the cowardly anonymous concerns expressed by republicans) that he will stop without definite action by congressional checks. There will be no check and he will not stop anytime soon. This is just the beginning as he actions will escalate as the investigations proceeds.
Trump fired Comey with barely a word from the supposed checks inherent in our constitution- Republican said barely a word and took nary an action.
He is attacking all forms of checks to his power: journalists/feds/Mueller etc... He is plainly laying out his plan to fire Mueller or find another way to interfere with the Russian investigation. It remains to be seen whether any republican will avoid further abdication of their responsibility. I suspect we will all continue to be disappointed and watch as they lie on the ground and allow trump to walk all over them and the constitution.
I wish you were right but in the end it appears clear to me that Trump does not respect anyone or anything unless it is to his benefit. Who believes that after all the actions he has taken to date with no measurable repercussions (outside of the cowardly anonymous concerns expressed by republicans) that he will stop without definite action by congressional checks. There will be no check and he will not stop anytime soon. This is just the beginning as he actions will escalate as the investigations proceeds.
The only part with which I disagree is the statement that Trump knows the business world. He doesn't.
The courts ply their constitutuonally-mandated trade, sure, but can do little to stem the tide of his other injurious actions. The next half year will be telling as we see just exactly to what lengths a president is allowed to go.
Keep doing it, Mr Trump. That is why we voted for you.
14
Sad.
13
I'm curious. What is 'it' that Trump is doing?
4
You voted for chaos. Hope you like it.
3
“No liberal or progressive in the US can escape his share of responsibility for abandonment of the Democratic party and the election of Donald Trump. The cardinal error of those of us who opposed Trump was our failure to unite against him. At the crest of his strength Trump did not have enough to win. But the majority of people who were against him were too divided and shortsighted to combine against a common danger. The Alt left was and still is committed to the silly idea of first destroying Hillary Clinton moderate democrats, the Democratic Party leadership and any Democrat right of Bernie Sanders. Based on the dubious theory that we are not true progressives or were privileged and therefore no different than Trump.”
21
I reject that completely. I fought Trump every step of the way, and supported anyone who also fought him. I am in no way responsible for his election. I am entirely different from Trump.
1
There is no alt left. There are principled progressives who adhere to the values of FDR and Truman. Sanders policies represent what the Ds long stood for. Ds moved from those values and lost their base. Also the electoral loss was due to a poor to no ground game in key states. You can't win by being R lite.
1
Congressional Republicans below are characterized as "Machiavellian," and rightly so. however, I'm tempted to submit that Hillary Clinton was herself one of these Machiavellian republicans. how else to describe someone so cozy with Goldman Sachs and wall street in general?
Sometimes you have to draw a line in the sand, because if you keep compromising your principles, eventually you don't have any.
the whole idea of the pragmatic "new democrat" which Bill Clinton (along with Hillary, his ideological-stylistic carbon copy/alter ego) epitomized was denial that corporate/wall street interests and worker interests diverge, the platform was appeal to pragmatic-functionalist synthesis of actually competing and conflicting interests. it was, of course mostly nonsense as Bob Reisch will tell you.
For Hillary to have had a chance of winning back the vast majority (or maybe any majority) of Bernie supporters, she'd have to have released the Goldman Sachs transcripts. but she couldn't, because they would've irreparably alienated any legitimate democrat.
Sometimes you have to draw a line in the sand, because if you keep compromising your principles, eventually you don't have any.
the whole idea of the pragmatic "new democrat" which Bill Clinton (along with Hillary, his ideological-stylistic carbon copy/alter ego) epitomized was denial that corporate/wall street interests and worker interests diverge, the platform was appeal to pragmatic-functionalist synthesis of actually competing and conflicting interests. it was, of course mostly nonsense as Bob Reisch will tell you.
For Hillary to have had a chance of winning back the vast majority (or maybe any majority) of Bernie supporters, she'd have to have released the Goldman Sachs transcripts. but she couldn't, because they would've irreparably alienated any legitimate democrat.
This man is mentally ill. He does not belong in the presidency, nor do his enabling children. If they cared about him at all they'd get him the help he needs.
It's so very odd to have a truly mentally ill person in the presidency whose actions affect the whole world. It's dangerous not only to America but to the world.
His remarks to the Boy Scouts were disgusting. I always want to ask, "What is the matter with him?" But we know what is the matter. He's ill. And nobody in the Republican Party will do anything about it. I hope they are punished for decades. Then maybe America will have a chance.
Make no mistake, America. We're on the precipice. Trump might be the catalyst that throws us off this exceptional mountain. Or we could get lucky and Trump could be the forever warning that danger lies ahead and we will steer clear of such nonsense ever again.
It's so very odd to have a truly mentally ill person in the presidency whose actions affect the whole world. It's dangerous not only to America but to the world.
His remarks to the Boy Scouts were disgusting. I always want to ask, "What is the matter with him?" But we know what is the matter. He's ill. And nobody in the Republican Party will do anything about it. I hope they are punished for decades. Then maybe America will have a chance.
Make no mistake, America. We're on the precipice. Trump might be the catalyst that throws us off this exceptional mountain. Or we could get lucky and Trump could be the forever warning that danger lies ahead and we will steer clear of such nonsense ever again.
55
Eventually, and let's hope sooner rather than later, Americans are learning, as are Europeans and others around the world, to ignore and set aside the offensive provocations of the bullying buffoon in the White House. It's just a lot of hot air intended to deliberately provoke people to react and to distract them from the real issues at hand. What would happen if our news media, New York Times included, did not give these obnoxious 140-character rants so much bandwidth?
7
>>>> “Presidents don’t order the prosecution of their defeated opponents in this country,” said Ari Fleischer, a former White House press secretary under Mr. Bush.... He added that Mr. Trump “does it to fire up the pro-Trump base of the party.”<<<<
Indeed. When investigatory attention on Trump is too close for comfort, he resorts to the 3 D's: deflect, distract, dissimulate. His interview with the New York Times was stunning in its exposure of his infantile ego and low level of literacy. It's no wonder he lives in a place of fear, the exact opposite of what he tries to project.
Indeed. When investigatory attention on Trump is too close for comfort, he resorts to the 3 D's: deflect, distract, dissimulate. His interview with the New York Times was stunning in its exposure of his infantile ego and low level of literacy. It's no wonder he lives in a place of fear, the exact opposite of what he tries to project.
22
Only voters can fix this. Trump's incompetence will have to create a calamity. Republican Congressmen are sitting easy in what they perceive to be their safe districts with no need to appeal to voters, just appeal to their contributors.
In real estate Trump did whatever he needed to make money. Illegal? get the lawyers to bail him out. He's ill prepared to be president, intellectually deficient, doesn't read, doesn't learn, and can't remember much. All well documented. Do voters care? Apparently not.
Of great concern is the ruthless, aloof attitude of Republican leaders in Congress. Just a Machiavellian lack of interest in everything Trump does as long as they can pass their agenda. Even the bipartisan investigation committees, in the proceedings the Republicans toss softball questions to the witnesses primarily for the purpose of protecting the President, not to obtain information.
