If trump is demagoguing the death of Kelly's son and Kelly fails to call it out then he has joined forces with the Kelly Ann Conways and Cori Lewandowskis!
7
Trump is and has always been crude and rude. What does anyone expect? Always belittling others at every opportunity. So low, so uncharitable. So unworthy of the office he holds.
8
Meanwhile he has turned the NFL protest into not supporting the troops. Meanwhile the NFL has zero to do with supporting our troops but Trump's idiocy does.
He uses their service and well being at whim.
And why we're the French, not the Americans, responding?
6
Trump knows that he can lie and that lie is what goes out first. So he can send his lie out first and then the truth has to catch up a day or two later.
5
You have made a change to what Trump said. He said that President Obama did not call the parents or spouses of all military who had been killed overseas. You have changed that to incorrectly claim Trump said "contact" when in fact he said "call". The commonly understood meaning of "call" is more specific than "contact" and connoted the use of voice communication usually by phone. Trump, as you note in your article makes this distinction himself when he says a lot of Presidents didn't call when he says "They wrote letters." Now as to why Trump wished to raise this, I don't know but he does seem to have a stronger connection to the military than Obama who really didn't care too much for them. It is stranger still as to the inability of the media not to misstate what Trump said and then play it up like it is some major news event under the "trump lies" mantra. Trump's rejoinder was ask John Kelly is Obama called him when General Kelly's son was killed in 2010. The Obama reply ends up as well when we had a gold star breakfast at the White House a year or two later, we invited Kelly to sit at our table. If you simply cannot resist taking the bait, you ought to at least stop adjusting the facts and playing into to the set up.
1
Maybe the reporters should have just noted that Trump said the letters he wrote had already been sent, then he said they were going to be sent that evening, then, in the same rambling ad lib, he said they would be sent that day or tomorrow. That is enough to say he was lying, as it is not possible to send the letters in the future if they were already sent in the past.
It is speculation to say he was lying about having already written personal letters to each the dead soldiers, but I am guessing a guy who does not read and disses a Gold Star Family probably did not spend his time writing four letters to soldiers who could not read those letters because they got killed on Trump’s watch. Nonetheless, that is what Trump said he did.
Of course, if one assumes that what he meant was that he wrote to the families of the deceased, it opens the door to interpreting the implied intent of his other comments. . . .
8
Yet another clear example of the Republican party's disdain for American ideals.
8
Just for clarity, did Kelly tell tRump that Obama didn't call him after the death of his son before or after the so-called president mentioned it? Please tell me it wasn't a set up by Kelly. Please. Please. I can't take much more.
4
It's time that we, the people as citizens, took over the responsibility of sending letters that express gratitude and condolence to families who have lost their sons or daughters who have given their lives in service to this country. Also, we can apologize to entire nations and heads of state for the careless insults they have received and express sorrow for misfortunes they have endured.
We now have someone presuming to lead our nation who is not capable of speaking for us. Letters to the editors of foreign and national news syndicates from individuals and entire communities who are better equipped at lending their sincere feelings could help us to be seen as we truly are, a nation of human beings.
4
Trump!
Stop involving Gold Star families in your sick obsession with Barack Obama. They have suffered enough; they don’t deserve this. Just stop.
Every day your behavior sinks to a new low. Get help. Please!
16
It's sad to say, Donald Trumps is just an empty vessel
3
America, welcome to the bottom, it appears that about 37% of you already live here----there is little doubt that we have in our president the most craven, cowardly, ignorant, corrupted, narcissistic and damaged man to ever hold the office. Sadly into this empty vessel approximately 37% of my fellow citizens have chosen to pour their anger, resentment, ignorance, racism, anti-semitism, misogyny, greed and amorality. Trump is but a symptom of a moral rot in a large minority of Americans, so can we at least dispense with this hackneyed notion of American exceptionalism. We have simply grown into a weak, envious, stupid customer base for corporations, nothing more or less.
27
This lie exposes the liar. The liar who throws others under the bus. The liar who presents himself as the victim. The liar who is our President.
We, the American People remember viewing our former Commander in Chief's grief and we remember our feelings for each fallen American.
How in the world can POTUS expect we, the American People to swallow his lies,
God help me if I ever am not stunned and shamed by our POTUS.
9
How General Kelly and John Mc Cain can stand to be in the same room as this disgusting buffoon without choking him is beyond me. They must be sedated.
16
John McCain has been in far worse rooms with much more bothersome company. As for Chief of Staff Kelly, he has the authority and duty to assign responsibility for seeing that condolence calls and letters are diligently completed. It is not clear if Kelly failed in that detail or if the adult baby sitter did not show up.
3
I give our Lying Coward-in-Chief credit for consistency - the man appears incapable of not lying.
11
The picture heading this article says it all.
Late at night, President Obama is there honouring the fallen as they are brought home.
Now, late at night, Trump wanders the empty halls of the White House in his bathrobe.
14
Trump has three generals in his White House. How they can standby and remain silent is a disgrace.
16
Not bad. but the headline should read: Trump lies about Commander-in-Chief Obama's record on consoling soldiers' families.
LIES is the operative word.
And that lie also erased the families Obama consoled and the soldiers lost to them.
They don't matter. They don't exist.
"We must recall that one of the duties of his office include that of acting as Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the United States. The lives of people around the world, American forces around the world, and the fate of Americans on American soil depend on a sane, knowledgeable leader willing to listen to advisors, comprehend their points, learn, weigh evidence in a non-partisan, non-egotistical, adult manner and so build a practicable, viable, doable policy that best serves the long-term interests and safety of the nation, not what brings temporal praise for one man, him, from his personal diehard fans. The lives of our soldiers overseas and the citizens of those countries are in the hands of a man globally known as dangerous, infantile, ignorant, vengeful, unable to control his emotions and his mouth, easily suckered into a fight."
He is unfit on every level, including as Commander-in-Chief.
May the NYTimes next editorial call for his removal by any of the constitutionally available processes for any of the many instances showing incurable inability to execute the office of president.
Unfit. Remove. Start now.
He is unfit. Remove.
14
Like most community college professors in Texas, I taught some classes in local prison units. During our annual training sessions, the trainer would always repeat the old saw: “How do you know when an inmate is lying? When his lips are moving.” With Trump in the White House, I am constantly reminded of this old routine.
9
I don't know which is worse, Trump who obviously doesn't care or GW Bush who put on his smiley caring face and pretended to care about the people he was directly responsible for killing and injuring. In many ways Trump is far more sincere.
3
Trump will call it all "fake news", claiming that he never said that Obama, and other presidents, did not contact the families of fallen soldiers. What he will say is that they did not always call (as in picking up the PHONE) .
No one asked him why he did not call; he is the one who brought up that particular method of communication. He is the one who invoked the name of Obama, and other presidents. Why not just answer in the way that his staff later did (in an attempt to cover up his gaffe, parsing every word), by saying there is a protocol that is followed? Because he did not know. Because he knew he had not contacted them, and had no good reason why he had not. Because his go-to reaction for anything he does not know is to lie. Because he will not let any opportunity to belittle Obama pass him by.
The fact that he had offered up the humiliation of Mitch McConnell on a plate in this "press conference" wasn't enough, Let's have a little side dish of "bash Obama".
What a sick, impotent little man he is.
13
Another reason why every single individual who cast a vote for Trump should feel humiliated and ashamed. Ashamed that they put this glorified con-artists in the White House, and humiliated in that they actually fell for the con.
12
I look forward to the day this childish, craven liar is seated before the Mueller grand jury, under oath, with no lawyer, nobody to tell him what to say, no knowledge of what the investigators know, and he has to do the hardest thing he's ever done in life: tell the truth, or be removed from office for perjury. And this time, no blue dress necessary.
14
The really big problem is ....... Trump doesn't mind lying. He has no conscience.
13
I just listened to Steve Schmidt, a most honorable Republican, say that all he could think of are the words spoken to Joe McCarthy long ago: “Have you no decency?” That quote has a permanent place in my thoughts about Trump since he campaigned and continuing every day during his occupancy of the White House. Trump has NO decency!
14
If I had a son or daughter who was killed while in the military, I would not be consoled by and would not want a call from this president. A call from this president would add insult to injury.
14
It sounds like Trump wasn't a conscientious objector where he didn't believe in what the war was about...it sounds to me that he was just a coward. Avoiding the military...its a family thing.Trump's grandfather was kicked out of Germany for avoiding the draft.
