Anything that prevents Trump from governing is good for the country. I endorse his attack on McConnell.
3
McConnell brought this on himself when he supported a real estate agent to be the leader of the free world. What did he expect? A measured thinker?
2
Real estate agent? As in, passed his board examination? Don't think so
2
It will be interesting to see whether Senate Republicans stand by their elected leader McConnell or fall into line with the head of the Republican Party Trump. I suspect that will depend on how short or long they think Trumps' coat-tails are amongst their constituents.
1
Trump just keeps on making enemies with the very people he needs to be successful. Here's a partial list of groups or individuals POTUS has alienated since his inauguration:
1. The entire intelligence and law enforcement community - FBI, CIA, NSA, Homeland Security
2. The press
3. James Comey (and by default, the FBI)
4. Jeff Sessions (and by default, the DOJ)
5. Mitch McConnell (and by default, most of the GOP)
Where is Trump going to find anyone remotely willing to help him with his policy agenda? Well, when he actually has an agenda, that is.
1. The entire intelligence and law enforcement community - FBI, CIA, NSA, Homeland Security
2. The press
3. James Comey (and by default, the FBI)
4. Jeff Sessions (and by default, the DOJ)
5. Mitch McConnell (and by default, most of the GOP)
Where is Trump going to find anyone remotely willing to help him with his policy agenda? Well, when he actually has an agenda, that is.
5
If Trump wants McConnell to get bills through the Senate, shouldn't he (like most presidents) have example language or even potential full bills waiting to hand off to the Senate leadership? I mean, didn't candidate Trump tell us over and over again about his beautiful healthcare plan that he had?
4
Maybe McConnell just wants Trump to be a one term President.
4
The problem with the GOP health care bill(s) is these were horrible bills and were basically tax cut bills, not health care bills. Each GOP health care bill was far worse than the ACA and each took away health care insurance coverage for people who really needed it.
Let Trump and McConnell rip away at each other--these two villains deserve each other.
Let Trump and McConnell rip away at each other--these two villains deserve each other.
3
When you've already proclaimed yourself the most effective president since Lincoln, I can see where it's tedious to watch a political hack like McConnell attempt to implicate you 'unfairly' in the party's dysfunction.
But what's really going on here is a crude attempt by a thin-skinned narcissist to badger critics into silence.
McConnell has surely learned his lesson and, certainly, others, have too. As for Trump, acting like a despot has its rewards.
But what's really going on here is a crude attempt by a thin-skinned narcissist to badger critics into silence.
McConnell has surely learned his lesson and, certainly, others, have too. As for Trump, acting like a despot has its rewards.
1
As significant as this story would be in a normal world, we have a president who has threatened war with two separate nations in 24 hours. The real story is that our Congress seems nearly as unbalanced as our president. They know he's not only mentally and emotionally unfit for this job but he's also getting more and more desperate as Mr. Mueller's work progresses. He's capable of anything at this point. Why is Congress failing to act?
4
The reality seems as though trump has no need for anyone else, privately, three wives, professionally, bye-bye Sean, bye-bye mooch, bye-bye comey, bye-bye McConnell, bye-bye mueller ( he wishes ), bye-bye cruel world, we wish.
2
I am having an increasingly difficult time taking seriously the public feuds among people like Trump, Sessions, McConnell, Bannon, and the various Trump children and in-laws. If there's anyone in this bunch who can be tolerated, let alone supported, I fail to see it. I'm not sure I have ever seen such a basket of deplorable in my life. And I'm from Alabama!
4
You reap what you sow and after watching the treatment of Obama for 8 years I must admit I am enjoying this internecine battle. McConnell from day one of Obama's tenure did whatever he could do to denigrate and destroy his presidency. There is nothing Trump has done since he took office that has caused me to change my mind about him but his treatment of Mitch is tantalizing. If the Dems can't capitalize on the chaos that is going on the within the Right it is truly time for a third party.
3
How much humiliation for McConnell (and Ryan) at the hands of Trump would be sufficient to compensate our country for the damage done by 8 years of their obstructionism and disrespect for President Obama? How much political damage to McConnell (and Ryan) would be enough to make up for the damage they have done to our standing in the world and peace of mind by backing the mad man now inhabiting the White House? How much personal integrity would any of these men be willing to sacrifice to retain power? How do you measure infinity?
6
You got to hand it to him. Trump is a guy who really knows how to make enemies out of friends. He started with Mexico and Australia as his warm-up and has now moved to attacking his own team. I guess no one told about the Reagan rule of never saying anything bad about a fellow Republican. Thing is, he never stops to consider the possilbe downside to his tirades. It's not like he needs McConnell for anything, right?
He will not be able to influence them once he has alienated them. I don't take McConnell for that kind of guy, nor may of the others who never had any reason to like Trump in the first place. He doesn't get that Congress is a co-equal branch of government.
Trump is going to left to swing slowly in the wind pretty soon and no one - including his wife I suspect - will shed a tear.
He will not be able to influence them once he has alienated them. I don't take McConnell for that kind of guy, nor may of the others who never had any reason to like Trump in the first place. He doesn't get that Congress is a co-equal branch of government.
Trump is going to left to swing slowly in the wind pretty soon and no one - including his wife I suspect - will shed a tear.
4
The only reason that Mitch McConnell is not in prison is that our government has unfortunately embraced greed and corruption.
3
Why do people think that putting Neil Gorsuch onto the Supreme Court was in any way an achieve of Donald Trump? He could have nominated anybody on the far-right conservative list. Mitch McMuddle, I mean McConnell, was the one who refused to consider President Obama's nomination of Merrick Garland, and then engineered the Senate vote to confirm Gorsuch by doing away with the filibuster. Trump did basically nothing.
5
Ah, what a wise and clever move by the great negotiator. Trump has figuratively slapped the face of one of the two guys absolutely required to pass his legislation. Trump can't replace McConnell and there is no indication whatsoever that the Senate will. After this, if Trump is in any way dependent on McConnell, do we think he will get that support? This is in particular since McConnell bent over backwards to try to get a conservative version of a Repeal and Replace bill passed, even to the extent McConnell embarrassing himself because of the risk of failure.
In American government, you can't do it by yourself Donald.
The great negotiator, who can't even identify the allies that he absolutely needs in a Congressional battle over legislation or even over impeachment or 25th Amendment removal. "The Art of the Deal" what total and complete rubbish.
In American government, you can't do it by yourself Donald.
The great negotiator, who can't even identify the allies that he absolutely needs in a Congressional battle over legislation or even over impeachment or 25th Amendment removal. "The Art of the Deal" what total and complete rubbish.
3
I don't buy it. I think this is like pro-wrestling, just putting on a show for the masses to distract from what's going on.
2
The fact that Mitch receives shade from Trump is all in a days work for both of them. However, Mitch McConnell's wife, the Secretary of Transportation, Elaine Chao, might want to tell her boss that having Potemkin like White House functions to announce the privatization of the air traffic control system is one thing, but upsetting potential jurors of a possible impeachment trial? No worries.
1
Trump knows Republicans are gearing up to take him out after one term. They will not offer him any support so he's going to throw them under the bus in response. Frankly, Trump is right---Congress can't get anything done. But it's not because of their legislative passing skills. It's because they are a Party without ideas and without policies the Country likes.
2
Even a blind squirrel steps on an acorn from time to time, and Trump is dead on in his criticism of a man who, for seven years, proclaimed to have the answers on health care and proclaimed, given the chance, would get it done. So, Donald, now you too know how it feels to be lied to, straight faced. Sad, isn't it.
2
The Crybaby-in-Chief throws yet another childish tantrum when he doesn't get his way. Waaaah!
1
I realize that the picture accompanying this article was taken months ago. Nevertheless, Sen. McConnell's smile says it all. He has to be amused by this foofaraw, which is much to-do about nothing. The far-right and the press are fixated on it, but I predict that it will blow over soon.
This presents a very interesting dynamic within Kentucky. We have a Tea Party governor, a basically libertarian Senator, and Sen. McConnell -- a card-carrying member of the traditional Republican "swamp," a deal-maker and President-breaker, and a Senator who may be heading toward retirement. Is the traditional wing of the Republican party willing to give in to Mr. Trump's tirades, abandon McConnell and, in the process, turn Kentucky over to the right-most fraction of the right wing in the next Senatorial election?
6
We really need term limits. So much of this would just go away if we just instituted this restraint on length of time served. McConnell, along with many others on BOTH sides of the aisle, should have been gone a long time ago.
7
we have term limits. they are called elections.
No, term limits mean you can only be elected to a given position X number of times. In many states, a governer can only run for election two times, same as the president. Prior to FDR's death, there were no limits on how many times a person could be elected president, hence his being our only 4 term president. Term limits would guarantee that people with new ideas, dedicated to actually governing and not just being reelected, would have a chance to be elected.
1
Trump not only fails to understand how government works, he is a lousy judge of his own strength and influence. Getting rid of Mitch McConnell is not going to strengthen Trump's power to sway Congress. To the contrary, it is going to further alarm longstanding stalwarts in the Republican party. Look at his attacks against John McCain, and now McConnell. How much abuse can his own party hacks absorb before they turn on him?
13
Rest assured that McConnell will do whatever is good for McConnell. If that intersects with something that helps Trump, that will be fine with McConnell, if not, nothing on earth or in heaven would make McConnell sacrifice his own personal gain. Doesn't matter a whit what Trump says or does. Same is true for any other human being. Does it benefit McConnell? OK. Otherwise, forget it.
9
You nailed it.
1
" nothing on earth or in heaven would make McConnell sacrifice his own personal gain,,, Same is true for any other human being."
I have to disagree. I'm not yet that cynical. I know people who believe in charity, sacrifice, and working the mutual benefit of all. I know people who believe in protecting the weak and marginalized. I fear the cynicism that treats everyone's Randian self interest as the ultimate moral truth. It doesn't have to be that way. And it can't be that way if our country is to rise again.
I have to disagree. I'm not yet that cynical. I know people who believe in charity, sacrifice, and working the mutual benefit of all. I know people who believe in protecting the weak and marginalized. I fear the cynicism that treats everyone's Randian self interest as the ultimate moral truth. It doesn't have to be that way. And it can't be that way if our country is to rise again.
2
Maybe Mitch will have to stand up to Trump or resign. So Mitch and Paul Ryan have just let Trump say and do some very outlandish and dangerous things.
I seriously doubt that Trump has a clue about how horrible a nuclear war would be. I hope that Mitch wakes up and realizes that Trump is out of control and the US needs some powerful action by Congress to survive.
I seriously doubt that Trump has a clue about how horrible a nuclear war would be. I hope that Mitch wakes up and realizes that Trump is out of control and the US needs some powerful action by Congress to survive.
7
They should both quit.
8
Trump has risked and succeeded in alienating most of the people in the United States and most of the countries of the world. I really can't take much more of this. News reports about possible nuclear war are being presented like this normal, even inevitable. Are we all going to spread out a picnic lunches and watch the end of civilization?
Is there anyone in this government, in the country to whom we can appeal regarding the removal of this man from office? Are we really going to wait to it is too late, and then talk about it? Oh, if only we had done something sooner... oh, if only we had done something sooner...we will say, and we will ask, why didn't we?
Is there anyone in this government, in the country to whom we can appeal regarding the removal of this man from office? Are we really going to wait to it is too late, and then talk about it? Oh, if only we had done something sooner... oh, if only we had done something sooner...we will say, and we will ask, why didn't we?
8
Trump uses and disses people. That is who he is. Why Republicans like Mitch McConnell seem to think that Trump would treat them differently, is beyond me.
10
McConnell and Trump. Two praying mantis deciding who will eat whom.Cant wait for the docudrama on the Discovery channel.
7
Trump sure has an interesting strategy for making the country great.
Step 1) Fire the person investigating him for investigating him, admit this on national television. This of course prompts a special counsel to investigate him and all his business dealings and family, is publicly making statements that undermine his own executive orders.
Step 2) Order Congress to pass an unpopular bill, criticize the bill publicly, don't do anything to motivate so much as one Senator to vote for it, then criticize the top guy in the Senate for it not passing.
Step 3) Undermine your own Attorney General for stepping aside from the investigation into you which you forced him to do by firing the FBI director.
Step 4) Constantly praise and work to reduce the punishment on the guy you are accused of having improper ties to. Thank them for retaliating against our Country.
Step 5) Senselessly provoke an unstable nuclear power with a history of making empty threats into attacking us or our allies while on an extended golf vacation.
Step 1) Fire the person investigating him for investigating him, admit this on national television. This of course prompts a special counsel to investigate him and all his business dealings and family, is publicly making statements that undermine his own executive orders.
Step 2) Order Congress to pass an unpopular bill, criticize the bill publicly, don't do anything to motivate so much as one Senator to vote for it, then criticize the top guy in the Senate for it not passing.
Step 3) Undermine your own Attorney General for stepping aside from the investigation into you which you forced him to do by firing the FBI director.
Step 4) Constantly praise and work to reduce the punishment on the guy you are accused of having improper ties to. Thank them for retaliating against our Country.
Step 5) Senselessly provoke an unstable nuclear power with a history of making empty threats into attacking us or our allies while on an extended golf vacation.
14
Quelle dommage.
They deserve each other.
They deserve each other.
4
How long will it take for Republicans to understand they've bet on a losing leader. Trump cares only about wrapping himself in false glory. Denying even a tinny want results in a tantrum and retribution. And he will never change.
3
Mitch looks like a man who is patiently waiting to get even. Revenge is going to be sweet.
7
And the revenge will be served cold, after Mueller fashions an air-tight case.
1
"congressional Republicans had seven years to prepare..."
I fully expected both houses to vote the week of inauguration on a 4 year budget with O'care repeal abortion bans and firearm subsidies for everyone. But, nope. Just Gorsuch.
I fully expected both houses to vote the week of inauguration on a 4 year budget with O'care repeal abortion bans and firearm subsidies for everyone. But, nope. Just Gorsuch.
1
What could create more chaos than this incessant display of never before seen behavior of a president than tweeting negative comments about McConnell (who deserves NOTHING but the worst...but that's besides the point).
IMHO This has Roger Stone (see "Get Me Roger Stone" documentary) and Steve Bannon (read "Devil's Bargain") all over it. They have been creating the destruction of The System for decades. Chaos is their modus operandi.
Trump LOVES chaos more than other human being in the US. I believe that while there is coterie of Rich White Men who are running things, Bannon and Stone are at the forefront and are letting Trump do what it is he that he instinctually knows how to do: a total self-involved, out of control, stupid, un-read, inarticulate, rich man's kid who still shows up like a spoiled brat. Who tweets his impulsive thoughts. Every day.
If Roger Stone and Steve Bannon's visions for the world and the US's role becomes real, screwed will be the best that anyone will be.
IMHO This has Roger Stone (see "Get Me Roger Stone" documentary) and Steve Bannon (read "Devil's Bargain") all over it. They have been creating the destruction of The System for decades. Chaos is their modus operandi.
Trump LOVES chaos more than other human being in the US. I believe that while there is coterie of Rich White Men who are running things, Bannon and Stone are at the forefront and are letting Trump do what it is he that he instinctually knows how to do: a total self-involved, out of control, stupid, un-read, inarticulate, rich man's kid who still shows up like a spoiled brat. Who tweets his impulsive thoughts. Every day.
If Roger Stone and Steve Bannon's visions for the world and the US's role becomes real, screwed will be the best that anyone will be.
6
"The unusual intramural conflict had the capital’s full attention even as the United States and North Korea traded warlike nuclear threats." This just about says it all; how depraved these people are -- while reckless, possibly irreversible, and immoral threats are made that put millions at risk.
3
McConnell strikes me as a politician so used to all the money and perks, that he'll put up with a lot. He sold his soul a long time ago.
14
Trump=FDR
McConnell=Eisenhower
That is rich and chuckleworthy. In their dreams.....
McConnell=Eisenhower
That is rich and chuckleworthy. In their dreams.....
11
It has been obvious from before the ingurl
1
Their is a saying among politicians, "Presidents come and go. While senators die in office." Good ol' Mitch is the last person that Trump should attack. He could bring Trump's legislative agenda to a dead stop. Granted they haven't passed anything significant in the past six months either.