Voters can make a difference, but they are not likely to until some calamity strikes. The 40% approval rating is stunning. Not a majority, but Trump didn't win by a majority. That loyal fraction of the population follows Trump as if he were the Pied Piper with certainty that he will come through with the promises he made. And they are just as certain that the intellectual Democrat insensitivity to the blue collar and rural population will persist as it seems to have during the recent 40 years or so. Loss of health care may be the critical item to turn the tide.
In real estate Trump did whatever he needed to make money. Illegal? get the lawyers to bail him out. He's ill prepared to be president, intellectually deficient, doesn't read, doesn't learn, and can't remember much. All well documented. Do voters care? Apparently not.
Of great concern is the ruthless, aloof attitude of Republican leaders in Congress. Just a Machiavellian lack of interest in everything Trump does as long as they can pass their agenda. Even the bipartisan investigation committees, in the proceedings the Republicans toss softball questions to the witnesses primarily for the purpose of protecting the President, not to obtain information.
Voters can make a difference, but they are not likely to until some calamity strikes. The 40% approval rating is stunning. Not a majority, but Trump didn't win by a majority. That loyal fraction of the population follows Trump as if he were the Pied Piper with certainty that he will come through with the promises he made. And they are just as certain that the intellectual Democrat insensitivity to the blue collar and rural population will persist as it seems to have during the recent 40 years or so. Loss of health care may be the critical item to turn the tide.
12
This administration, following the lead of the President, will have no doubt done significant damage to the norms of the Presidency, and, by extension, to American democracy. And, this article highlights the fact that our expectations for a President shift, whether we like it or not. But, on the bright side, President Trump will have accomplished at least one good thing for someone other than himself: When C-SPAN conducts its annual survey of presidential historians, Trump will undoubtedly take over the last spot on the list and secure his place in history as the worst President of all time. Presidents Buchanan, Johnson, and Pierce, were they still around, could rightfully thank him for now just being thought of as not particularly effective Presidents, but certainly not terrible as #45.
16
Exactly. I think that Trump is the result of a collision of recent Republican presidents to make them all look good.
1
He has forever demolished the moral high ground of his party.
12
Sorry to have to inform you but the purported GOP 'high ground' you speak of disappeared after Eisenhower. The allure of the pig trough trumped everything else thereafter.
I'm not outraged. Really, NYT, you need to get out in the country more. FYI: I'm not so much pro-Trump as I am anti-liberal elite. I'll vote for Trump any chance I get just to watch the liberals and media react like children to losing an election. Their behavior is truly breathtaking. And P.S. No one really cares about Russia!
If two-third's of the nation supported slavery, that wouldn't make slavery acceptable. It's concerning when polling numbers or the popularity of a person and their actions, are seen as of equal or greater importance to their competence or ethical behavior. That many people "may" not care about Russia is not the same its importance as an issue to the nation. We must make clear distinctions between what we like and don't like and what is empirically important.
Wow you're a really sad person. I hope someday you can channel all that hate of your fellow country men and women into something positive. Have a sparkling day!
No, the breathtaking behavior is watching the demolition of our constitution and being OK with that because it makes liberals angry.
Trump is destroying norms that have existed since our founding. He swore to uphold and faithfully execute the laws of our land. He breaks this oath with stunning regularity. But as long as I'm mad you're OK.
Just don't call yourself a patriot.
Trump is destroying norms that have existed since our founding. He swore to uphold and faithfully execute the laws of our land. He breaks this oath with stunning regularity. But as long as I'm mad you're OK.
Just don't call yourself a patriot.
3
The horror , the true horror is the Republican Party standing by this man. They have placed our nation in crave danger, willingly.
My mind reels from their actions.
My mind reels from their actions.
28
I'm trying to imagine the Senate hearings for the next AG.
Do you plan on opening the investigation on Hillary?
What new evidence has emerged to justify that?
Do you think prosecuting Donald's political opponents is appropriate?
Do you plan on opening the investigation on Hillary?
What new evidence has emerged to justify that?
Do you think prosecuting Donald's political opponents is appropriate?
7
The Trump international crime family and team knows we are getting very close to irrefutable proof that the presidential/vice presidential election was tipped in their favor via Russian collusion.
This is treason and we need an independent prosecutor to go after the entire lot, including appointees.
Publicly release all Trump financials and tax returns. WHISTLE-BLOWERS and journalists, the country needs you!
Void the election. Install the runner up or call for a new election for president vice president via paper ballots only.
Mainstream media heads need to get together to forge a modern FAIRNESS DOCTRINE which forbids false information or false equivalency and includes social media and the internet. Reagan removed the original in 1986 which led to the rise of Fox and finally, to the election of Trump.
These are necessary beginning steps toward the restoration of our democracy.
This is treason and we need an independent prosecutor to go after the entire lot, including appointees.
Publicly release all Trump financials and tax returns. WHISTLE-BLOWERS and journalists, the country needs you!
Void the election. Install the runner up or call for a new election for president vice president via paper ballots only.
Mainstream media heads need to get together to forge a modern FAIRNESS DOCTRINE which forbids false information or false equivalency and includes social media and the internet. Reagan removed the original in 1986 which led to the rise of Fox and finally, to the election of Trump.
These are necessary beginning steps toward the restoration of our democracy.
9
Our collective immunity, as you term it, to being outraged by Trump's Tweeter Tantrums reminds me of the eventual response of baseball fans to some of the less-than-appreciated antics of Manny Ramirez when he was with the Boston Red Sox. "Oh, that's just Manny being Manny". I guess we have arrived at "That's just Trump being Trump!" But that is scary because it is the first step towards normalizing his behavior, behavior which is anything but normal for a civilized human being, let alone a world leader.
5
Who thumbs their nose at the law? Not average law-abiding citizens.
Crooks. The International mafia. They think they control the world with all the wealth they have stolen from WE THE PEOPLE through market manipulation, democracy-killing corporate takeovers and health care profit that stuffs their atrocious treasure chests as it kills the rest of us. Along with, or course, this attempt to take over OUR government.
They have another think coming.
Crooks. The International mafia. They think they control the world with all the wealth they have stolen from WE THE PEOPLE through market manipulation, democracy-killing corporate takeovers and health care profit that stuffs their atrocious treasure chests as it kills the rest of us. Along with, or course, this attempt to take over OUR government.
They have another think coming.
5
Trump seems to want a dictatorship where he's the dictator, and silence from the Republican leadership suggests they want that too. In this light, former Republican Justice Department official Rivken's implicit justification for Trump to stop the Russia investigation is frightening.
24
I just read an article in the Boston Globe about the fact that the "walk buttons" at busy downtown intersections don't actually control anything, they're a PR mechanism. Our government, and our elected officials in that government are the US citizenry's walk button.
7
Trump's nihilism is outrageous. However, the complicity of his opportunistic party members is the real tragedy.
Trump's done the unthinkable, but now we can see what's coming with the presumed replacement of the recused Sessions, pardoning the people he says are being slandered by fake news, defunding efforts in fighting Assad, and on and on.
When does Republican opportunism stop and love of country and the Constitution return?
Trump's done the unthinkable, but now we can see what's coming with the presumed replacement of the recused Sessions, pardoning the people he says are being slandered by fake news, defunding efforts in fighting Assad, and on and on.
When does Republican opportunism stop and love of country and the Constitution return?