Read this carefully..."Mr. Trump has acknowledged feeling somewhat “guilty” for not serving in Vietnam and has stressed that if he had been called, he would have gone." (how many deferments later?)
Seriously, is there ANYONE that truly believes that Donald Trump is even capable of feeling "guilty"...even when he has a mountain of reasons to feel such an emotion? Well, that's the rub isn't it? Imagine, a person who can't feel guilt being in charge of the most powerful military in the world. His only check and balance on his ego would be the profit vs loss margin and if he could make more on the failure of the war. Our children's, lives would mean absolutely nothing to this mentally ill man.
11
Dead soldiers make great political tools. Trump is a genius.
1
A senior official said Mr. Trump had planned to speak sooner to the families, but the White House had to wait until the Pentagon’s paperwork was completed.
Just say he lied and was too busy golfing. These deaths had no impact on his short game.
What a disgrace Trump is.
8
Another lie. From comments from family members who lost soldiers under President Obama, they often received a phone call from him within 24 hours from when they received first notification of the loss of their loved one.
3
Are they out of stamps at the White House? Couldn't the Secret Service pick some up on their way to or from one of the Trump golf courses?
This is really the worst. To make the deaths of service members all about him - and in the same breath to defame his predecessors in office without basis and for no other reason than to make himself look better - seems like it should be rock bottom.
Sadly, I predict that it is not, and some new, fresh horror awaits.
13
The moments when Mr. Trump falsely claimed President Barack Obama did not call or honor families deceased soldiers struck a chord with many, as it is provably false.
Once more, Mr. Trump deflected from the fact he absolutely did not mention the deaths of Green Beret's for two weeks, said he wasn't aware of them, said he already wrote the letters--all of which are clearly false, and stood there lying to Americans.
All the while he was preoccupied making hay with denouncing athletes' protests, insulting Democrats and certain Republicans, praising Fox News, golfing, demeaning Puerto Rico's mayor and its people, ignoring the Virgin Islands while absurdly claiming he met "their president," when HE is their president. Oh, and I forgot his golfing and flying off to his properties and bankrupting the budget for Secret Service who have to pay to stay there, and have to pay for golf carts, and food, and overnight stays at that tacky resort.
9
This is not news - if Trump is moving his lips, he's lying. When the headline says "TRUMP TELLS THE TRUTH (about ______)!", then that will be news.
17
Trump “falsely claims”? Seriously? Let’s correct this headline: “Trump, LYING YET AGAIN, Claims Obama Didn’t Contact Families Of Fallen Troops.”
25
This is so sickening. Even now, Trump cannot restrain himself without falsehoods to belittle Obama and other presidents. the dead howl from their graves. All this from a draft dodger who never faced a bullet or his own cowardice. Simply disgusting.
29
AMEN!!
5
The so-called Values Voters, White Evangelicals. and all other members of the Christian Right who keep supporting this narcissistic incessant liar have completely lost the right to call themselves moral.
31
How pathetic that a president would spend more time and energy trying to paint Obama and other ex-presidents as the same uncaring individuals he is.
We all remember pictures of Dover where Obama met families and stood in salute. We remember Bush 41 and 43.
If Trump is unaware that video doesn't disappear the way his Fox TV screen does then he is more a fool than I thought.
How dare he make these claims to cover his own lack of concern. Unfortunately we are all too acquainted with his lies. Fact checking his has become a cottage industry for those organizations that used to have much less to contend with.
IMO, Trump you would do better to keep quiet on excuses that try to cover your own failings. As a reminder to you of your duties I would say you are not just president for the states that voted for you and you are not just in charge of 'my generals' but of the enlisted men and women you swore to protect.
We get that you don't think about making those calls until you are reminded of it. We know you really only filter the world through how it affects you.
Please stop insulting our intelligence with your lame lies.
23
He who knowingly states demonstrably false accusations in public to maliciously damage another perdon's reputation is a slanderous liar. He who does so and tries to attribute the slanderous statements to "someone told me, I don't know" is a gutless worm of a slanderous liar. Trump is the king of gutless slanderous lying. It is a defining hallmark of his fetid presidency and indeed his entire life.
21
Can pigs sing?
Can Trump tell the truth?
19
To trash the Obama presidency at every turn is Donald Trump’s primary mission as president. But one never thought that he would use an occasion like this to pursue that mission. And he has done it mouthing another lie. Only a deranged mind is capable of doing such a thing. Get some help, Mr. Trump.
21
TRUMP =
NY Military Academy Graduate 1965.
FIVE X Draft dodger from 1965 onwards.
Speaks for itself.
24
“This is an outrageous and disrespectful lie even by Trump standards,” Benjamin J. Rhodes, a former deputy national security adviser to Mr. Obama, posted on Twitter. “Also,” Mr. Rhodes added, “Obama never attacked a Gold Star family.”
Come on! Trump has NO standards. I repeat, Trump does not have standards. He is only self serving. The rest (arm chair diagnoses, well thought out analysis of trying to figure him out) has all been said. The facts demonstrate that he is a liar, foul mouthed, disrespectful of women and men, and one who continually points the blame for his miserable self in every direction other than the mirror. I'm not confident, but I hope and pray that somewhere in our political system there is a check and balance on the damage he is doing, not only to our country, but to our culture. I see children comfortable mimicking this man, like it's okay to be a self serving bullying blow hard. Heaven help us.
22
“I don’t know if he did,” the president said. “I was told he didn’t often, and a lot of presidents don’t. They write letters.”
If you don't know, why bring it up. Regarding the four Green Berets lost in Niger, you've neither written nor called. Wait, I'm sorry, you did write a letter, but it takes a couple of days for the White House to mail a letter from the President. Ran out of stamps again? Absent the NYT's restrictions on obscenities, my remarks would probably be similar to Ms. Masttromonaco's as well as the uncensored characterization attributed to Rex Tillerson,
20
The lunatic pathological liar should be treated in a mental health care facility. He does not have any clue about governing and made money by deception with six bankruptcies on his record. Instead of lies after lies about Obama and Clunton, he needs to focus on the needs of our great nation. Of course, that is not going to happen and we the people have to suffer from his gross incompetence. The clue less child bully is destroying the basic foundation of our great nation and the world every day.
16
That Trump falsely claims Obama did not contanct families of KIA's is NOT the story that the Times should be running. That Trump needs to, on a daily basis, demean Obama's accomplishments with these lies.... (not false claims,. please. They are bare faced lies!) IS the story. Is he delusional? is this playing his audience for suckers? Lets report on what drives these fictions not just that he has again lied. That gets reported every day..... we are becoming numb to it rather than enraged.
14
Trump, Trump, what next?
4
Donald Trump has told the ultimate big lie! He asserted falsely that President Obama never visited, wrote, call, or did anything for those killed in war. This is coming from a man that got 6 deferments. His 6th deferment was a whopper. His father, Fred, hired a top doctor in Midtown Manhattan, who wrote a letter for a ghost injury- bone spurs. And this scammer has the gumption to lie!
13
By now we know there is no low beneath which this disgusting person will not go. The longer we tolerate him in this position, the lower we all go. He is the death of America.
16
The Disruptor In Chief strikes again. It is incredible how this poor excuse for a leader succeeds in creating new ways to offend, dismiss, defame, blame and/or disparage anything or anyone who is not like him, or not like those with whom he is trying to curry favor.
I will tune in tomorrow to see what the next absurdity is to spew from his mouth (or Twitter feed). Yes, he is helping CNN's ratings and the "failing" NYT, but mainly because I want to tune in to read about the latest train wreck. I do hope the adults in the room (and in the country) will stand up to this Cretin before he does more damage to us and to the world.
16
Let's remember that Trump is a Vietnam draft-dodger who nevertheless supported the war that other people went to. I die a little every time I see a photo of Marines saluting this vile clown.
20
See how easy that lie rolled out of Trumps mouth? A FOX segment said we should not question the president's motives in this difficult task. Ummm...he signed up for the job.
He lied because he knew nothing about Obamas practices. Lie to elevate himself and take a jab at Obama. Deal with fallout later. That's his mode.
If my child were killed in action, I would NEVER meet with Trump. This has nothing to do with the war or conflict, but everything to do with the person he is. Trump is a vile human being.
