Note to President Trump: The U.S. government is comprised of three co-equal branches of government. You're only the head of one branch. Congress has a say too. We do not have one-man rule in which the ruler is an absolute dictator (not restricted by a constitution or laws or opposition, etc.). You might prefer that form of government because that is how you ran your business, but one-man rule is not our form of government.
3
So, what is Plan B if Russian troops cross the borders? More sanctions?
1
Wait awhile and I am sure Trump will come up with something else that occupies the news cycle just to divert attention away from Russia. I am sure he already told Putin not to worry about the sanctions.
I thought the foreign policy of the United States was the responsibility of the U.S. President while the Congress could only refuse to fund his policy.
Wonder why Trump is abrogating his job? Perhaps he just wants to be sure to have someone else to blame for his losses.
Wonder why Trump is abrogating his job? Perhaps he just wants to be sure to have someone else to blame for his losses.
1
What must the Russians have on Trump? Even his most diehard disciples can't be that stupid, to think that Trump's refusal to attack Putin for his cyber assaults on our democratic process is anything but Trump being blackmailed for some untoward horrific incidents Putin has on this bloviating billionaire. Trump did not plan to get the nomination, and he definitely did not expect to be president. That would have saved him from the gauntlet he is now facing, the exposure of his vast corrupt empire, his tax evasions, his collusion with the Russians and other foreign entities, his decades of dirty dealing which as a private citizen kept him out of real trouble, indictment, conviction, and a stay at the Gray Bar Hotel. That is all shattered now. Trump is beholden to we the American people. He is a Federal employee, a public servant, answerable to a higher authority than the miasma of NYC real estate laws. Trump stepped into it good this time. He went a bridge too far, overextending his ego to the point he believed in his invincibility. Trump is a man-child whose days bullying others has come to an abrupt halt. He is now the one who will be persecuted and prosecuted to the fullest extent of the Law. Could not happen to a more deserving individual.
DD
Manhattan
DD
Manhattan
2
Isn't the president required by oath to defend the Constitution? By signing legislation that he says contains provisions which are "clearly unconstitutional," isn't he abdicating his responsibility?
You've all probably seen it, but just in case, check out Charlie Savage's breakdown on the signing statement. It's on the Politics page.
Could the NYT put together a summary of the current status of sanctions between US and Russia (and perhaps between Russia and our allies)?
1
I signed the sanctions Vlad, but don't worry, they won't be enforced, because they may be "unconstitutional". You surely know that I respect and uphold the Constitution at every turn.
1
A background and unreported issue here here is the hostility against Russia felt by Israel and its lobby in the U.S., which includes Senator Schumer and Cardin, because of Russia's support of Iran and Syria and other issues. As far as Ukraine is concerned: It was largely unnoticed that the German and Polish foreign ministers negotiated in Kiev with a democratically elected government on behalf of forces that later overthrew that government in February 2014 and received IMF funding. If you read closely online dispatches from the New York Times and The Guardian of Feb. 20 and 21 of 2014, you will see that a rightist paramilitary force broke a truce, surprised off-guard police, and set in motion a process that drove an elected president from East Ukraine from office. You will see that Higgins and Kramer in the New York Times played up the truce-breaking as the Government firing on Maidan demonstrators. The Russians replied in kind by taking the pro-Russian Crimea. See for yourself online.
1
He took an oath to uphold the Constitution. He calls this bill unconstitutional, yet signed it anyway. He has the constitutional power to veto any bill, yet he chose not to. He talks of not enforcing this bill. That would be unconstitutional. There is no answer other than he is constrained by some relationship with Russia. Eventually we may learn what it is. In the meantime, Mr. Trump will continue to tweet, twist and spin.
1
It sure sounds to me like Trump is not going to follow the law. He is making it sound like he has the option to disregard it. Someone—Congress, Mueller, the Cabinet, please—please—remove this travesty of a human being from office. Dictatorcreep is happening right before our eyes.
4
If I understand the term properly, "collusion" requires two parties to work toward an agreed objective. My take on the Trump- Russian connection is that the Trumps were just stupid and got played. Now they are engaged in a frantic effort to cover that up. It's the cover up that will do them in, not the initial stupidity.
But for sure there is more than enough just deserts to go around. The Russians bargained for a willing pawn, but got an "impotent" dummy. They got what they deserved. The 48% percent of voters who bought Trump's con got what they deserved: a blatant liar with no ability to do what he promised. At least half of them appear to be too stupid to ever figure it out. The 50% of eligible voters who chose to sit out what was obviously going to be the most consequential election or their lifetimes got what they deserved: a perfect reason to remain cynical.
For everyone else, who did pay attention and tried to stop it,well sometimes life just sucks. I mean really really sucks.
But for sure there is more than enough just deserts to go around. The Russians bargained for a willing pawn, but got an "impotent" dummy. They got what they deserved. The 48% percent of voters who bought Trump's con got what they deserved: a blatant liar with no ability to do what he promised. At least half of them appear to be too stupid to ever figure it out. The 50% of eligible voters who chose to sit out what was obviously going to be the most consequential election or their lifetimes got what they deserved: a perfect reason to remain cynical.
For everyone else, who did pay attention and tried to stop it,well sometimes life just sucks. I mean really really sucks.
3
"... unconstitutional..."
Does the current executive branch actually know what the word entails?
Does the current executive branch actually know what the word entails?
1
To take it one step further, has he even read the Constitution? My guess, no. Thank goodness Congress is putting a leash on this guy for the time being.
1
Why are some readers citing in a definitive way that No Collusion has been found with Russia? Mueller still has to report his findings AND he just hired a new attorney with experience in Bribery by foreign powers.
3
At least we can say Trump didn't warn us when he creates a Constitutional crisis by refusing to "faithfully execute" this law, unlike ACA.
This whole Russian debacle is mindless. There are NO conceivable constructive efforts to bridge the gap between nations. There are many issues that the U.S. and Russia can work together to help reduce international friction (internet crime, global terrorism, etc.). True, Russia has an identity complex. It strives to be seen as a model nation, yet the West knows better thanks to our free press. That said, it's our responsibility to show that we can work together. With congress playing tit-for-tat divisional politics, this only weakens our foreign policy agenda and extends the wrong message. Not only will this not reverse Russia's bad decisions, it will make them dig deeper.
"The Constitution and the Laws of the United States...shall be the supreme Law of the Land." Article VI of the Constitution. Under the law of Trump, the Constitution is more what you'd call "guidelines" than actual rules.
I wonder if it has sunk in that the Constitution requires the Executive branch, Congress and the Judiciary, both federal and state, to support the Constitution (Article II and Article VI). In addition, the military officer oath of office also requires that they support the Constitution.
When Khizr Kahn held up his copy of the Constitution and asked if we had read the Constitution, I realized I really didn't know what it said. I read it and studied it. I wish Mr. Trump had done the same.
Then again, knowing what it says and following it are two different things, aren't they.
I wonder if it has sunk in that the Constitution requires the Executive branch, Congress and the Judiciary, both federal and state, to support the Constitution (Article II and Article VI). In addition, the military officer oath of office also requires that they support the Constitution.
When Khizr Kahn held up his copy of the Constitution and asked if we had read the Constitution, I realized I really didn't know what it said. I read it and studied it. I wish Mr. Trump had done the same.
Then again, knowing what it says and following it are two different things, aren't they.
1
Yes - why don't we & Mr Trump put effort into strengthening relationships including Trade with countries that have stood with us for the last 70+ years - instead of demeaning & questioning relationships with countries like Great Britain, much of Europe, Mexico, Canada, etc - and why instead does he instead spend so much energy fretting and attempting to build something with the old USSR (Russia) who has proven they are an untrustworthy government.
I applaud Congress standing up for what is right - gee, it would be nice to go back to at least pretending our country stands for just that - Doing What is Right - and supporting those that stand for mutual values of supporting Freedom.
I applaud Congress standing up for what is right - gee, it would be nice to go back to at least pretending our country stands for just that - Doing What is Right - and supporting those that stand for mutual values of supporting Freedom.
1
Trump really doesn't know much about what's going on, does he?
The president is not king.
With legislation, Trump does not get "the possibility that he might choose not to enforce them as lawmakers intended".
Also, Congress didn't spend the last 7 tears talking about healthcare. The GOP spent it posturing over repeal, and never had any talks or planning.
It's like Trump gets all his info from Fox News, isn't it?
The president is not king.
With legislation, Trump does not get "the possibility that he might choose not to enforce them as lawmakers intended".
Also, Congress didn't spend the last 7 tears talking about healthcare. The GOP spent it posturing over repeal, and never had any talks or planning.
It's like Trump gets all his info from Fox News, isn't it?
Now that the Russians are mad at Trump and consider him "useless" by signing the sanction bill against them, will they now retaliate and show us what they have on him?
Bring it on, I say.
Bring it on, I say.
1
The only reason democrats signed this bill was to try to impugn the president for supposed Russian tampering of the election. This bill is mostly about Russia's encroachments into Ukraine. Wimpy democrats would not say that though They wanna try to make it all about a fake news story
Obama turned a blind eye to the invasion of Crimea....Did absolutely NOTHING about it. Who was screaming about that?
This manufactured rage against Trump seems to be coming from people who want to rant and rave because he is on the other side, but actually either don't care or don't know about the resolution of any given issue so long as they get to throw mud in the meantime.
Shame on you all.
This manufactured rage against Trump seems to be coming from people who want to rant and rave because he is on the other side, but actually either don't care or don't know about the resolution of any given issue so long as they get to throw mud in the meantime.
Shame on you all.
Someone needs to tell Trump: Have someone read U.S. Const. Art. I, Sec. 7 to you.
1
This signing further exhibits Trump's collusion confusion. He also now suffers from the delusion that he hears the voices of the Director of the Boy Scouts and of the President of Mexico. How much more loosely tethered to factual reality must President Trump become before GOP officials decide to remove him from office?
Collusion, confusion and delusion definitely are not presidential qualities.
What good is the 25th Amendment if none of the appropriate governmental officials are willing to invoke it?
Collusion, confusion and delusion definitely are not presidential qualities.
What good is the 25th Amendment if none of the appropriate governmental officials are willing to invoke it?
1
Mr. Trump said the bill “included a number of clearly unconstitutional provisions.”
I agree with the President. In theory, if we actually had a President who wasn't mentally disturbed this power should rest in the office of the President. However if the President believes this is "unconstitutional" didn't he swear an oath to defend it? I'm confused...
I agree with the President. In theory, if we actually had a President who wasn't mentally disturbed this power should rest in the office of the President. However if the President believes this is "unconstitutional" didn't he swear an oath to defend it? I'm confused...
1
Our beloved leader does little to distance himself and his minions from the very much alive implications in the Steele Dossier. The "fake news" keeps trickling out, causing discomfort in the Oval Office. This is stuff that Shakespeare, if he were with us, would consume to fuel a comedy. Is it unfair to assume that Trump is under the spell of Putin?
Donald Trump is officially a lame duck president just 195 days into office. Nobody listens to him anymore. And why should they? He's either in capable of telling the truth or simply doesn't know what the truth is. He has no grasp of the issues and doesn't care. He's turned into a powerless figurehead like that of a king, except one that nobody likes. His approval rating is down to 33% and headed down into the 20s. He's more of a disruption than anything else. And we had somebody who president Obama called the most capable person to be president in history night states. By 3 million votes the American people choose right. But an antiquated electoral process brought along this disaster of a human being into the White House.
4
Why is Russia's debt to GDP ratio so low? Russia contains over 30% of all the natural resources in the world. It contains the worlds largest natural gas reserves, second largest coal reserves, and the eighth largest oil reserves.
The sanctions are a last ditch attempt to overthrow russia economically.
The sanctions are a last ditch attempt to overthrow russia economically.
Can't wait to hear what Trump had written as a "signing statement" for him to ham before the cameras with...
So the Russians get Donald elected, and in return ask only for the modest compensation of a little sanctions relief, so Vlad and his fellow kleptocrats don’t have to work up such a sweat trying to move their ill-gotten gains out of Mother Russia. This is how they’re repaid for their help? what is the Russian for ‘ingrate’?
I feel bad for Donald, he’s trying so hard to play dictator with the big boys, but there's that one little detail called ‘separation of powers.’
I feel bad for Donald, he’s trying so hard to play dictator with the big boys, but there's that one little detail called ‘separation of powers.’
1
When Trump calls something "unconstitutional", I move on to another story. It is sort of like a sports fan giving advice to a professional athlete.
1
Presidents don't decide on whether a law is constitutional or not. Trump doesn't understand the separation of powers in the Constitution he hasn't read.
"....Dmitri A. Medvedev, the Russian prime minister, declared..."The Trump administration has demonstrated total impotence, handing over executive functions to Congress in the most humiliating way possible,”...He added that “the American establishment has totally outplayed Trump” with the goal “to remove him from power.”...."
This is truly a startling public statement from Russia; one can only hope it comes true!!
This is truly a startling public statement from Russia; one can only hope it comes true!!
2
Does anyone have evidence that President Trump has actually read the U.S. Constitution?
1
DJT is in a box...and the walls are quickly collapsing in around him. Lets come up with a "hey, this just wasnt for you" process to show the world America is for adults.
1
So how would Trump know what's Constitutional? He has never read it, doesn't understand it even when explained to him and doesn't care. The bill may be flawed in that it puts curbs on the Executive to negotiate. This Trump hasn't the mentality to even start negotiations with anyone. Also, maybe some curbs should be put on the Executive branch which has been ever expanding their powers for years by taking powers away from Congress that Constitutionally are theirs. Unfortunately Congress has been dysfunctional for years too due to extreme partisanship. The president is supposed to defend and protect the Constitution of which he knows nothing about. The Congress is supposed to make laws that benefit the people instead of themself and their ideologies. What a mess.
6
Trump was willing to let Health Care fail so he could blame it on the Democrats. ("It's not on me"). Why should any President sign into law a bill that he deems unConstitutional? He could have refused to sign it and let it become law without tainting himself if he had any principles. Then it wouldn't be "on him", and he could continue to be a Russian hero.
If he truly believed it was a wrong-headed bill, he should have had the backbone to not sign it. But the man has no scruples, no morals, no principles, and no beliefs except what benefits himself and his family.
At
If he truly believed it was a wrong-headed bill, he should have had the backbone to not sign it. But the man has no scruples, no morals, no principles, and no beliefs except what benefits himself and his family.
At
Trump reluctantly signs the Russian sanctions bill calling it "seriously flawed." I call it TRUMP-PROOF!
Both sides of the aisle joined forces to make sure that our mixed-up President would not in any way be able to muck-up their sanctions package, which he would certainly do if given half a chance.
Both sides of the aisle joined forces to make sure that our mixed-up President would not in any way be able to muck-up their sanctions package, which he would certainly do if given half a chance.
5
Trump is almost as funny as the character on the old Live, it's Saturday Night episode "The Liar".
He should adopt the phrase "yeah, that's the ticket", and append it to everything he says.
He should adopt the phrase "yeah, that's the ticket", and append it to everything he says.
8
So how are these sanctions different from the ones already in place? The article explains nothing.
5
Trump signs the sanctions bill because he has no choice, and apologizes to Putin because he is scared of what Putin has on him. We can pretty much give up on this turkey negotiating anything like American interests. We can only wait while Mueller is following and documenting the money, kompromat, collusion, and obstruction, and then hope for cleansing when the facts are revealed.
13
Never mind this silliness. Trump and Tillerson just refused 80 Mil to fight Russian and ISIS propaganda. This is a HUGE gift to Russia. Congress needs to act to make Trump and Tillerson take the dollars and use them effectively. This is American soft power and influence going down the tubes. All so that Trump and Tillerson don't upset Russia.