5
Mitch should get his club together for dinner and have them all pledge to make this president a one term president. Oh, wait, that didn't work too well last time.
7
This "president" may insure he is a one term president without the help of McConnel.
3
Trump has no allies. He is an egotistical one man band.
Everyone is fair game to insult, slur, abandon. He is his own god.
It will be interesting to see how he acts when Kushner and Donald Jr. are indicted and it tightens around Ivanka. Will he even support her if she is indicted or is named as an un-indicted co-conspirator?
Everyone is fair game to insult, slur, abandon. He is his own god.
It will be interesting to see how he acts when Kushner and Donald Jr. are indicted and it tightens around Ivanka. Will he even support her if she is indicted or is named as an un-indicted co-conspirator?
6
No, he will not try to defend Ivanka. She is there to defend him. He will be cowering. The FBI will find him behind the drapes.
Trump, the bus driver, has put so much mileage on it the wheel are about to come off.
5
Mitch McConnell, this one's on you. You brought it on yourself.You "disrespected the Bing", to quote the Sopranos.
You were so desperate to pass Anything, that you went against everything the institution you purport to love stands for- deliberation, collegiality, congeniality, civil discourse, compromise, representation of the larger interests of the nation as a whole. You have proven to be the antithesis of the statesman you no doubt would like to be seen as, and are now revealed as no more than an unscrupulous scheming "Mr. Burns".
Had you actually returned to the ideals that you purportedly stand for, worked in a bi partisan manner to construct a plan that actually addressed the will of the people- expressed by none other than your leader president trump, "better care at lower cost", you might have gotten somewhere. But you didn't, and you failed- spectacularly- because 3 individuals in your party had the guts to stand up for principles. If someone were to wrote Profiles in Courage II- you sir would NOT be in it.
And then you sank to a new low by blaming everyone but yourself in your post vote closing floor speech. You created this mess, no one else- devised the approach, cut out Democratic cooperation, refused to work through committees, supported a plan that was "mean" and heartless, and then you sold your soul and asked others to sell theirs to get a nonsensical bill through. Shame on YOU sir.
You were so desperate to pass Anything, that you went against everything the institution you purport to love stands for- deliberation, collegiality, congeniality, civil discourse, compromise, representation of the larger interests of the nation as a whole. You have proven to be the antithesis of the statesman you no doubt would like to be seen as, and are now revealed as no more than an unscrupulous scheming "Mr. Burns".
Had you actually returned to the ideals that you purportedly stand for, worked in a bi partisan manner to construct a plan that actually addressed the will of the people- expressed by none other than your leader president trump, "better care at lower cost", you might have gotten somewhere. But you didn't, and you failed- spectacularly- because 3 individuals in your party had the guts to stand up for principles. If someone were to wrote Profiles in Courage II- you sir would NOT be in it.
And then you sank to a new low by blaming everyone but yourself in your post vote closing floor speech. You created this mess, no one else- devised the approach, cut out Democratic cooperation, refused to work through committees, supported a plan that was "mean" and heartless, and then you sold your soul and asked others to sell theirs to get a nonsensical bill through. Shame on YOU sir.
11
Trump didn't help matters any when he called the House bill "mean", and then McConnell decided to simply use it as a template for the Senate bill. In the process, it got meaner yet, to the point that Senators who voted for it didn't want it signed into law. Great strategy there.
1
Hey and remember McConnell's bipartisanship with Merrick Garland
They are all pretty despicable and hope they just keep slicing each other up.
They are all pretty despicable and hope they just keep slicing each other up.
6
McConnell could always send Trump another Russia sanctions bill to sign...
4
By even conservative estimates, Mr and Mrs. McConnell are millionaires several times over. One would think that McConnell's wife would hand in her resignation at the first twitter attack against her husband. But this is the stuff they are made of. How can we expect those in government to stand up for us when they don't even stand up for their own spouses..(Yes, you too Ted Cruz).
11
To your point, Mr. McConnell (like many of his Congressional colleagues) has seen his wealth soar while in office. Funny thing, the rules he's helped pass don't require full disclose of wealth. Congressional members are only obligated to report a wealth estimate range. So they can claim transparency while delivering nothing of a sort.
2
As pointed out in another article today Trump has offended just about everyone outside of Putin.
In particular he has offended both specific women and the entire gender.
But he has not paid any price whatsoever for this behavior.
He got the majority of votes cast by white women in the face of his misogynistic statements and his admission of being a sex offender.
His 53% of the white women vote was decisive in his election.
Why would he not assume from that he has a free ticket to say anything?
In particular he has offended both specific women and the entire gender.
But he has not paid any price whatsoever for this behavior.
He got the majority of votes cast by white women in the face of his misogynistic statements and his admission of being a sex offender.
His 53% of the white women vote was decisive in his election.
Why would he not assume from that he has a free ticket to say anything?
9
I hoping for an ending worthy of a Greek tragedy.
4
Please, Mr. Trump, keep alienating Republican allies, because the best we can hope for these days is that none of your and their insane agenda is realized. Getting nothing done is the best we can hope for now because what you and they want to do is of no benefit to the American people. This is how desperate the otherwise-reasoned among us have become.
60
trump does not grasp the complexities of government? He does not seem to even grasp the simplest aspects, such as not dissing your allies, internal or external.
When will the madness end?
When will the madness end?
11
Trump seemed to get the message that seriously jacking with Jeffery Beauregard Sessions wasn't going down well with the GOP establishment. He'll probably learn the same about McConnell. It's OK for him to injure and insult all kinds of other Americans but messing with the Republican club is another matter entirely.
6
This is all part of the trump chaos agenda, nothing new here. This sounds so conspiratorial, yet trump is so blatantly, consistently obvious in his favor toward putin that it makes all trump's attackes, contradictions and lying make sense.
If trump were promised an election win in exchange for his compliance with putin's wishes to destroy American democracy and advance trump and putin's bank accounts, we know the liar in chief's lack of character and conscience would certainly be essential for moving this plan forward.
McConnell and his fellow Republicans need to wake up. If they believe they will not be impacted by the trump/putin slow-moving coup, they are mistaken.
If trump were promised an election win in exchange for his compliance with putin's wishes to destroy American democracy and advance trump and putin's bank accounts, we know the liar in chief's lack of character and conscience would certainly be essential for moving this plan forward.
McConnell and his fellow Republicans need to wake up. If they believe they will not be impacted by the trump/putin slow-moving coup, they are mistaken.
13
Forwarded this to Senator McConnell's email account as well--urging McConnell to remove trump from office now.
4
About time, Mitch McConnell realized Trump is nobody's friend except his own!
3
When "moonman mitch" and the GOP decided the U S Constitution did not apply to Obama, we should have trembled. The U S Constitution states what are presidential powers, such as nominating someone for the SCOTUS or a federal judge position. The "constitution loving" and "God loving" GOP decided 120 positions as federal judges remain vacant and also kept vacant the SCOTUS position. The GOP's party over We The People, gave the country a degenerate draft dodger who has no respect and little knowledge of this country, its constitution, or its history.
7
When will golf caddy Dan Scavino be led out the door like the Mooch was?
He's also a twitter idiot making comments about healthcare when after all he should have a little empathy considering he went bankrupt - http://www.thedailybeast.com/the-trump-aide-bankrupted-by-a-single-illness
Wonder if the golf caddy currently likes his govt health insurance he has for himself and his family.
He's also a twitter idiot making comments about healthcare when after all he should have a little empathy considering he went bankrupt - http://www.thedailybeast.com/the-trump-aide-bankrupted-by-a-single-illness
Wonder if the golf caddy currently likes his govt health insurance he has for himself and his family.
3
Keep it up Trump. Get rid of the past 30 years. Let's get people in Congress that will truely use taxes for taxpayers. I say alienating them all can only benefit America.
1
Trump understands construction, so let's go to the block corner:
1. Executive Branch: one large pyramid shape block
2. Legislative Branch: two rectangle shape blocks with a connecting hinges, together they equal weight to the pyramid
3. Judicial Branch: 9 small cube blocks, together they too are equal in weight to the pyramid
If he asks about marble or gold please tell him that is the next step of the design process. Today's goal is that Trump understand America has three, 3, equal branches of government. And yes he has the coolest office but the Supreme Court is in charge of permission slips and the lLgislature has you wallet.
1. Executive Branch: one large pyramid shape block
2. Legislative Branch: two rectangle shape blocks with a connecting hinges, together they equal weight to the pyramid
3. Judicial Branch: 9 small cube blocks, together they too are equal in weight to the pyramid
If he asks about marble or gold please tell him that is the next step of the design process. Today's goal is that Trump understand America has three, 3, equal branches of government. And yes he has the coolest office but the Supreme Court is in charge of permission slips and the lLgislature has you wallet.
13
"How they respond could have significant effects on trump's tenure!" If only they had the collective guts to impeach him! Congress could just cut vacation short and come back and do that! Quick, before he nukes us all! Let him stay on the golf course...I am praying hard for a lightning strike in Bedminster!
8
Trump is NOT and never was a Republican. He merely used the Party in order to run for his fascist party goals.
14
What would Daniel Boone think?
Trump has alienated every intelligent member of Congress who is not fixated upon having a rubber stamp for any right wing laws and policies that they want sitting in the Oval Office or longs to have a tin horn dictator as President. But McConnell spent eight years avoiding serving the nation in order to screw up Obama's efforts and he's got enough sense to not waste any ire on opposing Trump for his silly ways while he can get any old right wing legislation that he sends to the President signed.
1
There are several useful observations to be made from this episode. Perhaps the most conspicuous -- in thinking of McConnell, Sessions, Priebus, etc. -- is that you don't want to depend on Trump to have your back. Instead, watch out for the bus.
7
Trump's pillorying of McConnell signals throwing all politicians under the bus. North Korea then provides a Reichstag incident to seize control "for the good of the country under nuclear attack." Mueller is fired, favored laws are passed by fiat, marshal law continues until the "threat" is over. Trump supporters are in the street. The dog is wagged.
5
@Ruffian234
only the "threat" will never be over.
only the "threat" will never be over.
2
As much as it pains me to give 45 any credit for anything, he does have a point: Mitch, you had seven years to come up with an alternative. So, why now, when you have both houses of Congress, can you not do it (except that it would adversely impact your chances for re-election)?
I for one am glad he's failing to dismantle the ACA, but really--he had seven years. And they ran on the idea of a unified Congress doing just that.
I for one am glad he's failing to dismantle the ACA, but really--he had seven years. And they ran on the idea of a unified Congress doing just that.
6
Mitch only wanted to repeal Obamacare, not replace. That was dumped on him by Trump. They had a clear, alas devastating, plan to repeal and could do it in the timeframe of a week. Once they had to add a replacement plan to satisfy Trump, that is when the timeframe went from a week or two to a year or two. It is called scope creep, something every project manager fears.
3
Years ago, Republicans decided that they would oppose any ideas advanced by Democrats. Only their own ideas had merit. That approach inculcated a culture of me-first thinking within the Republicans, and now each Senator and Representative supports only his or her own ideas. They have forgotten the 80-20 rule of shaping legislation to get into the 80% you support all of your must-haves, while letting go of the things that you disagree with but which aren't crucial to a workable deal that reside in the other 20%. That is true inside the party, and in its outside dealings with Democrats. Even without the name calling, backbiting and blame-gaming, Republicans would be unable to develop intra-party consensus, let alone inter-party agreement, because of their "unconditional surrender" approach to lawmaking, selfishness and tunnel vision. Comity within the party is dead; the Trump-McConnell spat is merely the miasma wafting from its putresence.
4
Remove. Unfit.
The only question to ask reps and senators now is:
"Have you spoken out in so many words in Plain English for the removal of Trump from the presidency? Yes or no?"
The only question to ask reps and senators now is:
"Have you spoken out in so many words in Plain English for the removal of Trump from the presidency? Yes or no?"
7
Clearly, Donald is out of his element. He knows nothing about government and is not interested in learning.
On the other hand, surely McConnell is used to abuse by now. He is one of the nastiest politicians in our long and storied history.
But... Mitch does not work for Donald, and he doesn't have to take orders.
On the other hand, surely McConnell is used to abuse by now. He is one of the nastiest politicians in our long and storied history.
But... Mitch does not work for Donald, and he doesn't have to take orders.
5
Memo to Mitch McConnell:
What goes around comes around. For the last seven years you have tried to obstruct progress and justice in our government because the president was a Democrat. You lost on your goal of making sure he was a one-term president. You have lost on repealing and replacing the ACA. And now, after supporting a man who claims to be a Republican but, in fact, has no allegiance to any party, you lost your ability to understand the danger this man is to the country. Trump has thrown you under the proverbial bus and a lot of us simply don't care.
What goes around comes around. For the last seven years you have tried to obstruct progress and justice in our government because the president was a Democrat. You lost on your goal of making sure he was a one-term president. You have lost on repealing and replacing the ACA. And now, after supporting a man who claims to be a Republican but, in fact, has no allegiance to any party, you lost your ability to understand the danger this man is to the country. Trump has thrown you under the proverbial bus and a lot of us simply don't care.
14
Just another TRUMP diversion to get attention away from himself! Muddled mind, muddled diversions.
6
I don't believe that Mr. Trump is a Republican, or a conservative. He's not a closet Democrat or a liberal either. I believe Mr. Trump is Mr. Trump, and that's whom he is for. My guess is he figured he could add another gem to his crown, drop some bombs, get those slackers back to work, ensure some nice photo ops for the history books and make sure those pesky estate taxes didn't feed any welfare cases.
18
McConnell and Trump are not in the same political party. The only thing they share is bigotry and selfishness but that is enough to bind them together in Dante's Inferno.
25
I think the author of the article is way off the mark.
Trump, as always, is working his base and trying to improve his poll numbers -- and I'm afraid it will work for him.
1. The attack on McConnell is Trump's way of distancing himself from the awful drafted healthcare legislation and the failure to repeal and replace the ACA. He'll let Congress own the failure. He'll only step in and own it if they come up with something popular that is passed.
2. He's re-establishing himself as the "outsider" -- not part of the swamp. It's his version of "going rogue" -- and his base loves it.
Wait and see. It will work for him.
Trump, as always, is working his base and trying to improve his poll numbers -- and I'm afraid it will work for him.
1. The attack on McConnell is Trump's way of distancing himself from the awful drafted healthcare legislation and the failure to repeal and replace the ACA. He'll let Congress own the failure. He'll only step in and own it if they come up with something popular that is passed.
2. He's re-establishing himself as the "outsider" -- not part of the swamp. It's his version of "going rogue" -- and his base loves it.
Wait and see. It will work for him.
50
I agree that this is Trump's "strategy," but it's only because he painted himself into a corner that he finally won't get out of.
This scheme will fail because he is alienating himself from many groups and running out dupes.
There might be a sucker born every minute, but when the con is on this big a scale -- the presidency -- you run through too many suckers at once.
This scheme will fail because he is alienating himself from many groups and running out dupes.
There might be a sucker born every minute, but when the con is on this big a scale -- the presidency -- you run through too many suckers at once.
2
"It will work for him." Yes, for his 20%. The rest of USA has his number.
The republicans are reaping the well deserved rewards of the fraud they have perpetrated for many decades. The GOP is run by a tiny group of oligarchs and wannabes who have, over the decades, engineered a two tier tax code that literally funnels the wealth to themselves. But of course they need votes to have any political power, and they get those votes by talking 'values' to the lower end of the economic spectrum, a group that is not financially astute and does not pay attention to what is actually being done with the wealth. Along comes Trump, who knows how to talk to the lower end, and he rather easily grabs their loyalty. So now that GOP leadership, the 0.01% and wannabes, loses control because a bigger con has taken their foot soldiers. Karma works in marvelous ways.
14
For the GOP it remains 'PARTY OVER COUNTRY'.
5
Atta boy Donald. Tell Mitch to stop lollygaggin' and get his you know what in gear. These guys are beautiful. What a pair to draw to!