17
Some perspective from San Antonio Spurs basketball coach Gregg Popovich, who is an air force veteran: “[President Trump's] comments today about those who have lost loved ones in times of war and his lies that previous presidents Obama and Bush never contacted their families are so beyond the pale, I almost don’t have the words.” “This man in the Oval Office is a soulless coward who thinks that he can only become large by belittling others.” Trump received five deferments from service during the Vietnam war, four for academic reasons and one on health grounds, for bone spurs in his heels.
20
American electorate: How could you?
16
We ask ourselves that everyday.
5
President Trump doesn't tell lies. He IS a lie: walking, talking, blustering, sputtering, spitting, wall-to-wall, 24/7, all the time. Unending mendacity: only his voting base doesn't get this. Even his allies and spokespeople get it, but they're liars, too.
18
I have never hated a public figure. I disagreed with Pres Bush on almost everything but I knew him to be a decent man. I hate Trump. I hate what he stands for. Actually I’m not sure he stands for anyone but himself. I hate what his family represents—greed, selfishness, narcissism and their propensity to lie about almost everything. They have sullied the office of the president
22
So why is this even being reported, except as follow up to erroneous reporting that proceeded it? The media needs to get a grip, maybe even more so than Trump.
2
Last year Colin Powell put it right, Donald Trump is a National Disgrace, and yesterday he proved it once again.
16
Trump really does live in his own, sick, little universe, where fantasy and lies take the place of truth and reality.
10
At this point in his presidency hTrump needs to be fact-checkedI'm after every statement he makes. He is a dangerous narcissist and I wonder how much more our nation can tolerate.
Dementia runs in his family and he certainly seems to demonstrating some symptoms of mental instability.
11
My father was a pathological liar. It was his way of proving himself superior to others. He was absolutely certain that everyone believed his every utterance, just because it came from his mouth. This made our childhood very difficult, because the big liar beget little ones. It took a lot of peer rejection before we figured out that our father was not what he pretended to be. This cost him friends, siblings, and his children - he was never permitted to meet his grandchildren. This is all to familiar to me. The Trump camp is rife with grifters, sycophants and liars. God help us.
15
Hate first. Ask questions later. Don’t ask at all. Forgot what the question was.
Sad
4
If only mainstream news organizations like the NY Times had been calling out Trump's blatant falsehoods two years ago the United States and the whole of the human race might have been saved from the absurd position we now find ourselves in: that of facing the possibility of extinction as a direct result of presidential ignorant and idiocy.
If journalists do not serve as fact-checkers what use are they to anyone?
6
Mr. Trump's dishonest attacks on President Obama are deeply troubling. Trump has already dishonestly accused Obama of high crimes. Now he is falsely accusing Obama of dishonoring the war dead.
To what degree are Trump's attacks similar to the sort of politically motivated prosecutions and imprisonments that are now commonplace in Russia? One important characteristic of American democracy is that we don't do that.
What is presidential speech? Is the president only speaking for himself as a private citizen? For instance, can presidential speech alone be considered abuse of power, obstruction of justice, or a high crime?
On the one hand, the Constitution species that the government itself may not stifle free speech. On the other hand, one can be fired by one's employer for what one says, whether or not one is working at the time.
It is not news that Trump's attacks on Obama are an obsession that will mark this White House forever. It is not news that his attack is racist: in essence he is repeating white nationalist claims that black Americans are not patriotic.
6
Just when you thought he couldn't go lower and then he does..
Gonna be a long, painful next 3 years....
6
Hopefully, it's just a few more months more if Mueller comes through....
5
president bonespurs speaking of fallen soldiers is in itself a disgrace.
11
The most sickening part of this is I'm no longer shocked by his behavior and lies and that's truly disturbing.
7
However, Trump's followup point is that Hillary didn't contact these families to offer her condolences and the GOP in both the House and Senate are dusting off the Benghazi committees and leaping into hearings on HRC's egregious conduct in this matter. When didn't she know and when didn't she contact the families? Trey Gowdy, get the old Fox crowd and book your new hairtsyle appointment. It's show time!
2
I'm going to pocket my latest outrage and disgust at Trump. This man (or, should I say "thing"?) is not human.
5
I doubt that he had written any letters. Rather, I suspect some aid was instructed to write the letters following the press confernce and they will be mailed afterwards with Trunp's name on them.be instructed
5
Trump is a pathological liar. What he claimed was despicable and disgusting. His words, actions, behavior and demeanor are an insult to the office he currently holds.
Has Trump no sense of decency?
Trump showed just how much he honors America’s troops when asked about the four U.S. soldiers killed in an ISIS ambush in Niger a week ago. Trump said he had written letters to the soldiers’ families which would go out … soon. And he’d get around to calling the families “at some point during the period of time.”
But according to Trump, he is way ahead of the presidential curve, because “the traditional way, if you look at President Obama and other presidents, most of them didn’t make calls, a lot of them didn’t make calls. I like to call when it’s appropriate, when I’m able to do it.”
Wow. Trump's claim is unequivocally wrong. President Obama engaged families of the fallen and wounded warriors throughout his two terms in office - calls, letters, visits to Section 60 at Arlington, visits to Walter Reed, visits to Dover as bodies of the fallen returned home and regular meetings with Gold Star Families at the White House and across our nation.
Maybe Trump should stop playing golf, watching TV, tweeting and defaming other presidents, and instead write, call and visit the families of the fallen and those wounded
9
I really feel badly for Obama and the other former presidents who Trump repeatedly bashed with his lies. His "it's in the mail" line was laughable- he obviously had not written one word of sympathy yet to the families of those fallen soldiers. I, for one, am so tired of listening to him- how can we ever believe him again? I can't wait for 2020 when we can boot him out of office!
6
Last night "someone told me" he'd played 126 holes of golf since the four soldiers died in Niger.
7
I am at the point now to believe that he has never had to express any kind of kindness or compassion to anyone in his life. His parents were absent in the guidance and teaching department and he was left to his own demented state of mind. He is the perfect example of our poor education system. But we, that did not vote for him, knew all of this, understood his mental illness and are not surprised now about anything that he says or does. What is so hard to process are those that are still supporting him and refuse to accept that they made a mistake. That scares me to death as this madman marches us over the cliff into Fascism.
8
The reason why Trump didn't call the families...
He prefers soldiers that don't get killed.
9
All he had to do was tweet “my heartfelt condolences to the families of OUR fallen soldiers”
He did not
4
What must the military men in his administration be thinking? The President even brought up Kelly's son who was killed in action.
I am sure that an attack is due on McCain.
I know that none of this matters to his supporters. None!
7
our gold star families have a no star president. Surely we can do better.
6
But of course, the truth doesn't matter, because to Trump's loyal minions, lies are the truth.
6
What about the deaths of the four soldiers? Why is there no investigation or even discussion about what happened. The public has the right to know. How much money was spent on investigating Benghazi! Aren't these four lives also valuable ?
5
As.an English language speaker, I would point out that the assertion that “if you look at Mr Obama and other Presidents not all of them made calls” may or may not allege that Mr. Obama made no calls. But proper interpretation of language is a lost art.
Once and for all, this deserves to be a banner headline on par with "Men Walk On Moon" and "U.S. Attacked":
"PRESIDENT OF U.S. IS A LIAR"
subhead:
"Trump Regularly Issues Falsehoods to Cover Misdeeds and Mistakes"
second subhead:
"Republican leaders in Congress stay quiet in his shadow as they seek narrow gains for small segment of country."
11
We have a man in Donald Trump who insulted all of the POW's who served our country by his comments regarding John McCain, attacked a Gold Star Family, received deferments for bone spurs during Vietnam, attacks football players as being Un-American inferring their protest has some odd connection to disrespecting our country and troops; and now he shamefully insults the previous President Obama, Bush and others as not reaching out to the families of troops who died in service to this country, in an effort to raise his stature as a war leader.
What I find most disrespectful to our country, the military and our flag, is a leader that is petty, and tries to make political points on the corpses of our brave soldiers, especially when tweeted and commented about every petty bit of nonsense this dope feels is important, but never once mentioned or commented on the 4 brave service men that gave their lives 12 days ago, until he was forced, prodded by a question today and I'll bet the liar still hasn't drafted a letter, yet.
10
If I had the terrible misfortune to loose a son or daughter member as too many parents have, Donald Trump would be one of the last people I would want contacting me.
7
it always turns out Trump is right every time he says something, or else he wouldn't say it, the trouble makers are going crazy, it is funny
Editors:
Have not read the article yet but wanted to thank you for the photograph that leads the story.
I very much remember Obama's trips to Dover Air Force base to meet and honor fallen soldiers. I recall that he did this privately, without pomp, and it sometimes occurred in the wee hours of the morning.