10
John of Pittsburgh and Cologne said:
"If Congress had tried to handcuff Obama's ability to deal with Russia or any other major power, there would have been outrage at the encroachment on the office of president."
ABSOLUTELY correct John! Spot ON!!! "Outrage at the encroachment on the Office Of President" Obama. "Outrage at the encroachment on the office of president" trump? Not so much.
"The hypocrisy is no longer stunning. Or even modestly surprising."
Nor, in fact, does it actually exist.
"If Congress had tried to handcuff Obama's ability to deal with Russia or any other major power, there would have been outrage at the encroachment on the office of president."
ABSOLUTELY correct John! Spot ON!!! "Outrage at the encroachment on the Office Of President" Obama. "Outrage at the encroachment on the office of president" trump? Not so much.
"The hypocrisy is no longer stunning. Or even modestly surprising."
Nor, in fact, does it actually exist.
3
Yes but there's one big difference. Obama knew the issues inside out and better than anyone. Donald Trump is absolutely ignorant about anything. He cannot be trusted to make any decision. No I was just a matter of time before he is removed and hopefully jailed.
2
If he thinks the legislation has "clearly unconstitutional provisions" then he has a duty to veto it. He swore an oath to protect and defend the constitution and plays a vital role in the constitutional structure.
Instead the idea seems to be that he'll sign the law but then decide if and when he does and does not want to enforce it. That's an affront to the constitutional system as well. It's like signing statements, except open ended. If the President has the power to simply suspend laws he decides are unconstitutional, then we don't have a functional constitutional structure and we don't have the rule of law. Duly enacted law has to mean something.
Even if President Trump simply disagrees with the law as a matter of policy, he should veto it. Let them override him. Instead we get this pathetic whining as if he's on the outside looking in. He's President for god's sake, he doesn't get to lob grenades at the powers that be--he has the power! I often get a sense that he's throwing bricks at his own house (e.g. this or complaining on twitter about DoD policy or DoJ legal strategy) and trying to convince the public that it's still not his house. Sad thing is, we'll probably buy that silliness.
Instead the idea seems to be that he'll sign the law but then decide if and when he does and does not want to enforce it. That's an affront to the constitutional system as well. It's like signing statements, except open ended. If the President has the power to simply suspend laws he decides are unconstitutional, then we don't have a functional constitutional structure and we don't have the rule of law. Duly enacted law has to mean something.
Even if President Trump simply disagrees with the law as a matter of policy, he should veto it. Let them override him. Instead we get this pathetic whining as if he's on the outside looking in. He's President for god's sake, he doesn't get to lob grenades at the powers that be--he has the power! I often get a sense that he's throwing bricks at his own house (e.g. this or complaining on twitter about DoD policy or DoJ legal strategy) and trying to convince the public that it's still not his house. Sad thing is, we'll probably buy that silliness.
10
Tillerson: This is not good for the future of Exxon oil deals.
Trump: This is not good for the future of Trump Hotels.
Pence: All I know is that the Putin government is not sufficiently holy.
Trump: This is not good for the future of Trump Hotels.
Pence: All I know is that the Putin government is not sufficiently holy.
17
Liar and a coward is what we have in the oval office. In 74 if I said I have a corn the draft board would have shot me. Guilt and feeling less than creates these superhawks/patriots who when they criticize those of us who did become cowards.
1
Hey Donald, your pals in congress sent you a message with this legislation and you BFF Putin also sent you a message. Your weak, very, very weak.
6
for the sake of nation unity? 45 has never concerned himself with unity; he has yet to address all Americans, has not acknowledged the 3mil that voted directly against him and others that did not vote at all.
Disingenuous thy name is Trump.
Disingenuous thy name is Trump.
7
Donald Trump is a traitor and puts this whole nation in danger. Remove him from office already.
14
Donnie and his little hands finally got to
sign something.
sign something.
9
I'm signing the bill, but it's completely unfair to me and unconstitutional in every way. It's a flawed bill. Will I enforce it? Probably I might. Could be. I'm not saying I won't. Can you believe anything I say? Trust me, we'll see. Just wait.
8
Trust me we'll see, it will be beautiful, bigly, very, very bigly, ok, ok.
2
What are the sanctions?
The article doesn't tell us. It seems more concerned with gloating that the Congress has stuck it to President Trump, as do a number of commentators here.
I haven't forgot the recent Times' article detailing the sub-human brutality meted out by ISIS. Given this, we should maybe be cooperating with Russia and Iran to remove the scourge that is ISIS. It could be that Trump and Tillerson understand this and see it as a more credible option than training and supplying inept militias in Syria and Iraq.
The article doesn't tell us. It seems more concerned with gloating that the Congress has stuck it to President Trump, as do a number of commentators here.
I haven't forgot the recent Times' article detailing the sub-human brutality meted out by ISIS. Given this, we should maybe be cooperating with Russia and Iran to remove the scourge that is ISIS. It could be that Trump and Tillerson understand this and see it as a more credible option than training and supplying inept militias in Syria and Iraq.
2
Write your representative who surely voted for sanctions. The Congress is letting you know that they have security concerns regarding Russian meddling in our government and those of our allies. That makes me feel better, not worse.
lol you americans should read/watch other news sources other than your mainstream media. you have no idea what the sanction is. your politicians are sanctioning russia in gas etc. which prevents your european allies from doing business with russia so that europe will be buying gas etc. only from usa which is very much expensive.. it is a sanction to the benefit of usa in the expense of your european allies. this sanction is like telling your european allies to whom should they do business like they are another state of us lol.
Mike, I hear what you are saying. However, I am not convinced. To date, the only motivation for the presidents action is - Donald Trump is concerned about Donald Trump and only Donald Trump.
Putin hates the sanctions, but Vlad the Impaler will wait and turn things against Don the Con.
Putin, unlike Trump, listens to his intelligence officers. Consequently:
Putin knows the international reputation of the US is at an all time low.
Putin knows the US is more internally divided than at any other time in living memory.
Putin knows Trump lacks all credibility.
Putin knows Trump's responses to the slightest provocation are uncensored, often vengeful and contrary to his own and America's interests.
Putin knows the narcissistic Trump responds to manipulative flattery.
Putin knows that if Trump is to be a successful world leader, he would have to possess a coherent vision of America's objectives and in-depth knowledge of the threats to our national interests. Putin knows Trump has no such vision and knowledge.
Putin knows Trump's vision is as incoherent as his use of language. Putin knows Trump’s run-on sentences, sentence fragments, repetitions of trite "pronouncements," low-level vocabulary, non-sequiturs, lack of all semblance of logic, inane tweets, etc., are emblematic of Trump's fragmented psyche.
Putin knows Trump scarcely acknowledges there is a factual world out there, inhabited by other persons, concerning which he should form a coherent vision, and over and against which he should reflect on the quality of his own character and comportment.
Putin knows what all informed US citizens already know: Trump is unfit to be the leader of the Western Alliance.
Putin, unlike Trump, listens to his intelligence officers. Consequently:
Putin knows the international reputation of the US is at an all time low.
Putin knows the US is more internally divided than at any other time in living memory.
Putin knows Trump lacks all credibility.
Putin knows Trump's responses to the slightest provocation are uncensored, often vengeful and contrary to his own and America's interests.
Putin knows the narcissistic Trump responds to manipulative flattery.
Putin knows that if Trump is to be a successful world leader, he would have to possess a coherent vision of America's objectives and in-depth knowledge of the threats to our national interests. Putin knows Trump has no such vision and knowledge.
Putin knows Trump's vision is as incoherent as his use of language. Putin knows Trump’s run-on sentences, sentence fragments, repetitions of trite "pronouncements," low-level vocabulary, non-sequiturs, lack of all semblance of logic, inane tweets, etc., are emblematic of Trump's fragmented psyche.
Putin knows Trump scarcely acknowledges there is a factual world out there, inhabited by other persons, concerning which he should form a coherent vision, and over and against which he should reflect on the quality of his own character and comportment.
Putin knows what all informed US citizens already know: Trump is unfit to be the leader of the Western Alliance.
15
Russia will get even. They'll stop buying apartments in Trump buildings.
14
This bill is part waste of time & misguided. N Korea sanctions. Useless, have not accomplished anything, & only hurts the masses. Iran sanctions. Probably violate the nuclear deal and will give Iran an excuse to go ahead with it's nuclear program. Also helps keep Iranian oil off the market so that makes the Saudis happy, & it hurts us. It also just frustrates the other five countries who signed the deal & are trying to do business. And Russia, We already had sanctions against them for their actions in Ukraine. Yes they meddled in the election. But at Trump & the Republican's invitation. Trump is right that it would be good for all to have better relations with Russia. But his reasons are personal, because he owes them money & they have the goods on him. The Rex T Exxon thing has different angles. Exxon invested 500 billion or more for drilling rights in the North. But that has been held up. I have no problem with Exxon investing money to do business. You have to wonder whether some other country will come in and then Exxon gets shut out, maybe losses the investment. I myself have a side business where I sell around the world, and with Russia it's always on & off. Now it's off again. That's another thing, sanctions can hurt us also. Trade and business creates jobs & money flowing. Even though Putin is a gangster, and no better than Trump, it is better to try and have a evolving relationship. Plus we have to do other world business with the Russians as does Europe.
Orange.NJ
Orange.NJ
1
That's the cost of being the boss.
2
Why did it take Trump so long to sign that sanctions bill? Could it have been that he was worried about what Putin would possibly reveal about him if he rubbed him the wrong way? I think so.
Trump has been an obedient and submissive servant to Putin from the day he ran for the U.S. presidency. And Putin's unforgivable interference in our presidential election (and who knows what else) didn't seem to phase Trump at all....Any true president would've raised holy hell, but not Trump. He was as quiet as a church mouse...How curious, don't you think?
Yes, Putin's puppet now occupies our White House via what I consider to be a "hostile takeover". From the day he was "selected" as president, he has been very, very careful not to step on Putin's toes, presumably for fear of Putin's reprisal, i.e. what he might reveal about Trump's past...No wonder it took him so long to sign that sanctions' legislation! Any true president would have signed that document the moment it landed on his desk.
Trump has been an obedient and submissive servant to Putin from the day he ran for the U.S. presidency. And Putin's unforgivable interference in our presidential election (and who knows what else) didn't seem to phase Trump at all....Any true president would've raised holy hell, but not Trump. He was as quiet as a church mouse...How curious, don't you think?
Yes, Putin's puppet now occupies our White House via what I consider to be a "hostile takeover". From the day he was "selected" as president, he has been very, very careful not to step on Putin's toes, presumably for fear of Putin's reprisal, i.e. what he might reveal about Trump's past...No wonder it took him so long to sign that sanctions' legislation! Any true president would have signed that document the moment it landed on his desk.
8
TRUMP Knows what caveats are? Rumor has that while he was signing the bill, he was overheard humming, Swing Low Sweet Caveat. We can rest assured that in looking over the Jordan, Trump did not see a band of angels.
3
What a puerile and dangerous game.Hope this does not escalate senselessly and turn like the alleged weapons of mass destruction that took us to war in Iraq. A stupid replay of the Cold War, except Communism is not an issue now. Nor is Russia a super power. What a distraction from urgent domestic concerns.
2
Though it has become quite clear that there was no collusion, Trump's affinity for Putin and Russia, is a mystery. What possible rationale is there? Even his own pick for CIA Mr Pompeo is quick to agree that Russia did try to mettle in our election. There is no evidence that Russian efforts changed anything. Trump won because HC forgot there was a rust belt and lost 70 electoral votes there. But, still why the Trump affection for Putin and Russia? He does not seem to have this feeling for other foreign counties. It just might be he enjoys confounding those who understand how dangerous Russia is. But, all of us are really taking our eyes off the ball. Our real challenge is China. China is no paper tiger and it will only get worse. And, we should be thinking about Iran and N Korea as well. Maybe state, defense, homeland security and congress can rise to the task: Mr T is not quite there and may never be.
2
You may not be able to prove collusion, but I think the average American knew there was no direct collision between Trump, and the Russians, but make no mistake, Trump may be a liar, cheat, he may have swindled destroyed small business, and the lives of those families who depended on them, and becoming a low end billionaire in the process,thanks in part to huge tax breaks, thank to congress, and handed that bill to the tax payer.
In the big scheme of billionaires Trump having only a couple of billion hardly puts him in the same rarefied air of say, Bill Gates, or Jeff Bezos, or Warren Buffet. Or even some of his top aides have far more money than he does, the Sec of State does, a lot more.
So no collusion, Trump is like a mafia don, he doesn't get his hands dirty, but he knows what's happening, benefits from it, and throws anyone under the bus who either gets in his way, or embarrasses him. It the fact that Trump took part in fabricating a lie, to cover for the first lie, to cover for the lie before that, and that lie, started with him and his asking the Russians to hack into the DNC, and by extension our election system.
No, Trumps not a total dunderhead, he's just smart enough to create a persona where none existed, parlaying that into a T.V. show that implies he's a brilliant business man. In fact every business he's touched, vodka, to water, to a travel agency, to steaks, to an airline, to a USFL Team, and be a dangerous man, who can get us all killed.
In the big scheme of billionaires Trump having only a couple of billion hardly puts him in the same rarefied air of say, Bill Gates, or Jeff Bezos, or Warren Buffet. Or even some of his top aides have far more money than he does, the Sec of State does, a lot more.
So no collusion, Trump is like a mafia don, he doesn't get his hands dirty, but he knows what's happening, benefits from it, and throws anyone under the bus who either gets in his way, or embarrasses him. It the fact that Trump took part in fabricating a lie, to cover for the first lie, to cover for the lie before that, and that lie, started with him and his asking the Russians to hack into the DNC, and by extension our election system.
No, Trumps not a total dunderhead, he's just smart enough to create a persona where none existed, parlaying that into a T.V. show that implies he's a brilliant business man. In fact every business he's touched, vodka, to water, to a travel agency, to steaks, to an airline, to a USFL Team, and be a dangerous man, who can get us all killed.
1
Even when signing the new Russian sanctions into law, Mr. Trump can't find a strong word admonishing Russia and supporting this near unanimous Congressional action: "We hope there will be cooperation between our two countries on major global issues so that these sanctions will no longer be necessary.” Ain't that sweet? Our leader regularly condemns his Attorney General, Congress, Republicans, Democrats, President Obama, women, John McCain, Mexicans, NATO, etc., etc., but when it comes to Russian, no harsh words are called for. It makes me wonder what the Russians are holding over Trump (or his family members). Time will tell.
12
I don't get how he says parts of the bill are unconstitutional and yet he signs it.
7
That upset me too but maybe not for the same reason. First, he had to sign it because the bill passed with so many votes its veto-proof. Second, the president doesn't get to declare what is or isn't constitutional. That's up to the Supreme Court. That he said such an inane thing reveals how he thinks, and he thinks like an autocrat, not the leader of a democracy.
It's veto proof, he can ask for an injunction, but he won't get it. Trumps statement about the constitutionality of it, is the way he frames things when he cannot exert any control over it. Like his statement. "If I don't win, you know it's rigged" or he distracts by saying "what about Clinton" "why isn't she being investigated. And not to get off point, but umm, the Clintons were under investigation for more than 8 years, financed by none other than, you guessed it the Republican Party.
And they tried to impeach Clinton over a lie about SEX, yet they give Trump a pass. But back to my point, the fact is, if a bill is veto proof, it doesn't require his signature to become law. This is true even at the state level. Kansas is the most recent state where the republican controlled legislature had to re-impose taxes they cut in the "smaller government" plan. What they found out is, you can't unwind big government, and what it costs to fund it. That's the answer.