4
There is no excuse. Trump is right in saying that the party is incompetent, for they have had 7 years to prepare, how do we know this, simple listen to their ramblings and lies on the affordable care act for the past 7 years. they should not complain because most of them jumped on this wacky, incompetent trump band wagon. Will america ever learn that the modern Republican party is just a bunch of feeble minded, greedy, incompetent, out of touch with their time, war hungry, religious zealots, that have more in common with the saudi ruling family than with a conservative party that believes in a democratic state. As for Trump, well even a broken clock is right twice a day. We all know that he is nothing more than a spoiled brat who has mastered the art of being a school yard bully. They made their bed, too bad it's uncomfortable and thank god they can't get anything done, because there would be the real tragedy as they would send our country back to the 19th century.
8
McConnell and Trump.
Trump and McConnell.
They deserve each other.
Trump and McConnell.
They deserve each other.
9
There is a fundamental underlying difference in world view between Trump and the Congress. For Trump to consider he has got something right all he needs is the support of his base. Members of Congress, on the other hand, or at least, those who would like to keep their seats, concern themselves about how they are going to explain their voting pattern at the next election. In healthcare, for example, Trump's base is only concerned with did Obamacare get repealed yet. The constuents on the other hand are concerned about whether they will still have any healthcare and how much they will have to pay for it once Congress has had its way. Naturally Trump is furious that after 7 years the Republicans in Congress could not repeal Obamacare. He has neither the time nor the inclination (and possibly not the intellect) to acquire a more nuanced understanding of the issues. This different in world view explains his behavior where the healthcare legislation was concerned and can be expected to cause a similar disconnect where tax reform is concerned. McConnell is quite right. If only Donald would only keep his finger off the tweet button.
3
that's not the button I'm worried about.
6
All you have to do to see where Mitch McConnell's priorities lie is glance at the statistics about the state he has helped govern since the mid-1980s. By any measure, Kentucky is a mess. It is poor, unhealthy, under-employed, non-competitive, poorly educated, addicted, and despairing. While Mitch has been off playing tactician, his state has continued to sink. McConnell is a heartless, cold, ruthless man who is out for himself. Maybe the chickens are finally coming home to roost.
21
Very foolish of Trump to berate McConnell. Good for Democrats and ultra conservatives but at a cost of even more dysfunction in our government.
As moderate Republicans become more alienated from Trump, less will get done and we will all witness a slow motion political debacle until 2020.
As moderate Republicans become more alienated from Trump, less will get done and we will all witness a slow motion political debacle until 2020.
4
Republicans are the masters of suckup.
Remember the run to the nomination?
The Grifter insulted and demeaned every opponent but when it was all over, they kissed his... ring. They will do the same thing.
Personnal gain is always #1 on the list of a Republican. It is called bought and paid for.
Remember the run to the nomination?
The Grifter insulted and demeaned every opponent but when it was all over, they kissed his... ring. They will do the same thing.
Personnal gain is always #1 on the list of a Republican. It is called bought and paid for.
6
Or, Trump calculates that he won’t need the support of Congress in its present – sadly dysfunctional – form. The money behind him busies itself attacking members who won’t toe the line, and working to install more compliant replacements. Befitting the public inclinations of amorousness and his proclivity to tirades, the President seeks to emplace a rubber Dumas to stamp, and stamp, and stamp in tantrums of agreeable acquiescence.
2
That included an overly lengthy explanation of why Trump is tweeting against McConnell.
It would be much easier and just as concise to say "the buck never stops with Trump".
It would be much easier and just as concise to say "the buck never stops with Trump".
8
The Don has no one to blame for the health care failure but himself. No one new what he wanted. One day it was "repeal only", then "repeal and replace", then "let Obamacare die", then back to square one. He did nothing to support any bill the Republicans had or offer a plan of his own. He didn't go on the campaign trail to gather public support or talk to Senators in private to get their support. All he did was the usual Twitter rants that only served to alienate those whose support he needed most. McConnell is right, he is naïve little child who has no idea how government works nor cares to learn.
3
In my opinion, Donald Trump has one thing on his mind. And that's feeding his base so he can win a second time the way he did the first time--and with the same demographic. A demographic that felt invisible and powerless until Trump came along and showed them in word and deed that he would keep the boxing gloves on and fight each and every establishment scoundrel who ever intimidated them.
And it doesn't matter if the fight is relevant to their needs or not. Random perpetual fighting is what they want. And that's not a stretch for this man. It's what he's done all of his life. It's how he's scratched and clawed his way to the top, even the presidency.
Thus placed in the right context, all of his pugilistic activities including fights with Mitch McConnell. as well as, Kim Jong Un (to heck with the consequences) makes sense.
But it's also one of the many undeniable glaring proofs that this man is unfit for the serious job he holds. Thus, it's time to evoke the 25th Amendment and eliminate this ever present danger before it's too late, unless it already is.
And it doesn't matter if the fight is relevant to their needs or not. Random perpetual fighting is what they want. And that's not a stretch for this man. It's what he's done all of his life. It's how he's scratched and clawed his way to the top, even the presidency.
Thus placed in the right context, all of his pugilistic activities including fights with Mitch McConnell. as well as, Kim Jong Un (to heck with the consequences) makes sense.
But it's also one of the many undeniable glaring proofs that this man is unfit for the serious job he holds. Thus, it's time to evoke the 25th Amendment and eliminate this ever present danger before it's too late, unless it already is.
8
Do congressional members still not understand that to Trump, loyalty means nothing? It is possible Trump feels some loyalty to his family, but only because he believes that benefits him. It is beyond me why people are still loyal to him or trying to curry his favor, unless they are somehow maschochistic. Quid pro quo to a man like that mean qui pro "yo."
8
Trump and his evangelical base do not need Mitch McConnell any more. McConnell stole a Supreme Court seat from Merrick Garland and ensured that the right wing agenda will be supported for decades.
Sorry, Mitch. You have just become another victim of Trump's what have you done for me lately philosophy. A religious person would say,"don't let the screen door hit you where the good lord split you". Maybe Elaine should start looking for another job.
Sorry, Mitch. You have just become another victim of Trump's what have you done for me lately philosophy. A religious person would say,"don't let the screen door hit you where the good lord split you". Maybe Elaine should start looking for another job.
7
This tic for tac governance is like an adolescent schoolyard or gangland oneupmanship. The participants are shamelessly insecure, and unable, like children, to pick up cues of reason. I recognize this behavior because I've been in a great number of schoolyards. Our President is a colossal bully
3
This story wraps with the thought that other Congressional Republicans may pull back from Trump after watching him wipe his shoes on Mitch McConnell. But I doubt that will happen as long as Trump's base still enjoys the s--- show. And it's not like McConnell committed his outrageous blockade on a good and decent Supreme Court nominee in Obama's last year. That was his own pander to the base, one last obstruction to the guy he had been blocking for 8 years.
That's my cynical 2 cents... and as for McConnell, well, it couldn't be happening to a nicer guy.
That's my cynical 2 cents... and as for McConnell, well, it couldn't be happening to a nicer guy.
4
Finally, Donald Trump agrees with Barack Obama about something: the Senate needs a new majority leader.
12
Manna from heaven! Divide and conquer, without lifting a finger or uttering a word. At last, stupidity and incompetence does have its rewards. MAGA!
17
Trump and McConnell deserve one another -- two ugly, hateful, creeps together who would steal heath insurance from millions of Americans just to satisfy their own hideous ambitions.
Be good to get rid of both of these monsters of awfulness.
Be good to get rid of both of these monsters of awfulness.
30
Oh Mitch! This is what you get for making a deal with the Devil, but you know what, I have no sympathy for you. There is nothing better that watching the GOP blow up and scatter to ash ( and not rise from the ashes like the phoenix)
14
Wasn't this clown the Great Negotiator? or so he thought of himself but he has proven beyond a reasonable doubt he is nothing but the ultimate ignorant pulpit bully. It is clear the ignoramus doesn't have clue regarding the legislative process and, those sycophant midgets surrounding him, know even less (if that was possible). What a disastrous cauldron of brainless ignorant minnows.
18
Nelson! "The ultimate ignorant pulpit bully" is too good not to swipe. I plan to use it often and may even remember to tip my hat to Nelson in CA. Thanks!
Schadenfreude.
18
GOP circular firing squads are decent people's only hope for surviving the brutal monstrousness they have in store for all but themselves.
9
It should be painfully obvious to everyone by now that Trump is a one-trick pony: scream at people when you don't get your way. This terrible-two's "business model" may work if you're the boss of your own company; see, e.g., Leona Helmsley, another NYC inherited-millions loud-mouthed brat. But it doesn't work anywhere else.
Our so-called president is no more capable of rational discourse or decision-making than a goldfish. Our republic was not designed to operate well with the village idiot at the helm. Thanks, far-sighted Trump supporters, for putting someone with the self-control and intellectual depth of a pre-schooler in charge of the nation.
Our so-called president is no more capable of rational discourse or decision-making than a goldfish. Our republic was not designed to operate well with the village idiot at the helm. Thanks, far-sighted Trump supporters, for putting someone with the self-control and intellectual depth of a pre-schooler in charge of the nation.
16
Which knuckleheaded jerk will go down first? Makes no difference to me, as long as it happens.
8
Good, let them destroy each other.
8
Just saw Dunkirk. I never realized that Churchill saved Britain with his tweets.
2
Will someone remind this ignorant president that Congressmen and women, are not his employees.
They work with the president,but do not not For the president.
Only the voters can make them leave office-not the president.
It is called Separation of Powers,and was wisely set up by the Founders this way;(and luckily for us at the present time).
This is not a happy president-Twitter tantrums,etc. .;never a smile on his face.
His view that congress will do as he says is totally wrong.
And please, no more demands for Mcconnell or others to 'get to work' ', while Mr. Trump is standing in a golf cart at a resort.
It appears so far that this president has done the least work of any recent president.
They work with the president,but do not not For the president.
Only the voters can make them leave office-not the president.
It is called Separation of Powers,and was wisely set up by the Founders this way;(and luckily for us at the present time).
This is not a happy president-Twitter tantrums,etc. .;never a smile on his face.
His view that congress will do as he says is totally wrong.
And please, no more demands for Mcconnell or others to 'get to work' ', while Mr. Trump is standing in a golf cart at a resort.
It appears so far that this president has done the least work of any recent president.
19
When are the media going to figure it out that everything Trump does is fake; from his weekend bluster to his cheap hairdo. Everything is staged like a soap opera with a big enough Friday night bang sufficient to make the Sun-day news round tables.
All of Trump’s disagreements with his cabinet and Party are “fake feuds.” There is no feud between McConnell and Trump, if there were one, McConnell’s wife would have walked; but the noise keeps alive the notion that the failure to repeal “Obamacare” isn’t Trump’s fault.
Now there is a real danger in “fake feuds” when it moves outside of the controllable to the uncontrollable international scene; where the two men with the worst hairdos engage in puffery and whose constant rhetorical escalation could lead to an accidentally-pushed button.
All of Trump’s disagreements with his cabinet and Party are “fake feuds.” There is no feud between McConnell and Trump, if there were one, McConnell’s wife would have walked; but the noise keeps alive the notion that the failure to repeal “Obamacare” isn’t Trump’s fault.
Now there is a real danger in “fake feuds” when it moves outside of the controllable to the uncontrollable international scene; where the two men with the worst hairdos engage in puffery and whose constant rhetorical escalation could lead to an accidentally-pushed button.
8
Not to worry. Spineless Mitch and spineless Paul will ultimately fall into line with tRump, no matter how much abuse he heaps on them. After all, they have their constituents (Koch brothers and ALEC corporations) to answer to, and like the chaos that the president creates. It keeps the populace distracted from what is really going on behind the curtain.
7
How can anyone work with Trump? He is ready to stab anyone and everyone in the back when his fragile ego is bruised. He demands loyalty from everyone--or else! But he gives no one, even his most fervent supporters, any loyalty whatever.
I wouldn't be too sad about McConnell's departure, but any fair-minded person would conclude that given his support for Trump, he doesn't deserve being thrown under the bus by the man for whom he provided, among other things, the only fulfillment of his campaign promises--the scurrilous appointment of Neil Gorsuch to the SCOTUS. McConnell had to defy centuries of precedent and besmirch his own reputation to do this--essentially falling on his political sword.
Trump is truly an ingrate--to add to the long list of his other disastrous debilities.
I wouldn't be too sad about McConnell's departure, but any fair-minded person would conclude that given his support for Trump, he doesn't deserve being thrown under the bus by the man for whom he provided, among other things, the only fulfillment of his campaign promises--the scurrilous appointment of Neil Gorsuch to the SCOTUS. McConnell had to defy centuries of precedent and besmirch his own reputation to do this--essentially falling on his political sword.
Trump is truly an ingrate--to add to the long list of his other disastrous debilities.
12
Bickering between bigots should be a funny spectacle to watch, but in this case one of the two bigots has more in common with Caligula than with Arpaio. If McConnell goes, a more submissive lackey will replace him (unfortunately for our modern-day Caligula, the American Congress isn't built to accommodate a horse).
Does this mean the GOP will split in two, decent Republicans on one side and spineless cowards on the other? Unlikely, the strands of ignorance and racism that unite them are far stronger than any trace of dignity they may fancy they still have.
Does this mean the GOP will split in two, decent Republicans on one side and spineless cowards on the other? Unlikely, the strands of ignorance and racism that unite them are far stronger than any trace of dignity they may fancy they still have.
6
How about presenting legislation that is actually beneficial for citizens instead of pandering to Dark Money interests. Trump has no experience, a toxic agenda and no ethical values. The rancor between these two is the best thing that could happen to this country. I fully support a war between Mitch and Donald. With any luck it will distract Trump from Korea long enough to keep us out of a real Trumpocolypse.
67
What an utter delight to watch as these bumbling incompetents feed off each other. More fun than anything I've enjoyed in a long time!
7
This so-called president isn't "risking" anything. He's counting on alienating McConnell because the last vestige of power Trompe holds is over his Branch Donaldians that make up the "anti-establishment" fringe of the GOP.
He has had Spicer and Priebus forced from the picture. Expect him to continue harnessing Bannon and Miller.
Problem for Trump though, is that group is decidedly isolationist to the point of anti-hawkishness, so he is burning bridges everywhere. As was always obvious, his ego will be his downfall eventually.
He has had Spicer and Priebus forced from the picture. Expect him to continue harnessing Bannon and Miller.
Problem for Trump though, is that group is decidedly isolationist to the point of anti-hawkishness, so he is burning bridges everywhere. As was always obvious, his ego will be his downfall eventually.
6
There's a Civil War video game called "Fire and Fury." I know nothing more about it than that, but I wonder if Trump's use of the phrase is a dog whistle to some of his followers.
4
Trump is surrounded by sycophantic advisers that are not strategic thinkers not even in the ideological sense. He is surrounded by demagogues who are bent on revenge against people and institutions that have long seen them as being out of the main stream. Bannon is a perfect example. They form a good proportion of the narrow base that he relies on. M. McConnell is not that type. Trump should make his duty to balance his style of governance with people like the Majority leader. Because what ever he achieves through him will endure. Other achievements coming through the Bannon avengers will be fleeting at best.He should also pay heed to his New Chief of Staff who will add substance to his style. He is a strategic thinker like McConnell.
15
kelly has added "substance to his style"
first, what style? the boastful, bully? the incoherent speaker of words? the liar? the blood talks about women, not to mention grabbing of parts? the wilfully ignorant spouter of made up historical and cultural alterate facts?
and where, poray tell is the weighty substance that kelly added to the 20 minute free fall into the unstable mind of donald trump?
there is no substance. there is no style
first, what style? the boastful, bully? the incoherent speaker of words? the liar? the blood talks about women, not to mention grabbing of parts? the wilfully ignorant spouter of made up historical and cultural alterate facts?
and where, poray tell is the weighty substance that kelly added to the 20 minute free fall into the unstable mind of donald trump?
there is no substance. there is no style
I seem to remember Trump promising fantastic healthcare for all Americans. Where is it, Donald?
But of course he was just making salesman's claims without a product. No ideas, no policies, no goals besides the further glory and profit of Trumposaurus himself, and his odious family.
But of course he was just making salesman's claims without a product. No ideas, no policies, no goals besides the further glory and profit of Trumposaurus himself, and his odious family.