He also regularly visited soldiers at the local VA Hospital.
This photograph should be run above the crease, on the front page of Sunday's addition, with a strong piece demanding that Mr. Trump stop denigrating the office of the Presidency, and the legacy of Mr. Obama, a true statesman of historical dimension, with his bald faced lies.
12
Now Trump has dragged the dead son of his chief of staff into Trump's petty finger-pointing game. Kelly must remain silent as his dead son is made a political football. Nobody working for Trump escapes with his dignity intact. How can Kelly look at himself in the mirror?
12
“President Obama, I think, probably did sometimes and maybe sometimes he didn’t,” Mr. Trump continued. “That’s what I was told. All I can do is ask my generals.”
This paragraph sums up the personality of the authoritarian con man we now have as our president. How much longer can our country endure this ?
8
It's the latest of Trump's self-serving defense of himself for not having feelings for fallen soldiers and their families. Any military casualties, whether killed, captured or injured, he feels as a failure or loss to his greatness to be ignored. He feels that he has to justify his ignorance by attacking his predecessors through lies and innuendoes.
2
What trump did not say, however, was anything about the four green berets or why he didn't bother to say anything about it for almost two weeks. In addition to troops that get captured does he also have no use for troops who are ambushed and killed?
6
Even if Mr. Trump had indeed been planning (LOL) to write letters to the dead soldiers' families, we know very well what 'writing' means in this case: a pre-printed form letter - the kind we get from our representatives in Congress when we write them about some issue or other - of course personalized and, hopefully, with a real signature at the bottom, rather than a rubber stamp.
The nerve! To point the finger at President Obama - whose every move he's constantly denigrating - and now trying to compare himself with him.
6
As parents of a DEA agent/Marine reservist who died in a helicopter crash October 26, 2009, I have the photos to prove that both AG Holder and President Obama met with and wept with the families of fallen soldiers and agents at Dover AFB when the plane arrived there. It was a small consolation to see how moved they both were. Somehow, I doubt that a meeting with the current president would provide that same feeling of empathy.
58
I thank your son for his service to our nation and for making the ultimate sacrifice. I thank both of you for commenting and sharing your pain, which I'm sure President Obama and AG Holder felt as well.
You can't fake empathy.
As you note, I also very much doubt that Trump would weep or show any sense of empathy. He has no sense of honor. He has no sense of what it means to be the Commander-in-Chief.
10
John Kelly knows first hand the pain of parents who have lost their children to military violence. He must understand the importance of receiving condolences, thanks, and respect from the commander in chief. How, then, could he, as chief of staff, not have someone assigned to seeing that condolence letters or calls are promptly delivered when a member of the military is killed? Did another adult day care worker miss a shift?
9
My heart and soul are slowly becoming immune to the outrage, and I'm rapidly drifting toward despair. His entire Presidency so far has been a whirlwind of hate, lies, and incompetence. We may have over 3 more years of this, except by then my daughter will be old enough to start asking questions about this man. How am I going to even come close?
8
"The news conference lasted long enough for Trump to claim — falsely — that _____________ [fill in the blank] ... Asked again, Trump backed away ... " Mr. Trump's relation with facts is less than tenuous. His confidence, however, is infinite, and inversely proportional to his competence.
2
Somehow the narcissism is still shocking. Asked about fallen soldiers, Trump immediately begins to speak about himself. He does not discuss the purpose or importance of the operation, or the heroic deeds of the fallen. No, in a very revealing moment, he instinctively chooses to boast about what he himself has done. Calling--not letters. Oh, but letters, too. Both. He does both. He does everything for them, more than anybody else has ever done, especially Obama. And it's hard, so hard. Really tough for our President. Why isn't everybody applauding already? Need he say more about how great he is? It is truly childish behavior.
6
This is the oldest trick in the book. Trump lied about his neglect to express condolences to the families of the fallen soldiers. To detract from it, he then lied about former presidents' conduct in similar matters. Can we please focus on the first lie? Fighting the second one is a waste of time since he can easily excuse it by blaming his staff for having informed him incorrectly.
5
O, woe is President Put Upon. Has to do the difficult things, and can't do them without whining that his predecessors were treated easy, or given a pass, or wrecked things to the point where his efforts are impeded.
5
It doesn't matter if Trump is honest or not. He can claim the sky is green and the grass blue, that the sun rises in the West and set in the East. He can claim whatever he wishes, and his base, not swayed by truth or their own eyes, still continues to belive him, and that is all he cares about.
3
It's sad that he hasn't made the calls because they are difficult calls to make. He's the commander-in-chief and it's his job to make the calls. He volunteered so he needs to man-up and do his job.
4
It comes as no surprise Trump's pathological obsession with denying and denigrating all things Obama is at the root of this latest outright lie. What is less comprehensible is how the generals on whom he depends, with whom he has surrounded himself and whom he conveniently blames when caught in one of his lies stood by silently. The families of these fallen soldiers as well as the families of all the soldiers who survive and continue to serve should ask themselves if this is the Commander-in-chief they want.
6
My brother Steve was killed in Iraq in 2007. In 2010 President Obama met with me and two if my sisters in Boulder, Colorado, face to face, alone in a room with no Secret Service present. It was never in the news. No one ever knew about this beyond our friends and family. In our meeting, President Obama had no canned message to offer, just sincere condolences, humanity, and among other things he said, "Our troops, the fallen and families of the fallen are one of my top priorities...It's practically Joe and Jill Biden's full-time job." It took genuine courage for President Obama to meet with us in this way, for many reasons. Our President, the leader of the free world, put himself in a highly vulnerable position. He simply showed courage, strength and compassion with his actions. Everything I've seen from President Obama, then and now, bears out what he told us about his support for the military and the troops. Trump owes President Obama an apology for the flippant and offensive comments he made recently, and many other baseless charges and insults he's made in the past.
74
Thank you for sharing this and may your brother rest in peace.
5
Thank you Mike for sharing that most private moment. It gladdens my heart that president Obama stood with you.
6
Thank you for this post.
2
This is one of the rare cases where Trump may _not_ be lying. He boasts that he calls a family member of a deceased soldier, sailor, or aviator, but that his predecessors did not make phone calls. Both this report and ones in the Washington Post conclude that prior presidents generally did not call families. They met families in person when possible.
Has anyone fact-checked that Trump in fact called a family member of the soldiers or sailors who died during his tenure?
1
It's surprising the President Obama's advisors bothered to react to this - it's better to let Trump be Trump. If he disgraces himself with another lie, then that is on him - it does not have be be answered by ex-government employees in a public forum. It just creates more back-and-forth, another media cycle of recrimination.
I think that former president Obama and his advisors have more important things to do than answer spurious comments from the current President.
2
A pathological liar in the White House: Not good for our nation.
17
Arrogance. Ignorance. Sociopathy. Envy and Resentment towards those who maybe more knowledgeable, smarter, or more successful. Hair trigger anger. Disdain for "losers." Hubris. Our leader.
26
"Lie" is Trump's default position.
25
Today Donald Trump asked that John Kelly use the dead body of his own son to advance Trump's political career and cover up his lies.
Why is the nation not sickened and outraged?
61
The polls (palls?) show the majority of us are. The trouble is that there is still a core of supporters who Trump correctly identified in his disgusting "I could shoot someone on 5th Avenue ..." statement. We've got some really sick and/or ignorant people in this country. And they are well represented in the House, in the Vice Presidency and in the Cabinset. So impeachment or removal via the 25th Amendment isn't happening, because this horrible crowd has taken over the country. We have GOT to do everything we can, between now and next month's Election Day to elect Democratic governors and, most importantly, between now and Election Day 2018, to take back the Congress and elect more Democratic governors. And hope that no one on the reasonable wing of the Supreme Court (and that includes Kennedy) decdies to retire or die. Another Trump appointment to the Supreme Court could be the end of this country as we know it and want it and I am not exaggerating.
5
Apparently, General Kelly implied to Trump that he did not hear from President Obama? Is that where Trump found his gold to further denigrate President Obama? Did Trump 'misunderstand' or are these two working together to insult Obama? Either situation is low, lower and lowest.
Also The use of 'falsely claims'? Does the NYT not have the backbone to call a lie a lie? No wonder the GOP claims of Tax 'Reform" will be believed by millions when the MSM just accommodates and buries the truth.
32
Willful ignorance is a sad thing. However, feeding and relying upon that ignorance is cynical, nasty and just plain evil. Seriously.