42
How can we permit this maniacal miscreant to address our young children directly, like this? How? How is this acceptable behavior by the president of the United States of America? It sickens me to the core. I have no children, but I remember being a child, and I don't know how good parents can accept this.
45
Trump has shown he dos not know how to be presidential and so should not be treated with the usual deference to the office. His behaviour is outlandish and the serious news media needs to take a page from the late night satirists and just lampoon him. It is useless to debate his ideas - simple ridicule of his baseless assertions, ideas, and behaviour.
23
I wouldn't say he's "moved the bar for outrage." I would say that we are outraged so persistently that our fury is like a white noise that is tuned out because it is always there.
49
The idea that America (lumped) is immune is incorrect. The citizens are paying attention. What everyone wants to know is what happens next. Like watching a good movie or reading a good book, the suspense, knowing that truth, law and justice matter and the bad guys will be caught - we are watching. The stuff of Hollywood is playing out, and the people are looking for the hero who will overcome. Hopefully real life will be better than fiction and good really will triumph. Sometimes it doesn't work out that way.
6
I am past outrage, I am numb and live in a constant state of stress as each day brings some fresh embarrassment (at best) or terror from the man residing in the White House. I cannot even keep up with it all anymore. It is a constant assault, and after only 6 months many of us are already exhausted.
We have a bizarre president who hasn't a clue as to how to run this country and only cares about the reflection he sees in his mirror. Every day our democracy is being threatened by this inept, dangerous man and his henchmen and women, while his fellow Republicans do their best to dismantle the social safety nets.
I knew it was going to be bad when Trump won the electoral college, but I had not a clue how bad it would be. I joined others and marched for Science, I signed petitions, I have made phone calls to representatives, but it all seems futile right now. I feel so impotent in the face of the greatest challenge in terms of politics this country has faced (IMHO).
When I think back to this time last year when we had such an intelligent president sitting in office and had such high hopes for the future, it all seems like some distant dream. What we are living now is a nightmare whose outcome is unknowable.
We have a bizarre president who hasn't a clue as to how to run this country and only cares about the reflection he sees in his mirror. Every day our democracy is being threatened by this inept, dangerous man and his henchmen and women, while his fellow Republicans do their best to dismantle the social safety nets.
I knew it was going to be bad when Trump won the electoral college, but I had not a clue how bad it would be. I joined others and marched for Science, I signed petitions, I have made phone calls to representatives, but it all seems futile right now. I feel so impotent in the face of the greatest challenge in terms of politics this country has faced (IMHO).
When I think back to this time last year when we had such an intelligent president sitting in office and had such high hopes for the future, it all seems like some distant dream. What we are living now is a nightmare whose outcome is unknowable.
92
Diana - please don't give up! At the Women's March I saw a sign that said "Take heart, there are so many of us." Our resistance is working - not as fast as we would like or need - but it is working!
10
I so feel your pain, Diana. You are not alone.
If you are not aware of it, there is a book that might be helpful: Rebecca Solnit's "Hope in the Dark".
If you are not aware of it, there is a book that might be helpful: Rebecca Solnit's "Hope in the Dark".
2
I'm not immune to Trump's insanity. I'm floored! But I have no choice at this moment, but to ignore his behavior. I am keeping an eye on it, and supporting those that can temper the damage until we get to vote again. It is exhausting to learn of the twisted thoughts of a crazy man like Trump...... 2018 cannot come soon enough.
22
Trump's utterly shameful political speech to the Boy Scouts makes me ashamed to be a Republican, and now fearful of the Boy Scouts!
41
Glad my late dad is not here. An Eagle Scout and a decorated WW2 Naval hero. Trump is a disgrace to common decency.
2
Have you considered changing parties?
In a sane electorate, I would hope to see #45 and his family prosecuted and eventually incarcerated for their many high crimes and misdemeanors committed against the USA. These accomplished in only 6 months' time. A dream, I know, but what else have we to hope for in this oligarchy?
22
As with anything, once you enter new territory, you pave the way for those that follow. Trump has lowered the bar on decency in the Presidency and got away with it. Unless he goes down in history as the a mistake, the worse, the immoral, a deranged and unhinged person, the failed President who represents what not to say and do, he will be used as an example to others on how low you can go to get what you want.
21
How long will the party of Greed Over People allow this buffoon to stage his clown shows? The Boy Scout leaders should have been worthy of their title and led their Scouts out of the audience for this shameful man's ranting.
44
I absolutely agree. This was a failure of leadership on the part of the BSA. The adult leaders should have instructed their scouts to be respectful to the President but not to applaud his political rants. As a new cadet at West Point in August of 1974, my class was marched into Thayer Hall one night , to hear what turned out to be President Nixons resignation speech. Before and during the speech we were warned not to applaud or otherwise comment out loud. The cadre enforced this vigorously. While the scouts aren't in the military. Their leadership should have acted similarly. Sad day for the BSA.
2
I did not vote for either candidate, viewing both of them as profoundly unqualified for the office, but I must say that in retrospect, if she had been elected, Hillary's corruption would have been subtler than Trump's crude thrashing about.
4
He is out of bounds.
Oh yeah, well there are Mexicans on Medicaid.
Oh yeah, well his son met with the Russians.
Oh yeah, well Hillary met with the Ukranians.
Oh yeah, well Hannity said the Democrats set up the whole Russian collusion.
Oh yeah, well why didn't they blow the whistle before the election?
Meanwhile debt, the new crack, has turned America into a third world serfdom in which the peasants think they might get that lucky break.
Democrat/Republican - just a big show. There is a handful of us getting very rich while the rest of you suckers struggle with your mortgages, car loans, student debts, credit cards, unable to step back from the media show and realize that it's the haves and the have nots.
Oh yeah, well there are Mexicans on Medicaid.
Oh yeah, well his son met with the Russians.
Oh yeah, well Hillary met with the Ukranians.
Oh yeah, well Hannity said the Democrats set up the whole Russian collusion.
Oh yeah, well why didn't they blow the whistle before the election?
Meanwhile debt, the new crack, has turned America into a third world serfdom in which the peasants think they might get that lucky break.
Democrat/Republican - just a big show. There is a handful of us getting very rich while the rest of you suckers struggle with your mortgages, car loans, student debts, credit cards, unable to step back from the media show and realize that it's the haves and the have nots.
6
Perhaps he thinks he can put some 12 year olds on the voting rolls? Perhaps he is seeking intellectual equals? But I am thinking Boy Scouts might still be too "sophisticated" for him?
19
There is no standard of decency in this White House, not the White House.
19
I'll take Tweeting Trump over war criminal, and now somewhat beloved, Bush. Where is the outrage for the death and destruction his fake reasons for going to war produced?
5
Regarding Trump's behavior and lack of decorum, I think Republicans knew better. Trump was on display for a long time before ascending to the presidency, and they had to have known that this would not go smoothly. Unfortunately, their legislative agenda coupled with promises made to voters have made them swallow whatever pride they once had and accept this presidency, warts and all.
Not so easy, though, for the majority of Americans who did not vote for trump and continue to abhor his agenda and behavior. I wake up every morning wishing that he would resign, or that there will be news of an impending impeachment. Even if you push the whole Russia investigation aside, there is still so much that is so wrong about the way this presidency is being conducted. Words like shame and embarrassment are no longer adequate.