12
The GOP's Frankenstein has turned on its creators. Its instincts know neither loyalty nor gratitude. It was created to destroy Hillary Clinton and the Democratic party and it succeeded. But it cannot be tamed or harnessed, nor can it distinguish friend or foe. First Jess Sessions and now Senator McConnell are learning the bitter truth. The evil genie is cursing and bewitching his own Republican bottle.
6
Perhaps Trump's turning on his own allies is good thing as it is a chink in the idiocy of tribalism on Capitol Hill. It would be a very positive move if a spirit of bipartisanship could break out on the Hill. That would be seen as a good news by the core supporters of both parties. Trump's core is dwindling all the time and at this rate he wouldn't survive a credible challenger in the Republican primary next time. The coattails of this President seem about as long a bow tie, so if I was a Republican congressman I would be pretty worried if I expected a boost from a Trump coattail! Of course, the Democratic congresspersons are as guilty of tribalism as their Republican counterparts. Be nice to see both leaderships in Congress reach out and show leadership!
3
Trump has shown he will throw anyone who does not please him under the bus. Trump needs to get a bigger bus.
6
Let's hope the Republican's circular firing squad continues. Let them fail at everything except one key item: removal of the POTUS via either the 25th Amendment or impeachment.
9
I'm no fan of McConnell's, but at least he acts in ways that are measured and, I'll just say it: sane. I hope Trump's latest tirades -- this time toward both McConnell and North Korea -- are enough to get Mitch and his Republican pals to say it's time. Trump is an absolute menace to our country and the world. He's got to go, and sadly, only the Republicans, and particularly those in a position of power, can make that happen.
6
This is the best news of the week for me. Glad that Sen. McConnell is having it forcibly demonstrated to him that Trump has no loyalty, to party or any person, and he is a liability for the Republican party and the nation as a whole. I hope this does prevent all of Trump's idiotic, destructive ideas from getting traction.
5
The bottom line is that neither Trump nor the Republicans could come up with a solution to the pre existing condition issue. It seems that Obama Care is a the only solution other than a single payer system, which will probably not happen.
2
McConnell has the creepiest smile in the world. What exactly does that man do: other than let his constituents vent about the awful state of affairs in the State of Kentucky ; talk condescendingly, contemptuously and critically to his opponents and show off his power to his juniors and the media?
What exactly does McConnell do in Congress? We know what he does not do, what he cannot do and what he will not do...because "everything has to follow a process, blah, blah, blah".
We know Kentucky, his State, has some of the nation's worse socio-economic-health-educational indicators.
What exactly does McConnell do in Congress? We know what he does not do, what he cannot do and what he will not do...because "everything has to follow a process, blah, blah, blah".
We know Kentucky, his State, has some of the nation's worse socio-economic-health-educational indicators.
3
The Trump/McConnell spat masks the true problem. They are both right, but their accusations ignore the real issue. Yes, the Republicans had plenty of lead time to craft a plan (and they did so). The failure isn't due to time. And Trump blames the Rs, but has provided no leadership or even direction for a healthcare fix. But that's not the main cause of failure either. The real problem/cause of failure is that the Republicans want something they are now unwilling to vote for: simple repeal. They now realize the public likes ACA and they'd face giant public anger for simple repeal. They simply can't do what they've been planning to do for 7 years, and they can't get their members to sign onto a fix either (which entrenches another government handout). Trump promised a fix and a populist response and said he would not permit cuts. Yet, he pushed repeal and cuts. But he has provided no leadership about his original plan (fix) or his new strategy (repeal). He has no leadership and they have no guts. They are both to blame for nothing getting done (fortunately). Unfortunately, the public fixates on the spat and seems oblivious to the real problem, which is that the President and the Republicans would love to throw the middle class under the bus if they could.
4
The question now is:
Will Mitch continue to be just another Trump patsy - one of many - or will he stand his ground and continue to educate the ignorant Trump on the workings of an effective government.
Trump is always looking for someone to blame when events do not meet his expectations as to the outcomes.
The fact that he himself may have something to do with any failure is not acceptable to him and should not, in his mind, be attributed to him.
Squabbles within the GOP may be our salvation and such may lead to the implosion of the GOP.
It couldn't happen to a more deserving political Party.
Let us strive to plant as many seeds of destruction as possible within the ranks of the Congressional GOP.
One day Trump will look around and there will no longer be anyone to blame. At which time he may well suffer the personal implosion he so richly deserves.
It couldn't happen to a more deserving ........ slippery con man.
I salute Mitch McConnell - a crack in the firewall of the Trump crack.
May more of the Republicans in the Congress join in on ending the Trump March to War ........ in any and all venues extant.
Will Mitch continue to be just another Trump patsy - one of many - or will he stand his ground and continue to educate the ignorant Trump on the workings of an effective government.
Trump is always looking for someone to blame when events do not meet his expectations as to the outcomes.
The fact that he himself may have something to do with any failure is not acceptable to him and should not, in his mind, be attributed to him.
Squabbles within the GOP may be our salvation and such may lead to the implosion of the GOP.
It couldn't happen to a more deserving political Party.
Let us strive to plant as many seeds of destruction as possible within the ranks of the Congressional GOP.
One day Trump will look around and there will no longer be anyone to blame. At which time he may well suffer the personal implosion he so richly deserves.
It couldn't happen to a more deserving ........ slippery con man.
I salute Mitch McConnell - a crack in the firewall of the Trump crack.
May more of the Republicans in the Congress join in on ending the Trump March to War ........ in any and all venues extant.
3
I continue to be puzzled by the expressions of surprise ( from Congressmen, journalists and fellow citizens) when Trump's behavior violates our expectations of good conduct, both social or political. Trump is incapable of being grateful to anyone. Gratefulness implies relationship, an acknowledgment that other people with power exist, a willingness to "play nice" and at least a little loyalty. His supporters and hangers-on are frighteningly naive. Republicans will go down in history as the Party that buried its head and refused to stop Trump because they were too busy using him for their own ends.
4
Despite his self-aggrandized King Deal Maker spiel, President Trump's negotiating style consists of one tactic. Scorched earth. This is fine if you are not concerned with repeat business and a long term relationship with the other side. It doesn't work if you may need the person, you just slammed to back you later. Just ask John McCain about that.
5
As much as I take some pleasure in the notion that these two "leaders" deserve each other, I can't help but be chagrined over what they're fighting about: which one deserves blame for failing to deny health care coverage to many millions of Americans. No matter who wins this fight, or no matter whether they kiss and make up, the country loses.
2
McConnell will be off of Trump's "naughty" list soon enough. Who next is anyone's guess. But I have absolutely no sympathy for this senator from Kentucky. He can be as ruthless and vindictive as his president. He is unconscionably entrenched with special interest groups at the expense of his own constituents as well as the rest of us spread across the US. I look at the photo in this piece and shudder when I see two individuals who care not one whit for the health and welfare of this country, both literally and figuratively. And one needs to throw in Ryan to this toxic mix. As far as I am concerned, we have our own Triumvirate. Let's hope that our nation does not go the way of ancient Rome.
3
Key Allie? McConnell will probably just use it politically as an excuse for him and his party not getting anything done.
I think he probably used the division in the Republican Party to hide not wanting to pass any immigration reform in the low immigrant-wage interest of the corporate food and agricultural industry who didn't want to immigrants more if they became legal U.S. Citizens.
McConnell himself may think only he knows how to handle the corporate-corruption well as compared to the rest of the Republican elected. What is the Republican elect's reasoning for keeping McConnell for decades past their Congressional losses and dysfunction leading to Trump as their party president, anyway?
I think he probably used the division in the Republican Party to hide not wanting to pass any immigration reform in the low immigrant-wage interest of the corporate food and agricultural industry who didn't want to immigrants more if they became legal U.S. Citizens.
McConnell himself may think only he knows how to handle the corporate-corruption well as compared to the rest of the Republican elected. What is the Republican elect's reasoning for keeping McConnell for decades past their Congressional losses and dysfunction leading to Trump as their party president, anyway?
1
The reality is that no real republican plan whether it be healthcare, taxes or infrastructure can stand the light of day if the public is watching. Trump has the public watching. We will continue ti be vigilant as long as the orange monster draws this amount of hate.
3
The article I chose to read this week is “Trump’s Twitter Fury at McConnell Risks Alienating a Key Ally” by Carl Hulse. After reading through the article and putting some thought to it it sounds like Trump just needs to put down his phone. I can't count on two hands how many times Trump has gotten himself in trouble via social media. It seems to me that Trump does everything in the moment. He doesn't stop and think about what the outcome might be or who it might affect, if he has something to say he's gonna say it. I also believe that we can prevent all this chaos if we just focus on one thing. With us trying to enact tax cuts and then having the health care law appealed, there's to much going on! I can only imagine the stress swimming around the Whitehouse so it doesn't surprise me when Trump lashes out but maybe he needs to pick someone that's not in the public eye to lash out at.
2
As an avid news reader, I am exhausted by the constant state of "he said, he said"* reporting that has become the norm. Yes, knowing about some of this political jockeying is important, but to examine and analyze every tweet from the President (or anyone else) has become a huge distraction, and is not the real story. Has anyone considered that maybe the Republican plan failed because it was simply awful? I know there were detailed stories about that, but they were overwhelmed by the tsunami of stories on the jockeying.
*(because there is no "she said" in this administration)
*(because there is no "she said" in this administration)
This may prove interesting: the battle between two myopic, narcissistic evil men, Trump, a fool, and McConnell, no fool, but equally impervious to his fellow human's needs.
My money is on McConnell as the one who can turn Trump into toast. He works methodically to get his way, while his opponent punches wildly, flailing his fists, the id run rampant.
Trump is where he is because McConnell allowed it and he can just as easily pull the plug when he has had enough. McConnel's fellow Republicans seem to have had enough of the great negotiator and may close ranks when their "leader" calls.
My money is on McConnell as the one who can turn Trump into toast. He works methodically to get his way, while his opponent punches wildly, flailing his fists, the id run rampant.
Trump is where he is because McConnell allowed it and he can just as easily pull the plug when he has had enough. McConnel's fellow Republicans seem to have had enough of the great negotiator and may close ranks when their "leader" calls.
2
McConnell's an Ally to anyone? Utter nonsense! The Mitch, like the Donald, lives in an every man for himself world - starting and ending with himself.
Actually, I hope calling out Mitch whose only skill is holding the Republican's current party line while doing nothing of benefit for the nation. Perhaps....just perhaps.....when he's gone someone with a broader vision of what good governance means will fill his shoes.
Actually, I hope calling out Mitch whose only skill is holding the Republican's current party line while doing nothing of benefit for the nation. Perhaps....just perhaps.....when he's gone someone with a broader vision of what good governance means will fill his shoes.
1
This isn't just about Trump trashing a powerful GOP "team" member - this week we see thatt McConnell is the chosen target - it's about the fact that we have a madman at the top seat of the Executive Branch.
This week McConnell, last week Sessions, ad nauseam. What SANE president of the (formerly) most power nation in the world obsesses in front of the leaders of the civilized world (in 3rd-grade-level English) with trashing members of his own governing team?
We know from the life-long well documented record of this megalomaniac's life that his vengeful mind set to dominating others is with intimidation, fear, and endless threats. When will the decent people of t his nation put an end to it?
Is this a sign of a sane trustworthyly leader, let alone, a statesman?
This week McConnell, last week Sessions, ad nauseam. What SANE president of the (formerly) most power nation in the world obsesses in front of the leaders of the civilized world (in 3rd-grade-level English) with trashing members of his own governing team?
We know from the life-long well documented record of this megalomaniac's life that his vengeful mind set to dominating others is with intimidation, fear, and endless threats. When will the decent people of t his nation put an end to it?
Is this a sign of a sane trustworthyly leader, let alone, a statesman?
2
I would be happy if they both quit.
2
McConnell is a small, spineless man. He like others in GOP will continue to cave to Trump.
3
This show would be so much fun if it was someone else's country.
6
Mr. Hulse's seemingly measured comments are wonderously obtuse. More than anyone, Mitch McConnell is the one man--the man--who can see to it that Donald Trump is successfully impeached and removed from office. Think about it!
1
McConnell doesn't go far enough in his assessment of Trump. It's not just that he doesn't know how Washington works. That could be forgiven. The problem is that he doesn't have a single cogent idea or position on anything related to governing, domestic or international. That's especially clear on the three main agenda items facing congress - healthcare, taxes and infrastructure. Just yesterday he was referring to 'repeal and replace' as if it was policy and not a slogan. Like a complete idiot, he was literally talking about enacting a slogan. And that's just the tip of the iceberg. This was plainly obvious during the campaign and the only people anyone can blame is McConnell and the Republican establishment for allowing a know-nothing to take over leadership of their party. The Republican establishment was eerily silent when their party formally devolved into anti-intellectual rabble of sloganeers without substance. That kind of absence of leadership if on full display now.
2
When thieves fall out, just men get their due. I'm waiting.....take your time; this is enjoyable.
Realizing you really do not have a viable choice in the two is disappointing . First, is dumb and dumber - I don't care about anybody. And second is morally corrupt and sells his soul for a place at the table. That is what America has today. The rest of the uncorrupt world would be there to help us if dumb hadn't alienated most if not all of them. And has scared them into worrying what the heck he'll do next. Pitiful pair.
1
This is the first shot in Donald's new political War, against the GOP. He must rally the base, to cow the republicans into complete submission.
His next move is to threaten to run as an independent, and/or to start his own party. He must have Everything HIS way, or NO way. Seriously.
His next move is to threaten to run as an independent, and/or to start his own party. He must have Everything HIS way, or NO way. Seriously.
24
And he will, too, rally the base and cow the Republicans into complete submission. Trump represents the heart of the Republican Party. Trump represents the the majority of the GOP, the core.
3
More like the goal is to suspend the rule of law and prevent further investigation into the money laundering with his Russian allies. He needs to the senate down and out when there is an impeachment trial. McConnell can hit back hard if he is not removed. All this posturing for the inevitable Senate trial. When he talks about being 'locked and loaded' he means 'locked and loaded,' against the republican form of government. He wants to rule the world with Putin.
3
I hope Trump goes after Paul Ryan next. John Boehner must be rubbing his hands with glee! I love this show.
40
Karma baby
34
Miriam Webster Dictionary:
Definition of twit 1: a silly annoying person : fool
Pretty much describes Twit-ter users and the White House.
Definition of twit 1: a silly annoying person : fool
Pretty much describes Twit-ter users and the White House.
24
I give an AMEN to that Mike OD....
2
Trump seems to need a whipping boy in his life and McConnell is just the latest. Wonder who will be next?
20
Pence!
McConnell's comment about Trump's behavior, "At least we don't have Hillary as president." I think our government has been infected with the Stupid Virus.
47
trump has nothing to lose. His poll numbers are down dramatically. That’s why he is full of “The Sound and the Fury”. Why not go after Congressional Leadership at the same time to move the needle in the polls?
trump wants to change the rules. He wants to make all votes a majority vote of his followers (with the notable exception of the Electoral Vote) McConnell is resisting; he wants legislators to vote on issues as he says, in essence having a Lap Dog Congress; he wants to change the Rule of Law to his benefit and so that he is unchallenged.
He will go after elected representatives first because he views them as a weak link. Attacking leadership is the first step to get to those weak representatives. While McConnell is unassailable in his own State, the scheme is to discredit the leadership and get his own representatives elected in other States in order to vote themselves into leadership power and thereafter do his bidding, or the bidding of Bannon and Gorka.
trump wants to change the rules. He wants to make all votes a majority vote of his followers (with the notable exception of the Electoral Vote) McConnell is resisting; he wants legislators to vote on issues as he says, in essence having a Lap Dog Congress; he wants to change the Rule of Law to his benefit and so that he is unchallenged.
He will go after elected representatives first because he views them as a weak link. Attacking leadership is the first step to get to those weak representatives. While McConnell is unassailable in his own State, the scheme is to discredit the leadership and get his own representatives elected in other States in order to vote themselves into leadership power and thereafter do his bidding, or the bidding of Bannon and Gorka.