26
Nobody told Trump that Michelle Obama and Jill Biden, both worked tirelessly for families of armed forces? It was their mission. Tsk tsk, ill informed Trump, made more ignorant by his own informants who are doubly ignorant.
38
He knows nothing. He’s a big nothing.
6
“That’s what I was told. All I can do is ask my generals.” So, Trump tries to place the blame on "my generals." By now, though, I suspect they're "my generals" in title only (i.e., he is the "commander-in-chief," to whom the generals pledge their allegiance). Anyhow, I don't think they gave him that fake info: my money's on Stephen Miller, that skanky, skinny weasel who's also his top speechwriter.
36
Hopefully, Trump thinks twice about doing anything about slander and libel laws like he is always threatening, because he would be in serious trouble with all the lying and slandering he has done to Obama.
29
Gerri Longe - Donald Trump doesn't think twice about anything. But your point is well taken; the accusations he hurls at others are autobiographical and his loudness increases in proportion to his own culpability.
4
Am I the only person who finds this to be so ironic: that this horrid person in the Oval Office wants footballs players to be fired for not honoring the flag at football games (what to heck does professional football have to do with honoring the U.S. flag anyway?), yet he lies about just how much our wonderful former President did when troops were killed. Of course Trump wouldn't (couldn't) understand irony since he seems unable to understand that he is a habitual liar who has absolutely no interest in telling the truth. What a truly horrible man he is. How can anyone support such an evil leader?
37
Dear President Trump,
As a commander-in-chief, it's your obligation to also be a console-in-chief.
Yes it's extremely sad and hard to talk to the family of a lost soldier, an American war hero. But don't tell that to the family who will have to deal with the deep sorrow and loss for the rest of their life.
If you care and respect the flag, the military and their family; the best thing you can do is to avoid putting our soldiers in harm's way to begin with. Anything else such as turning NFL kneeling protest into a patriotism issue, does not make you any more patriotic or respectful to the military. It only divides the country.
Exhaust diplomatic solution before resort to war. Warmongering could only lead to more military gold star families you will have to console.
22
It is now patently clear that Trump will not be kicked out of office unless the Democrats take control in 2018. The Republicans would rather eat their toes than impeach this president. When he insults them, most behave like frightened rabbits; even McConnell. And especially Ryan. Trump began as an incompetent, erratic, dunderhead, but he has now become more unhinged, abhorrent, and unacceptable. There are no boundaries for this man. Does anyone believe he ever phoned any Gold Star family? Or that he will? When word of these deaths was announced, he was golfing; he continued to golf and then tweeted about other things. Everything is always about him. He makes himself the center of everything. Like a three-year old, the world is supposed to revolve around him. And he does not do what is distasteful to him. He cannot fire anyone face to face. He does and says what is distasteful to others.
21
He did not "Falsely claim." HE LIED. Big difference. The POTUS LIED.
36
Again. And the democrats are just continuing to be so nice to him.
2
Who would expect or indeed want consolation from this man who was missing in action in Vietnam with 5 deferments?
23
“Occasionally words must serve to veil the facts. But let this happen in such a way that no one become aware of it; or, if it should be noticed, excuses must be at hand to be produced immediately.”
-- Machiavelli --
9
How much longer will Congress allow Trump to disgrace our nation?
He has already made us the laughingstock of the world.
22
How is this not in the "opinion" section? Trump said "most of them didn’t make calls"...the context clearly being that he prefers to pick up the phone and call when appropriate: “A lot of them didn’t make calls. I like to call when it’s appropriate.”
This says absolutely nothing about whether past presidents *contacted* survivors--yet the Headline reads "Trump Falsely Claims Obama Didn’t Contact Families". There is never any effort by the media to understand much less convey the context under which Trump speaks. Seems as if you'd just rather feed the "I Hate Trump" fire. You still think (or want to think) he called all Mexicans rapists for goodness sakes.
2
It's not in the Opinion section because it's not "an opinion" that Donald Trump said what he said. He lied when he said President Obama didn't contact the Gold Star families .. . .. AND: he then tried to use his Chief of Staff General Kelly's dead son as an excuse for telling his lies.
Trump was of course -- GOLFING when these soldier's bodies touched down at Dover. He considers 100% of e dry single issue to be ALL about himself!
These are facts, not opinions. You seem to live in some kind of alternate reality (a FOX fan, perhaps?) where facts aren't really facts. I'm sad for folks like you who seem to have allowed themselves to be indoctrinated into a false, strange world. Come back to reality -- please?
1
And that's the philosophy you'd hold if Donald were on the receiving end of his own words. RIGHT.
Donald belittled a Gold Star family as the family reeled from grief. Ridiculed John McCain for being captured (McCain could have returned home but chose to stay and THEN was captured). Called Bergdahl a traitor (despite having deferred service to his country in lieu of silly bone spurs). Used John Kelly's son's death as political cover just today.
But the real outrage is semantics?
Sickening.
1
Mike did you even watch the interview?
3
Forget for moment Trump's lack of intelligence, empathy, tact, and sophistication - that person has no common decency.
16
If I had lost a family member in a foreign conflict, the last person I'd want to hear from would be an insincere politician looking to please his base. This excuse for a leader should sicken us all.
23
I know when I'm beat. This morning I fell asleep again, after waking at a too early dawn, only to endure a nightmare in which Trump was the villain, the perp, the head honcho out to do all the citizens the most harm he could while defending his moneyed & powerful (lying) allies.
Clearly, I must stop watching, listening & reading the news - because, although I have been a brave & courageous person all my 75 yrs, this is more than my subconscious can stand. For the first time ever, I am fearful - terrified of what my neighbour, a few very short miles to the south of me - is bringing to bear on all of us.
Please impeach this beast & stop his supporters' lying on cable news.
23
Where are his "generals" in all of this. I've seen no corrections of this lie from
"my generals". I''m trying to put a good face on the "generals". In a small defense of them, maybe they hang around so that they can stay the hand of this liar, when he gives a command they would imperil us all. That is my only unwarranted justification for their non-response to this untruth
10
But seriously, were we expecting anything different?
Let us stop acting surprised by now. Nothing surprises me anymore. All I know is that each day we will hit a new nadir. And unfailingly, I am never disappointed.
14
I'm so fed up with 45 and his minions' inability to have truthful and adult conversations without dragging Obama's and Clinton's name into it. Not to mention the fact that what he says about them are almost never true. It is so common a scenario that it is looking like people are just accepting that it is the new normal. We can't let that happen.
We are now the laughingstock of the world for allowing that overgrown bully to manipulate his way into the most powerful position in the world. I just hope we make it out of this nightmare.
21
Whether Trump does it purposely or not - he shouldn't make the people of the United States be afraid of the President of the United States.
1
It's far too late for that.
3
We all know that Trump's comments of this sort are meant for his dedicated followers. In articles of this sort, the question in my mind is always .. Are Trump’s base supporters receiving the follow-up truth of the matter? Do their news sources leave them believing the lie .. or .. do they offer corrections of the sort we're reading here?
In articles like this one, it would seem to me the NY Times should take it on as a kind of duty to make its readers aware of what Trump’s followers are hearing or reading when the the reality behind the lie becomes evident to the rest of us.
2
If you want to get a feel for what Trump supporters are thinking, just go to the comment sections of Breitbart and read. Right now, they are pretty much ready to throw Ivanka and Jared out on the street, they want Bannon to run for president, and they are losing faith in their president because he has not done anything he campaigned on. And they want to vote out every current Republican come 2018.
This administration seems to have had the time and resources to pull off a PR stunt in Indianapolis to raise funds for re-election by feigning concern for the military and our flag, but in terms of honoring the fallen and their families not so much. 45 spoke kindly about the Navy Seal lost in his first failed attempt in Yemen and invited his wife to his State of the Union, but appears to have since lost any interest in his role as commander and chief. He not only hasn't mentioned the fallen in Niger, but neglected to mention the 16 Marines killed in a plane, barely mentioned the sailors killed in two wrecks, and all the others who have died since Ryan Owens.
http://thefallen.militarytimes.com
5
Has time to arrange a complicated taxpayer-funded stunt at a football game to demonstrate his "respect for the flag and the troops," but no time for four telephone calls.
12
Most of us figures the code out long ago: if trump says it, it's a lie. What could be simpler except the man himself.
5
It truly astonishes me that the majority of soldiers support Trump.