Not so easy, though, for the majority of Americans who did not vote for trump and continue to abhor his agenda and behavior. I wake up every morning wishing that he would resign, or that there will be news of an impending impeachment. Even if you push the whole Russia investigation aside, there is still so much that is so wrong about the way this presidency is being conducted. Words like shame and embarrassment are no longer adequate.
25
"Routine interactions with the Russians" appear to be anything but routine. It appears that the nominee of a major political party employed agents and information from a hostile foreign power to gain an advantage over his opponent, and is now trying to pretend it didn't happen. It appears as though the nominee, who is now president, is making policy decisions favorable to the Russian regime. It also appears that the president, in his business life prior to politics, knowingly or unknowingly laundered money for Russian oligarchs, and possibly Russian mobsters,(and probably in exchange for receiving financing for his failing real estate empire) who were plundering Russia's economy for their own gain.
The blind loyalists think this is made up. Sad. Everyone else is frightened or outraged. Only the brainwashed would think it's okay for an angry, disturbed president to stand in front of a gathering of Boy Scouts and vilify his political enemies and the freedom of the press.
The blind loyalists think this is made up. Sad. Everyone else is frightened or outraged. Only the brainwashed would think it's okay for an angry, disturbed president to stand in front of a gathering of Boy Scouts and vilify his political enemies and the freedom of the press.
36
Trump is using America's kids for his crazy ramblings and political agenda. This should have every parent outraged over this latest Trumpian depravity and sick narcissism. The boyscout jamboree should be the last straw for our country !
23
You do know that these are the same boy scouts that refused to let gays be leaders a few years ago, right?
There's no outrage because school systems don't teach civics anymore. Americans haven't been taught civic values for years; they're constantly blasted with messages telling them they're consumers first and last and how to shop for worthless, disposable junk.
If young Americans consider voting at all, they approach it as if they are shopping; since Bernie Sanders was "pulled from the shelf" at the Democratic Convention, they stopped shopping. No consequences.
Wrong.
The first responsibility of living in a democracy is voting for candidates who can preserve and protect that democracy. You are citizens first. Your duty is to look beyond your own short-sighted self-interest. Don't be passive. Actively seek information, and learn about this country and the world as they are. Otherwise you and your kids, and their kids, don't get to shop ever again.
If young Americans consider voting at all, they approach it as if they are shopping; since Bernie Sanders was "pulled from the shelf" at the Democratic Convention, they stopped shopping. No consequences.
Wrong.
The first responsibility of living in a democracy is voting for candidates who can preserve and protect that democracy. You are citizens first. Your duty is to look beyond your own short-sighted self-interest. Don't be passive. Actively seek information, and learn about this country and the world as they are. Otherwise you and your kids, and their kids, don't get to shop ever again.
23
Not long ago it seemed unthinkable that a handful of Oval Office criminals could disembowel a free, democratic nation of 300 million people while the House of Representatives and the U.S. Senate--both dominated by "patriotic" republicans--sit passively on the sidelines and watch.
95
They WILL be stopped. This is NOT normal and a majority of Americans KNOW it is not normal. Trump will be removed, he is already headed toward that bridge too far with no brakes...
8
I wish that I could agree with you but I don't think there are enough ethical Republicans left.
Many more people than Trump need to be removed.
1
"That's just Trump being Trump," his supporters are inclined to say.
Are we not to be concerned? Will Mr. T. keep trying to top what he has said in order to elicit some shocked response?
Where does this go? Will people simply stop taking him seriously? We are most of the way to that point already! What are the hazards resulting from not taking our president seriously?
In time, what will be left for him to say to get even a bit of rise from people? A specific threat to use nuclear weapons? Let's hope not.
Are we not to be concerned? Will Mr. T. keep trying to top what he has said in order to elicit some shocked response?
Where does this go? Will people simply stop taking him seriously? We are most of the way to that point already! What are the hazards resulting from not taking our president seriously?
In time, what will be left for him to say to get even a bit of rise from people? A specific threat to use nuclear weapons? Let's hope not.
7
Trump knows exactly the impact his egregious behavior has on the country and various groups, and he revels in the turmoil he creates...that's why he keeps doing it. His whole shtick is about getting a reaction. He is the train wreck of train wrecks.
Is he he crazy? Probably.
Is he he crazy? Probably.
27
Everybody has to remember what happened to Humpty Dumpty...
5
But how long did he sit on the wall before falling? Not sure we have that much time.
1
Trump's actions, particularly his now consistent attempts to undermine his own pick for AG, have stopped being "provocative," and have begun to appear more like a direct taunting of the Congress's position as a relevant and co-equal branch of government. Did you wonder whether the firing of Comey was an attempt to obstruct an investigation? Not clear enough for you? How about taking down the AG specifically because of his recusal regarding the same investigation? Will that qualify? Does the Republican Party have such contempt for the system and people they claim to represent? They seem uninterested in Russia's undermining of our election process, and equally uninterested in maintaining our country's system of co-equal branches of government. One wonders what it will take for them to finally stand up for the system they represent rather than fussing about their re-elections prospects.
11
This is a very crude gambit to try to force Sessions to resign so Trump can order Rosenstein to fire Mueller; if Rosenstein refuses, he'll be fired or he will resign; same with the person who next assumes the Acting Attorney General role. Then Trump will attempt to appoint his own Acting Attorney General and will leave the actual office of Attorney General vacant, because he knows he would never be able to get HIS kind of AG confirmed by the Senate, even though it only takes 51 votes. That is Trump's plan. Like all of Trump's plan, it will backfire on him bigly, but it will get very very very ugly. This is heating up a lot faster than I thought it would; it must be hot as Hell right now in the White House, snark :)
Makes me nostalgic for indiscretions with White House interns.
10
He's destroyed the United States in six months. Who knew democracy was so fragile? Hillary voters, that's who. We can somehow recover this, but this country will never be the same. He is an authoritarian leader who is shredding the norms of decency and rule of law.
19
I hope that history will view Donald as an aberration. The country has had plenty of time to see him for what he is now. Any delusion that the presidency might reveal some latent capacity for character or even simple human decency was just wishful thinking. His speech to the boy scouts yesterday was a disgrace, and shame on them for inviting him. They should have known by now too. I despair at how far we've fallen, and fervently hope that this never becomes accepted as some new kind of "normal".
11
Rick...I think he might be the first of many.
He has shifted no standards, he has simply shown that he has none.
6
Like Bob Dole said in the 96 campaign against Bill Clinton (about his transgressions), 'where's the outrage'? Same thing here. Not a lot has changed in over two decades. Only until Republicans and Fox News turn on DT, will things change. That, and when Democrats really get out the vote (thanks Bernie supporters!).
Shees.
Shees.
3
Last paragraph was unclear. To me at least. Maybe an editing issue or typo.
1
Has HBO's Game of Thrones come to Washington? President Trump seems to be the duplicate of King Aerys II Targaryen, popularly called "the Mad King". It also would appear that the worst career decision anyone can possibly make is to take a position in the Trump White House. Comey was first, followed by Spicer. Now, Jeff Sessions is in trouble with his Highness. Many people thought that Sessions was a poor choice for a variety of reasons despite Trump originally declaring Sessions as the equivalent of God's gift to the DOJ. Tillerson, a totally unqualified individual for his current job (unless you asked Trump when he was appointed), appears headed for trouble as well. We can only pray that next time around both parties will have better candidates to offer than Trump and Clinton and that we'll survive the Mad King's reign until then. I believe Game of Thrones has only one more season so the Trump show will outlast it and continue to bring drama and intrigue to the masses.