12
The man simply either hates or cannot fathom democracy. The only thing he knows and appreciates is mob rule. Those "adoring" crowds energize him with their mass psychological adoration of him, which means that he has supplanted their own moral being with his highly immoral one. He licenses them to cut loose and act on their basest instincts.
Votes? Representatives? We don't need no stinkin' Congress!
Votes? Representatives? We don't need no stinkin' Congress!
1
Trump is an ignorant bully, who has always gotten his way by throwing his daddy's money around.
The Republicans knew this, but they try to make a deal with the devil to line their own pockets.
The devil always gets the last laugh.
The Republicans knew this, but they try to make a deal with the devil to line their own pockets.
The devil always gets the last laugh.
35
I'm huge NYT fan but this article exemplifies the a growing problem with your Presidential coverage. I often sense a loss of objectivity. This piece should be on the opinion page not the front page above the fold. It's clearly not news but conjecture about possible ramifications of Trump's actions.
8
trump is an existential threat to the Free Press. Suggesting that The Times is not properly categorizing content is a bit rich. Tune into The trump Network and "The Real News" and then rethink your criticism.
2
Facts go on the front page.
1
There is no honor much less loyalty among "thieves" on either end of Washington, DC.
10
Last night, the highly measured James Clapper referred to himself as "the head Nazi" when questioned by Don Lemon about the Russia probe. Lemon was no less stunned than me and asked Clapper what he meant.
Clapper responded that Trump referred to the intelligence community as Nazis which must means that he and Brennan were the "head Nazis". It was an extraordinarily human moment as Clapper was finally airing the indignity which he and his colleagues had suffered in silence. He had not forgotten, and neither will McConnell. Or anyone else who has been smeared by the odious man in the White House.
Clapper responded that Trump referred to the intelligence community as Nazis which must means that he and Brennan were the "head Nazis". It was an extraordinarily human moment as Clapper was finally airing the indignity which he and his colleagues had suffered in silence. He had not forgotten, and neither will McConnell. Or anyone else who has been smeared by the odious man in the White House.
23
Odious is absolutely the best adjective I have heard to describe Trump.
2
Frankly, after watching Trump , in hair, make-up and a suit do his "reality" show gig after those lousy poll numbers, I think McConnell should call in the shrinks for a 25th amendment "reality " show.".Let's go to the nukes to raise my numbers...Let's trash Congress to raise my numbers,...Let's ignore the entire Constitution and trash the other two, EQUAL, branches of government."
I am very tired of being afraid of what kind of stunt he will pull next and how my country can survive his erratic behavior. This is not strategic for those people on Guam...or Japan..or South Korea. I cannot stress enough how little faith I have in his willingness to gamble with innocent people's lives to play macho games with North Korea. It is simply insane.
I am very tired of being afraid of what kind of stunt he will pull next and how my country can survive his erratic behavior. This is not strategic for those people on Guam...or Japan..or South Korea. I cannot stress enough how little faith I have in his willingness to gamble with innocent people's lives to play macho games with North Korea. It is simply insane.
25
This is all in line with the long term goal of bringing down the government. They have successfully convinced real "mericans" that liberal democracy's are a failed system, now all they have left to do is destroy each other. Mission accomplished.
18
Trump should learn from Harry Truman that as President " the buck stops here" and take responsibility for the failure to repeal the ACA. But then again responsibility is not in Trumps vocabulary.
18
I'm so sick of hearing about how "smart" and "intelligent" and "dedicated" McConnell (supposedly) is.
He's just as much of a narcissistic, destructive bully as our fake president.
He's just as much of a narcissistic, destructive bully as our fake president.
39
A man who made failure of another President his number one goal--from minute one--is not dedicated to service of the nation.
It was unpatriotic. It was even more destructive than the rat Ted Cruz who likes to shut down the government.
It was unpatriotic. It was even more destructive than the rat Ted Cruz who likes to shut down the government.
3
Carl Hulse is a good reporter and writer but he is mired in the major problem with political reporting; that is treating it as if it were a tit for tat board game.
The fact is, McConnell has had seven years to write legislation on all things dear to his heart, and he and his colleagues haven't done didily. The few items they have accomplished were via corruption, or more accurately childish dirty tricks. Namely the Gorsuch fiasco and Mitch's dirty little approach to writing a healthcare bill that betrayed the vast majority of the American people.
Their only achievement is a perpetual small child's level kabuki production that has left the county in deficit in every arena.
Their tax bill will be, there is no other way to say it, flat out stupid, unworkable, and unpassible.
Republicans have perfected the circular firing squad and those of us who genuinely care about our country's people are heartened. 2018 here we come.
The fact is, McConnell has had seven years to write legislation on all things dear to his heart, and he and his colleagues haven't done didily. The few items they have accomplished were via corruption, or more accurately childish dirty tricks. Namely the Gorsuch fiasco and Mitch's dirty little approach to writing a healthcare bill that betrayed the vast majority of the American people.
Their only achievement is a perpetual small child's level kabuki production that has left the county in deficit in every arena.
Their tax bill will be, there is no other way to say it, flat out stupid, unworkable, and unpassible.
Republicans have perfected the circular firing squad and those of us who genuinely care about our country's people are heartened. 2018 here we come.
13
Being friends with Trump is like being friends with a surly dog. You smile at him, you speak gently to him, but you know he'll bite you if he wants, and hard. If you think this is too harsh an assessment, look again at the photo that accompanies this article. It's apt. And it's everywhere; the only variation is the person sitting looking quiet and somewhat frightened next to the scowling boss. And he does always scowl. His face betrays his sickness; how can anyone not see it?
20
Someone once told me Trump has the scowl look because that is what Churchill had during his tenure. Trump must be visualizing Churchill every time he wants to present that look.
Trump must be thinking, where is the Mooch when I need him? The Mooch would have taken care of McConnell, McCain and Mukowski ... like that! Why can't McConnell be more like the Mooch?
7
Trump doesn't understand that the other " separate and equal" branches of government do NOT work for him.
13
Trump is making the natives restless. PBinDC
2
When Mitch McConnell is the "good guy" in a dispute, you know we have went down the rabbit hole.
229
True. One danger of having a truly corrupt man like Trump in charge is that everyone slightly less evil as treated as good, noble, even slightly heroic. Even Sessions is being applauded in many quarters. How upside-down our world has become.
1
DJT does not care. He does need mitch for anything. Even DJT knows he will not last long enough to pass any additional legislation.
Like I said, DJT does not care and he certainly does not need mitch. Nothing DJT does indicates a long term view point - there is a reason!
Like I said, DJT does not care and he certainly does not need mitch. Nothing DJT does indicates a long term view point - there is a reason!
5
I love that Trump is alienating the guy who could start impeachment or 25th amendment proceedings.
28
The House has to start impeachment proceedings, not the Senate.
The administration is constantly dragging the media into soap opera personal tiffs. As the pundits speculate how disunity will hurt the Agenda, it has the impact of keeping the Agenda out of the media. Similar to the way elections are won and lost, the media turn everything into a reality show, a contest of personality. The success or failure of the Republican Agenda does not depend these soap operas. The Agenda is fought back bitterly by the majority of Americans who detest the anti-democratic turn of the Republicans, who promote the interests of their billionaire supporters over their own voters.
6
Trump needs a scapegoat. Now that the campaign is over, he is struggling to find them. As Michael Jackson so profoundly said, Donald, fix the man in the mirror first and then worry about other people.
6
Of course the president won't look in the mirror. He won't take any responsibility for the GOP's failure. The administration offered no guidance or policy markers of its own. The administration wasn't consistent - repeal and replace or repeal and replace later. He lauded the House version and then condemned it as mean. The Senate version was not any better.
Dismantling ACA was always going to be a heavy lift. The president offered Senator McConnell no help. Trump was absent.
Dismantling ACA was always going to be a heavy lift. The president offered Senator McConnell no help. Trump was absent.
55
Donald "who knew healthcare could be so complicated" Trump had no policy goal in mind other than to eradicate the ACA because it was passed by the predecessor he loathes. In Trump's mind, the "win" was getting rid of the ACA, not improving our healthcare system. Mitch "let's make Obama a one-term president" McConnell was pursuing the same goal. Unfortunately, three Republican Senators got in their way, not necessarily for altruistic reasons, but got in the way nonetheless.
yes, absent.
in more than one way.
physically yes. but also intellectually, emotionally, morally.
have i missed anthing here?
in more than one way.
physically yes. but also intellectually, emotionally, morally.
have i missed anthing here?
Republicans and their 52 votes would have much more "margin for error" if they would ever try proposing something acceptable to the other 48 Senators. But their hyper-partisan philosophy would never allow consideration of the good of ALL Americans.
4
In the not too distant future, McConnell
1
Why is Trump appointing Gorsuch to the Supreme Court such an accomplishment? Once Trump ruled out his sister, and McConnell did away with the filibuster, anybody he nominated would have made it. The accomplishment goes to McConnell, for refusing to consider Merrick Garland.
3
The key misconception is that Trump actually cares about passing anything. He doesn't. So long as he can blame other people for the failure, then he gets to be Mr. President until he becomes Former President. He then carries that credential all the way to the bank for the rest of his life. Trump's only agenda is to "be President" and he will twitter snipe and threaten anyone from his seagulls perch so he can perform seagull management.
I sincerely hope he does not start a war just to maintain his position as President. But beyond holding that position, I doubt that he truly cares about any specific policy or agenda.
I sincerely hope he does not start a war just to maintain his position as President. But beyond holding that position, I doubt that he truly cares about any specific policy or agenda.
7
Don demands loyalty and respect, yet offers neither to anyone else.
Why does Congress continue to put up with this mentally unfit person?
Why does Congress continue to put up with this mentally unfit person?
7
Hey Mitch, I bet you kinda miss President Obama, don't you? If you can admit that, then I will admit I kinda miss President Dubya Bush.
I think both of us can admit that we miss having a real President, or at least a real adult .
I think both of us can admit that we miss having a real President, or at least a real adult .
8
Trump airs his dirty laundry for his base. it does not change the fact that most relationships hit snags and then they correct course. Trump knows just how far he can push. So by the time the media has whipped his' non-base' into a frenzy, Mitch and Trump will have moved on to the next crisis-du-jour. We, the people, the media, etc. need to stop reacting to everything Trump does it's exhausting and pointless.
1
Among many articles I've read on the topic, one said that McConnell had to be shown how to "scroll down on a smart phone" to read a tweet. The man does not know how to use technology. I find that incredibly disturbing, and I'm probably only a generation behind him.
3
Mitch McConnell could be an important part of a future impeachment process. He's quiet and he is a long-time survivor in a political system that Trump knows nothing about. Trump has a big mouth and active tweeting thumbs, and he is busily burning his bridges. Karma.
6
Let the republican war begin. Cannot tell you how delighted I am to see them shoot at each other. Trump has no clue how to lead. He only knows how to bully, blame, bluster and berate. And the Republican Congress doesn't know how to do anything but say "no".
6
As satisfying as it is to see McConnell and Trump undermine each other, it would be nice if they addressed the people's business and not just that of the proverbial 1%.
6
trump doesn't need McConnell or anyone. Haven't we learned that by now? There is no depth to which he will not sink in order to get attention and deflect attention. It's one thing when he is using twitter to attack another Republican to divert us from the ever-blooming Russia scandal. Unfortunately, he is now fomenting a very real war in his continuing effort to distract us. Worse, it will work. History shows that war against perceived real enemies strengthens poll numbers, even if the president is still incompetent. McConnell will continue to back trump.
52
Trump is bullying McConnell because he doesn't want to appear to be responsible for the failure to deliver on his vow to repeal the ACA. It is just another of his attempts to never been accountable. It is always someone else at fault. Really, it's no deeper than that.
Good leadership must have an ethical foundation. Both McConnell and Trump have demonstrated their disregard for ethical behavior. No wonder that despite winning power they are unable to produce anything positive with it.
70
Trump and McConnell are two reprehensible creatures, without a single redeemable quality. I could care less if they eat each other, I just hope it happens quickly.
109
OK. I admit it.
Watching republicans fight among themselves makes me smile, although it shouldn't.
After all, when the fight is between worse and worser, our country can't win.
Watching republicans fight among themselves makes me smile, although it shouldn't.
After all, when the fight is between worse and worser, our country can't win.
28
They deserve each other.
64
I'm having trouble deciding which of the two well heeled clowns is more despicable.
32
McConnell a key alley?
3
What astounds me is the way these powerful men seem terrified of Trump. Not only terrified but absolutely willing to put op with any degree of abuse to avoid angering him--or is it the 30% or so of the population who adore him and who have been given an outsized power relative to their numbers by gerrymandering that they fear.
I read once that when the great race horse Seattle Slew was retired to stud they had to avoid Slew's paddock when taking the other stallions to the breeding shed because one glare from the alpha male would totally unman them and make them incapable of performing their studly duties.
I would like to believe that humans have evolved further than horses but the reaction of other politicians, especially male Republican leaders to Trump makes me wonder.
I read once that when the great race horse Seattle Slew was retired to stud they had to avoid Slew's paddock when taking the other stallions to the breeding shed because one glare from the alpha male would totally unman them and make them incapable of performing their studly duties.
I would like to believe that humans have evolved further than horses but the reaction of other politicians, especially male Republican leaders to Trump makes me wonder.
17
The treasonist fighting with the thief that stole Obama's supreme court appointment. Republicans deserve one another.
27
But, do the rest of us, those who work for a sane government and a country that is a good world citizen?
2
If, and of course, this is only a pipe dream, the Cabinet considered invoking the 25th Amendment, it's notable that Mitch McConnell's wife is the Secretary of Transportation.
6
It was one of the ways Trump tried to ingratiate himself with McConnell.
1
25 45, and make it snappy!
2
Keep it up, fellas! The more disarray in the GOP the less able they are to move their agenda.
21
And of course, BOTH are victims of the nihilist strategies they have followed, and the wildly unrealistic promises they have made, during the Obama years. That they're blaming each other now is just rats fleeing a sinking ship.
12
I despise both Traitor Trump and "Bourbon" Mitch: two rats in a cage. Hope they devour each other.
18
please stop. president trump does not have an agenda for the public. destabilization and destruction are the only constants. we are witnessing him run the country like his businesses. trump is only about furthering his on empire. he dangles the carrot in front of people (healthcare, prison for hillary, new jobs etc.) but none of it is ever meant to happen, what does happen is the diminishment of our country and anyone foolish enough to believe that he has their interests at heart or that they will ever get a bite of that carrot. what the president is getting out of this? i believe robert mueller will find out..
12
Those who sleep with the devil get singed by the devil.
7
Well, the Devil was formerly God's most-beloved, trusted angel until the "fall". So it's an old story in an old book. And now, as Milton asked long ago, "Has all Hell broken loose?"
1
It's alive!!
3
Mr Trump seems to forget that Senator McConnell could get a group together and "fire" the President. An impeachment trial does not have to be for high crimes and misdemeanors, but can be held if a President is not competent. A impeachment vote might be easier than a health care bill.
17
Elaine Chou, Mc Connell's wife, is Secretary of Labor. Wonder how she got the job. How long will it be till she resigns as Rump's attempting to "slander" her husband. Or will Tillerson or Mattis to step down due to his frightful rhetoric? Who wants to truly be affiliated with this deplorable President?
6
Recall Trump's name calling re: Cruz's wife during the campaing and now Cruz (in pursuit of almighty "power") continues to bend over to Trump. They all want to maintain their power and appear to have little or no integrity or self reflection.
1
Ha! 45 Has no allies. Only those willing to tolerate him until they get their tax cuts. Knowing what 45 is capable of, nobody will ever actually be loyal or ally themselves to him.
6
Bannon is Trump's only non family ally.
1
Mr. McConnell is capable of great subtlety, even greater irony, and multi-year masterly chess maneuvers. Mr. Trump is incapable of understanding subtlety--much less using it, and he certainly doesn't understand the infinite chess moves of Washington.
Just think of Mr. McConnell as a vulture, patiently waiting for his prey to die before he strips the carcass to the bone. He can outlast just about anyone and anything. Mr. Trump will eventually fall due to his own lies and corruption. Mr. McConnell will roll out his subtlest irony to express his infinite surprise at Trump's perfidy and his greatest sorrow over the administration's downfall.