5
Although technically correct, for human beings are part of the animal family, it would be more precise and less offensive to many species in the animal family if Alyssa Mastromonaco referred to Trump as a "deranged human being."
3
Trump and the extreme-right-rhetoric are successfully whittling down trust of facts and reality. That's part of the GOP strategy. Each time a "false claim" is repeated it reinforces its potential truth, and it distracts from the real damage being done. When will people stop taking that bait? Complaining about inappropriate behavior when no action is taken just reinforces that abuse is tolerated. Morris commented below that "lying is part of successful business deals". He's right, lying and deceit are embedded in Capitalism. Are we willing to change that? What new commerce are we going to support? Sanders speaks meaningfully, but we need more substantial structure to turn this Titanic.
2
Trump always comes off like a 5th grader."of course I did my homework, I'll bring it in tomorrow or the next day. Besides, Jimmy didn't do his homework either.
10
The saddest part of all this is that calling out Trump's lies will do nothing to influence his deplorable base. It may even solidify it.
7
Emotional stuff is yucky to a sociopath. Calling the families when he gets to it probably wont happen. He would feel forced into it, and it could backfire on him. Also to call two weeks after the event is just so wrong, as it only rubs salt into the wounded psyche of the grieving families and complicates their healing process. That would not stop him, though. He wont do it just because he hates being forced to to do the right thing and have to pretend all over himself that he has feelings. Some family member could go off on him and talk to the press about it. It would be in the news cycle only long enough to be eclipsed by another outrageous stunt only a few hours later. We have become acclimated and accepting of his lunacy to the point we expect it and seem as a society to be incapable of being shocked by the behavior of this strange hairstyle that passes for a man.
1
Classic Trump. When asked about why he didn't do something expected of him, he quickly changes the subject to other politicians, then lies about them so as to look better in comparison. There are no words to fully express the absolute contempt I have for this man. Everyday he is in office is an insult to our democracy.
7
Once again, the predictable trick -- let me make a ludicrous claim that highlights my greatness, even if it drags the families of the fallen into a petty ego trip.
This is utter disrespect for the fallen and their families.
How could Kelly tolerate having the memory of his own fallen son used by Trump? At some point resigning becomes the last best hope of holding onto one's own dignity.
Trump is still running against his predecessor, and thinks he can just govern by opposing the last 8 years. MAGA is some vague period in the past that was before Obama's presidency. That is governing in the past, not the future.
6
When will this end? Bill Maher said he was tired of the "thoughts and prayers" after the Las Vegas shooting. I too am tired of the thoughts and prayers without action.
I have so enjoyed the comedians making fun of Donald Trump; so much material. I have grown tired of that too. There is nothing funny about an ignorant, heartless man dismantling our country and harming our reputation with our allies while the Congress watches.
What can we do to stop this? My grandchildren's future is at stake.
5
It continues to stupefy why Trump's base, heavily Southern, from which a disproportionate share of the population serves in the military, continues to staunchly support him. One can only assume that bigotry outweighs duty, honor, and country.
11
Lets say for just one minute that Former President Obama didn't make those phone calls or write those letters that we know he did. The Last I Checked Mr thump has been in office long enough that it's his responsibility to make those calls. he has no problem taking responsibility for things he didn't have anything to do with but as CIC he has the ultimate responsibility for our Armed Forces both the good and the bad.
4
It is about the families and the protocol responsibilities of the office of President which , once again, the President managed to turn into a competition among presidents rather than the explanation or apology required in light of his lack of contact with the families of the fallen.
8
Little Boy Trump blathers out nonsense whenever caught with his hand in the cookie jar. He doesn't differentiate between true and false. So, asked why he didn't talk to the families or acknowledge the four Green Berets who were killed in Somalia, he, as usual, felt attacked. Everything is about him, his feelings and need to be right. He dodged the question. He pointed at other Presidents. Obama, he said falsely, didn't call or write to families of the fallen. Huh? What? When this is exposed as a lie, he childishly blamed "my generals." Four brave, dedicated men died in service to our country. Trump cannot even say he's sorry for being slow to offer condolences. Why is this boorish, petulant person still President?
16
Trump doesn't have the ability for empathy, of any type except himself and possibly his family. For him to criticize other Presidents is beyond the pale.
According to Trump, no other human being is capable of being better than him in anything. Nor is he capable of comprehending the Presidency and all of the issues, that go along with it.
His inabilities and personality which has impaired his Presidency, will go down in history.
24
Every day, I think it can't get any worse. Every day, I think we've hit rock bottom. Every day, I think this is it, no more. And every day, he sinks lower, lower, lower. The Republicans are silent. His cabinet is silent. This man is degrading the highest office on earth. When will this stop?
Mattis and Kelly-please do something. Congress-please do something. I am afraid for my country.
43
I had exactly the same experience as you. Every day he would sink lower and I would think that he´s hit bottom, and like you I was wrong every time for the simplest of reasons: with Trump there is no bottom.
8
At this point, when Trump lies, it's no more newsworthy than the sun rising in the east. However, it's crucial that the New York Times and other media outlets continue to call out and challenge the unending parade of falsehoods from our Prevaricator-in-Chief. Thank you for continuing to perform this important role.
31
tThis malignant narcissist makes everything all about him, all the time. Writing letters to bereaved families is hard, making phone calls to them is hard,etc. There is no empathy for these mothers and fathers whose children have died in the service of their country, his country. He cannot conceive that these families are dealing with the death of a child and will never be the same. But this is a man who repeatedly insulted a Gold Star family, so none of us should be surprised. But we all should be ashamed that this hollow husk of a human being represents all of us.
24
It's bad enough this man lies about everything. We've become used to it though so it's not really a shock anymore. But it's worse that ten months in almost no one in his party -- whether in a position of leadership or lower in rank -- has challenged his false statements and supported the facts that President Obama did in fact take his Commander-in-Chief role very seriously and reach out to console the families of fallen soldiers. Nothing tells you what the Republican Party in power today is more about than that lack of support for the truth.
15
The sad part is that even after this, even after the mud thrown at parents of a fallen soldier, a majority of the people in the military prefer Trump to Obama. I would venture that significant numbers actively admire Trump, and despise Obama.
6
Military forces represent 1% or less of our entire population. In 2015, 44% of military forces/all personal were non-white. If Trump keeps dividing our country by stoking racial animosity, Trump may find his popularity dwindling by the hour.
4
The outrage is justifiable. And it was justifiable at every moment during his life and the campaign. And 60 million people voted for him.
9
Trump lies, that's a given. The silence of the Ryan's, McConnell's, Rubios...actually most of the GOP and many of the democrats in the congress and in the Cabinet should dispel that strange notion, once in for all, that these are public servants working for their constituents best interests and for the best interests of the United States.
14
Trump reminds me of a three year old caught with his hand in the cookie jar telling his parent that his sibling swiped a few too. Does Trump really knows how he comes across blaming Obama for everything when his actions are called into question? Trump has demonstrated that he is only willing to take credit for anything positive and blames the guy not in the room for everything else? Obama must rent a lot of space in Trump's mind. Trump needs an exorcist to remove the curse of Obama from his psyche so he can stop seeing the shadow of Obama.
11
On average Trump makes 5 statements a day. On average Trump tells 5 lies a day. Do the math.
15
Trump and his Republican Party are existential proof that the more often a lie is told, the truer it becomes. The more outrageous the lie, the more likely it is to be believed.
10
This seems like a media ambush, knowing that the president has a thin skin, doesn't like criticism or tough questions. He fell right into the trap and again made a statement before he had all the facts. Don't know what President Obama did but, President Bush personally wrote to each family who lost a military member, called them by telephone and personally spoke to them face to face. President and Ms. Bush made many unannounced visits (without press) to Walter Reid hospital to visit the wounded.
2
It would be nice if you took the time to find out what President Obama did.
Bush sent men and women off to be killed and maimed for no good reason so he owed people a lot more than a letter or a phone call, he owed them (and us) an apology.
3
Considering there are no limits to what comes out of the mouth of our Carrot-Colored Caligula, we should be grateful he didn't deny the Green Berets killed in Niger were heroes.
But would anyone have been surprised if this so-called president, the one who avoided military service because of bone spurs, had said "I only like the ones that aren't killed"?
19
I wonder when the GOP will start calling Trump out on his lies? His lies are not harmless. They could create dire consequences.
14
He hasn't even tweeted his condolences.