And they tried to impeach Clinton over a lie about SEX, yet they give Trump a pass. But back to my point, the fact is, if a bill is veto proof, it doesn't require his signature to become law. This is true even at the state level. Kansas is the most recent state where the republican controlled legislature had to re-impose taxes they cut in the "smaller government" plan. What they found out is, you can't unwind big government, and what it costs to fund it. That's the answer.
This law was passed by a veto proof majority, demonstrating that Donald is becoming President Irrelevant. Then he stupidly criticizes the vote, as if his opinion mattered, rather than accept the outcome. Congress overwhelmingly rendered its decision, but he still whines. Then again, this is the same man who questioned the vote from the election, even though he won.
Republicans are also beginning to do the unthinkable, working with Democrats towards a workable solution to health care, another indication that they do not look to the White House for leadership.
Republicans are also beginning to do the unthinkable, working with Democrats towards a workable solution to health care, another indication that they do not look to the White House for leadership.
7
Congress has taken over foreign policy.
This sets a grave precedent and will come back to haunt the democrats -- and the republicans to a lesser degree since they care little for such principles -- down the line in future.
This sets a grave precedent and will come back to haunt the democrats -- and the republicans to a lesser degree since they care little for such principles -- down the line in future.
1
What no golden pen moment on this?
1
The President, the Vice President, and the Secretary of State remind me of a three headed dog, each one barking a different message.
3
What a joke for him to call certain provisions "clearly unconstitutional " - he has no idea what the Constitution is, let alone what it says!
6
The longest rope has an end. Hold on Donald.
10
The will of the American people? Nonsense! Just wait for the consequences.
7
My President can't even say why he is unhappy with this bill? If he had some cogent thoughts about this bill I would expect, at least, a short speech outlining his reluctance here. As an American citizen I would like to know why he is so obviously against this measure. He shows no leadership here. I am left in the dark by the absence of any explanation by my President.
6
President Donald Trump has suffered a double whammy on foreign policy.
First, his campaign promise of friendly relations with Russia is dead.
Second, he has signed a Congress sponsored legislation against Russia. These sanctions are retaliation against Russia's supposedly meddling in the last presidential election.
Trump has signed a legislation which, implicitly, recognizes the support given by Moscow for his election as president. This legislation will eventually come to haunt him.
First, his campaign promise of friendly relations with Russia is dead.
Second, he has signed a Congress sponsored legislation against Russia. These sanctions are retaliation against Russia's supposedly meddling in the last presidential election.
Trump has signed a legislation which, implicitly, recognizes the support given by Moscow for his election as president. This legislation will eventually come to haunt him.
15
Trump is a traitor and a not very good one at that. He thought he could just order the sanctions lifted after he colluded with Russians to steal the election. But had he done his homework, any homework, and understanding for the Constitution and separation and equality of power, he would have known. He is so stupid it is dangerous.
22
HAD he done his homework he would have known that he needed to pick out his own staff. I know Jared is the guy that asked the question but when it gets down to two candidates they start to pivot to focus on transition team; with Jared being his Jeeves, if the conversation came up.. Jared would not have asked such a bone-headed question.
An unfolding collision of hegemon and kleptocrat.
7
The bill says more about Congress' view of Trump than it does of Russia.
9
Do you think Donald Jr. helped his father write the caveats in the President's signing statement -- "the way any good son would do"?
7
Who wants to bet Tillerson will resign now that he's not going to get big money WRT exxon oil sanctions?
Maybe we can have Mrs.Trump as head of state.
Maybe we can have Mrs.Trump as head of state.
6
I had Russian Politicians complain that the sanctions were "The equivalent of a trade war." I"m trying to think, that other then oil, which we don't need much of, what Russia has that we desperately need?
Unlike Russia, the US government while recently going thru some shakes, isn't run by gangsters. There are checks and balances, and that's what we have here with this new legislation.
Unlike Russia, the US government while recently going thru some shakes, isn't run by gangsters. There are checks and balances, and that's what we have here with this new legislation.
5
The total IRONY being that after telling congress he was "waiting with pen in hand" to sign legislation sent to him, they sent him a sanctions bill against the one country he most favors.
Plus the extra IRONY is when both sides of the aisle forged an overwhelming bipartisan effort together for the first time in I can not remember how long now.
What was the last time congress legislated like this...?
Plus the extra IRONY is when both sides of the aisle forged an overwhelming bipartisan effort together for the first time in I can not remember how long now.
What was the last time congress legislated like this...?
6
A news item seeming to draw little attention today after the president signed the Russia sanctions bill. Concerning an ever more aggressive North Korea, comments in an interview with Gen. McMaster, comments from Secy. Tillerson, inaction by China, and great concern about an unstable and impulsive president looking for, and really needing, a big win. Looking more and more like military action against North Korea is likely. If that happens, with the paranoid and unbalanced leader of that country, thousands, maybe hundreds of thousands or millions of people could die if a pre-emotive military action is taken by the US. Probably a large number of US military personnel stationed in South Korea and Japan, and most of the rest innocent civilians. Actually, this is beginning to look a lot like the Cuban Missle Crisis to me. Only this time with very unstable leaders in the two adversarial countries both needing to show how tough they are. Anybody else starting to share my concern. Peace be with us all I hope.
6
I am sry that signing hurt Trump's pinkie and damaged his love life with Putin. But when is the investigation going to reveal the truth about this pseudo Ruskie.
5
It's about time that someone finally stood up and spoiled Trumps grand scheme washing machine. The extent to which Trump and his cronies believed in the stupidity of Americans is the extent to which he is a fool. His enablers should be strung up and exposed.
5
He only signed it to spare himself the embarrassment of a certain veto over-ride. No signing ceremony, Don? It's the most important legislation of your tenure so far...
16
Trump's master in Moscow is not happy. Maybe Putin should tweet about his displeasure.
2
Baker omitted the part where the traitor said, "As President, I can make far better deals with foreign countries than Congress.” He was alluding to his business experience, somehow thinking he was elected CEO of the U.S., not President. It would seem the word "tripartite" will never be included in his vocabulary.
6
"“This bill remains seriously flawed — particularly because it encroaches on the executive branch’s authority to negotiate,” Mr. Trump said in the separate statement to reporters. “Congress could not even negotiate a health care bill after seven years of talking. By limiting the executive’s flexibility, this bill makes it harder for the United States to strike good deals for the American people (...)".
In real life, candidate Trump had promised to do the EXACT opposite of what the GOP healthcare bills were doing, and instead of engaging in the real, tough negotiations with the GOP leadership that he promised as a candidate, he totally caved to them from day one.
And this was only the first major piece of legislation Trump was trying to get signed into law.
Conclusion: if one thing has been proven here, it's Trump's total inability to negotiate and obtain "good deals for the American people". And that's precisely why Congress has to limit his power when it comes to deals with hostile foreign governments (apart from the fact, of course, that he's constantly trying to obstruct the Russia investigations).
In real life, candidate Trump had promised to do the EXACT opposite of what the GOP healthcare bills were doing, and instead of engaging in the real, tough negotiations with the GOP leadership that he promised as a candidate, he totally caved to them from day one.
And this was only the first major piece of legislation Trump was trying to get signed into law.
Conclusion: if one thing has been proven here, it's Trump's total inability to negotiate and obtain "good deals for the American people". And that's precisely why Congress has to limit his power when it comes to deals with hostile foreign governments (apart from the fact, of course, that he's constantly trying to obstruct the Russia investigations).
7
I think the sactions bill sends a clear message what both parties in Congress think about Trump's negotiating skill.
But, Trump can still claim victory: No other President has ever been put on such a short foreign policy leash, not even close. His leash is the shortest by far. Take that Obama. Winning!
But, Trump can still claim victory: No other President has ever been put on such a short foreign policy leash, not even close. His leash is the shortest by far. Take that Obama. Winning!
6
The bill is seriously flawed? He is seriously flawed. When will this end?
8
I thought Donald Trump was a master in "the art of the deal"?
If that were true, why is it that he didn't even try to negotiate a healthcare deal with Congress?
And why didn't he even try to negotiate a Russia sanctions bill that he could support too ... ?
For the moment, all that he's showing is that he's a master in the art of tweeting - at least when it comes to keeping his own base fired up and living in an "alternative facts" universe ...
If that were true, why is it that he didn't even try to negotiate a healthcare deal with Congress?
And why didn't he even try to negotiate a Russia sanctions bill that he could support too ... ?
For the moment, all that he's showing is that he's a master in the art of tweeting - at least when it comes to keeping his own base fired up and living in an "alternative facts" universe ...
7
Trump had no choice but to sign this bill. Congress would have simply overridden him. The bill was veto proof. Trump would have looked like he had more to hide with respect to Russia and it would have been a terrible embarrassment. Actually-it is an embarrassment as he called the bill flawed. Trump will not learn his lesson that the GOP are distancing themselves further from him each day. This is also a sign that congress, working bi-partisan in this case, is recognizing Russia did interfere with our election. Another blow to trump's assertion that Russia never helped him win.
9
Tactical move. Appear to accept the inevitable, and subvert it later.
3
Are we sure this guy is th e US president? He weakens us at every turn. Stand like a man. Or as in the Republican Party, like a woman. Or is it that you owe too much to Putin. Not even congress trusts this man. And those who do , don't really matter. They are one shot servers. Do you really think Tillerson will last out this reign? It's too much of a democracy. Congress will have to repeatedly step in and curtail the shenanigans, and he won't like it anymore than Trump does.
4
Now maybe Putin will release that video tape.
5
Poor trump. He is having a tough time unfreezing all those Russian assets for Putin and his buddies.
5
“I am signing this bill for the sake of national unity. " The most divisive president in United States history has chosen this issue to finally express some concern for national unity. From the first moments of his inauguration speech, he made very clear that he was to be a polarizer. In that he has been very successful. What a complete and utter fraud. He has no clue about what made America great. E pluribus unum, stupid! Perhaps someone should translate the national motto for him.
7
Earth to Trump: "What did the legislative bill say, you know, the one that you signed into law? Well, it is what it says, can you understand? You had your chance to send it back to correct those "clearly unconstitutional" things, but you didn't, you signed it. YOU made it Public Law. Comprende?"
Earth to Lawyer assigned by Trump to undo his own doing: "Take a good last look at your big boy lawyer pants."
Earth to Lawyer assigned by Trump to undo his own doing: "Take a good last look at your big boy lawyer pants."
If so, we will fight. Are you ready, yankees? Don't you whine then.
Right in front of God and everybody. We use the Russians, who have bent over backwards to befriend and work with us in so many ways, we stab them in the back in order take the focus off of our own mistakes and climb back up to the top on the bodies of the victims of our unjust wars. Some of us are keeping score.
Don the Con Fraudster trumpeter is a Red Russian loving republican - a treasonous traitor - and should be removed by two men and a truck and shipped to USSR to live with Putin.
2
Here's hoping Putin wastes no time in spilling the beans on Trump's collusion with him during the 2016 election, plus pulling the plug on Trump/Kushner, Inc. by calling in Russian loans and revealing related financial crimes.
8
Dos the fraud in chief ever not obfuscate? He "might not choose to endorse them as lawmakers intended." Everything that charlatan does or says is a lie or meant to distract or deflect. Thank all the gods that Mueller keeps grinding away.
2
He signed a bill and said immediately thereafter that parts were 'unconstitutional'.
The oath of office for the Presidency forbids that.
Can he be impeached for violating the Constitution swore to uphold?
Seems simple.
He admitted doing so.
The oath of office for the Presidency forbids that.
Can he be impeached for violating the Constitution swore to uphold?
Seems simple.
He admitted doing so.
2
Trump tweets sanctions details:
Suborning, soliciting, and wild parties at
russian occupied condos in Trump Tower will
be restricted to MWF midnight to 3a.m.
Suborning, soliciting, and wild parties at
russian occupied condos in Trump Tower will
be restricted to MWF midnight to 3a.m.
I dare the punk of a President to defy Congress. I would guess that standing against this Law would cost him his office.
2
Here there is great luck for the People of Russia with not cooling financial sanctions against Russia. It is a blow to the Vacuum Cleaners from the Government of Russia in soldering from the Central Bank of Russia which, without control, allowed and for a quarter of a century to withdraw money received only in the commodity market Active Debit of the order of at least 4 Trillion $. These funds in the amount of $ 4 Trillion allowed to create for a quarter of a century outside the Russian economy by a closed valuation a product for the world economy worth 32 Trillion $ - 48 Trillion $ due to lending rate services. But this abortion means ineptly issued by incompetent thieves. People could have an unshakable financial system with over turnover, and they are connotations either blind or mediocre foreign agents. Now they have it all pulled out from under the arms will be withdrawn to the end and the mouth will not open. As in most, all these funds by origin are legal linden without proper roasting.
Can you imagine the Congress having to craft a Russian Sanctions legislation limiting the authority of Trump to lift them, that speaks volumes of Trump's incompetence and the lack of trust the entire congress has in him.
We have a clown in the Oval Office and he has to be baby sat to not doing any damage to our country.
We have a clown in the Oval Office and he has to be baby sat to not doing any damage to our country.
40
"Please, don't be angry. The government made me do it, Vlad."
Your loyal servant,
Donny
Your loyal servant,
Donny
34
Yup!
Dear Russia, meet checks and balances.
15
Good -- pick a fight with Congress. It's the only thing bringing Dems and Republicans together.
25
I'd feel a lot better, heck I'd even agree with Trump's unusually strong desires to improve relations with Russia if he'd just release his tax returns and financial statements so we could all see that he isn't financially indebted to, and laundering money for Russian Oligarchs a.k.a. Vladimir Putin. Trump continuously claims to have absolutely no dealings with the Russians whatsoever, so why he doesn't just release his tax returns and financial statements, is kind of perplexing to me.
21
He has to owe so much money, and his life, to the Russian oligarchy/mob.
No kindergarten poster board signing, no photo op at the signing.
Quite a conundrum for Trump, he knows he can be blackmailed by the Kremlin at any time, hence the clear signal to Putin that he's signing because he's cornered and boxed in on this one.
Quite a conundrum for Trump, he knows he can be blackmailed by the Kremlin at any time, hence the clear signal to Putin that he's signing because he's cornered and boxed in on this one.
19
"...clearly unconstitutional provisions..." how would Trump know? He has literally no grasp of how our government works and certainly no understanding of what is or is not "constitutional". Just sign it and thank the nice men and women in congress for doing your job, Trump. You can go back to playing at being a president now with your little friends.
27
The passage of the sanctions bill should be a clear message from Congress to Trump and Tillerson that Congress doesn't trust them. Of course, Tillerson and Trump are not very happy. But they need to look in a mirror to understand why.
For all the Republican blustering defense of Trump, there is obviously an underlying belief that there may be some actual collusion between the Trump Campaign/Administration and the Russians. Trump's continuing denial that we don't know who did the hacking is enough. Every security expert with a clearance that has seen the evidence seems to think so, including the majority in Congress, but Trump says no. It would seem that he has personal or financial interests at stake, and we all know that his personal/financial interests take precedence over America and the American people.
For all the Republican blustering defense of Trump, there is obviously an underlying belief that there may be some actual collusion between the Trump Campaign/Administration and the Russians. Trump's continuing denial that we don't know who did the hacking is enough. Every security expert with a clearance that has seen the evidence seems to think so, including the majority in Congress, but Trump says no. It would seem that he has personal or financial interests at stake, and we all know that his personal/financial interests take precedence over America and the American people.