Just think of Mr. McConnell as a vulture, patiently waiting for his prey to die before he strips the carcass to the bone. He can outlast just about anyone and anything. Mr. Trump will eventually fall due to his own lies and corruption. Mr. McConnell will roll out his subtlest irony to express his infinite surprise at Trump's perfidy and his greatest sorrow over the administration's downfall.
13
McConnell is almost as reprehensible as Trump and I think his comments about the speed with which Congress can act was another outright lie. Congress has had 6 months to act and he and the GOP have had 7 years to come up with a viable alternative to Obamacare. While Trump was certainly inept in his dealing with Congress on the issue, the truth is that the GOP is the party with no clothes. Trump's regular campaign rallies are demonstration of the shortcoming of this once great party: NO IDEAS.
Trump certainly lied when he said he had a healthcare plan that would be better and cheaper, but shouldn't he have expected that the chief Obamacare hater would have had some ideas already? McConnell (and Ryan) railed against Obamacare for years and everyone in the US was left after the vote asking of the Republican Party: Where's the beef?
Thus, the public should not let McConnell or Ryan and the GOP in general off the hook. They have a majority in both houses and the Presidency. If they had any decent ideas, they could have easily passed a broad agenda by now. The question we should also ask is: Do they have any ideas or was the public simply duped? And if they were duped, what consequences should their employers (voters) bring to the next election?
Trump certainly lied when he said he had a healthcare plan that would be better and cheaper, but shouldn't he have expected that the chief Obamacare hater would have had some ideas already? McConnell (and Ryan) railed against Obamacare for years and everyone in the US was left after the vote asking of the Republican Party: Where's the beef?
Thus, the public should not let McConnell or Ryan and the GOP in general off the hook. They have a majority in both houses and the Presidency. If they had any decent ideas, they could have easily passed a broad agenda by now. The question we should also ask is: Do they have any ideas or was the public simply duped? And if they were duped, what consequences should their employers (voters) bring to the next election?
6
All politicians lie. What else is new?
1
McConnell considers Trump just as a tool to serve the 1 percent rich Americans. Trump would enjoy McConnells support as long as he pursue Republicans agenda, like taking away the health care right, tax credit to the rich, removing the regulations on Wall Street, etc.
Despite the loud noise that Trump makes, he serves the components of the Washington swamp well.
Despite the loud noise that Trump makes, he serves the components of the Washington swamp well.
3
I'll have an opinion on this... after I decide which one is more abysmal.
8
We just returned from several days in Victoria, British Columbia - just tourists enjoying a beautiful city and its urbane inhabitants. We had numerous conversations with Canadians, and I was struck by their comments on the situation here in the US. Every person who took the time to remark on Trump expressed sympathy for our plight and said they just could not understand how something like this could happen. They spoke to us as though we were grieving the loss of a loved one. Thank you, Canada, for your empathy. This, too, shall pass.
29
Victoria is beautiful. You might consider moving there. But Canada just may not won't let you stay. I forgot they don't want anyone near retirement, or with health problems to drain their welfare system. Never mind. By the way, unlike the United States if you have a criminal conviction from any other country (even as a minor) you won't even get in. But overall, they do seem much nicer (and will continue to tell you "We are nice. We are Canadians") and it is true...at least for those on the West side of the country. I can't speak for those in Quebec. I don't speak French.
1
We couldn't have better neighbors than the Canadians. I hope we return to being equally good. Eighties.
4
Thought for McConnell : impeach Donnie
9
Don't worry, both of these miscreants are on the same wrong path: With malice toward all, with charity toward none, let us open the wounds of the nation, and divide us all. God knows what evils lurk in the hearts of these men.
9
The republicans have no honor, no patriotism, no shame. They don't care what flawed Trump says or does as long as they can maintain power, serve the rich, and keep their mega donors.
7
What until he turns his sights on Paul Ryan.
3
I've got a special bottle of wine saved for the occasion.
6
Trump's perfectly safe attacking McConnell, who is about as popular as poison ivy, so he can be slammed with impunity, and if you think other Republicans will do anything you're forgetting that the vast majority of them are abject cowards quivering in fear that they will lose their cushy do nothing jobs if Trump sics his base on them.
4
I doubt Trump affirmed McConnel's point but he certainly confirmed it. . .
Donald Trump appears unable to do anything right. This move against McConnell, alongside his move against North Korea, exposes his God complex for all to see; a foolish, dangerous, naive man.
3
It was obvious that Trump didn't know anything at all about the healthcare bill. He thinks he can just sit back and wait for bills to cross his desk. Obama worked very hard to explain and pass the ACA. I'm glad he's feuding with McConnell, anything to keep him from accomplishing his horrible agenda!
4
Trump is a adolescent in an old man's body. He understands nothing outside of himself, and is clueless how the world works. Someone, please, get him out of the White House. We cannot risk his loose lips. Those smarmy lips will sink a lot more than ships. What is wrong with the Republican Party? Where are their morals. Where is their sense of common decency? Where did they go? What are they afraid of? Don the Con will gladly throw them all under his careening bus. Please, for the sake of this tiny planet, throw Don the Con under a bus.
4
Conservative voters are fed-up with pretenders like McConnell, McCain, and the rest.
For years they have made promises to their voters and then claimed the Democrats foiled them and prevented them from keeping their promises.
Now, they can't blame the Democrats and they're still not keeping their promises.
With healthcare, I don't think any of them wanted to anger their corporate insurance donors, but they all pretended to support reform. McCain, who will never run again, sold out his constituents but protected his senate and corporate friends by stopping it.
Trump supporters see him as taking on these RINOs; they feel McConnell deserves every hit he's getting.
For years they have made promises to their voters and then claimed the Democrats foiled them and prevented them from keeping their promises.
Now, they can't blame the Democrats and they're still not keeping their promises.
With healthcare, I don't think any of them wanted to anger their corporate insurance donors, but they all pretended to support reform. McCain, who will never run again, sold out his constituents but protected his senate and corporate friends by stopping it.
Trump supporters see him as taking on these RINOs; they feel McConnell deserves every hit he's getting.
1
The republicans are reaping what they've sown.
7
As they say .. If you lie down with dogs you get fleas.... Well now Mr. Mitch McConnell you and your 51 Republican colleagues now have what we like to call an infestation in your house and unfortunately ours. On behalf of the 65+ million Americans who didn't vote for the dog in the White House ... please call the exterminator.
7
He does not risk alienating McConnell, he HAS alienated him. And, a pox on both their houses: a sycophant who did not succeed and a despot without allies. Now Trump's only remaining card is now to beat the war drum, loudly. Nobody will win if and when that debacle "eventuates" (to borrow Kissenger's disingenuous term).
2
I suspect Trump is never going to "learn how things work in Washington." He has neither the discipline nor the stomach for it. Lacking any ability to reflect on his actions or engage in self-criticism, he'll never learn the rudiments of our democracy. With every passing day, he only proves how unfit for office he is. But I do have a suggestion for McConnell and other Republicans. Take Trump out. Do it now. Do it before he tweets us into a war; do it before he wrecks the economy, poisons the environment, disenfranchises millions of citizens and further tarnishes the good name of our country. Do it and you'll earn the undying gratitude of the public and possibly even be re-elected. Fail to act responsibly and take what's coming to you.
6
Trump campaigned on repeal and replace the ACA with something better in every way. Perhaps he should have asked a few Republicans just what that plan was, at a minimum, if he was assuming that it existed. He claimed he had a plan, but he did not. When they came up with those terrible bills, he was all for them, regardless of their effects.
He's no leader, just a blowhard. Impeach him please.
He's no leader, just a blowhard. Impeach him please.
1
Trump does not have allies, nor friends. Trump forms volatile and fleeting quid pro quo relationships, which sooner or later break down or implode because the two entities connect only to use each other until it no longer suits them. There is no caring about, loyalty to, or good faith in others; Trump only knows how to leverage or take advantage of people and throw them away when they are no longer useful. He does it to his voters, numerous staff and cabinet members, etc. As a malignant narcissist and sociopath, Trump has no concept of service to or sacrifice for others, let alone collaboration or compromise. Remember the countless people who did work for his businesses and got stiffed on their bills? Trump continues to do the exact same thing, but now at the scale of national politics. He showed everyone exactly who he is before and during the campaign, and those who supported him thought they could make a devil's bargain and get something for themselves. News flash folks - Trump's "art of the deal" means extracting value from someone and then ensuring he never has to hold up his end in return.
6
The pattern of this Presidency is a picture of Trump's emotional-mental instability. He has two obsessions, fighting against imaginary enemies and media attention. One feeds the other. He misses his reality-TV fantasy existence, thinks being President should be like that, only better. Not so much, eh?
4
Maybe it's finally time for the US Senators and Representatives to demonstrate their independence from the threats and bullying tactics of the Trumpster and to recognize and to practice their first responsibilities are to the US Constitution and to their constituents.
Our nation can prosper and survive without the sensible leadership of the POTUS. That has been demonstrated on numerous occasions by various President's incompetence, misbehavior, and outright flaunting of the law and of the Constitution. But, as Congress and the House of Representatives, specifically, are required to initiate and to approve all budget and financial laws and requirements, our nation cannot survive without adequate and sensible activity by the Congress and by the Supreme Court.
Why not Congress? Ignore the bluster and threats of primitive coward-bully in the White House, work together (negotiate and compromise) on behalf of all your constituents and our nation, collectively, to conduct the "people's business."
Launch or lunch? I am not confident Trumpster knows the difference. Congress, take steps, so Trumpster or any POTUS cannot begin a nuclear war on his own...without the approval of Congress.
Our nation can prosper and survive without the sensible leadership of the POTUS. That has been demonstrated on numerous occasions by various President's incompetence, misbehavior, and outright flaunting of the law and of the Constitution. But, as Congress and the House of Representatives, specifically, are required to initiate and to approve all budget and financial laws and requirements, our nation cannot survive without adequate and sensible activity by the Congress and by the Supreme Court.
Why not Congress? Ignore the bluster and threats of primitive coward-bully in the White House, work together (negotiate and compromise) on behalf of all your constituents and our nation, collectively, to conduct the "people's business."
Launch or lunch? I am not confident Trumpster knows the difference. Congress, take steps, so Trumpster or any POTUS cannot begin a nuclear war on his own...without the approval of Congress.
2
I can't think of two men who deserve to spend eternity in each other's close presence more than Trump and McConnell do. Two sides of the same corrupt coin.
2
Steve Bannon is orchestrating the destruction of the GOP and his marching orders to Trump include "bring me the head of Mitch McConnell".
5
Look, Trump's not thinking strategically. He's not thinking period. As usual, he's trying to find alibis for his inadequacies and that's all this is about.
At first glance, it looks pointless and meaningless. Trump's not going to lose any support in the Senate over this because he has none to lose. The Russia sanctions bill demonstrated that. This will throw some red meat to his base, but they were with him in any case.
There is, however, one circumstance in which it could prove to be meaningful. If Mueller finds a good predicate for impeachment, no one will be shedding any tears for Trump. That is for sure.
At first glance, it looks pointless and meaningless. Trump's not going to lose any support in the Senate over this because he has none to lose. The Russia sanctions bill demonstrated that. This will throw some red meat to his base, but they were with him in any case.
There is, however, one circumstance in which it could prove to be meaningful. If Mueller finds a good predicate for impeachment, no one will be shedding any tears for Trump. That is for sure.
3
While it's easy (excessively so) to bash the Republicans and their current disarray, let's not forget that the Dems similarly have no coherent message or effective leadership. Perhaps it's time to dump the two-party system?
4
Imagine angry, economically distressed Trump supporters and constituents of Mitch McConnell's at a town hall meeting in Kentucky.
"We voted for you because for seven years you've promised us you'd take our health care away. " And you haven't done it yet. Why not?"
"We voted for you because for seven years you've promised us you'd take our health care away. " And you haven't done it yet. Why not?"
4
They deserve each other.
5
But will McConnell vow to make Trump a one-term president? Me thinks not. I wonder why.
4
Clearly, Trump is not the brightest marble on the block. Ugh.
3
McConnel is reaping the fruits of his 7+ years of Just Say NO to ANYthing Obama routine. He now has an entire party that cannot say anything more than no other than to ideas that are so far out of the public good that even some of his party felt enough shame to vote against, as with the health care debacle.
Since he refused to actually DO his job for the last 8 years, he is now in the position of Not being Able to do his job, and it is not pretty.
Talk about karma!
Since he refused to actually DO his job for the last 8 years, he is now in the position of Not being Able to do his job, and it is not pretty.
Talk about karma!
4
"How they respond could have significant ramifications for Mr. Trump and his tenure." Is "significant ramifications" a code phrase for impeachment?
"In some respects, taking on Mr. McConnell is not that politically risky for Mr. Trump."
You might reverse the statement and the same thing would prove equally true. Trump just isn't that important to McConnell. He needs Trump's pen but otherwise the man is a liability. If you take McConnell's guiding principle as a desire to maintain Republican dominance in the Senate, Trump is bad news.
Also, I'm not sure it's accurate to say McConnell went to the mat for Trump on the Supreme Court vacancy. Merrick Garland was nominated in March. Trump was nominated in July. McConnell went to the mat for partisan court ownership. Not an individual candidate.
You might reverse the statement and the same thing would prove equally true. Trump just isn't that important to McConnell. He needs Trump's pen but otherwise the man is a liability. If you take McConnell's guiding principle as a desire to maintain Republican dominance in the Senate, Trump is bad news.
Also, I'm not sure it's accurate to say McConnell went to the mat for Trump on the Supreme Court vacancy. Merrick Garland was nominated in March. Trump was nominated in July. McConnell went to the mat for partisan court ownership. Not an individual candidate.
3
How about if Trump and McConnell both quit? Our country and government would be much better off without them.
5
This is nothing new.
It is just Trump's take on "triangulation," previously used by Bill Clinton.
It is just Trump's take on "triangulation," previously used by Bill Clinton.
1
Sounds like Trump and McConnell need to book a conference room at any one of Trump's resorts, away from the media spotlights, and hold a top tier pow-wow. Attending entourages for the two chiefs should be comprised by the billionaires backing each of them. That way they cut out all the middle (and lower rung) men and get right to discussing and solving the really important issues. (Wink wink.)
After all, isn't that what Citizens United was designed to accomplish?
After all, isn't that what Citizens United was designed to accomplish?
4
two tall men walked into the luxury resort conference room... but only one sauntered out.
it was like the gunfight at the OK Corral, only with foreign waiters on special visas.
it was like the gunfight at the OK Corral, only with foreign waiters on special visas.
2
It is telling that the theft of a Supreme Court seat, a maneuver that violated the spirit if not the letter of the Constitution, is considered the "signature accomplishment" of the Trump administration.
19
If you'll watch the video showing Sen. McConnell's comment, and I have, you'll see from McConnell's tone that he was not in any way was criticizing Pres. Trump. It appears to me that the hard-right conservatives are trying to use this minor disagreement to drive a wedge between McConnell and Trump in the hope that McConnell can be pressured to step down.
It won't work. McConnell's political antagonists have delivered much harsher criticism than Trump's tweets. In fact, McConnell has endured an incredible amount of verbal abuse and he just keeps on smiling.
It won't work. McConnell's political antagonists have delivered much harsher criticism than Trump's tweets. In fact, McConnell has endured an incredible amount of verbal abuse and he just keeps on smiling.
Here is what Mitch McConnell should do: super fast-track legislation to revoke the president's sole authority to launch a nuclear strike.
I don't know what structure the replacement mechanism would take -- some combination of the joint chiefs and president of senate and speaker of the house perhaps -- but get it out of Trump's hands quickly.
For the love of God, for the love of your country, for the sake of humanity, please Sen. McConnell, please do this now. For tomorrow may be too late.
I don't know what structure the replacement mechanism would take -- some combination of the joint chiefs and president of senate and speaker of the house perhaps -- but get it out of Trump's hands quickly.
For the love of God, for the love of your country, for the sake of humanity, please Sen. McConnell, please do this now. For tomorrow may be too late.