1
The Boy Scout Jamboree is supposed to be good clean American fun. Trump is just a mean spirited self involved individual. He should have been promoting the Boy Scouts and how it helps boys become good men and leaders, but he decided to politicize the moment.
Trump believes that the Presidency is an extension of his real estate empire and that he can step over anyone that gets in his way. He probably thinks that he can get on the phone and scream at congressional leaders and legislation will get passed. The country is now playing the Apprentice - Presidential edition. Hopefully, after Trump's presidency is over we will go back to a president with decorum and class.
Finally, the reason Trump does want to show his tax returns is because his financing is probably coming from Saudi Arabia or some other rich middle eastern country, not the Russians. He does not want to show America that his financiers are foreigners.
Trump believes that the Presidency is an extension of his real estate empire and that he can step over anyone that gets in his way. He probably thinks that he can get on the phone and scream at congressional leaders and legislation will get passed. The country is now playing the Apprentice - Presidential edition. Hopefully, after Trump's presidency is over we will go back to a president with decorum and class.
Finally, the reason Trump does want to show his tax returns is because his financing is probably coming from Saudi Arabia or some other rich middle eastern country, not the Russians. He does not want to show America that his financiers are foreigners.
3
Trump was never a boy scout, he has no clue what it is about. He took advantage of a rally and made it about him. HIs self indulgence turned a long held American organization into a joke.
1
The only event that will erase this man's contribution to our way of government will be when he is brought down in disgrace; a disgrace so complete that even his core of un-thinking yahoos will get the picture.
8
Indeed, he is chaos president.
He will do anything in his power to stay in the presidency because he needs executive privilege, executive power, and power to pardon. As people said, recent twitter attacks of AG Session are to push him to resign in order to fire Mr. Mueller.
I am more concerned of opposite ruling for the sue to block election commission yesterday. Cyber security is a patch work. Security program is eventually hacked by hacker and patch work is developed, over and over again. All voters data will be stored in White House and it is advertised a lot. It's inevitable to be hacked eventually and it only needs one success.
If voters data are hacked, that will be the end of VP Mike Pence since he is in charge of election commission and voters data security. Then, current president can appoint less desirable Vice President such as Mr. Chris Christie who will be less desirable as a president. Therefore, GOP will be less likely pushing for his impeachment if he could not stop Mr. Mueller's investigation. This ruling of election commission is disastrous news for not only voters but also VP Mike Pence.
Mr. Paul Ryan and Mr. Mitch McConnell have been very quiet but they have to decide soon for their political careers, GOP, and American people if Presidential Advisory Commission on Election Integrity marches forward.
He will do anything in his power to stay in the presidency because he needs executive privilege, executive power, and power to pardon. As people said, recent twitter attacks of AG Session are to push him to resign in order to fire Mr. Mueller.
I am more concerned of opposite ruling for the sue to block election commission yesterday. Cyber security is a patch work. Security program is eventually hacked by hacker and patch work is developed, over and over again. All voters data will be stored in White House and it is advertised a lot. It's inevitable to be hacked eventually and it only needs one success.
If voters data are hacked, that will be the end of VP Mike Pence since he is in charge of election commission and voters data security. Then, current president can appoint less desirable Vice President such as Mr. Chris Christie who will be less desirable as a president. Therefore, GOP will be less likely pushing for his impeachment if he could not stop Mr. Mueller's investigation. This ruling of election commission is disastrous news for not only voters but also VP Mike Pence.
Mr. Paul Ryan and Mr. Mitch McConnell have been very quiet but they have to decide soon for their political careers, GOP, and American people if Presidential Advisory Commission on Election Integrity marches forward.
Prosecuting political rivals; pardoning self and cronies; demeaning, threatening, firing judges, prosecutors, investigators; and denouncing the press while issuing a steady stream of bald lies. This is what people all over the world, in nations with no strong democratic traditions, recognize as the hallmarks of dictators and would-be dictators. Now it is our turn to see it up close. And many of us and most of our media still don't want to see that it is happening here. We laugh and make jokes. We reassure ourselves that he's thus far fairly ineffectual. Above all, we continue to act as if there is something hard to understand, something incomprehensible about Trump. Open your eyes. There is no mystery here. Trump is the perfect type of the demagogic tyrant America's founders worried about.
15
We know that Trump is a bully and has a temperament that many say is unhinged. We should use his name calling game against him and focus on identifying Trump as America's first failed President. The 25th Amendment requires proof that a President is unable to carry out his duties before he can be removed. We know he's unhinged, but until we help him remove his door from the hinges completely, he will remain President.
2
Nothing is sacred if your only concern is higher ratings. Aside from looking to get even richer, that is all he is focused on doing while in the White House. History will prove this right and his base supporters are too blind to see all this.
11
Untreated mental illness is extremely dangerous. Especially in a president.
It seems that Grover Norquist has finally gotten his wish for a Republican president with enough working digits to sign the bills that a Republican Congress sends to the White House.
It seems that Grover Norquist has finally gotten his wish for a Republican president with enough working digits to sign the bills that a Republican Congress sends to the White House.
20
Let's be clear, many if not most of the public don't believe this is normal or a "new normal" as the headline suggests or breaking norms as the articles suggest. Trump is performing exactly like he did when he as a candidate - and many thought he would change, only to be surprised that he didn't-- he remains pathologically immoral, narcissistic and dangerous.
32
I don't remember conservatives complaining about the FBI investigating Hillary. They let the FBI do its work. Now the shoe is on the other foot. Let the Special Council along with the FBI do its work. If innocent (although Trump doesn't act it), then the Great Divider can walk away free to slander the country in other ways.
16
When will the Republicans realise that President Trump is dangerous and is trying to strip Americans of their democratic rights. This is what happened in the 1930's when Hitler did the same thing to the German people. They kept thinking that we can control him but things did not turn out that way did it. It is time to stand up and say "No, I don't want to live in a dictatorship. I want to live in a free society."
14
This is what happens when the so called church helps elect the least moral candidate ever. He'll continue to believe that there's nothing he can't do, no matter how evil, because he's already been proven right.
10
He's acting like a cornered animal--'investigate Hillary,' 'it's Sessions' fault'-- and like a cornered bully he takes it out on a group of people physically smaller than him, Boy Scouts. We are the laughingstock of the world right now.
28
No! Those standards have not changed! They remain exactly what they were and we will hold the White House to account. The "normalization" of Trump is the artifact of his treatment by at least some media aware of his authoritarian machinations, including Fox, and the "social" media that presumably function autonomously, such as Trump's beloved Twitter, giving him direct access to tools that undermine basic democratic standards. If extreme measures are required to uphold those standards we uphold regarding the US Presidency, then we should rescind Fox's FCC license and shut down Twitter.
2
I wish the new boundaries were related to raising the bar for defining success in government.
But they're not.
But they're not.
1
Trump as president should serve as a daily reminder about what happens when Washington politicians ignore the middle class.