15
This is horrible. He seems to have a bizarre fondness for using the deceased to his political advantage. And has he even mentioned the fires in California where so far, 41 people (and likely more) have died? Instead, he'd rather spend time sticking it to his predecessors in yet another of his embarrassing puerile displays.
18
Just to clear the air.
The lies Trump tells daily and yesterday's presser was full of them, are lies. They're not false claims, they're not "falsehoods" (a term commonly used by media to characterize his lies). Trump LIES. Every single day he lies to the American people, to people all over the globe.
Yesterday might've been the lowest he's ever sunk, trampling on the sacred ground of Gold Star families. Hard to gauge because Trump takes the low ground so frequently, but yesterday's pack of lies was from down in the gutter.
But come on, Trump is not misunderstood, not mistaken on facts.
Trump is a liar.
50
That Sarah Huckabee Sanders is no better. How she stands at her podium deflecting and reinforcing the lies of Trump is astonishing.
52
This is a low blow, very disrespectful to former Presidents and families who lost their loved ones. Presidents may have had different protocols with respect to paying their respects to the fallen soldiers families but to initially say what he did is just plain rude. He did walk it back but the damage is done. Too many lies...it is very unsettling to have Trump lie so much. He is a propaganda machine.
17
So when called out on his lie, he blames his generals for misinforming him re "most former presidents."
He passes blame like passing the salt. Except blame can't be passed.
"I didn't drive the family car into that telephone pole--the car hit the pole while I happened to be behind the wheel. A lot of people are saying that model was poorly engineered. Can't believe my dad would be so stupid to buy that model. The whole episode is shameful."
24
Thanks to the NYT for putting it in the headline for this story that Trump LIED. Too often the fact that his statements are falsehoods is buried deep within a story, but we count on the press to expose him as the unrepentant liar he is. The fact that he lies continually, habitually, reflexively, even pointlessly!, is critical to report. The front page could feature a headline with the words "Trump Tells Falsehood" or "Trump Lies" in it every morning, and it would be something the paper's editors could someday look back on with pride.
21
The Democratic Party mantra for 2018 and beyond should be:
Democrats: Political leaders, not kabuki theaters.
9
Add more or less the same comments to similar articles of Trump's 'lies' and incompetence' , etc. published daily in the NYT. What I think you need to ask yourself is how much do you really know about your fellow citizens, 50 million of them who voted for him. No matter what he does, or what he says, or who he attacks, or ridicules, or lies about, or when he acts like a spoilt child, there are millions of American citizens who have no problem with that. What does that say about the good old USofA?
17
It's a sure bet that if Trump gets his way, he will have plenty of future opportunities to outpace Obama in paying condolences to families.
9
While Obama had a long record of talking with family members, Trump's first action (besides dodging the draft) was to throw away the life of Navy Seal Ryan Owens. He sent him on a raid that Obama wouldn't authorize but that Trump did, while having dinner, ignorant of the facts he could only have by going to the situation room instead of dinner. Owens's father refused to meet with Trump because of Trump's coverup of his incompetence. Maybe that's why Trump won't talk to more families of those killed becasue of his "Bangazis"?
35
Good for Mr. Owens! It just wasn't that the decision for the raid was made during a "working" dinner, but his no-nothing son-in-law was part of the decision making process.
14
Has Trump EVER been to Dover?
11
What does General Kelly have to say about this latest off-script remark from his commander in chief?
22
NYT, when the election occurred you had a percentage tab for Hillary Clintons expected win. Although it was sadly totally wrong, you can do one better that is more exact and truthful.
Have a running tab of every blatant lie Donald Trump and anyone from his team speaks from their mouths. Keep a tally, describe the lie and set the record straight with the truth. Front page for all to see. Do not assume. Hard cold facts to refute his every lie.
That is the journalism I am looking for. I look forward to seeing it soon.
24
This is example outright vicious slander and lying. Trump has slurred Obama many a time, and lies in general about everything, including easily verifiable things, as regularly as he breathes, but this is another sign that he is clearly so obsessed, to the point of derangement, with his predecessor that he will say and do anything to trash, no matter how patently false and morally reprehensible it is.
Let's not ever forget, in addition to being the President of the United States, this man is the standard bearer for the GOP. They keep him in power, since they--and they alone--control Congress. On the emoluments clause violations of the Constitution they probably have cause to impeach him, so they need to proceed. Pronto!
20
To paraphrase Cindy Sheehan: These people have lost sons and daughters (and wives and husbands, fathers and mothers).
Trump hasn't so much as lost a night's sleep.
33
Or had a round of gold interrupted for such trivial things as meeting the plane of the soldiers killed in Niger.
8
It's time to put an APB out on 'Somebody.' When Trump is pressed and backtracks he always blames it on Somebody. Is there more than one Somebody? We need to know.
15
Given his clear desire to drag our country into a war with North Korea, he really should be meeting with those grieving families and maybe developing some understanding of the true cost of war. He won't, of course. Even in the face of the parents of slain soldiers, it's still all about Trump.
18
One of the main reasons people voted for Trump is that he had made some great deals and created a lot of wealth for himself. They did not realize that truth tellers seldom make great deals. We may be shocked at some of the things he says, but the lie is an essential tool in the art of making a deal. This has made him very successful in the business world, and he makes no apology for using it whenever he feels that it would be useful.
8
Morris, you make a sound point that deserves more discussion: "but the lie is an essential tool in the art of making a deal". Does that make it acceptable to you? It the lie and the lier acceptable as long as they are profitable, no matter the harm caused? You're right, it's a fact at the core of Capitalism, and it's destroying millions. Are we ready to step out from this cult of lies? Will we support a new form of business commerce that is more humane and holistic? Every breath we take is connected, nothing is completely independent. Some people are smarter and willing to work harder, so yes, they should reap appropriate rewards. But are those rewards worth 1000X's more or 1M or 1B times more? Should others be poisoned and blown to bits in power wars so the few can gain more and more benefit? What new system will we support?
3
In addition to lying about Obama (as if he tries to follow in the footsteps of the man whose legacy he is obsessed with destroying), Trump also lied about having letters written and set for delivery.
“I’ve written them personal letters,” Trump said. “They’ve been sent out or they’re going out tonight, but they were written during the weekend.
. . .
"I actually wrote letters individually to the soldiers we’re talking about and they’re going to be going out either today or tomorrow.”
So which is it? Are these letters of condolences to, um," the soldiers" (hopefully he knew to include their families) going out tonight, today, or tomorrow? And why were they not sent immediately. Or, more to the point, why would you wait more than a week to make an effort to recognize and console grieving families?
I know he was pretty busy golfing and stirring hate on his Twitter feed, but couldn't he take an hour out of his never ending vacations to engage the parents of men he put in harm's way? Apparently, that is more than he can handle sometimes, just like calling the families of the fallen.
“I like to call when it’s appropriate, when I think I’m able to do it."
Right, Donald. It's always about poor you. Never mind the needs of the people who must rely on you.
Shameful is too kind a word to describe this man.
27
Trump's supporters are so uninformed and incurious they will accept the lie for truth. Ignorance, misdirection and fake news are bliss. I have no solution to offer (one can't impose "smarts"). I'm just observing the nightmare we inhabit.
17
Calling out Mr. Trump on whether or not Obama contacted families of fallen troops is just a tactic by the press to distract from the truly great achievement of speaking to the President of the Virgin Islands...
14
Donald's conduct in the Rose Garden was a sliver of how he has behaved his entire adult life. He obfuscates, deflects, and lies, and has made "hyperbole" part of the common vocabulary. He may not have known whether his remarks about past presidents was true, but the facts are inconsequential, he merely hoped it was true. Donald blurts out a defense, true or untrue, and then makes his getaway. When caught he'll pass the buck saying, “That’s what I was told. All I can do is ask my generals", or declare "fake news" as his defense.
In Trump's world, "if you're a star, you can do anything". (Go ask Billy Bush) You can do or say anything and get away with it. That has true all the years he was cloaked by wealth and celebrity, until he assumed the presidency when suddenly words matter and fact checkers examine his every utterance. It's too bad that throughout the primaries and the election this much focus and accountability was given to his many exaggerations and outright lies. If it had we wouldn't have three years and three months remaining of him shredding the truth to our faces.
7
He can't simply offer sorrow. He must insult others while doing it so he can praise himself. Where is the conscious of the staff that covers for him?
Cool Hand Luke:
Boss: Sorry, Luke. I'm just doing my job. You gotta appreciate that. Luke: Nah – calling it your job don't make it right, Boss.