12
I don't want this man negotiating the 'best deals'. We are not a business....we are a nation.
14
It is a very undesirable situation: the most powerful man in the world signing something and openly disapproving it at the same time. What does such signatures mean?
3
His word means nothing, so why would his signature hold any weight?
Silly Congress -- they forgot to get the approval of the Russian mafia (or the Trump family division thereof) before acting.
7
Don't be too sure.
1
So like a child learning to ride a bike, you start with training wheels.
In this case however Congress have not even given the child his bike.
Sad.
Maybe the big deal guy can grab a bike on Amazon.
In this case however Congress have not even given the child his bike.
Sad.
Maybe the big deal guy can grab a bike on Amazon.
4
Careful, Donald. Vlad is going to release that salacious dossier on you to the press. Can't wait to see you try to deny THAT one.
4
Well then, don't be a Russian agent helping to launder Putin's stolen money.
8
Nice to see the oligarchs not get their way every now and then.
And poor Tillerson, no Exxon Mobil oil deal with Russia. Sad.
And poor Tillerson, no Exxon Mobil oil deal with Russia. Sad.
10
As a tax paying Expat I have watched in dismay and horror as this so called president belittles the US with his actions and words. This latest "unconstitutional" claim offers further proof this man is unfit for Presidential office and to call himself an American. He provides further proof he is a puppet of Russia and Putin.
10
Yes, he did sign it, but he made sure to issue a statement to show his BFF Vlad that he hated every minute of it! And to needle the Congress one more time!
5
Dear Mr. Trump.
I'm glad you are being forced into actions you should have insisted on months ago if you were a serious leader of our nation. I laugh at you and your failings to hold back this day.
I'll never accept -- if you ever explain -- why you care more about the Russian perspective than our nation's.
Do you really want to continue as a joke president? Start doing your job, or step aside.
I'm glad you are being forced into actions you should have insisted on months ago if you were a serious leader of our nation. I laugh at you and your failings to hold back this day.
I'll never accept -- if you ever explain -- why you care more about the Russian perspective than our nation's.
Do you really want to continue as a joke president? Start doing your job, or step aside.
6
Trump's biggest accomplishment so far is sign legislation that limits his ability to lift sanctions on Russia, that speaks volumes of his incompetence and the lack of trust in him by the entire congress.
9
The signing statement is part fig leaf, part signal to say he's doing this under duress. The bit about appealing to the Constitution is a bit rich, though, as said document also has something to say about emoluments, which is at the heart of l'affaire Russe. Trump's business empire owes a lot to being a major conduit for large scale Russian money laundering, which at this point he must know since he used "adoptions" as a cover for Jr's meeting last year. I don't know if he cares much for any alleged videotapes, but he does care about the money rolling in.
6
"I must look angry in case Pootie is watching."
7
The fake prez got his marching orders from puppet master Putin who said: "I understand there is a veto proof majority. Therefore no need to worry. Sign the bill".
Your Master,
Vlad
Your Master,
Vlad
4
Russia first!
2
At least for now, the country appears to be a little safe from Donald Trump in his dealings with Russia. We'll just wait and see how Russia will react against Trump personally... Putin the tactician will probably tarry for the best opportunity to release the dirt he's got on Trump.
The show is far from over.....
The show is far from over.....
6
Yeah, the Fat Man signed the Russian Sanctions bill, kicking a screaming like a whiny baby.....without making a statement chastising Russian and it's hacking in our elections or criticizing Russia for throwing out our diplomats.
5
Mr. Trump betrayed the United States.
Now he betrayed his ally, Mr. Putin.
Oops! (Big oops!)
Now he betrayed his ally, Mr. Putin.
Oops! (Big oops!)
For your second opinion you should considhttps://medium.com/theyoungturks/without-debate-conformist-politicians-r......
Love the photo.
How many of those "attentive" uniforms does he
really need around him to make him feel important ?
How many of those "attentive" uniforms does he
really need around him to make him feel important ?
2
I find this very interesting by that I mean funny and a very bug pill for Trump to swallow. He has denied that the Russian has hack but the Congress obviously know that they did and finally in a Bi Partisan effort has done what the President should have done day one in Office. This also shows that they could not depend on him to do it himself. To me this speaks volumes.
7
Since the President has zero knowledge of foreign policy he should shut up and leave it to Congress. He has already damaged Our relations with our real allies in the name of his fascist pals so he better be careful of any future concessions to Putin. The American public is watching.
1
Welcome to 'checks and balances'. It is one of the greatest features of the U.S. form of government. One can anticipate there will be more checks and balance to come. Its how we prevent dictatorships from taking over.
One can also speculate that the only ones getting tired of winning are the Democrats. Most everything implemented by the current administration can and should be reversed in the first 100 days after the next Democratic inauguration in January 2019.
In the meantime, stay vigilant and enjoy the spectacle. .... its gonna be huge, bigly, sometimes shocking and always fabulous.
One can also speculate that the only ones getting tired of winning are the Democrats. Most everything implemented by the current administration can and should be reversed in the first 100 days after the next Democratic inauguration in January 2019.
In the meantime, stay vigilant and enjoy the spectacle. .... its gonna be huge, bigly, sometimes shocking and always fabulous.
1
Trump was dragged into the room kicking and screaming like a spoiled whiny child to sign it.
2
This signing would never have taken place if Mr. Trump was not running for his life from issues involving treasonous contacts with Russia.
The window dressing can be removed easily enough at a later date, once this all blows over.
In the meantime, though, our President has completed a record breaking run: alienating every single one of our trading and defense partners and, now, further antagonizing every major enemy we have on the planet.
Trump can make America as Great as he wants to, but if no one is left to buy our goods or have faith in our seriousness as a partner, it will do no good at all.
The first to be crushed will be those already on the bottom, and those just above, as the self-regarding rich read the bones and move on to a newly invigorated Europe.
I feel kind of bad for Canada, though, because if the US was not so threateningly close by they would have been the logical first choice for such an escape.
The window dressing can be removed easily enough at a later date, once this all blows over.
In the meantime, though, our President has completed a record breaking run: alienating every single one of our trading and defense partners and, now, further antagonizing every major enemy we have on the planet.
Trump can make America as Great as he wants to, but if no one is left to buy our goods or have faith in our seriousness as a partner, it will do no good at all.
The first to be crushed will be those already on the bottom, and those just above, as the self-regarding rich read the bones and move on to a newly invigorated Europe.
I feel kind of bad for Canada, though, because if the US was not so threateningly close by they would have been the logical first choice for such an escape.
2
...And what else will he do for showmanship? This was expected and predicted, as his trial nears......Mr. Muller, I wait, and trust, in you!
1
I feel your pain, but be careful what you wish for.
Pence and Scaramouche are the Ladies-in-Waiting.
Pence and Scaramouche are the Ladies-in-Waiting.
This is why the wannabee-dictator-in-chief admires and envies Putin so much.
Putin doesn't have to deal with two meddlesome other equal branches of government.
Putin doesn't have to deal with two meddlesome other equal branches of government.
4
Finally this Congress agreed on something together (minus a very few), and voted overwhelmingly to take away Trumps ability to intervene on behalf of his BBF, Putin. Frankly, I was surprised that so many GOP members actually defied DT--they have been so weak and passive during his entire 6 months of insanity. Perhaps the outrage and cries of the American people might be finally sinking in and they'll perhaps put country first over party and work with the Dems and do some good for a change!
2
Hail to the Sniveler-in-Chief!
In case you haven't figured it out yet Donnie, The Oval Office isn't located in trump tower and never will be...................
In case you haven't figured it out yet Donnie, The Oval Office isn't located in trump tower and never will be...................
2
Lets discuss who is putting the words in Trumps mouth and these
ideas in his head. Because he has none of his own.
All of this sounds like Steve Bannon and the Gorkas setting the policy, with Stephen Miller putting to page.
ideas in his head. Because he has none of his own.
All of this sounds like Steve Bannon and the Gorkas setting the policy, with Stephen Miller putting to page.
1
Russia will always be Russia meaning pervasive corruption, the strong arm tactics, an ethos of banditry will always be the way for Russia. Russian history is replete with examples of this type of behavior. It is not going to improve... ever. Ideally, if western Russia could dispose of short sighted clannish behavior and western Europe could jettison the suicidal multiculturalism then maybe the EU could work, with Russia included. If that were to happen then Europe would be an economic juggernaut that would raise Europe's standard of living in every way and minimize future European conflicts.
As it stands now western Europe is hell bent on instituting cultural suicide and Russia continues to dangerously destabilize Asia (nukes), Middle East (nukes), and Western and Eastern Europe (Gazprom and the Ukraine).
As it stands now western Europe is hell bent on instituting cultural suicide and Russia continues to dangerously destabilize Asia (nukes), Middle East (nukes), and Western and Eastern Europe (Gazprom and the Ukraine).
Heck of job Comrade Don! Is this also part of the "winning" we were promised?
Balderdash. He has zero intentions of enforcing the sanctions as Trump would probably be freezing his own assets somewhere in the mix.
5
If the White House believes it is unconstitutional get it in front of the Supreme Court for a ruling. Till then it is as binding as any other law Congress enacts. Trump firmly accepts the imperial presidency paradigm that Nixon clearly stated that "if the president does it or wants it than it is legal" extension of the divine right of kings doctrine. Outcomes of that approach have rarely been successful.
2
Maybe Russia will get the message about how the American people think about them! And Russia's domination over the so-called Pretending President of the United States has been nullified.
1
Trump has no intention of acting within the parameters outlined in the bill.
Via the Washington Post:
"My Administration will give careful and respectful consideration to the preferences expressed by the Congress in these various provisions and will implement them in a manner consistent with the President's constitutional authority to conduct foreign relations,”
He Has no intention to consider anything. He will act however he pleases because no matter what limits the bill puts on sanctions, His inaccurate interpretation of the constitution gives the President, and therefore him a mandate to do whatever he wants, answering to no one.
Via the Washington Post:
"My Administration will give careful and respectful consideration to the preferences expressed by the Congress in these various provisions and will implement them in a manner consistent with the President's constitutional authority to conduct foreign relations,”
He Has no intention to consider anything. He will act however he pleases because no matter what limits the bill puts on sanctions, His inaccurate interpretation of the constitution gives the President, and therefore him a mandate to do whatever he wants, answering to no one.
1
The editorial correctly offered Trumps words in the final paragraph. However, if one reads between the lines, it raises several questions. “Yet despite its problems [Why is it necessary to dilute the bill's impact by beginning this way? It signals (perhaps to Putin) that Trump is not in agreement with it, which he is not.],” he added, “I am signing this bill for the sake of national unity [What?...for the sake of national unity???(another coded message seeking Putin forgiveness) Watch for Trump's apology tour in weeks ahead.] It represents the will of the American people [, but let's be clear, the sanctions are not my idea. We know that.) to see Russia take steps to improve relations with the United States. We hope there will be (broader legitimate rather than personal illegitimate) cooperation between our two countries on major global issues so that these sanctions will no longer be necessary.”
3
Can we please get some reporting on what these sanctions actually are? I'm inclined to favor them, given Congress's overwhelmingly bipartisan support, but it's hard to take an informed stance on the bill -- or honestly evaluate the administration's criticisms of it -- without knowing what's in it.
3
Congress just saved the world from one of Trump's usual fabulous deals.
5
Wonder who wrote Trump's statement? It is way too sophisticated for Trump. Perhaps Kelly figured out how to get the TV remote away from him.
2
Awaiting EU response... Specifically Germany. Their response I believe will determine what the next phase of escalation will look like. A restrained response.. will likely mean things will continue at a somewhat steady decline. However a harsh response where it actually hurts the U.S , I think this is unlikely, but in the event that it happens, the pace of decline will start to speed up. Remember, the goal here is to keep the EU and specifically Germany from merging economically with Russia. Germany is a tech, industrial power House and Russia is an energy giant... If these two ever get together it will significantly reduce US influence in the EU.. talk about shooting ones self in the foot...
3
In normal times with a normal president, you could certainly understand a president pushing back against this extraordinary (though apparently legal) usurpation of his power by Congress. But neither the times nor the president are normal. Just as important, Trump has practically promised to ignore or evade the law. We'll see what Congress does if he follows through on that promise.
What makes this overall situation all the more dangerous is that Trump's space to stymie the investigation through issuing pardons or getting Mueller fired seems to be shrinking. He may still try to go those routes. But his alternative strategy, if we can call it that, would be to whip up public sentiment over an actual or potential war, or a terrorist act(s) or some other national security crisis, and then appeal to all to rally around the flag and his presidency. One would hope that congressional Republicans and the generals in his administration would not go along with that. But it's a sign of the times that we can't be certain.
What makes this overall situation all the more dangerous is that Trump's space to stymie the investigation through issuing pardons or getting Mueller fired seems to be shrinking. He may still try to go those routes. But his alternative strategy, if we can call it that, would be to whip up public sentiment over an actual or potential war, or a terrorist act(s) or some other national security crisis, and then appeal to all to rally around the flag and his presidency. One would hope that congressional Republicans and the generals in his administration would not go along with that. But it's a sign of the times that we can't be certain.
2
Barry: I think that the limited cooperation and/or convergence of views on some issues has been a great response to the strange House and Senate health care bills and to Trump's actions, but I really worry that there won't be any return to a Congress run by moderates until big money gets out of the primaries. The Kochs have been working for decades to organize, distribute propaganda, and target money to their preferred candidates in primaries. They figured out how to efficiently work the system. Credit to them but woe to those opposed to their views. There is great fear now when running for office and when forming policy, and those elected tend to be more extreme, which works against good governance (i.e., compromise).
2
Does anyone wonder what the don't tick me off factor is for Trump in these situations? He may be totally (or mostly) correct that parts of the bill are unconstitutional and will be turned out. That said, my bet is that it sets him off on one of his late nigh quests for red meat. He is easily distracted this way.
"It represents the will of the American people to see Russia take steps to improve relations with the United States. We hope there will be cooperation between our two countries on major global issues so that these sanctions will no longer be necessary.”
"Improve relations?" "Major global issues?" This is about Russia debasing our democracy with assistance from Trump, intentional or not. Yes, Russia's aggression toward our NATO allies, many of which are being disparaged by Trump, is a serious concern, but what galvanized Congress behind these sanctions is the recognition that Russia is overtly and covertly attempting to weaken our standing in the world while Trump accelerates the process. There is no basis for getting friendlier with Russia while it pursues such goals. It would be a mistake to become further entangled with Russia in international goals when that country, under Putin, seeks every opportunity to compromise the strengths and values of the United States. This is another attempt by Trump to spin the clear and unified will of Congress and most of the the citizens it represents into a narrative that suits the interests of Putin and Trump. It is important to call Trump out on his manipulation before it gains traction.
And, for what it is worth, nothing prevents Trump from negotiating with Russia while the newly signed legislation is in place. He just can't make a deal over dinner with his buddy Putin, put it into effect, and tell us about it later.
"Improve relations?" "Major global issues?" This is about Russia debasing our democracy with assistance from Trump, intentional or not. Yes, Russia's aggression toward our NATO allies, many of which are being disparaged by Trump, is a serious concern, but what galvanized Congress behind these sanctions is the recognition that Russia is overtly and covertly attempting to weaken our standing in the world while Trump accelerates the process. There is no basis for getting friendlier with Russia while it pursues such goals. It would be a mistake to become further entangled with Russia in international goals when that country, under Putin, seeks every opportunity to compromise the strengths and values of the United States. This is another attempt by Trump to spin the clear and unified will of Congress and most of the the citizens it represents into a narrative that suits the interests of Putin and Trump. It is important to call Trump out on his manipulation before it gains traction.