The senator or Congress man or woman who can introduce meaningful legislation reforming campaign finance and who can carve out a political procedure that represents the will of the people and not just "special interests" with deep pockets stands an excellent chance of dethroning Trump and becoming the next president.
Without these two things in place it doesn't really matter which party occupies the Oval Office, the disenfranchisement of the middle class will continue.
As awful as President Trump may be, he is still a better alternative than what we had, which is really a sad statement about how badly broken the political and electoral system is today.
Carping and potshots only seem to benefit the president. The only way to remove this placeholder who calls himself the president is for American citizens to become more politically active and educated.
Without these simple but no doubt challenging first steps, all we will continue to hear is noise and the status quo.
The senator or Congress man or woman who can introduce meaningful legislation reforming campaign finance and who can carve out a political procedure that represents the will of the people and not just "special interests" with deep pockets stands an excellent chance of dethroning Trump and becoming the next president.
Without these two things in place it doesn't really matter which party occupies the Oval Office, the disenfranchisement of the middle class will continue.
As awful as President Trump may be, he is still a better alternative than what we had, which is really a sad statement about how badly broken the political and electoral system is today.
Carping and potshots only seem to benefit the president. The only way to remove this placeholder who calls himself the president is for American citizens to become more politically active and educated.
Without these simple but no doubt challenging first steps, all we will continue to hear is noise and the status quo.
1
"As awful as President Trump may be, he is still a better alternative than what we had, which is really a sad statement about how badly broken the political and electoral system is today." I had to re-read this statement 3 times, it is so incredible. We had an amazing president when Obama was in the Whitehouse. Obama is smart, caring, eloquent, and righted the country's economy with zero help from the Republicans. Secretary Clinton would have made an awesome president, though she would have to deal with a Republican party hellbent on destroying her no matter if they had to take the country down with them. Oh, gee, that's what we have now: Republicans seem to only care about hanging on to power, the country and its citizens be damned.
4
Americans needs a big mirror to take a close look at themselves. The outrageous behavior of denying facts, science, voting rights, birtherism, etc. began years ago. Trump is the end result. I can only hope that a slow, steady resistance from those that want to do good comes around. I also hope it's relentless.
11
If Trump should ever say: “Pardon me?” Well, sir, that won’t be happening anytime soon, if the rest of us have anything to say about it.
4
I cannot understand why there are not any patriotic, reasonable and intelligent Republicans in the House of Representatives who realize that Donald Trump will do major damage to their party and their chances of election in 2018, as well doing almost irreparable damage to our country and its people. There should be enough of them to band with the Democrats to initiate and pass a bill of impeachment .
40
Mr. Volper,
You only get one shot at impeachment. The bar is, quite rightly, set very high. The Republicans were unable to remove Bill Clinton, even with a seamen stained dress. As much as I think Trump is damaging our nation, I am not seeing the collective outrage needed to successfully impeach and convict. Unfortunately, I think he will have to do something so totally out of bounds that all people agree it is time to remove him from office. Only then will impeachment, conviction & removal be possible.
You only get one shot at impeachment. The bar is, quite rightly, set very high. The Republicans were unable to remove Bill Clinton, even with a seamen stained dress. As much as I think Trump is damaging our nation, I am not seeing the collective outrage needed to successfully impeach and convict. Unfortunately, I think he will have to do something so totally out of bounds that all people agree it is time to remove him from office. Only then will impeachment, conviction & removal be possible.
The craven cowards of Congress are first and foremost political creatures. As such, they are not going to utter the "i" word, let only begin proceedings against Trump, until their political careers depend on it. So until the political winds change in the halls of Congress, impeachment is but a fantasy.
No, he's not shifting the standards... Most people with any sense of right and wrong know what is acceptable behavior, for the White House and otherwise. As we've all seen, he's has pretty much crossed all of the lines or decency and decorum for almost everything.
But the standards haven't shifted though -- They've stayed the same. He's the only one that is acting like a buffoon (and a few of his minions). It's only temporary... We all know that he'll be gone soon enough and there will be a return to a normal set of rules.
I even think that there will be a swing in the other direction to try to make up for the Trump Effect, (his assault on decency). I think that with the next administration, there will be a particular interest in some of the more formal and correct procedures and protocol within the White House.
But the standards haven't shifted though -- They've stayed the same. He's the only one that is acting like a buffoon (and a few of his minions). It's only temporary... We all know that he'll be gone soon enough and there will be a return to a normal set of rules.
I even think that there will be a swing in the other direction to try to make up for the Trump Effect, (his assault on decency). I think that with the next administration, there will be a particular interest in some of the more formal and correct procedures and protocol within the White House.
14
Thanks for the line, "assault on decency," for that is what Trump is and does.
And, rather than provide cover for the so-called Republican Party -- which I no longer recognize -- and its heinous shenanigans, Trump has ripped the cover off and exposed those venal anti-Americans for what they really are: as indecent as Trump, just a little more polite.
And, rather than provide cover for the so-called Republican Party -- which I no longer recognize -- and its heinous shenanigans, Trump has ripped the cover off and exposed those venal anti-Americans for what they really are: as indecent as Trump, just a little more polite.
2
How many times and in how many ways does a presidency have to fail before we call it what it is??
17
Enough of these headlines already! When is someone going to come out and state the glaringly obvious - that this guy is mentally ill and consequently unfit for the office of President - and get serious about removing him for the good of our country? What more is there to say than this?
39
Exactly! People keep acting surprised by behavior that is ENTIRELY CONSISTENT with narcissistic personality disorder, which is a mental illness. He needs help, not power.
I've known that America has been on the decline since I went to Shanghai in 1992 for the first time and, 10 years later, they had built SEVEN new subway lines to allow for the growth that we are witnessing today and we? We built two. That's two STATIONS. So it is in this country. The sense of pulling together for the "greater good" has always been tenuous in this land, since the first days of Independence. The roots that led to the Civil War were not pulled up at it's end and have recently grown stronger. Those that voted for the Charlatan-In-Chief have nothing in common with me. The man himself, well he's NOT my president and doesn't represent my values or those of the Founding Fathers. Once he's gone and those that voted for him crawl back under their rocks, sanity will be restored and "outrageous behaviors" that are meant to diminish the office of president and the country as a whole will no longer be the norm but rather the end (to any candidate who tries to subject us to this nightmare again).
13
I sure hope so but cyberattacks by hostile nations who want to destabilize our democracy will continue to be a concern.
The brilliant minds of Silicon Valley should be working on how to prevent this asap.
We also need to change the electoral college as it is now irrelevant. It is precisely those who choose to stay in the middle of the country who also do not invest in education that are vulnerable to pseudo nationalism, xenophobia, to believe misinformation, misogyny and all that being landlocked and jobless result in. Yet these places have more vote entitlements in the elec. college. So it may happen again.
The brilliant minds of Silicon Valley should be working on how to prevent this asap.
We also need to change the electoral college as it is now irrelevant. It is precisely those who choose to stay in the middle of the country who also do not invest in education that are vulnerable to pseudo nationalism, xenophobia, to believe misinformation, misogyny and all that being landlocked and jobless result in. Yet these places have more vote entitlements in the elec. college. So it may happen again.