7
Can anyone feel an ounce of sympathy for Mitch McConnell? Here is a man who spent years stonewalling the previous administration's legislative efforts and made the unconscionable act of withholding the right of a twice-elected President to appoint a justice to the Supreme Court. Here is a man willing to harm the citizens of his own state by repealing the ACA and replacing it with a woefully inadequate plan. Here is a man who claims to honor the Senate as the "greatest deliberative body in the world", yet ruthlessly acts to change the rules when it suits him.
Unwittingly, Trump laid bare the ugly side of the GOP: for seven years, they protested the AGA, voting over and over to repeal it when in reality, they had no plan to replace it. What were they doing for seven years? Obviously nothing related to improving the healthcare situation in this country.
Unwittingly, Trump laid bare the ugly side of the GOP: for seven years, they protested the AGA, voting over and over to repeal it when in reality, they had no plan to replace it. What were they doing for seven years? Obviously nothing related to improving the healthcare situation in this country.
17
consolidating their base support and poisoning the political waters by widening the gap between more progressive and more reactionary Americans... resulting in stasis.
now there's a legacy of accomplishment we can all be proud of.
now there's a legacy of accomplishment we can all be proud of.
3
To Trump it doesn't matter that he alienates McConnell.
All it matters is for his base to think that he is being forceful and cleaning the swamp.
McConnell can not retaliate, both because of temperament and common goals, misguided as these might be.
All it matters is for his base to think that he is being forceful and cleaning the swamp.
McConnell can not retaliate, both because of temperament and common goals, misguided as these might be.
5
As an elected senator, 45 is unable to "fire" McConnell (a la the Apprentice). 45 (our resident president, child, bully, oligarch) takes to his usual communication, tweet media, saying McConnell should "quit" to divert attention away from himself and the investigation currently underway. While I am unable to appreciate Senator McConnell and his actions in the Senate, having done everything he can to thwart President Obama's agenda during his tenure, his constituents are the ones to determine if he is to retain his seat.
5
Tax cuts for the rich seem to be the ONLY thing on the repub "agenda". They are totally unwarranted, will cruelly affect 99% of Americans, and will have a crushingly adverse affect on any infrastructure initiatives. Our tax dollars are NOT needed for any more military expenditures. We outspend the next 7 countries in the world COMBINED on defense. We need to spend those dollars on education, health services (opioid crisis, among others), and on TAX FUNDED infrastructure rebuilding (NOT on "privatization" of OUR roads, bridges, airports and rail systems, meaning NO TOLL ROADS).
NO TAX CUTS FOR THE RICH!
NO TAX CUTS FOR THE RICH!
11
Trump has nothing to worry about. McConnell has consistently supported, aided and abetted this president for the good of his/the Republican party's agenda, despite what it means for this country. He and Paul Ryan and other "leaders" in Congress stand by him and continue to prop him up, even to the brink of war. He will stand by the president with his American flag pin proudly displayed on his lapel despite the the ramifications and consequences of the Commander in Chief's impulsive dictates and behaviors. What ever happened to Country First?
7
Trump is certainly quite correct in turning his fire on Senator McConnell’s dismal failure in not using his “just say no” years, or even the months since the November elections, to craft an improved health care system. And when McConnell finally did act, it was in secret, creating an atmosphere of mistrust, not only with Democrats, but with members of his Party.
The problem for Republicans is that what they label “Obamacare” had its origins Republican think tanks and offered Congressional Republicans at the time with an opportunity to provide a bipartisan health care solution for our Country. Having rejected that opportunity, McConnell and others find themselves at a loss in finding a constructive path to a repeal and replace which would benefit the American people. Short of moving toward a single payer system, something McConnell would never do, the best path would be to lead a bipartisan effort to repair “Obamacare”. However, it is still unclear as to whether the Senate Majority Leader can move beyond political gamesmanship to constructive legislation.
The problem for Republicans is that what they label “Obamacare” had its origins Republican think tanks and offered Congressional Republicans at the time with an opportunity to provide a bipartisan health care solution for our Country. Having rejected that opportunity, McConnell and others find themselves at a loss in finding a constructive path to a repeal and replace which would benefit the American people. Short of moving toward a single payer system, something McConnell would never do, the best path would be to lead a bipartisan effort to repair “Obamacare”. However, it is still unclear as to whether the Senate Majority Leader can move beyond political gamesmanship to constructive legislation.
4
For the GOP, Trump is needed to complete the trifecta of House, Senate and White House. He could shoot McConnell without consequences and there is no way way McConnell is doing a Boehner and stepping down. It will be fun to watch and in a strange way the country may benefit as each prevents the other from getting their way.
6
Trump thinks he can unleash right wing opponents against McConnell, (who he can not really hurt), scaring others who might fear Retrograde primary opponents.). Having watched Congress closely for 50 years, Presidents generally are "trumped" by Congress' power of the purse.
3
Should the Mueller investigation result in the House of Representatives voting to impeach President Trump, his removal from Office will require 67 Senators to vote aye. We can presume that all 48 Democrats will so vote, meaning that only 19 Republican Senators would be required to also vote aye.
I think we can presume that Senators McCain and Graham would so vote. As would the President's rivals in the 2016 Republican primaries, including Senators Cruz and Rubio. Senator Flake is almost a sure aye. And now Senator McConnell would surely prefer to work with a President Pence.
Thus, day-by-day our President's temper tantrums and twists are building that Senate count to the magic 19 aye votes.
I think we can presume that Senators McCain and Graham would so vote. As would the President's rivals in the 2016 Republican primaries, including Senators Cruz and Rubio. Senator Flake is almost a sure aye. And now Senator McConnell would surely prefer to work with a President Pence.
Thus, day-by-day our President's temper tantrums and twists are building that Senate count to the magic 19 aye votes.
3
McConnell is a key ally? Really?
I see I see little evidence that McConnel knows "how things work" in Congress. NE's the master of "how to make sure that things don't work," however. His lies aren't as extravagant as Trump's but read his remarks on the Affordable Care Act, as exaggerated misinformation as can be found. The Trump administration and Republican Congress are the political version of professional wrestling, except that Vince McMahon know that there's no percentage in matching two villains in a death match. Glad to see this enmity between Trump and McConnell growing.
2
McConnell is thinking seven months but the larger point is that Republicans have had seven years (that's seventeen Trump years) to develop an alternative.
3
What part of last year's presidential campaign don't we understand? Trump's winning rhetoric had nothing to do with any Republican legislative agenda. Trump systematically dismantled all his conventional Republican opponents who were very much at home with the likes of McConnell that agenda. Many of his crowd favorite rally points were actually to the left of Hillary Clinton and veering toward Bernie Sanders. Trump has shown a pattern in office of accommodating entrenched Washington power personalities and discarding them when they do not serve his ends. Witness James Comey, Paul Ryan, Reince Prebus, etc.
3
So McConnell is questioning the president’s grasp of the complexities of government. What about McConnell himself? Jumps right in with the draconian House proposal on repeal and replace, and with all his wizardry takes 13 men, no women, closes the door on the rest of the Senate and bingo, complete. Then what? Disaster strikes, McConnell flounders and the bill dies!
McConnell always thought of himself as a wheeler-dealer during President Obama’s terms, but in fact all he ever did was say “No”. That is not very difficult to do!
McConnell has demonstrated recently that he too has no true grasp of the complexities of government. There is a word missing in his vocabulary. Bipartisanship. And until he learns what that word means and embraces it, the Republican Congress is doomed.
McConnell always thought of himself as a wheeler-dealer during President Obama’s terms, but in fact all he ever did was say “No”. That is not very difficult to do!
McConnell has demonstrated recently that he too has no true grasp of the complexities of government. There is a word missing in his vocabulary. Bipartisanship. And until he learns what that word means and embraces it, the Republican Congress is doomed.
6
The president wants McConnell to resign. More than half the Senate wants Trump to resign. Let's compromise: Both should resign.
13
Trump is treating McConnell like an employee, another indication he doesn't really understand the difference between running a business and running the country.
8
By subverting the Constitution and shedding all human decency to prevent President Barack Obama (and the will of the American people that twice freely elected him by HUGE margins) from filling a Supreme Court vacancy, Senator Mitch McConnell secured Russian-Republican Donald Trump's signature accomplishment of his failing, record-popular-vote-losing presidency: the tyrannical confirmation of Justice Neil M. Gorsuch and the real-life hijacking of the United States Supreme Court.
Trump and McConnell are both aliens to American tradition, democratic government and the Constitution.
Two authoritarian tyrants in a pea pod waving Russian-Republican flags to the duped masses.
America has never had two finer Grand Old Phonies thumbing their noses at the will of the people.
Trump and McConnell are both aliens to American tradition, democratic government and the Constitution.
Two authoritarian tyrants in a pea pod waving Russian-Republican flags to the duped masses.
America has never had two finer Grand Old Phonies thumbing their noses at the will of the people.
252
Well spoken!
2
I'm probably the furthest thing possible from a McConnell fan, but can't the geneaology of this tactic be traced to Senator Biden?
Napa Nick...Joe Biden did mention the tactic in 1992, but Biden and the Democrats never executed it.
Biden's floor speech was on June 25, 1992.
There was no Supreme Court vacancy to fill.
There was no nominee to consider.
There's a difference between words and action.
Biden's floor speech was on June 25, 1992.
There was no Supreme Court vacancy to fill.
There was no nominee to consider.
There's a difference between words and action.
1
With friends like Trump who needs enemies?
73
Apparently, Trump the bully has never heard of the bully pulpit. The "consummate salesman" was no help whatsoever in advancing the Republican health care plan. (Thank goodness.). He's the leader of the party but seems to be abdicating his responsibility to advance his own agenda to the leader of the Senate. The GOP promised to repeal and replace for 7 years? Maybe so, but he ran on the same promise.
Personally, I hope Trump gets off the sidelines and becomes more involved. Because that will only harm the GOP's chances of getting anything done. No art, no sale, no deal.
Personally, I hope Trump gets off the sidelines and becomes more involved. Because that will only harm the GOP's chances of getting anything done. No art, no sale, no deal.
41
And exactly what of the things that McConnell and Trump will do, and how do you see that thing done as benifitting you? Is that the same thing as benefitting your country? The vanishing middle class?
@Claire Green: Please read my comment again. I made clear that I don't want Trump and McConnell to achieve any part of their agenda. My remark had to do with Donald Trump's refusal to take responsibility. I want him to get involved because he's so bad at politics that he's sure to torpedo the GOP's plans.
Health care repeal was not McConnell's failure alone. It was the failure of the entire Republican establishment -- down the individual men and women of the Republican party who work on Capitol Hill. Mitch McConnell and John Boehner and Paul Ryan were the ringleaders of the circus, but the party-wide denial that affordable health care ought to be a benefit that comes with being an American citizen is a deep ideological conviction. Apparently, the only thing that comes with being an American is gigantic military protection of "business."
164
Gigantic protection of military business.
I see no reason for McConnell to get off without "alienation". Trump has already alienated most other adult Americans. If we must suffer, McConnell should get the same treatment. Might as well cover all bases.........
63
Trump's ego is - as usual - clouding reason. He continues to prance for his "base," but his base is not in the Senate where he needs all the help he can get. The prancing may be boosting his ego, but it is not boosting any success rate he may want.
He seems to think a crowd of 10,000 yokels weighs the same as 52 happy senators. As he so often is, he's wrong!
Please God, unsaddle us from this nightmare.
He seems to think a crowd of 10,000 yokels weighs the same as 52 happy senators. As he so often is, he's wrong!
Please God, unsaddle us from this nightmare.
61
Bye bye Mitch no love lost, you have proven to be a terrible and inhumane politician.
91
Fyi, mitch can't be fired. He has to lose an election in his home state which doesn't include brooklyn.
Fu - we need term limits for the House and Senate.
The best argument for Impeaching Donald Trump ?
“A man you can bait with a tweet is not a man we can trust with nuclear weapons.” Ms. H. Clinton
“A man you can bait with a tweet is not a man we can trust with nuclear weapons.” Ms. H. Clinton
316
And let's not forget his comment of why do we have them if we aren't going to use them?
5
I don't know who is more loathsome, Sen. Claghorn — sorry, McConnell — or Trump. Neither respects American values, the Constitution or the office they hold.
53
No one is safe from The Tweeter -- non thinker --- in Chief.
Perhaps if he alienates enough of his "supporters" ,they will get the hint that he is not only untrustworthy (proven already but still, to some, an ongoing condition) and take up "arms against this sea of troubles".
Perhaps if he alienates enough of his "supporters" ,they will get the hint that he is not only untrustworthy (proven already but still, to some, an ongoing condition) and take up "arms against this sea of troubles".
9
Our entire political system is imploding.
Reading the political coverage in this newspaper is like watching a tennis match. One day you look to the left side of the court and see reports about how profoundly dysfunctional the Democratic Party is. The next day you look to the right, and see reports like this, which illustrate just how broken the Republican Party is. And the cycle repeats, day after day after day.
The system is fundamentally broken, and unequal to the challenges of the 21st century. It's time to start thinking about what is going to replace it when the whole thing collapses in a heap, which is precisely where it's heading.
Reading the political coverage in this newspaper is like watching a tennis match. One day you look to the left side of the court and see reports about how profoundly dysfunctional the Democratic Party is. The next day you look to the right, and see reports like this, which illustrate just how broken the Republican Party is. And the cycle repeats, day after day after day.
The system is fundamentally broken, and unequal to the challenges of the 21st century. It's time to start thinking about what is going to replace it when the whole thing collapses in a heap, which is precisely where it's heading.
87
I agree that it's bad. Perhaps the root of the problem is all of the PACs dumping unbelievable amounts of money into the system - all over the country. Those backed are sometimes unqualified- and all are beholden to the PAC. Who can respect them or trust them when they will only back their party rather than compromise and work with others for the country?
A few glimmers of hope are the 3 republicans who voted against the healthcare mess dreamed up by a few in the senate.
I'm also hopeful that more good independents will emerge - or some will break away and become independents.
A few glimmers of hope are the 3 republicans who voted against the healthcare mess dreamed up by a few in the senate.
I'm also hopeful that more good independents will emerge - or some will break away and become independents.
I vote for Democratic socialism and a tamed and regulated capitalism. What we have now is killing us and the world.
Well let's all feel sorry for poor Mitch McConnell. I'm happy to see Trump rag on him. For the last 8 years McConnell and his GOP crew have been obstructionists and it's great to hear how ineffective he is and has been coming from his own side. Keep it coming Trump and while you're at it you can beat up on Ryan also.
161
no, no, no and again no. don't take pleasure in trumps vulgarity. he counts on people cheering that's how he got elected.
1
Sorry, when he trashes fellow Republicans I just can' help myself.
To my Canuck eyes Trump and McConnell have as their primary goal harming their fellow Americans who are not moneyed. If their anti narcotics initiative just results in severe jail sentences in privatized jails a la Sessions this is a prime time example. Personally I find McConnell almost as repulsive as Trump.
159
Don't forget Ryan in that contempt. He richly deserves it.
1
Lincoln lost a key ally when he fired McClellan. So what?
2
McClellan was a waste of space and Lincoln was absolutely right to get rid of him. In fact, Lincoln should have done it much earlier than he did. So to portray McClellan as some sort of ally simply displays a deep ignorance of the situation.
I never appreciated the Frankenstein story until now.
32
McConnell's specific mistake has nothing to do with healthcare itself and everything to do with suggesting, in any way, shape or form, that President Donald Trump bears responsibility for a negative outcome of any kind. If, if, if that bill had passed, Trump would have claimed credit for it immediately as proof of his brilliant "deal-making" skills. Once it's horrible effects were felt amongst his base, he would have promptly thrown every one of his Congressional allies under his campaign bus. It was only ever a matter of time.
This illustrates the GENERAL mistake McConnell and many others make about Trump; the belief that you can "deal" with him. Trump does not have allies, he has human shields. Sessions is out of favor because he is not shielding Trump from Mueller. Comey was fired for not shielding Flynn... who could conceivably become a problem for Trump himself. Rosenstein is out of favor for not shielding Trump from the backlash following the Comey firing. Spicer's sin was his inability to shield Trump from the controversies surrounding his rhetoric. Now McConnell is in the hot seat for not falling on his sword to shield Trump regarding healthcare.