And, for what it is worth, nothing prevents Trump from negotiating with Russia while the newly signed legislation is in place. He just can't make a deal over dinner with his buddy Putin, put it into effect, and tell us about it later.
3
"President Trump signed legislation on Wednesday imposing sanctions on Russia and limiting his own authority to lift them, but asserted that the measure included “a number of clearly unconstitutional provisions” and left open the possibility that he might choose not to enforce them as lawmakers intended."
Isn't Trump's choice not to enforce the law itself a violation of the Constitution and a dereliction of duty by the president?
Isn't Trump's choice not to enforce the law itself a violation of the Constitution and a dereliction of duty by the president?
3
"President Trump signed legislation on Wednesday imposing sanctions on Russia and limiting his own authority to lift them, but asserted that the measure included “a number of clearly unconstitutional provisions” and left open the possibility that he might choose not to enforce them as lawmakers intended."
Don't worry Vlad, I don't have to follow the law, things will be ok!
Don't worry Vlad, I don't have to follow the law, things will be ok!
1
"But a signing statement released by the president raised questions about how he would observe the requirements in the measure."
Huh???
Huh???
1
The real message here is that the legislative branch is not trusting the executive branch. While i understand congress and senate's motivation, its not the correct use of our governmental framework. foreign affairs needs to somewhat fluid and not constrained by legislation. If only Donald Trump would get the message that working together is the only way we can move the country forward, and by earning trust, the legislative branch won't take restrictive actions. DT, listen to what congress is saying!!!! they have more power than you think they have!
Let's not forget who voted AGAINST the passage of this Russian Sanctions bill: Bernie Sanders
#PutinsOtherPuppet
#PutinsOtherPuppet
BEFORE he signed it (with his caveats), Russia had ALREADY "retaliated" with the actions against the US as listed in the article? Then why the caveats?
Probably the first time in his whole life that he has ever been held accountable in his work - unless you count his court settlements, such as the Trump University $25 million settlement, which I do not. Message: it's the people who are the boss; he's the apprentice. I don't think he understood that. Maybe it will sink in: he is a public *servant.* Congress did a good bipartisan job on this one. May the trend continue. Can we get the tax returns now? How about a new law that requires all Presidential candidates since 1980 to release them to the public? Make it retroactive for those who were elected without.
4
Going forward any candidate running for President of the United States must undergo physical and psychological testing, and all records pertaining to business dealings made available to the public. This American tragedy must not be repeated.
2
The president does not have hegemony over foreign policy. Trump needs to read the constitution
3
When is the rose garden ceremony? I thought that was must see tv.
1
How about the delivery of beer to celebrate this bipartisan legislation?
I consider Congress' action to limit the power of the President as appropriate for two reasons; By the power vested in them as indicated in our Constitution, and because, if Congress has the power to wage war, it certainly has the power to dictate foreign policy.
3
Trump objected, who cares, it's all posturing to make himself feel like he still won. It's all about the pretense of winning for him, not about doing what is right. Clearly an issue that will carry through the rest of his term as short I as hope it be!
He lost and this clearly shows that the Legislative branch of this government is not completely broken and that there is still hope for bipartisanship to work and accomplish real improvements. Hopefully there will be more of this, including Health Care, Budget and maybe fixing some of the other issues that plague this country that aren't based upon the rich getter richer and the rest of the country getting used or footing the bill.
On a side note, I have visions of "A Few Good Men" and future Trump statements on other Bills he is forced to humbly and half-defiantly sign;
"I strenuously object?" Is that how it's done? Hm? "Objection, your Honor." "Overruled" "No, no. I STRENUOUSLY object." "Oh. You strenuously object. Then I'll take some time and reconsider."
He lost and this clearly shows that the Legislative branch of this government is not completely broken and that there is still hope for bipartisanship to work and accomplish real improvements. Hopefully there will be more of this, including Health Care, Budget and maybe fixing some of the other issues that plague this country that aren't based upon the rich getter richer and the rest of the country getting used or footing the bill.
On a side note, I have visions of "A Few Good Men" and future Trump statements on other Bills he is forced to humbly and half-defiantly sign;
"I strenuously object?" Is that how it's done? Hm? "Objection, your Honor." "Overruled" "No, no. I STRENUOUSLY object." "Oh. You strenuously object. Then I'll take some time and reconsider."
Nothing brings people together more than a common enemy. Seeing Dems and Repubs joining together for a veto-proof majority can only mean one thing; they have found a common enemy. Unfortunately, that 'enemy' is the President.
3
Why the Congress overwhelmingly approved this bill is because Trump's judgment is seriously flawed in regard to all things Russian. Any "deals" that he had in mind to make with the Russians, Chinese, or North Koreans, would not benefit but harm the American people. Good first step Congress in reigning in Putin's puppet! Now Mueller needs to finish his investigation. Congress will need to be extremely vigilant to stave off any of Trump's attempts to meddle in the Russian investigations.
3
I suppose it should be encouraging that Congress has taken a step to reclaim constitutional responsibilities it ceded to the Executive over the past forty years. However, this bill was transactional and intended only to partially prevent the current president from acting unilaterally to weaken our negotiating stance with current adversaries. We require more realignments of constitutional authority, such as narrowing the scope of any president's actions under the War Powers Act.
There is a valid concern about legislation like this inappropriately limiting the ability of the President to handle foreign affairs. In that sense, it might normally be regarded as bad policy (I leave the question of constitutionality to constitutional lawyers). But since this President cannot be trusted, especially with regard to Russia, it seems like needed legislation.
Once Putin fully appreciates Trump's future impotence re the US/Russian chess board he may conclude that given his erratic nature leaving Trump in office could threaten Russian interests in Syria, N Korea, Qatar/Saudi, etc. In such event then, perhaps after initially testing the newly empowered US Congressional Foreign Relations regimen, Putin may facilitate Trump's exit by having some "patriotic" Russian release evidence corroborating one or two of the juicier "Trump Dossier" items. The ensuing turmoil within the US gov't , while not as useful as a functioning Manchurian Presidency, will likely benefit Putin in any event.
1
Wonder if Vlad is reckoning that President Nero was not such a bargain. But then again, as some have posited, if Putin's intent was solely to sow distrust and chaos, then having installed the Chaos King is working superbly. The third-rate Gong Show that is this administration is doing more to damage any respect for our country at home and abroad than any subtle intelligence operation could ever do. Putin is getting a lot of bang for his ruble.
2
This bill doesn't encroach on the executive branch’s authority to negotiate. Rather it prevents the President from encroaching on Congress and prevents our President from violating the Constitution. It is also a warning to the Mr. Trump that Congress has lost confidence in Donald's intellect and psychological condition, as well as his patriotism.
Despite Trump's statement to reporters, it was Mr. Trump who failed to raise the support of the People, to support Congress in negotiating the destruction of health care. The fortunate combination of Mr. Trump's incompetence and that of Ryan and McConnell, resulted in the American People retaining ACA health care.
Congress, by limiting the irrational, and foolish Trump's flexibility, making it harder for Donald Trump to strike terrible deals in the name American People, that only benefit the Trump family and cronies.
In doing so, Congress will correctly punish Russia and North Korea, while bringing the USA and China much closer together. it is obvious, that the closer the USA is with China, the better we can rein in North Korea and Russia.
But the indecent Trump is clueless and has less understanding of America, history and current events than the average 14 year old.
Despite Trump's statement to reporters, it was Mr. Trump who failed to raise the support of the People, to support Congress in negotiating the destruction of health care. The fortunate combination of Mr. Trump's incompetence and that of Ryan and McConnell, resulted in the American People retaining ACA health care.
Congress, by limiting the irrational, and foolish Trump's flexibility, making it harder for Donald Trump to strike terrible deals in the name American People, that only benefit the Trump family and cronies.
In doing so, Congress will correctly punish Russia and North Korea, while bringing the USA and China much closer together. it is obvious, that the closer the USA is with China, the better we can rein in North Korea and Russia.
But the indecent Trump is clueless and has less understanding of America, history and current events than the average 14 year old.
2
What kind of administration supports the regime of a foreign country that invaded our country and it's democratic process? It took a Congress to tell that administration NO.
1
From his statement it would seem that he is repudiating almost every aspect of the bill where it impedes his will as the chief Executive. Should be interesting to see if they are really able to reign him in. My guess is the reason he hasn't commented on Russia's actions against our diplomats there is that he will use those actions as his bargaining chip with Congress. They give us back our diplomatic presence and we give them back that compound on Eastern shore of MD.
1
Putin to Trump.
"I understand you had to sign it. Let's wait a few months and I will invade Finland; and inorder for me to retreat we can renegotiate the sanctions.
"I understand you had to sign it. Let's wait a few months and I will invade Finland; and inorder for me to retreat we can renegotiate the sanctions.
1
I think I'm seeing a fig leaf here. Trump can now say, "See, I got tough on the Russians and signed those sanctions into law. I just keep signing and signing more beautiful bills and laws all the time. So much winning going on here. Look at the stock market. Got the FBI Director approved."
Congress passed the sanctions and approved the FBI Director. Had Trump not signed the sanctions, it wouldn't have mattered one bit. I also heard today that it's the technology industries pushing the stock market up, a trend that began during the Obama administration.
I'm getting used to Trump taking credit for anything positive happening, and not sharing the credit with anyone. When something negative happens, he takes cover rather than any of the blame, and the first two words out of his mouth are Obama and/or Clinton.
Congress passed the sanctions and approved the FBI Director. Had Trump not signed the sanctions, it wouldn't have mattered one bit. I also heard today that it's the technology industries pushing the stock market up, a trend that began during the Obama administration.
I'm getting used to Trump taking credit for anything positive happening, and not sharing the credit with anyone. When something negative happens, he takes cover rather than any of the blame, and the first two words out of his mouth are Obama and/or Clinton.
3
So as it was with other presidents before him, he will ignore the parts of the law he doesn't like through signing statements which render the law ineffective. These should be unlawful.
Did he just admit to signing an "Unconstitutional" bill?
"For the sake of national unity" Trump signs a law "with caveats" that was passed by overwhelming majorities in both House
National Unity, my foot!
National Unity, my foot!
1
The actual text of the President's signing statement is available on http://whitehouse.gov.
However, Editors, I would ask that you please include direct hyperlinks to the materials such as these which are referenced in your articles, so that those who wish to review them directly don't have to look them up. If there's a source that's directly referenced and that's available on line, please include a link to it just as soon as the link becomes available. This added convenience will improve the usability of your on-line articles and is greatly appreciated.
(I would also like to express my appreciation to the White House team for so quickly publishing these materials on their site. Our tax dollars at work.)
However, Editors, I would ask that you please include direct hyperlinks to the materials such as these which are referenced in your articles, so that those who wish to review them directly don't have to look them up. If there's a source that's directly referenced and that's available on line, please include a link to it just as soon as the link becomes available. This added convenience will improve the usability of your on-line articles and is greatly appreciated.
(I would also like to express my appreciation to the White House team for so quickly publishing these materials on their site. Our tax dollars at work.)
1
The president called the sanctions against Russia "seriously flawed" with "a number of clearly unconstitutional provisions"?
This from a sitting American president? Whose side is he on? If these sentiments aren't treasonous I don't know what is.
This from a sitting American president? Whose side is he on? If these sentiments aren't treasonous I don't know what is.
This is refreshing. A signing ceremony rather than a series of tweets that contradict each other and his cabinet. A signing ceremony rather than a laying on of hands.
Trump must be livid to be nailed down this way.
Perhaps some of the more reasonable, open-minded democratic and republican members of Congress will work together and neuter Trump even more.
Now that would be great -- but I'm not getting my hopes up just to be disappointed yet again.
Trump must be livid to be nailed down this way.
Perhaps some of the more reasonable, open-minded democratic and republican members of Congress will work together and neuter Trump even more.
Now that would be great -- but I'm not getting my hopes up just to be disappointed yet again.
Isn't anyone just a tad curious as to what those private conversations between Don and Vlad concerned several weeks ago? Possibly tender reassurances to the modern Tzar from our emperor wannabe that business would go on as usual in spite of pesky sanctions.
1
Caveats? The Senate should appoint a special prosecutor immediately. Do we actually need to catch him in bed with Putin before we stop the destruction of our Democracy?
3
I'm starting to think that Trump's biggest achievement as President is going to be forcing Republicans and Democrats to work together to govern again, even if in an unintended way. It might even be his only major achievement; I'm not counting Neil Gorsuch, which would have happened (or some equally conservative pick) with any old Republican in the White House. Nor economic numbers that so far look to be merely on the continuum of the recovery Obama started; similarly for immigration activities minus the draconian nature with which his administration wants to treat people.
Imagine a new golden age of Democratic-Republican cooperation because of what a President fails to do instead of succeeds. Oh, the irony.
Imagine a new golden age of Democratic-Republican cooperation because of what a President fails to do instead of succeeds. Oh, the irony.
157
The Trump era will lead to many unintended consequences. Few good, most bad and some long term.
@Barry Williams
Trump is not a Republican. Full stop. He took advantage of an opportunity provided him.
If he does push Republicans and Democrats to work together in the Center, it will be the most positive development in our political system in several decades. We can stop listening to the fringe types like Sarah Palin and Bernie Sanders, and those they court, and move our nation forward. Whether the resulting "party" is called Democrat or Republican or Newco, the change will have been effected; and we can move on to a majority-favored governance.
Left and Right will be miserable. Good riddance (and I say that to most of the commenters in The NY Times).
Trump is not a Republican. Full stop. He took advantage of an opportunity provided him.
If he does push Republicans and Democrats to work together in the Center, it will be the most positive development in our political system in several decades. We can stop listening to the fringe types like Sarah Palin and Bernie Sanders, and those they court, and move our nation forward. Whether the resulting "party" is called Democrat or Republican or Newco, the change will have been effected; and we can move on to a majority-favored governance.
Left and Right will be miserable. Good riddance (and I say that to most of the commenters in The NY Times).
Gorsuch was picked by group(s) outside the White House. And the only reason that 45 could nominate him at all was that the gang of Republican thieves in the Senate stole the nomination from 44 by refusing to do their Constitutional duty. Gorsuch's elevation to SCOTUS was not an accomplisment by 45.
Bloomberg news ran an article today saying that sanctions were not imposed on the development of oil "fracked" in the far reaches of Russia. The sanctions did limit "shale" fracking so BP and other resource exploiters are going one level deeper and calling it limestone extraction. The Robber Barons simply want to destroy the planet with their greed. The only thing that can stop them is to regulate them out of existence. All of them.
43
Hypocrisy at its finest in Congress.
In particular, he objected to Congress interfering with the president’s power to set foreign policy...
[ I think this signing statement was necessary. Foreign policy making cannot be taken from the President by the Congress, by my reading of the Constitution. ]
[ I think this signing statement was necessary. Foreign policy making cannot be taken from the President by the Congress, by my reading of the Constitution. ]
8
While the President develop a treaty, the treaty does not take effect until it is approved by Congress. Article II Section 2 states the President "shall have Power, by and with the Advice and Consent of the Senate, to make Treaties, provided two thirds of the Senators present concur."
Guess they won't be serving borsht or vodka at Mar-o-Lago anymore.
26
Oh heck, I missed this signing ceremony. I was looking forward to the "twenty times up-and-down with crayon held in fist" signature on this one.
68
Sorry to say, Charley, but your comment was decidedly mean-spirited and sophomoric. I know you are part of the Resistance, but his signature? Ye gads!