As much as we have come to expect this sort of thing from our current President, I was nonetheless stunned by Trump's speech to the Boy Scouts. I am an Eagle Scout and a Vigil Honor member of the Order of the Arrow (ex-scouts will know what that means) and I am appalled at our President. Never having been a scout, unlike so many other American Presidents, Mr. Trump has no idea of what the organization stands for, and saw that group of wonderful young kids as just another chance to work a crowd the way he did during the campaign. Is nothing sacred? Does he have no respect for what the Scouts stand for? Does he not realize that there are great institutions in this nation that should not be politicized? This is a sad day for the Boy Scouts of America - when the President of the United States takes the honor of an invitation to address the Jamboree and turns it into partisan political stagecraft. I cannot think of another American President who would have stooped to that level. Sad.
62
Is nothing anymore out of the bounds of decency?
Every single day half our government, and its sycophants, insult everything this nation has stood for, solely to give further credence to insanity.
Every single day half our government, and its sycophants, insult everything this nation has stood for, solely to give further credence to insanity.
11
First let me make one thing clear, I am not a Trump supporter. However if we take an historical look at his behavior, there were plenty of "rough and tumble" Presidents. My problem with his approach, however, is that he "lies like a rug". It's one thing to "call people out", including the news media. It's another thing to flat our lie about facts and insist that they are true. Our Presidents have to be credible, even if they want to Tweet to the world about anything and everything. If not, the fist fight that he wants to avoid, could turn into WWIII.
3
This is what happens when watching nonstop reality TV. You get inured to outrageousness. And then the producer – Trump – has to up the ante to hold the audience’s interest.
Trump will never rise above the theatrics. He does not have it in him. But the rest of us, as citizens, along with the rest of our government, have to remember that, wearing as Trump is, we have to be shocked to the real-life consequences of Trump’s behavior, beyond tuning in to the next episode.
Trump will never rise above the theatrics. He does not have it in him. But the rest of us, as citizens, along with the rest of our government, have to remember that, wearing as Trump is, we have to be shocked to the real-life consequences of Trump’s behavior, beyond tuning in to the next episode.
7
I think that those folks who invented reality shows ought to be punished for the degradation of our culture. So many of us watch it and instead of uplifting our minds they have lowered our intelligence and sophistication levels. It is really a shame. Look how it has worked out for us.
Everyone should try to use their talents for a higher good and not just making money.
Avoid watching them now and their ratings will fall, they'll go off air.
Everyone should try to use their talents for a higher good and not just making money.
Avoid watching them now and their ratings will fall, they'll go off air.
This morning he tweeted out a "joke" exploiting his 11-year old son, Barron by saying that will be next to be investigated. Every time I think he can't go any lower or do something more outrageous, he manages to outdo himself. But unfortunately this article is right. Most people are so sick of it all that they are now tuning out most of his daily outrages. I find that frightening.
13
Last weekend I spoke with a family member who still lives near the small town in rural Iowa where I grew up. Of course the subject of Donald Trump came up and I know that most members of her immediate family voted for him. When I asked her if she thought any of them were having second thoughts about Trump she told me, "that all everyone does is laugh at his latest tweets and shake their heads." She said that they "get a kick out of him stirring everything up all the time." We both agree that most of these rural Trump supporters never read, watch or listen to news sources with integrity and journalistic ethics and the vast majority of local radio and TV stations in rural America are hard right conservative. This is a big part of the problem. The FCC should have never dropped their strict ownership and oversight rules of the broadcast media. Those rules served an important purpose or they wouldn't have been put in place to begin with. And deregulation of the broadcast media did not happen by chance. It was the result of a strategic initiative by conservatives to deregulate the media that began in earnest in the 1970s. Perhaps in the urban areas, local radio isn't taken too seriously anymore, but these stations still play an oversized role in shaping the national discourse especially in the smaller, rural areas of the country.
17
This Presidency is an aberration. It shouldn't have happened.
Now, it seems, a fog of sadness and frustration has settled over the nation, realizing that maybe there is no way to reign this cheap clown in.
And, what of the Presidency after his? And the one after that? Have the standards been so lowered that the electorate won't care?
Maybe we'll go for a Kardashian in a future election. Or a Kid Rock. Isn't he considering a run for the Senate?
Now, it seems, a fog of sadness and frustration has settled over the nation, realizing that maybe there is no way to reign this cheap clown in.
And, what of the Presidency after his? And the one after that? Have the standards been so lowered that the electorate won't care?
Maybe we'll go for a Kardashian in a future election. Or a Kid Rock. Isn't he considering a run for the Senate?
10
It's my fervent hope that the Boy Scouts assembled in West Virginia to celebrate their annual Jamboree adhere more to the Boy Scout Oath and to the Boy Scout Law, and eschew the vile excrement that Trump regurgitated in his self-styled Hitler Youth rally. Helping other people at all times is truly admirable; bragging about grabbing a woman's genitals and espousing hate are not. Hopefully Trump's lasting legacy to the Scouts is this: Whatever path you pursue in life, do not end up like me.
22
My outrage is not decking. It's simply hard for it to rise much higher without my head exploding.
15
I'm with you. Take it easy, this abomination too shall pass. It has got to end!
2
Every interview with Republican members of Congress and Senators should end with this question: "What is the limit on what you will allow him to do before you start taking political steps to limit his power or end his term?" That way, we will know how bad it will have to get.
16
First he fired Comey.
Second he fires Sessions.
Third he fires Mueller.
Fourth there is no justice.
Fifth there is no America.
We are quickly traveling down the slippery slope that leads to the dissolution of the country. The United States was founded on the fairness of our justice system. Trump is killing it.
Second he fires Sessions.
Third he fires Mueller.
Fourth there is no justice.
Fifth there is no America.
We are quickly traveling down the slippery slope that leads to the dissolution of the country. The United States was founded on the fairness of our justice system. Trump is killing it.
16
Just when one thinks this president can go no lower, can get no sleezier, he establishes a new low point -- see his prodding of the Boy Scouts. How long will it take his defenders to see this dangerous buffoon for what he is?
20
It doesn't take more to shock. I'm shocked, disgusted and outraged - seems like on a daily basis. Encouraging The Boy Scouts of America to boo a former president and telling them about a cocktail party and his election victory? Shock shock shock. And nobody can control him - he certainly can't control himself. Scaramucci's kiss the ring routine is an unctuous nightmare. Blackmailing senators to vote on his abomination of a healthcare plan - a hideous spectacle. The list is endless and shocking. I won't get used to it!
57
I'm tired of hearing things like "His Tweet was bizarre and unprecedented" Unprecedented is being way too nice. Ignorant, stupid, unpresidential, moronic, divisive - - yes - - - saying it was unprecedented just stokes his ego.
42
Nearing the end of my first marriage, when I was in counseling to deal with the effects of my husband's alcoholism and though-the-looking-glass notion of what a marriage should be, my counselor advised me to give up on figuring out how to reason with him--"There is no reason; that's why they call it crazy."
She also slapped me with the reality that I was going to have to take charge: "There's got to be at least on adult in every family, and it looks like it's going to have to be you."
Republicans in Congress, are you reading this?
She also slapped me with the reality that I was going to have to take charge: "There's got to be at least on adult in every family, and it looks like it's going to have to be you."
Republicans in Congress, are you reading this?
865
They are not.
1
Adults understand that te Republican leadership in Congress is going along with the abuser.