General Kelly? He is supposed to shield Trump by somehow lending Trump prestige (an impossible task). The media? They're supposed to shield Trump from general public scrutiny and criticism. His base? They are to shield him politically. In his mind, we all exist to serve his interests.
This illustrates the GENERAL mistake McConnell and many others make about Trump; the belief that you can "deal" with him. Trump does not have allies, he has human shields. Sessions is out of favor because he is not shielding Trump from Mueller. Comey was fired for not shielding Flynn... who could conceivably become a problem for Trump himself. Rosenstein is out of favor for not shielding Trump from the backlash following the Comey firing. Spicer's sin was his inability to shield Trump from the controversies surrounding his rhetoric. Now McConnell is in the hot seat for not falling on his sword to shield Trump regarding healthcare.
General Kelly? He is supposed to shield Trump by somehow lending Trump prestige (an impossible task). The media? They're supposed to shield Trump from general public scrutiny and criticism. His base? They are to shield him politically. In his mind, we all exist to serve his interests.
258
Insightful.
1
Trump just gets stranger every day. This cannot go on much longer. He must be mentally ill!
30
So you think McConnell is some sort of great guy, just doing his best to serve the average American?
You really think that?
Conservative voters are applauding what Trump's castigation of McConnell.
You really think that?
Conservative voters are applauding what Trump's castigation of McConnell.
2
So Honeybee do you approve of Trump's attack on the democratic system? Do conservative voters approve of autocratic leadership over the traditional distribution of power? These are very serious questions. An attack on McConnell is basically an attack on this system, or perhaps it is just sheer outright lunacy. Either way it will fail.
The beauty is that Republicans control the House, Senate and White House, so they can't convincingly blame President Obama or Congressional Democrats for their own legislative failures. The GOP bought a do-nothing government and they now own it.
108
But the GOP can still take credit for their achievements that are starting to come to fruition.
1
iw olden;t bet on that..... go talk to a trump supporter. they are still believers.
1
Oh, if ONLY it was a "do-nothing" government. Sadly, it's not. It's a loot-and-destroy government, and we are currently stuck with it. 2018 can't get here fast enough.
For once I agree with this President. I think McConnell should resign.
Of course, I think Trump should also resign.
Of course, I think Trump should also resign.
32
More evidence of Trump's Narcissistic Personality Disorder. There is no rhyme or reason to a President alienating the Majority leader of his party. Especially on Twitter.
Trump can't help it because any failure to get his way is viewed as an affront to the person with Narcissistic Personality Disorder. That's why Trump can just go off at the drop of a hat. I'm sure his staff and cabinet are often trying to corral him when he gets offended by these "rejections".
Trump can't help it because any failure to get his way is viewed as an affront to the person with Narcissistic Personality Disorder. That's why Trump can just go off at the drop of a hat. I'm sure his staff and cabinet are often trying to corral him when he gets offended by these "rejections".
14
Its that smug look on McConnell's face that drives me crazy.
34
Trump is being his usual self on one hand, and somewhat desperate on the other hand, because R. Mueller's investigation is heating up. The the list of attendees at the Donald Jr. meeting grew gradually, so that the smokescreening was reported first. According to a search, Kaveladze - the last reported attendee was mentioned only once this year, on July 18. Mueller's office contacted him, apparently because he has moved a lot of money between the US and Russia. Was it only coincidental that those at the meeting were well-suited to perform the hacking and smear job that was reported during the next two weeks? have Motive is confirmed by Donald Jr. and means are confirmed by the attendees. What next? Attacking N. Korea?
5
You go Con Don. Alienate every republican so they don't vote. Divide and destroy. Then we stupid "liberals and progressives" can take back OUR America and get rid of people like you right after we strip every dime you have stolen from us in the past 40+ years and use them money to restore true democracy - social and economic justice for all - in The United States of America.
The vast majority of Americans want you and your International Mafia brothers OUT of our lives and we will rebuild the kind of America WE want from the grassroots out.
The vast majority of Americans want you and your International Mafia brothers OUT of our lives and we will rebuild the kind of America WE want from the grassroots out.
45
Trump blames anyone but himself for his failures.
McConnell is an easy mark.
Come on, Congress.
Get rid of Trump.
There are so many justifications for it, including him being a threat to national security.
I suspect he's complaining about McConnell now so that if Congress DOES act to remove him from office, he can say it was "personal."
McConnell is an easy mark.
Come on, Congress.
Get rid of Trump.
There are so many justifications for it, including him being a threat to national security.
I suspect he's complaining about McConnell now so that if Congress DOES act to remove him from office, he can say it was "personal."
19
Republicans confuse their cultural appeal with support for their legislative priorities. Polls indicate that there is very little for the latter. It's a bit confusing, yes, but still a pesky stubborn fact.
20
Trump's "agenda"? Trump's agenda is to say extravagantly complimentary things about himself and have others - no matter how ignorant they may be - nod their heads in agreement. That's Trump's "agenda."
McConnell has no particular interest in that. He wants a President who will sign legislation designed to serve the interests of rich people. And to appoint McConnell's type of judges. Trump is a pretty good bet for these objectives, especially if the Republican Congress will not chuckle too loudly when Trump says all those things about how great he is.
"Repeal and replace"? The GOP had no ideas, no plans, no initiative, and no strategy, other than to use fear-mongering to get Republicans elected. And it worked. But there never was going to be the "better" or "great" healthcare that Trump had promised put in place. The only person in the entire country who didn't understand that with absolute clarity was Trump. The fact that "repeal and replace" didn't happen, however, did make it harder - temporarily - for Trump to say all the extravagantly complimentary things about himself. Well, I guess even that isn't true.
McConnell has no particular interest in that. He wants a President who will sign legislation designed to serve the interests of rich people. And to appoint McConnell's type of judges. Trump is a pretty good bet for these objectives, especially if the Republican Congress will not chuckle too loudly when Trump says all those things about how great he is.
"Repeal and replace"? The GOP had no ideas, no plans, no initiative, and no strategy, other than to use fear-mongering to get Republicans elected. And it worked. But there never was going to be the "better" or "great" healthcare that Trump had promised put in place. The only person in the entire country who didn't understand that with absolute clarity was Trump. The fact that "repeal and replace" didn't happen, however, did make it harder - temporarily - for Trump to say all the extravagantly complimentary things about himself. Well, I guess even that isn't true.
29
The Republicans might want to consider working with Americans loyal to our country--Democrats--rather than a self-serving, self-adoring degenerate who denigrates and disgraces American institutions and ideals while praising the Russian dictator for "firing" American national security personnel.
21
The headline is wrong: Trump doesn't have an agenda; he's too ignorant and lazy to know even the basic ramifications of any of his proposed "policies."
The actual agenda that Mitch "The Turtle" McConnell is trying to enact is simply the usual Republican agenda of taking money from people who work for a living, and giving it to people who are so wealthy they don't have to work.
The actual agenda that Mitch "The Turtle" McConnell is trying to enact is simply the usual Republican agenda of taking money from people who work for a living, and giving it to people who are so wealthy they don't have to work.
30
Let us not forget the president's favorite theme. ignore russia ignore russia. as for the object of the boss's derision. well it is about time. now we will see which one truly has higher ratings.
7
There is no risk here at all. Mitch McConnell has his plans in place and will proceed accordingly. His only real worry comes from the hard right republicans.
He was not able to contain them during the repeal and replace efforts. I am sure he has been working on his strategy for the coming months and issues ahead.
Trump is an aggressive boor. He shoots his mouth off when it suits him and does not consider the consequences. Trump has never 'suffered' any consequence.
He will blame anyone and everyone he can because it is never his fault and it never will be in his narrow mind.
Trump, McConnell and the GOP Congress will push on ahead to greater goals.
Everyone of them wants the tax cuts for the wealthy. They represent the worst of government in DC, a sorry bunch of political hacks for the Koch Brothers and or God intent upon imposing more hardships on the undeserving masses of citizens who must serve them.
He was not able to contain them during the repeal and replace efforts. I am sure he has been working on his strategy for the coming months and issues ahead.
Trump is an aggressive boor. He shoots his mouth off when it suits him and does not consider the consequences. Trump has never 'suffered' any consequence.
He will blame anyone and everyone he can because it is never his fault and it never will be in his narrow mind.
Trump, McConnell and the GOP Congress will push on ahead to greater goals.
Everyone of them wants the tax cuts for the wealthy. They represent the worst of government in DC, a sorry bunch of political hacks for the Koch Brothers and or God intent upon imposing more hardships on the undeserving masses of citizens who must serve them.
11
It's hard to feel sympathy for McConnell, after he has worked so hard to subvert the functioning of our democracy. The blocking of Merrick Garland's nomination is a singular low point in a half-decade of low points by McConnell and his cronies.
McConnell's clumsy attempts to undermine the health care of millions of Americans are no less damnable. So I'm glad to see them take shots at one another - I've no use for either of them.
McConnell's clumsy attempts to undermine the health care of millions of Americans are no less damnable. So I'm glad to see them take shots at one another - I've no use for either of them.
441
Anything that works against Republican unity is good for the country. Their agenda is fundamentally un-American.
2
To the GOP: You broke it, you bought. It would be funny to watch this despicable party's bitter internal battles if it weren't so important.
MAGA? Don't make me laugh. They're driving nails into the coffin of America in their ridiculous fantasies about returning to the 1950s (the base), the 1920s (the money men), or the 1800s (the alt-right extremists).
MAGA? Don't make me laugh. They're driving nails into the coffin of America in their ridiculous fantasies about returning to the 1950s (the base), the 1920s (the money men), or the 1800s (the alt-right extremists).
89
I don't think Trump has an agenda, per se, just a vague hope that he can put enough checks in the win column, any column, to parade his accomplishments to an adoring crowd in West Virginia every 6 months. Trump has already thumbed his nose at all our foreign allies, he might as well get to work on the domestic ones as well. Nobody, in the history of politics, relies more on the stupidity of his base supporter then Donald Trump. And they, in turn, have given him no cause to worry.
14
Trump continues to fail to understand he is not running a corporation but rather a government of a huge country. He can't "fire" anyone in the Congress. They are elected by the people and that is one of the checks and balances in place that helps assure that no one branch goes too far. While it doesn't seem to be working sometimes in reality it is. The Republicans and Democrats are not monolithic blocks either. Any one of them can decide to stray from the party line at any time. It's the democratic process. We may be a Republic in that we elect representatives but in the halls of Congress is where our democracy takes place.
175
Trump was barely running a corporation even when he was in the private sector (assuming that he actually ever left). Family-owned, no outside investors or board. He likely would have been fired years ago for his repeated brushes with failure and questionable business practices bordering on illegal. That sliminess is one aspect of his skillset that has made the transition into government.
2
Exactly. And, in the end, this may be a good thing (provided we all survive any potential nuclear war). We've been hearing for at least 20 years about how we need a businessman (business person?) in the White House and that the Government would be best run as a business... Guess what? Government is government, not a corporation. The Constitution is the Constitution, the checks and balances exist for a reason.
4
He further fails to understand that you can't run a great corporation that way either! No one really wants to work for jerk, so you either have to overpay any competent people willing to do it, or you can't attract enough people to accomplish complex and/or complicated tasks that require actual negotiations beyond bullying.
2
For reasons that defy explanation, they are all afraid of Trump...and this includes too many Democrats. He is a lightweight, an unschooled novice when it comes to policy. He is a bully when it comes to politics.
They should take him on and bring him to heel. If Congress, both parties, can't or won't stand up and assert their equal status as a leader of this government and get the bully to stand down, they should get out of the way and let others who are qualified into leadership positions.
They should take him on and bring him to heel. If Congress, both parties, can't or won't stand up and assert their equal status as a leader of this government and get the bully to stand down, they should get out of the way and let others who are qualified into leadership positions.
74
I haven't seen any Democrats afraid of Trump. Senate and House Democrats are challenging him on everything, and using all tools at their disposal to try to undo the damage he's doing.
1
While Mr. McConnell and Mr. Trump have a few goals in common----most specifically lowering taxes on the wealthiest Americans-----it is hard to describe either man as having shared values and philosophy as implied in the word "ally." Both men will do whatever it takes to improve their personal power and wealth.
Neither man gives a hoot about what is best for our nation. Others may occasionally and accidentally benefit from their behavior, but history has shown that helping others is never the prime motivation of either man.
Neither man gives a hoot about what is best for our nation. Others may occasionally and accidentally benefit from their behavior, but history has shown that helping others is never the prime motivation of either man.
136
This, exactly. McConnell avoids going back to KY whenever he can and even then, only for carefully scripted and controlled events. He doesn't want to hear from his duped constituents, much less see them.
As a common saying in the south goes, he tries to rise above his upbringing. It helps that the poor folks in KY who keep electing him are not too bright.
As a common saying in the south goes, he tries to rise above his upbringing. It helps that the poor folks in KY who keep electing him are not too bright.
3
Both Trump's and McConnell's sentiments are right: Neither is fit to serve and both threaten our democracy.
21
If anyone should know how it works in Washington it's McConnell. The last paragraph says it all.
3
Were the electoral college eliminated, citizens united overturned, publicly funded elections & campaigning adopted, open primaries and paper ballots adopted nation wide, gerrymandering outlawed nationwide, proportional voting adopted ,and the voting rights act restored, the Republican party and it's attempt to turn our democracy into an authoritarian free market
capitalist plutocracy would fail. I sincerely hope the current President and his chief enabler(s) destroy each other, but that will not be enough to impede
the momentum of our rush into chaos unless the Republican majority is ended.
capitalist plutocracy would fail. I sincerely hope the current President and his chief enabler(s) destroy each other, but that will not be enough to impede
the momentum of our rush into chaos unless the Republican majority is ended.
45
You nailed it: obstacles to having my vote count as much as some: the electoral college.
But who has the weightiest vote? Members of Koch, DeVos etc. clans.
They count for even more millions of our votes with their mega bucks. Read Jane Mayer's "Dark Money". That book tell it all. FOLLOW THE MONEY.
But who has the weightiest vote? Members of Koch, DeVos etc. clans.
They count for even more millions of our votes with their mega bucks. Read Jane Mayer's "Dark Money". That book tell it all. FOLLOW THE MONEY.
2
It is a show. The objective is not an agenda, it is ratings.
5
When will Trump realize that he is a player on the field and not a spectator in the stands?
2
Senator McConnell should ask Mr. Trump to show the country the plan he had promised while campaigning. Didn't Mr. Trump say he had a plan that would save everyone money while expanding coverage and guaranteeing that no one would lose?
186
That's true! Now that Trump's in office, it seems his "plan" was to have other people do stuff while he would sit back and critique their efforts. Imagine if that had been Obama's plan! With our do-nothing Congress, nothing is ever going to get done.
5
If Trump could actually succeed in making McConnell step down, he would have truly accomplished positive - a first for his "administration". But of course McConnell won't step down.
1
McConnell will never "step down". He believes he has a right to that seat and that power in his hands is the righteous path for the country. The fact that he was able to defy the Constitution and steal the Supreme Court seat from a Democratic president's nominee tells you much about his lack of ethics and that he doesn't give a whit about the country, only his own power.
Head alligator in the swamp - good one.
Head alligator in the swamp - good one.
6
Trump will double down when the next next key piece of legislature doesn't go his way or as fast as he think it should be. He has yet to realized that the WH is not Trump inc. and he'll not always get his way because of his tweeted that it should get done
2
Like the Mob wars in NYC, we should only be concerned about protecting the public from collateral damage. Otherwise, let them destroy each other.
118
There will always be collateral damage, unfortunately.
Trump has an "agenda"?
12
With an ally like that, who needs an opponent? McConnell needs to go to Nancy Pelosi, the master legislator, and ask her to teach him how to corral votes. Remember, it was Nancy that passed Obamacare with only the Democrat votes. After 7 years, and numerous successful votes, McConnell couldn't get it done with a majority of "Republicans" in the Senate. Terrible leadership.
5
Apparently Trump can throw people under the bus on Pennsylvania Avenue and not get arrested.
8
Could not happen to nicer guys. The country will be spared much mischief if these two luminaries pummel each other into the ground.
377
Oh, I so agree!
6
Amen.
1