Because Jack, his 'signature' is an elaborate construction that he deliberately "learned" so he could disingenuously ask people "Do you think my signature looks like a city skyline?".
It's FAKE, Jack. And like his hair, it says REAMS about him. None of it good.
It's FAKE, Jack. And like his hair, it says REAMS about him. None of it good.
1
Where is the picture of him holding up the document for all to see his manly man signature and the disgusting grin?
143
He didn't know what he was signing on all the other documents they put in front of him. This one he knew.
1
who got the pens? can I have one?
Wow--add the Russian sanctions bill to that HUGE list of legislation triumphs Trump claims to have delivered since January 20--boy, are we winning!!! Though it is hard to image even this so-called President bragging about a piece of legislation that is such a total smack-down of him and his power; on the other hand, maybe he didn't read or understand it.
38
BRAVO! I'm getting tired of all this winning...
It's only a matter of time that Putin retaliates - personally against Trump.
He knows Trump's hands are tied now (thankfully!)
So, now that Putin can't easily influence American policy, he'll do what his initial intent was: sow uncertainty and chaos in America, cast aspersions on American political system, and democracy as a whole.
He won't do it one shot. He needs to prolong it for maximum benefit and ridiculing America, American values, and American respect in the eyes of the world.
Trump should expect a drip, drip (pun intended) from Russia...
But, Trump was right in one way: the world IS laughing at us... MAGA was the greatest political scam in the history of American politics...
He knows Trump's hands are tied now (thankfully!)
So, now that Putin can't easily influence American policy, he'll do what his initial intent was: sow uncertainty and chaos in America, cast aspersions on American political system, and democracy as a whole.
He won't do it one shot. He needs to prolong it for maximum benefit and ridiculing America, American values, and American respect in the eyes of the world.
Trump should expect a drip, drip (pun intended) from Russia...
But, Trump was right in one way: the world IS laughing at us... MAGA was the greatest political scam in the history of American politics...
53
Putin sanctions on Trump's assets in Russia and wikileaks dumps of negative Trump material.
1
@Patrician
I kindly suggest your choice of verbs should reflect past tense, not merely future tense. Putin already did that and will continue to benefit so long as Trump is in office.
Step back for a moment and review how Putin and his team already planned the farm, found the right soil, selected the seeds, sowed those seeds, watered them, fertilized them, and then discovered Trump and his team were happy to tend the crop themselves.
Trump is tacitly complicit with Putin by ignoring the Russian influence and responding with the seriousness it deserves. One could assert that Trump is merely a narcissist who views the issue as questioning the vote count. Trump's behavior goes far beyond that.
I kindly suggest your choice of verbs should reflect past tense, not merely future tense. Putin already did that and will continue to benefit so long as Trump is in office.
Step back for a moment and review how Putin and his team already planned the farm, found the right soil, selected the seeds, sowed those seeds, watered them, fertilized them, and then discovered Trump and his team were happy to tend the crop themselves.
Trump is tacitly complicit with Putin by ignoring the Russian influence and responding with the seriousness it deserves. One could assert that Trump is merely a narcissist who views the issue as questioning the vote count. Trump's behavior goes far beyond that.
1
@Capt. Penny: agree with your comment. Thanks.
DT knew he could not evade this one. With all the mounting suspicion about him and the Russians he did not have any choice but sign the sanctions document without any fanfare and by restraining himself of sending a single tweet to Putin or anyone else! The absence of DT’s tweets about the sanctions only increase the suspicion; it looks like he is trying to delay something that Putin has on him as retaliation for the sanctions. Putin already is doing it starting first with NATO aggression, then by firing people from the US embassy in Russia, and then..........well…we will soon know what is the real reason behind Trump's love affair with Putin. Hopefully Muller will get us first the truth about this bizarre situation between DT and Russian; he needs to solve this matter soon to be able to move forward regardless if it means impeaching DT.
89
"Putin is already doing it starting first with NATO aggression..."
Interesting line. A Freudian slip?
Interesting line. A Freudian slip?
Trump will finally realize that he is not an emperor, he is not a dictator. He can not order people around and then if they do not do as he says, fire them. We have three branches of government, dysfunctional to say the least but they are there and must be accounted for. Watch and see that he passes nothing of his promises, first blow repeal of Obama care, the wall will not be built payed for by Mexico and if built which I doubt we will end up paying for it, taxes? forget it! Immigration? no way, too many stake holders, i.e. huge corporations that hire illegal. I feel sorry for the ones that hoped and voted for him, they will soon find out that his promises were nothing but hot air!!
12
If Trump wants to be a true autocrat he will need to figure out a way to destroy America's separation of powers. Maybe he could do something to aggravate certain groups to take to the streets and then wait for (on infiltrate these groups) with actors to act violently, then Trump could declare some kind of marshall law and wrest power from Congress and the judiciary. He'll need to re-read "Mein Kampf" and maybe consult with Putin on ways to defang the press through journalists disappearing or outright murdered. Trump's got work to do to become the autocrat he may crave to be.
13
Bannon has already done Trump's reading for him, and is following the playbook you describe.
Donny, we hardly knew ye.
Some of the more astute observers of the global political scene (translation: everyone) have intuited that you were sowing the seeds of your own destruction with your mouth, but never did anyone imagine it would be done with your pen.
OK, he's all yours Vlad.
Some of the more astute observers of the global political scene (translation: everyone) have intuited that you were sowing the seeds of your own destruction with your mouth, but never did anyone imagine it would be done with your pen.
OK, he's all yours Vlad.
34
The signing was inevitable, but let's not forget what is going on at Rex Tillerson's office. Seems he also doesn't want to make Putin upset by accepting money needed to shore up the security of the State Department. It's beginning to show how deep Russia has penetrated into our gov't and with whom.
36
I'm glad he signed it. I have no doubt he is furious about it and grilled his lawyers on any way he could "overrule" it, bring a lawsuit, whatever. Very few in this man's life have ever forced him to do anything, beginning with his parents. But you can be sure there wlll be retaliation of some kind. He won't sleep until he gets even.
15
Tom, you got that right buddy! All too often, while staffers and congress members walk on egg shells to avoid 'going against' the mighty tiny hands (actually) going against him will most certainly produce a new and even greater retaliation. And trust me... he is a master scorekeeper and agreed he will not sleep till he strikes. Now playing on center stage, not reimbursing insurance companies and cutting off healthcare for congress.... More chaos, more instability and according to him.... record progress (the most in history!) LOL
And we see a path forward... a 'plan-B' for leadership. Next should be a bill to fund the low-income subsidies for the ACA, and then real balanced budgets, and then a path for growth that finds one trillion in ten years for I frastructre, no earmarks,, and then job training/tuition reductions, and then single payer, hire the Canadians, and then a Rooseveltian (Teddy) conservation/progressive agenda, and then a sustainable new normal moving ahead. 'Course reality based reality is a pipe dream...more opioids please.
10
Delicious irony! The Putin Lover having to sign a Bill imposing sanctions on the country he it's most connected to! I bet picking up that pen must have really hurt and I also get that he made that signature really small! Maybe there is a God after all.
21
Senate has cut off their noses to spite their faces. So, they zapped Trump - I'm so happy they are happy. But, as a result they have terribly increased future serious conflicts in the world. They have really put the United States in a deep hole.
So childish, so inept, so dangerous.
So childish, so inept, so dangerous.
4
98-2. 419-3. These are numbers even Donald Trump can understand, to send a message he understands even better. Congress made him an offer he couldn't refuse.
14
I think he did it to avoid having his veto overturned. That would be too big a loss for him to bear.
14
"We hope there will be cooperation between our two countries on major global issues so that these sanctions will no longer be necessary.”
It's quite incredible that even the signing statement is aimed at the base.
But then, who else would be so gratifyingly gullible?
Surely he can dissemble a bit better than that!
I guess his tragic flaw is that he's just too stupid, period.
It's quite incredible that even the signing statement is aimed at the base.
But then, who else would be so gratifyingly gullible?
Surely he can dissemble a bit better than that!
I guess his tragic flaw is that he's just too stupid, period.
5
For a change, I was actually looking forward the 'mission accomplished' type photo of his signature surrounded by a beaming Congress, but guess not!
9
While I often had the opportunity to attend White House functions, I wouldn't want to be in the same building with Traitor Trump and his band of grifters.
All these characters in the picture with the fruit salad on their uniforms should find some other place to hang out...unless they're just following orders.
All these characters in the picture with the fruit salad on their uniforms should find some other place to hang out...unless they're just following orders.
12
"Hidden" msg to Putin: "I'm signing it because I have to, but don't worry, I won't let them stop me."
28
What no pomp, ceremony and photographers?
I just imagine what Trump was muttering as he had to the the legislation. He does not like being told what to do. How will he retaliate and lash out?
Trump has two choices. He can come clean and fully disclose all his Russian connections whatever they might be and then clearly define his administration's foreign policy as regards Russia. He says there is no collusion, no Russian business so this should not be a problem. Let Mueller do his job and get on with being a President for Americans.
Or he can continue to lie, hide, obfuscate, deny, ignore, blame, deflect, obstruct and whine. The more Trump does so, the more we ask "About what?" and the more Mueller digs.
Come clean if so innocent or stop whining Trump. This is all of your own making.
I just imagine what Trump was muttering as he had to the the legislation. He does not like being told what to do. How will he retaliate and lash out?
Trump has two choices. He can come clean and fully disclose all his Russian connections whatever they might be and then clearly define his administration's foreign policy as regards Russia. He says there is no collusion, no Russian business so this should not be a problem. Let Mueller do his job and get on with being a President for Americans.
Or he can continue to lie, hide, obfuscate, deny, ignore, blame, deflect, obstruct and whine. The more Trump does so, the more we ask "About what?" and the more Mueller digs.
Come clean if so innocent or stop whining Trump. This is all of your own making.
11
I love the photo. Look at his face and try to imagine what he's thinking. My guess is something like, "Pootie isn't going to like this! Maybe he'll just take it out on Jr. or Eric... Oh, God, please don't let him show the tapes. Please Pootie. I had no choice. I'll do whatever you want. Oh, God."
16
The photo was taken Monday. The bill was signed today. Just an FYI:)
Liberals should be honest.
If Congress had tried to handcuff Obama's ability to deal with Russia or any other major power, there would have been outrage at the encroachment on the office of president.
The hypocrisy is no longer stunning. Or even modestly surprising.
The liberals who now have become full-feathered war hawks against Russia, were the same ones who cheered the Russian "reset", found nothing wrong with Obama's hot mic comment to Medvedev about "having more flexibility after the election", supported Obama's efforts against a missile defense shield in Eastern Europe, and mocked Romney for his "1980's foreign policy".
If Congress had tried to handcuff Obama's ability to deal with Russia or any other major power, there would have been outrage at the encroachment on the office of president.
The hypocrisy is no longer stunning. Or even modestly surprising.
The liberals who now have become full-feathered war hawks against Russia, were the same ones who cheered the Russian "reset", found nothing wrong with Obama's hot mic comment to Medvedev about "having more flexibility after the election", supported Obama's efforts against a missile defense shield in Eastern Europe, and mocked Romney for his "1980's foreign policy".
13
So it is OK with you if Russia controls or tries to control the outcome of American elections?
3
Russia did not intervene in our free electoral process to elect Obama in exchange of lifting sanctions. That is a detail that you seem to forget. We can't equate DT's personal monkey business with the Russians with a sitting president's policy decisions. If republicans, the ones who controlled house and senate ever found anything close to a murky dealing from Obama's part, he would have been impeached or thrown in jail for sure. No doubt.
5
It comes down to trust in the President. Most of this Congress does not trust this President when it comes to sanctions against Russia and secondarily against certain other countries. This trust issue transcends conservative/liberal or any other dichotomy.
4
Russia has hated American since 1917 and hasn't let up except when they needed our vehicles to fight WWII. They need a slap down. A permanent slap down. A century is more than enough time for them to realize that America meant them no harm. What we got in return was a nation that squandered it's national economy for the sole purpose of destroying America both overtly and covertly in wars all around the globe. And, don't think North Korea made significant gains in ICBM and nuclear technology without Russian scientists. Russian hands were in there to threaten America. No more excuses. Go after them tooth and nail. Make them pay dearly.
4
America meant them no harm.
Any attempt to democratize a foreign country is usually viewed by it's untouched populace (dumbed down supporters) who are accustomed to their lifestyle as being an affront. It is generally the outspoken anti-government protesters who might embrace it. Then again there are other protesters who just want to unseat the current leaders and install their own form of whatever. History has shown that any form of Colonialism is regarded as aggression and occupation in most societies.
Any attempt to democratize a foreign country is usually viewed by it's untouched populace (dumbed down supporters) who are accustomed to their lifestyle as being an affront. It is generally the outspoken anti-government protesters who might embrace it. Then again there are other protesters who just want to unseat the current leaders and install their own form of whatever. History has shown that any form of Colonialism is regarded as aggression and occupation in most societies.
You just keep having that mentality and the Russians and Chinese will unite and you will be left out in the cold broken and destroyed. If you had any sense you would actually join with Russia to stop China but alas you are short sighted and it is going to blow up in your face once more.
Ironic that the one decent thing Trump has done he is apparently ashamed of. It's like Upside-Down Day. Or Pajamas Day. Or "The Day Huckabee-Sanders Didn't Lie".
17
I'm awaiting release of the Russian photographer's photos of the signing ceremony, as it appears the Times. photographers were not allowed in (again!).
9
I have said this for a long time eventually you will have sanctioned yourself because you will be isolated. Russia and China are building trade relations around the world. So it is like this folks in the US keep on sanctioning people it will be the undoing of America.
2
No doubt he is already plotting his revenge on the Congress who made him do this.
4
The statement from Mr. Trump to reporters is the most coherent I have ever heard him.
5
Sure he didn't write it.
1
"Trump Signs Russian Sanctions Into Law"
HOW COME NO FANFARE ??
HOW COME NO FANFARE ??
10
Look who is learning to 'dance'.
7
Keep in mind he only signed this because he literally had no other option. Given his track record on Russia, if he did have any other option then he most likely would have taken it.
4
Having signed a bill into law, at least now he can claim a true legislative accomplishment...
10
He has that look like he just did something he didn't want to do.
7
The NYT and other main stream media have dedicated thousands of pages and minutes of air time to the fake Trump Russia story. Klapper says no evidence, Feinstein says no evidence. How could a story that had no basis or shred of evidence be such a huge story? The real story being that is being totally ignored by the media today is the Wasserman IT scandal. With issues like this being ignored, the censorship through omission is glaring.
1
Sure, Trump and co. just hung out with the Russians because they're so much fun and the collective amnesia about those meetings was just the result of excess vodka consumption.
Stop with the quote mining. "After denying he'd seen evidence of collusion, Clapper added "That's not to say there wasn't any [collusion], I just didn't see any evidence of it before I left [the Obama administration]."- Fact Check Weekly Standard. As far as Feinstein's comment you Russian collusion detractors always fail to provide the full quote: "Not at this time." It's an ongoing investigation, period.
Trump the great negotiator, does great deals, the best deals. According to the White house, he negotiated with congress on the sanctions. If this is accurate, he pulled the worst deal for himself by having congress tie his tiny hands by shutting his ability to ease sanctions on Russia without congressional approval.
Congress also put a gun to his head when they passed a veto proof bill giving him no way out.
Congress also put a gun to his head when they passed a veto proof bill giving him no way out.
10
I'll bet he would have preferred to drink hemlock rather than call out his pal re sanctions. Now Putin knows how a democracy works, in spite of how inept a president can be.