NO, I'm sorry to say the only adults are US. We. The. People.
The blame lies with each and every Republican Elector who voted for this obviously unqualified, narcissistic bully overriding the clear wisdom and will of the American voters.
Ongoing blame: the Republican "leaders" in Congress, who put tax cuts for their wealthy donors and Party above Country.
Ongoing blame: the Republican "leaders" in Congress, who put tax cuts for their wealthy donors and Party above Country.
39
Not to mention the millions of my fellow Democrats who couldn't be bothered to vote in 2016.
6
What about the Democrats who never demanded a "real" democratic primary in order to put forth a better candidate than HRC or Socialist Sanders? When will you people realize that it's the leadership of BOTH parties who have let all of us down?
1
Because your "fellow Democrats" knew that your candidate was no better than the GOP candidate! Get your act together and put forth a viable alternative and talk about something other than identity politics!
Trump IS President. Hillary Clinton is NOT. Opening an investigation of Hillary would be far from symmetrical. Going after Thomas Jefferson would be more logical. Either way, just another diversionary tactic from Trump & Co. Divisive.
Now, colonizing the Boy Scouts and enlisted military? Tawdry (yet again).
Now, colonizing the Boy Scouts and enlisted military? Tawdry (yet again).
18
Sick man, sick nation. I grew up in a real estate family and saw first hand this type of narcissistic, psychologically archaic behavior. Me Jane you Tarzan.
18
What does David Rifkin mean by "given what is going on in the Russia investigation?" What is going on is the Trump family and advisors continually lie, Trump himself lies and continues to try to sabotage the investigation by firing people, with likely more firings to come. His latest call for Hillary to be investigated is a pathetic attempt to divert the media's focus on him. If Trump has nothing to hide why is he trying so hard to shut down this investigation? He can't shut it down and the truth WILL come out.
26
NYT
You missed it last election, and you still don't get it
You do not represent the people's feelings. The only outrage for the voter, is your lack of listening to We the people. You are destroying yourself enthusiastically.
What the press (media) and congress fails to see or accept, is that the only branch of government, that represents the people, today is the Executive branch.
All the rest are selfish personal fiefdoms interested in themselves, not the people that they are constitutionally charged to represent.
Trump got his by his own hand, He did and does not need this job.
Compare this to 90 % of the legislative and even the judicial branches
Most can't even tie their own shoes. Not to mention the media
Drain the sewer indeed, Just remember the stuff sticks to the walls for a long time, and may have to be scraped off with a putty knife.
You missed it last election, and you still don't get it
You do not represent the people's feelings. The only outrage for the voter, is your lack of listening to We the people. You are destroying yourself enthusiastically.
What the press (media) and congress fails to see or accept, is that the only branch of government, that represents the people, today is the Executive branch.
All the rest are selfish personal fiefdoms interested in themselves, not the people that they are constitutionally charged to represent.
Trump got his by his own hand, He did and does not need this job.
Compare this to 90 % of the legislative and even the judicial branches
Most can't even tie their own shoes. Not to mention the media
Drain the sewer indeed, Just remember the stuff sticks to the walls for a long time, and may have to be scraped off with a putty knife.
1
So "The People" that will lose health care under Trump's plan, do they count as "people" too? He represents them, how?
You're delusional.
You're delusional.
3
Trump has accomplished nothing by "his own hand." If not for his father's money and bailing him out of all his failures he would be slinging hash in some dive. That you have not read his or his family's history tells me that you are happy in your ignorance of who and what you voted for. The delusion is deep in Trump supporters almost to the point of insanity. The fact that he and his family members colluded with the Russians is perfectly OK with you so-called patriots who like to tout the Constitution as long as it gives you justification for your hatred and ignorance. You have no respect for this country, your fellow Americans or the Constitution. Trump is a disgrace to this country but as long as he hurts all the "others" you don't like, you don't have a problem with his ignorance, his pu**y grabbing ways or his total lack of knowledge of anything. You all are nothing but hypocrites.
4
We are "We the People?" Maybe the 20%-30% base that continues to support someone who is morally bankrupt: a liar, a thief, an incompetent. Not me, not many, many other people. This is not about the NYT.
3
"… a nation's capacity for outrage"? Outrage never built anything useful.
How about a nation's capacity for restoration of democracy? And where in this t.v-twitter-addicted land might that guidance be found? Not with Tom Perez and the triangulators of the still-Cllintonian-based DNC. Not even close.
Houston, we've got a problem here.
How about a nation's capacity for restoration of democracy? And where in this t.v-twitter-addicted land might that guidance be found? Not with Tom Perez and the triangulators of the still-Cllintonian-based DNC. Not even close.
Houston, we've got a problem here.
5
What Trump has done is expose the fragility of our institutions, indeed, the fragility of our democracy. He demonstrates the fallacy of what used to be a shared vision of government. As much as by law our democracy has been held together by norms of conduct. Every President has, at one time or another, crossed the line in terms of violating some norm of conduct. And there have usually been consequences. This President has demonstrated that norms of behavior, either governmental or interpersonal, matter to him at all. He has also demonstrated that, in the age of Ailes, Drudge, and Jones, that there is nothing too extreme, nothing too false or misleading, and nothing too bizarre for him to expect us to believe. Or not. With no consequences to pay, owing to a sycophantic and corrupt Republican Party, he is free to push every boundary, perhaps even legal ones.
The lack of a shared vision of how government should work is destroying our democracy. Outraged editorials in the Times and the Post mean less than nothing to him; au contraire he revels in that controversy, uses it as fuel to feed the rage of his Fox News mob, who are impervious to facts.
This is the great outrage: decades of Fox News, the far far right uber wealthy funding the populist rage, using the victims of the gentrification of both parties to destroy faith in our system ("government IS the problem"). Even if Trump goes, we are left with a deeply system.
The lack of a shared vision of how government should work is destroying our democracy. Outraged editorials in the Times and the Post mean less than nothing to him; au contraire he revels in that controversy, uses it as fuel to feed the rage of his Fox News mob, who are impervious to facts.
This is the great outrage: decades of Fox News, the far far right uber wealthy funding the populist rage, using the victims of the gentrification of both parties to destroy faith in our system ("government IS the problem"). Even if Trump goes, we are left with a deeply system.
6
I'm becoming incredibly irritated with any discussion that continues to frame Trump's behavior as "breaking norms" or parting with "traditions" or "conventions". What he is doing is spewing random lies that are putting Americans in mortal danger, and treating the American government as his own personal reality TV vehicle in order to stroke a pathologically narcissistic ego and make more money for his family and billionaire friends. Nobody cares about precedents. They care about decency, about not dying in nuclear war, about not having the services we need to survive treated like candy being hoarded and doled out selectively by a petty, petulant child. Enough with this man. Enough.
1535
Wish I could like this comment 1000 times!
5
The thing that's testing the non-Acela-corridor nation's capacity for outrage is the Deep State (mostly Brennan, but perhaps even Pompeo)'s ongoing conspiracy with the mainstream media to force out a duly-elected president. Heck, the FBI never even got the DNC servers. The "17 intelligence agencies" turned out to be Brennan lying and Comey swearing to it. This whole Russia thing is beyond ridiculous. Hillary - we're just not that into you.
Thank you. I was thinking exactly the same thing.