10
What, no big rose garden ceremony in front of hundreds of adoring fans with an invitation to dozens of members of the fake media to cover the event?????
15
Didn't Trump say he had his own Health Care Bill ready to go -- where is it?
Republicans in Congress deserve most of the blame but so does he.
Obviously he lied again and has absolutely no clue "how difficult healthcare can be".
Republicans in Congress deserve most of the blame but so does he.
Obviously he lied again and has absolutely no clue "how difficult healthcare can be".
8
No signing ceremony for this bill? No party in the Rose garden? Thought Trump liked signing bills and the pomp that went along with it.
106
so much for improving relationship with Russia...
1
Trump declares that the bill is "unconstitutional" yet signs it anyway.
Has he already forgotten his oath of office, which declares that his main duty as President is to "preserve, protect and defend the Constitution"? Or doesn't he care?
Has he already forgotten his oath of office, which declares that his main duty as President is to "preserve, protect and defend the Constitution"? Or doesn't he care?
15
I'm curious as to what emails or hidden documents may be released now. If there was some collusion and Putin has something on Trump, there may be a few painful leaks to follow this signing.
10
After seven anxiety-ridden months, finally, finally, we are beginning to rein in this unfit, unqualified, questionably moral president. I suppose we need to thank Congress first, then, most likely, new Chief of Staff Kelly. Next up, hopefully, Mueller. But - and maybe this is wishful thinking - we need to thank ourselves, the American public most affected by this so-called POTUS. Maybe there is something to be said for insisting that our voices be heard and heeded. At any rate, let's keep up whatever we are doing. It can't hurt, for sure.
12
Interesting that Trump signed this right after Kelly took the reins. Kelly probably gave Trump an ultimatum.
8
My guess is Trump's response was written by Kelly.
1
In a normal world this signing is an indication that the Administration agrees that Russia tampered in a material fashion in Electoral Process of the United States of America.
No longer can they talk about some kind of hoax, this administration seems to be caught in a cover up of complicity in the tampering with the Russians. If Trump's hoax or conspiracy theories were right he would have forced them to over ride a veto.
As many of us fear the Trump campaign cheated in the 2016 Election Process in concert with the Russians, this is a massively illegal action even to attempt such an agregious action.
The behavior of our President in relation to this investigation is the behavior of a guilty party. Every attempt bury such an investigation is dis-loyal to the country, there is no legitimate position the Administration can take to be against such an investigation
Why?
The only why, is the chilling likelihood that they are in control of the White House of the United States by using the government of a truly adversarial foreign nation.
What could be more corrupt.....?
No longer can they talk about some kind of hoax, this administration seems to be caught in a cover up of complicity in the tampering with the Russians. If Trump's hoax or conspiracy theories were right he would have forced them to over ride a veto.
As many of us fear the Trump campaign cheated in the 2016 Election Process in concert with the Russians, this is a massively illegal action even to attempt such an agregious action.
The behavior of our President in relation to this investigation is the behavior of a guilty party. Every attempt bury such an investigation is dis-loyal to the country, there is no legitimate position the Administration can take to be against such an investigation
Why?
The only why, is the chilling likelihood that they are in control of the White House of the United States by using the government of a truly adversarial foreign nation.
What could be more corrupt.....?
6
There are reports that two versions of the signing statement were release. The first one is long and surely shows the influence of the new Chief of Staff John Kelly. The amended second version has added three sentences at the end and was clearly composed by Trump himself using the pronoun "I". He boasts of having built a billion dollar company and cites this as a reason for his election victory. The last sentence claims that he can make better deals with foreign countries than can Congress. I don't trust reports on the Web until verified by a reputable news organization,
5
Finally! Congratulations to Congress for performing their duty of checks and balances. Trump's ego should take a reality check with Congress' effectively signaling their "NO CONFIDENCE" votes (98-2 and 419-3) in Trump to perform his duty to America.
16
Does it not strike anyone as curious that Russia retaliated before Trump signed the legislation? Could it have anything to do with their private meeting in Hamburg where they may have decided Trump had to go along with the sanctions without arousing too much suspicion and that he would work behind the scenes to do what he could?
10
Trump gripes he could make better deals than Congress. Maybe, but Congress is making deals for the American people (at least in theory) while Trump is making deals strictly for himself.
13
Boy, would it help now if Kushner were successful in establishing private US- Russia communication channel in the latter's embassy. Trump would be able to go there and place "my hands were tied" call to Putin.
4
Trump had no choice but to sign this bill, as he is backed into a corner by a slowly awakening Congress. This is Democracy at work against a failing presidency. This is the genius of our Forefathers' construction of the Constitution.
18
What. took him so long to sign it?
Perhaps a code to his BFF Putin that he's really against it, but is between a rock and a hard place with regards to vetoing the bill.
In the meantime, Putin's other American buddy, Rex Tillerson, turned down 80 million dollars from Congress to prevent the spread of propaganda from Russia and Isis.
The Executive branch has a problem with loyalty to the United States.
Perhaps a code to his BFF Putin that he's really against it, but is between a rock and a hard place with regards to vetoing the bill.
In the meantime, Putin's other American buddy, Rex Tillerson, turned down 80 million dollars from Congress to prevent the spread of propaganda from Russia and Isis.
The Executive branch has a problem with loyalty to the United States.
7
When the President is compromised or when millions suspect that he is it creates real problems. Americans deserve a President who we all KNOW is working for us, Trump's irresponsible actions in the campaign and now raise doubts which adversely impact the nation. We'd all like better relations with Russia but how can we trust that Trump is working on our behalf. While many like myself are committed to removing him, it is his actions and his irresponsible words that created this problem. Thank god we have Patriots like Mueller, McCain, Grahm and a growing number of other Republicans who are stepping up in defense of our nation. As a democrat they have my respect
18
Trump is backed into a corner. He's forced to sign this. A benefit to him is that his mass-hypnotized followers can continue to believe that the Trump family and administration had no questionable interaction with Russia, something that they were going to believe anyway. We still don't have the Trump tax returns.
Trump was going to bring the Russians into his administration's fascist strategy that would benefit the Trump family and obedient corporations, but he has failed. So sad!
Trump has pivoted into a geopolitical domain which he did not expect and with which he is unfamiliar. Maybe Kelly can run the presidency.
Trump was going to bring the Russians into his administration's fascist strategy that would benefit the Trump family and obedient corporations, but he has failed. So sad!
Trump has pivoted into a geopolitical domain which he did not expect and with which he is unfamiliar. Maybe Kelly can run the presidency.
12
"Who knew that being a Russian stooge could be so complicated, Donald ?!"
Since you seem to have lost your Twitter mojo, Donald, please allow me to tweet away:
@realDonaldTrump
"I just can't quit you, Vladimir....why are they trying so hard to tear us and Brokeback Mountain apart ?"
Since you seem to have lost your Twitter mojo, Donald, please allow me to tweet away:
@realDonaldTrump
"I just can't quit you, Vladimir....why are they trying so hard to tear us and Brokeback Mountain apart ?"
127
Folks. This isn't all about Trump. Put your pins and dolls away and go find another story to rant about Trump's badness.
2
@Snobote, Trump *is* the story about Trump's badness.
28
@Snobote, Are you sure? Even now, Trump has nothing bad to say about Putin. You don't have to believe me, NYT has a running tracker to show who got on Trump bad side.
The fact that Congress has a veto proofed piece of legislation for Trump is President Obama getting support from the Republicans.
So this is more about Trump than about Putin, for the latter wouldn't care less if his fellow Russians are suffering so long as he and his oligarchs are okay. Funny that Trump is the same, he wouldn't care less if America's name and future gone to the dogs so long as Putin and his oligarchs are okay. Why?
The fact that Congress has a veto proofed piece of legislation for Trump is President Obama getting support from the Republicans.
So this is more about Trump than about Putin, for the latter wouldn't care less if his fellow Russians are suffering so long as he and his oligarchs are okay. Funny that Trump is the same, he wouldn't care less if America's name and future gone to the dogs so long as Putin and his oligarchs are okay. Why?
44
Actually, yes it is. Trump always seems quite boastful about dropping the hammer on people but when it comes to Putin he's silent except for praise. Russia seizes diplomatic properties and expels embassy personnel and Trump has nothing at all to say about it? Does that seem normal to you?
I think Trump should step aside until we can figure out what's going on. A lot of very important people, the best people, are saying the same thing.
I think Trump should step aside until we can figure out what's going on. A lot of very important people, the best people, are saying the same thing.
14
Just make sure NY Times reports if Trump add signing statements. Could mean he might dodge the sanctions some other way
15
This is what CNN is reporting:
The White House announced the signing shortly after 11 a.m. ET, saying the bill includes "a number of clearly unconstitutional provisions" that "purport to displace the President's exclusive constitutional authority to recognize foreign governments, including their territorial bounds."
In a separate statement, Trump said he believed the bill to be "seriously flawed" but signed it anyway.
"Still, the bill remains seriously flawed -- particularly because it encroaches on the executive branch's authority to negotiate," he said in the statement. "Congress could not even negotiate a health care bill after seven years of talking. By limiting the executive's flexibility, this bill makes it harder for the United States to strike good deals for the American people, and will drive China, Russia, and North Korea much closer together."
He ended the statement by saying: "I built a truly great company worth many billions of dollars. That is a big part of the reason I was elected. As President, I can make far better deals with foreign countries than Congress."
The White House announced the signing shortly after 11 a.m. ET, saying the bill includes "a number of clearly unconstitutional provisions" that "purport to displace the President's exclusive constitutional authority to recognize foreign governments, including their territorial bounds."
In a separate statement, Trump said he believed the bill to be "seriously flawed" but signed it anyway.
"Still, the bill remains seriously flawed -- particularly because it encroaches on the executive branch's authority to negotiate," he said in the statement. "Congress could not even negotiate a health care bill after seven years of talking. By limiting the executive's flexibility, this bill makes it harder for the United States to strike good deals for the American people, and will drive China, Russia, and North Korea much closer together."
He ended the statement by saying: "I built a truly great company worth many billions of dollars. That is a big part of the reason I was elected. As President, I can make far better deals with foreign countries than Congress."
4
@PJ1304
You don’t need to tell the NYT what their job is!
The NYTimes, Washington Post, and Politico are doing a superb job. Of course they will stay on top of this!
This article ALREADY is saying that Trump is trying to back out by saying it’s somehow unconstitutional by not allowing HIS office the freedom to deal with other leaders!
You don’t need to tell the NYT what their job is!
The NYTimes, Washington Post, and Politico are doing a superb job. Of course they will stay on top of this!
This article ALREADY is saying that Trump is trying to back out by saying it’s somehow unconstitutional by not allowing HIS office the freedom to deal with other leaders!
4
If president Trump fails to make America great again it is not because he did not try but because the swamp tied his hands.
4
@Girish Kotwal: Please tell me you're not serious. He is the swamp.
5
Gee, you're not blaming Hillary today?
6
That's right if you concede that the swamp is the White House and making America great is pre-civil war racism.
5
What?? No major signing ceremony for Trump to call the bill "tremendous?" No passing out pens? No display of the signed document? What am I paying him for?
180
W was "The Decider" and now Trump is "The Uniter." He should be so proud he got everybody in Congress to agree on something, bigly, more than other Prersident in history, that he held a big signing ceremony...no wait, what?
31
He's never been less than proud...starting in grade school.
Excellent point JHamje, "The Uniter".
It has a certain ring to it, I'm sure Donald will be phoning you to ask if he can use it as his slogan.
It has a certain ring to it, I'm sure Donald will be phoning you to ask if he can use it as his slogan.
So when so when is our gutsy President going to utter a peep about our embassy staff reductions in Russia? Guess he sent Pence to Estonia to say something tough. It surely does look like Putin has something on the Donald that's as good as a muzzle. While it's reassuring that someone can control the biggest loudmouth in America, I do wish it weren't a hostile foreign power.
82
So when will Russia give Crimea back to ukriane? Tomorrow? Next week?
13
The United States refused to recognize Russia's annexation of the three Baltic states in 1940, and never did so until the USSR eventually collapsed in 1991.
Sometimes, you just have to take a principled stand, a point utterly lost on Trump and apparently some of his supporters.
Sometimes, you just have to take a principled stand, a point utterly lost on Trump and apparently some of his supporters.
I hope this is the start of many kicks in the teeth from a Congress that is willing to exercise its authority.
62
Does America really want these boneheads in Congress dictating foreign policy? -- the rest of the world certainly doesn't.
This is how democracy works. I am very happy to see congress doing the right thing. This is the only way to rein in a president who doesn't seem to respect the Rule of Law or our Constitution. He's had ample opportunity to learn how a democratic republic operates, and to govern through that knowledge. I am waiting for the next step, his removal.
74
No, this is not how democracy works. Having a totally compromised president with limited mental capabilities and unerringly flawed sense of right and wrong is not how democracy works. We have three available mechanisms to repair electoral mistakes:
1. the electoral college. The electors failed to do their job. If the electoral college is just another means of voter suppression, it needs to go. Their abject failure to address the election of an utterly incapable president is reason enough to get rid of them.
2. The 25th amendment. The president is manifestly incapacitated. Yet there is no action.
3. Impeachment. Congress is tasked with acting when the president commits "high crimes and misdemeanors", not "EVERY high crime and misdemeanor". We learn of a new obstruction of justice offense every week or so flavored with acts of treason and continuous violations of the emoluments clause. We see constitutional breaches at about the same rate (non-respect of religions or non-religions other than Catholic and Evangelical Christianity for starters). Yet, there is no effort to impeach by Republicans.
Congress finally acted as something other than an utterly incompetent group of lap-dogs. However, Republicans are still confused about why they are there--and it is not to get reelected, to lick the boots of the 4000 richest Americans, to destroy the lives of the citizens who are not part of the top 1%, and to lie. Do Your Jobs!
1. the electoral college. The electors failed to do their job. If the electoral college is just another means of voter suppression, it needs to go. Their abject failure to address the election of an utterly incapable president is reason enough to get rid of them.
2. The 25th amendment. The president is manifestly incapacitated. Yet there is no action.
3. Impeachment. Congress is tasked with acting when the president commits "high crimes and misdemeanors", not "EVERY high crime and misdemeanor". We learn of a new obstruction of justice offense every week or so flavored with acts of treason and continuous violations of the emoluments clause. We see constitutional breaches at about the same rate (non-respect of religions or non-religions other than Catholic and Evangelical Christianity for starters). Yet, there is no effort to impeach by Republicans.
Congress finally acted as something other than an utterly incompetent group of lap-dogs. However, Republicans are still confused about why they are there--and it is not to get reelected, to lick the boots of the 4000 richest Americans, to destroy the lives of the citizens who are not part of the top 1%, and to lie. Do Your Jobs!
18
SandraL: Trump assumes he was elected to run America like a business, and of course he is trying to run it the way he runs his own businesses.
His supporters actually have a point suggesting that maybe it would be good to let a businessman take a shot as President. Problem is, they chose the wrong businessman.
His supporters actually have a point suggesting that maybe it would be good to let a businessman take a shot as President. Problem is, they chose the wrong businessman.
2
Barry, the problem with running government like a business, is that's the completely wrong approach.
Business only looks after shareholder value, and have no responsibility for the needs of Americans.
Government is responsible for looking after all customers needs(residents of the US) whether it generates a profit or not.
The last thing you need is a business person in charge of government.
Business only looks after shareholder value, and have no responsibility for the needs of Americans.
Government is responsible for looking after all customers needs(residents of the US) whether it generates a profit or not.
The last thing you need is a business person in charge of government.
2
SO GLAD to hear this, but, honestly, this Administration has now taught me to ask every time it announces anything: What's the catch?
11
Well, the US Congress has what it wants – a re-hash of "duck and cover." Russia as the USSR. The American booger-man from the East.
They are obviously near-unanimous in this very short-sighted point of view, even as the people of both Russia and the United States want relationships between their countries to become normal.
The United States military-industrial machine, which continues to vacuum up billions of dollars of public money each and every week, can never do without "mine faceless enemy," even if that enemy no longer exists. There's simply too much money in it.
They are obviously near-unanimous in this very short-sighted point of view, even as the people of both Russia and the United States want relationships between their countries to become normal.
The United States military-industrial machine, which continues to vacuum up billions of dollars of public money each and every week, can never do without "mine faceless enemy," even if that enemy no longer exists. There's simply too much money in it.
4
Ask the 10,000 dead in Ukraine as a result of Russia's intervention if they think this is short-sighted...
How about you ask the 10,000 that wre killed in Liev' ATO?
Why does everyone think Trump had no choice? He had a choice not to sign it, or play golf for a month, or start a war, or tweet something, or eat five scoops of ice cream. It's not like he had a gun to his head? What would Congress do if he didn't sign the bill? There is 6 months of evidence that Congress are OK with whatever Trump is saying or doing.
5
If a president fails to sign a bill within ten days of it landing on their desk, it automatically becomes law. The only exception is when conditions are right for a "pocket veto" (look it up), which wasn't the case here. So it's true that Trump had a choice not to sign it, but it would have become law regardless, and perhaps made him look weak by ineffectually opposing it. So he might as well put his name on it; he likes putting his name on things, I hear.
7
If the President fails to sign a bill, it becomes law after 10 days, unless the Congress is in recess at the end of the 10 day period.
3
because he does not. Congress is remaining in session so that there is no recess appointment of an AG who will fire Mueller. Because of this, a 'pocket veto' will not ocur, sot he bill would have become law in 10 days from presentment. The clock was ticking and there was no choice.
1
Finally, after an unexplained long delay, he signs it (not that he had a choice). Let us now see if Putin retaliates and releases anything he as on Trump as payback.
Maybe the info contained in the dossier about Trumps hiring prostitutes and allegedly filmed actually exists?
The reality show intrigue continues...
Maybe the info contained in the dossier about Trumps hiring prostitutes and allegedly filmed actually exists?
The reality show intrigue continues...
27
There once was a windbag tough on foes
Claiming it’s true but who really knows
After waiting for days
And lingering malaise
He signed a bill demanded by pros
Claiming it’s true but who really knows
After waiting for days
And lingering malaise
He signed a bill demanded by pros
13
C'mon, Larry. You've done better than this.
1
Thanks for following my work.
my one hope for the Trump administration was better relations to Russia - please delay WW3 a week or two
4
All we need to do to have better relations with Russia is to allow Putin to reconstitute the USSR and occupy most of Eastern Europe, the Ukraine, Georgia, etc. and set up defacto Soviet dictatorships in Poland, the Czech Republic, Hungary, the "stans" etc. That's just fine if you are a xenophobic American or Western European, but not a very happy outcome for the peoples of those countries.
And how would you feel having a Soviet dictatorship on your door step?
And how would you feel having a Soviet dictatorship on your door step?
3
In this case, better relations means lining Putin's coffers.
1
Talk to Putin about a delay -- he's the one on the march.
1
Republicans show they are still alive, if only barely.
18
He had no choice. Well done, Congress. There must be consequences for any country attacking our country. The election hack and continued cyber security attacks were not insignificant.
21
The new Cold War brings cheers from many readers of a satisfied NYT.
5
The old Cold War stopped the Soviet Union from conquering Europe and imposing communism on much of the world. I hope the new CW is half as effective...
Where's the smiley scrawl shot?
10
He had no choice. If he could have found one, he would not have signed. Hopefully, this is the first step in Congress' (aka Republicans) standing up to the Putin-wanna-be of their making. (If Jeff Flake is any indication, it's possible) Hope springs eternal.
14
Laughing out loud........... I did not realize the Trumpet has the capacity to learn a thing or two about his position in the governance of this once great country!
13
You can't blame Trump for it. The swamp is winning.
3
The Swamp again! And I wonder what exactly it's winning? Whatever it is, it's clearly not as much money as DJT and family are amassing.
2
What swamp? Or are you saying Trump failed at yet another campaign promise and didn't drain it ...
1
It's about time!
5
Ruh Roh, Shaggy. Looks like someone's not going to get a very good performance review from their boss ...
24
trump signs it, most likely without any 'people props' hanging in the background for an adoring photo op. Yet, I have not heard trump utter a single word in response to Putin's expelling more than 700 US staff. This is leadership?
30
Trump signed this bill like he signs checks for charity, under duress.
15
I consider this a historic mistake. It will be very difficult to change this for many years. Decision is taken based on ALLEGED Russian involvement. Does the criminal justice system work this way in the US? And how can the world become a safer place when nations do not strive for improved relations. GOP and Democrats have lost common sense and think in simple good and evil terms as if it was a Hollywood movie.
3
Decision was taken because Russia seized Crimea from the Ukraine and is supporting a secessionist movement in Eastern Ukraine, is encroaching on parts of Georgia AND meddled in the US election (proven, not alleged).
If the US is going to have any principles and be the standard bearer of democracy in the world. you can't suck up to dictators with expansionist ambitions.
If the US is going to have any principles and be the standard bearer of democracy in the world. you can't suck up to dictators with expansionist ambitions.
5
DJT acts like the star of a very poor movie.
1
I think we escalating to the hot war. Many thinks it should be cold war-2, an easy ride thanks to great Ronald Reagan. history rarely repeat itself.
5
I wonder if we'll look back on this as one of the points in our history when the growth of the Imperial Presidency was clearly checked. Might this be our Runnymede (or at least the beginning of a historical rebalancing)?
6
I am troubled that it was ever in doubt that President Trump would sign this sanctions bill. This should have been a foregone conclusion. A president who truly loved and understood our democracy would have been pushing for these sanctions from the outset.
22
Finally, the Trump administration has its first major legislative achievement – sanctions against Russia, Iran, and Korea with limits on presidential authority to remove the sanctions. Was there a big photo op for the signing event?
20
Vladimir will not be pleased, and that's a good thing. As Bill Browder testified last week, this sanctions issue goes to Putin's personal wealth. Most of his $200 billion is stashed outside of Russia. These sanctions prevent his ability to get at that money.
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It's one small step in reining in an imperious and so far "failed" presidency by asserting the essential "checks and balances" by the legislative branch over an inept executive. Let's also hope the move to "repair" Obamacare instead of the President's demand to let it "fail" is another such step. We need reasoned, stable leadership rather than tempestuous Twitter storms. Perhaps the Republican-controlled Congress has finally realized this and is, as Sen. McCain urged, ready to return to responsible "normal order."
114
Paul, you forget perhaps that Clinton had a "failed" first two years in office with nothing in the way of accomplishments. It wasn't until the Oklahoma City bombing that Clinton gained a footing with the public and DC and eventually hit his stride.
Less than 7 months into his presidency, Trump doesn't need to worry about a failed term. He is just getting started after hitting some speed bumps. Trump ran on a platform of blowing up the status quo, and he has managed to do that precisely as promised. It is what voters expected and we're not disappointed. Get comfortable with feeling uncomfortable for the next 8 years.
Less than 7 months into his presidency, Trump doesn't need to worry about a failed term. He is just getting started after hitting some speed bumps. Trump ran on a platform of blowing up the status quo, and he has managed to do that precisely as promised. It is what voters expected and we're not disappointed. Get comfortable with feeling uncomfortable for the next 8 years.
Clinton changed that's why he was successful in the end. tRump will never change; he is the worst thing to happen since, no he is just the worst thing!
PS, "blowing up the status quo" is not a strategy and only results in making a mess of things.
PS, "blowing up the status quo" is not a strategy and only results in making a mess of things.
1
The first and only significant piece of legislation signed by Trump, and it's main purpose is to limit Trump's authority and react to some aspects of Trump's treason. How is he going to lie about this one?
12
Now more than ever, America has the right to expect the long overdue release of Donald Trump's tax returns. We have the right to know the full disastrous scope of how severely our tensions with Russia will now escalate.
38
Such a relief to see Congress standing up to trump. I hope they don't stop with this legislation.
15
Will Putin out him now or later? Putin's push-back will certainly cause hardship for our diplomatic staff there (especially the Russian workers), but it is WIMPY compared to the hold our sanctions place on his and his cronies' kleptocratic ways.
Tired of winning yet?
Tired of winning yet?
8
Maybe someday we will hear, the Presidency is a lot harder than I thought it would be.
4
Caught between a rock and a hard place, I guess, and forced to accept that not signing would fuel further speculation of his complicity with Russian attack on our election, decided the other way. Given that both the House and the Senate were nearly unanimous in passing the bill, the outcome would have been the same either way. So there's not much credit to be claimed, even though it is one of the few rational actions he's taken in the recent weeks.
8
This is perhaps the most significant piece of legislation originating from a hyper-partisan Congress that we've seen for years. It took Trump only six months to end the obstructionist stalemate that has plagued both Houses.
Trump deserves to take the day off and do a victory lap.
Trump deserves to take the day off and do a victory lap.
11
His first piece of major legislation and it is to curb his own power. Talk about winning!
26
I won't get tired with this kind of winning!
1
I hope this gives inspiration to Congress to take more of a role in governing because of POTUS' utter incompetence and disinterest in doing so. While the GOP is in the majority (for now) and I don't necessarily endorse their overall agenda, there is much they can do to move the country forward and preserve what is left of our democracy and our institutions, which Trump is clearly determined to destroy so he can be the Putinesque dictator he longs to be.
10
Why so long to sign this sanctions bill into law? Why no press coverage? Why no view of Trumps scrawl, the one he calls his signature? And, why no tweeting about it? Could it be that the next thing we will see are some interesting revelations about Trump from Russian sources on WikiLeaks?
35
This is really great news! As long as the current President is under investigation for colluding with Russia, he must not have the power to lift sanctions, which have been shown to really hurt Russia, especially Putin.
However, viewed through the lens of American democracy, it is a rather disappointing day that the Presidency is not trustworthy enough to be entrusted with sweeping powers to manage US foreign policy, including imposing and lifting sanctions. Traditionally, the division of power has been such that the US President is given wide discretion to act quickly to make deals with other countries, to act quickly and decisively on foreign policy. My hope is that a new Presidency will also result in legislation that gives back this important power to the President.
However, viewed through the lens of American democracy, it is a rather disappointing day that the Presidency is not trustworthy enough to be entrusted with sweeping powers to manage US foreign policy, including imposing and lifting sanctions. Traditionally, the division of power has been such that the US President is given wide discretion to act quickly to make deals with other countries, to act quickly and decisively on foreign policy. My hope is that a new Presidency will also result in legislation that gives back this important power to the President.
183
Didn't DJT vilify President Obama for exactly every move he made in regards the US Foreign policy? Who knew foreign policy could be so "complicated"?
18
we have to put sanction on Mr.Trump too, this country should tell to herself that we did a mistake to electing this man and we can not have him 3 more years so some body take over and put us out our misery
5
You opinion, but you what they say about opinions.
1
Did you see the YUGE amount of people around the *presidents desk during this signing ceremony? It was UNBELIEVABLE!
83
And you can count the number of women without even needing a whole hand!
4
Finally Trump has found out that "when I tell someone to do something they do it" and " no one tells me what to do" I guess Trump was wrong!
45
Poor Trump is finding out that he does not have the powers he admires Putin for having. How ironic that this eureka moment comes on the Russian sanctions bill. Funny how the world works sometimes.
178
True, he is finally acknowledging that the United States is indeed a democracy and that he is not a Dictator.
Now maybe someone can give him lessons on the Constitution and how the government is supposed to work.
Wonder if Hillary is available to tutor?
Now maybe someone can give him lessons on the Constitution and how the government is supposed to work.
Wonder if Hillary is available to tutor?
10
He is not Trump of Trump any longer. He is president of the United States and his actions no longer only affect high-income house hunters or golfers. We are impacted by what he does. I am impacted by what he does. His corruption, his dishonesty are my issues I want him out before we get into a nuclear confrontation.
Love the veto-proof aspect. Terrific.
117
With a veto proof majority Trump had no choice. I am hopeful there will be more of these. Maybe it will prove to be the first time in our history that the president was cut out of "the loop".
88
In 1999, the GOP controlled Congress cut Clinton out of the loop with a veto proof bill as well. They chose chose to eliminated the Glass-Steagall act.
Ten years later the financial markets crashed and brought the world to its knees.
Ten years later the financial markets crashed and brought the world to its knees.
6
Trump is now the recipient of Congress' attempts to put the playground bully under stimulus control and that is a very good thing. Too bad,however, that it became necessary because it signals to the World that our President, while still popular with his party's voters, is weak and not to be trusted in any policy matters, foreign or domestic.
3
bearsvilleboy: The first override of a presidential veto happened in 1845, and there have been 106 such overrides up to now. Of course, we have no way of knowing how many times US presidents signed veto-proof bills once they knew that they were indeed veto-proof, and decided not to make the gesture. My guess is, it is many.
With Trump's voluble tweets on everything from transgender troops to the mayor of London, he is remarkably silent on Putin's decimation of our foreign service personnel in Russia. Someday we will find out what leverage Putin has over our errant President.
305
The US has as many diplos in Russia as Russia has in the US.
Don't hold me to this, but I recall the number is around 450.
For EACH country.
Please tell the readers what, if anything, is your objection to that?
Don't hold me to this, but I recall the number is around 450.
For EACH country.
Please tell the readers what, if anything, is your objection to that?
1
Nothing sinister in trump's silence. Vlad told him to shut up.
4
Trump may be giving Kelly a chance to do his thing, by not tweeting. For the nonce. We'll see how long that lasts...
2
"....the bill, which passed both houses with near-unanimous, bipartisan majorities that would easily override any veto."
Whew! Constitutional checks and balances are still working.
Whew! Constitutional checks and balances are still working.
196
By a t h r e a d.
8
Barely, but maybe there is still hope.
2
Putin says, "you're grounded mister!"
42
I believe RasPutin said: "You are fired!"....
3
No he says, "I'm taken them back."
Did he not sign it in public? In the WH gardens?
Donald sure is being coy these days.
Donald sure is being coy these days.
125
Mark: Trump didn't sign it in public with great fanfare because he sees this as a loss. At some point, he and his team will figure out how to spin it to seem like a win.
1
Yeah Mark, where's the house leadership in the Rose Garden...this is the first real bill he's signed, I do believe.
3
Actually he has signed over 40 bills in 6 months. About half are very minor things, looks like stuff shoved in front of him to sign as quickly as possible so that he can claim he's doing something.
Average number of bills signed in the same period in office for the last 6 presidents = 43. Carter signed 70. Clinton 50. Obama 39, one of which was the $800 billion stimulus package that pulled us out of recession. FDR signed 76 in his first 100 days, so Trump's recent claim that he beat out FDR is another lie. But, what else do we expect?
Average number of bills signed in the same period in office for the last 6 presidents = 43. Carter signed 70. Clinton 50. Obama 39, one of which was the $800 billion stimulus package that pulled us out of recession. FDR signed 76 in his first 100 days, so Trump's recent claim that he beat out FDR is another lie. But, what else do we expect?
1
What? No triumphant tweets about this?
213
I KNOW !!!
Isn't it sad?
Isn't it sad?
1