11
All he had to do was take a moment to express his gratitude for the service and sacrifice of these four brave men and state that he would be contacting their families and making further statements in due course. That's it. He can't do it because every blessed thing, even things that others hold sacred, is subsidiary to how he think he looks. Following up in a radio interview by questioning whether Obama called General Kelly after his son died is even more unbelievable. Kelly's 29 year old son died and Trump thinks it's okay to use his death in a game of a political football.
12
If General Kelly had one scintilla of dignity and grace, he'd quit the Trump WH immediately.
Not holding my breath.
NOT my president
6
Putin has emerged the winner in this conflagration that has immersed the American body politic with the election of Trump. In what was once unthinkable, a sitting US President has thrust politics into how one notifies the relatives of the KIA's. Even Putin must be stunned by this.
11
I doubt it. Putin is responsible for the killings of all kinds of people, like journalists and lawyers. I doubt he expresses condolences.
1
“I don’t know if he did,” the president said. “I was told he didn’t often, and a lot of presidents don’t. They write letters.” Cute ploy, yes there were a lot of presidential letters if you count all of the Presidents of this nation and consider that, in relationship to the number of years that telephone service has been almost universal, I guess most presidential condolences have been in the form of the letter.
Of course this is a total dodge from somebody who has a penchant for electronic communications. My guess is that making those calls is uncomfortable for Trump. He is the CIC and those troops all ultimately report to him.
Trump doesn’t do downers. He wants to emphasize the “greatness of Trump” in all things, and there is no such greatness in a condolence call. Pity that most of the military are from the same socio-economic class that voted Trump into office.
6
"A senior official said Mr. Trump had planned to speak sooner to the families, but the White House had to wait until the Pentagon’s paperwork was completed." Yes, and he's going to mail the letters tomorrow. Certified letters, even! That means it's TRUE!
7
Yes, because the families aren't grieving until the paperwork is done.
Fail Safe. This man who is president has failed at every level - from "making fun" of John McCain for being "captured" then tortured during the Vietnam War to - on live TV last year - when he stalked Sec. Clinton around the debate stage during their so-called debate. Not many objections by the media about that painful exhibition of wrong-doing and impropriety were voiced. This man who is president - has no shame. Seems as though our checks and balances of government, including we voters, have failed - the "Fail Safe" criteria.
10
Yes, it's not the norm for past presidents to speak out publicly about a sitting president of the U.S.
But this presidency is not the norm.
President Obama will likely keep his class, dignity and thinking to himself and his closest confidants, but I believe the people of the U.S. would very much like to hear from President Obama in the wake of these last nine months.
The blatant lies; attacks on the free press; measures to kill what thousands of people worked so hard on to achieve with the ACA, the Iran deal, the Paris Agreement and other accomplishments of the Obama administration -- these all need to be countered by someone whose words the world can believe.
Who better than the president who worked diligently to accomplish them, not to have them reversed by some madman, than President Obama?
"Trump governs by disruption --" (Dan Balz WAPO 10-14-17)
No matter where you go, who you meet, on the street, in the office, in the grocery store; no one can believe that a sick man sits in the office that, less than a year ago, was occupied by a real president, one who is constantly being berated and now lied about.
Enough! Really, enough.
We're tired, we're hurting, we're stagnating. We need to move forward. The entire world agrees.
President Obama, we implore you; anything you say, anything, will be more welcomed, more respected, more listened to and much more needed to be heard than a single syllable that comes from the mouth or Twitter finger of Donald Trump.
#SpeakUp
13
Trump is completely without honor. That our brave troops have to call him Commander in Chief makes my skin crawl.
24
I hate this "I was told" thing that Trump does. Bah! Someone should suggest to him that he fire the people who "told him" these erroneous things.
15
"Mr. Trump said he had written letters to the family members over the weekend, which he said would be mailed later in the day or on Tuesday. He said he also planned to call them."
Mr. Trump, can we see the drafts of the letters you have been working on?
...There are no letters. He made that up on the spot. Someone is writing the letters for him now.
Why haven't we impeached yet? As another commenter suggested - just list up all of the demonstrable false lies he has spouted since January 2017. Case closed. He could be gone in 2 weeks.
11
This is a very sick man.
Not to bore anyone, but I made an on-the-fly diagnosis over a year ago of quaternary syphilis aka neurosyphilis -- which usually occurs about 10 to 20 years after a person is first infected with the bacterium. Symptoms: confusion, disorientation, sudden personality changes, depression, delusions of grandeur, irritability, memory problems, mood disturbances, poor concentration, psychosis, changes in mental stability. Anyone who has been paying attention, even distractedly, to the comings & goings of this guy over the last thirty five years, can appreciate the possibility.
This is the same guy, by the way, who brayed in 1997 that the years between marriages #2 and #3 were "...my personal Vietnam," as he bravely evaded picking up a case of the clap fighting his way through the NY social scene. Or maybe not.
So when does someone grow a backbone and invoke 25th Amendment??
13
Is there something wrong with mail pickups and deliveries at the White House that he couldn't get a letter out? Trump is consistent. Nothing is ever his fault. His staff is filled with people making excuses for him. He is tone deaf to the suffering of others. Where others have tried to be the President of all of us, he is the President of Trump. Take a little time away from Fox and Fiends and Hannity and write and send the four letters. And don't go to war with North Korea or you will have more than 4 to write!
9
At what point do we bring the 25th Amendment into play for this egregious sickening man. He is causing harm on all levels with his NEVER ENDING LIES.
THIS IS NOT MY PRESIDENT.
4
With all due respect to all involved, if President Obama could not muster a call to General Kelly when his son was killed in combat, I don't understand the hypocrisy here.
Likely because Obama said something in person instead:
http://www.cnn.com/2017/10/17/politics/president-donald-trump-john-kelly...
And then there's this: "The traditional way if you look at President Obama and other presidents, most of them didn't make calls. A lot of them didn't make calls," Trump told reporters in the White House Rose Garden on Monday."
How does that not outrage a person?
1
Nothing President Obama did or didn't do excuses Trump's lies and bad behavior. Why is that so hard for you to understand?
1
When everything is an outrage (2 scoops of ice cream!!) nothing is an outrage. It seems a simple concept and I hope we catch on soon.
I am not a Trump supporter. However, when I heard the clips, it sounded like his comments were really all about him and how great a guy he is (in his mind). I don't think he really thought about what he was saying about previous presidents, and even started backtracking at one point. It seemed like what he had in mind was that policy did not require calling. When there are large numbers of casualties (WW2, Korea etc.) the president may not be able to call each and every family.
But yet again, it was just all about him, and he did not care about his predecessors: just said the first thing that came to him on the fly that helped his ego. Just like he has done everything else... if it is not about him directly, he does not care and makes no attempt to really know the subject matter. I have about decided that this is all he is mentally capable of doing.
All he had to say was that he had called and talked to the families and left it at that. He simply cannot stop stroking his own ego.
3
I think if anyone is willing to check it was GW Bush who ducked dealing with the families of fallen soldiers. Any pictures of George saluting the returning dead? I don't think so.
1
Actually one of W finest hours was visiting wounded troops and families of dead and allowing them their anger and grief against him quietly if that's what they felt. Not a fan of W but boy, this current admin making him look statesmanlike....
2
Laurel McGuire - My son and son in law lost friends in W's senseless, needless wars. Those people had every right to vent anger and grief at him and if we were a better nation, we would have held him accountable for maiming and killing thousands of people with no justification.
3
Hey, give the guy a break! No doubt he was in the middle of a game of golf.
Can we please get rid of him now?
10
Typical Trump. Blame others for a wrong that you are doing yourself. Blame Hillary Clinton for election fraud while you were committing election fraud. Blame Obama, and even W, for not doing something important, that he was actually doing, but which you aren't doing. It has gotten to the point that whenever I hear Trump accuse anybody of anything, I search to see where he's doing exactly that. Deplorable!
7
And if today we had President Clinton you can bet that the Republicans would be politicizing the deaths of our four soldiers in Niger by calling for Benghazi like hearings. But after another outrageous lie that shows how pathologically unfit Trump is for office we hear nothing.
5
Trump is continuously proving how jealous he is of Obama.
7
Can someone please put this petty, clueless, juvenile acting piece of work in a timeout for (again) his lies -- permanently? He's just so embarrassing.
5
Headline should read "Trump Lies About Obama - Again"
12
Trump does like to rewrite history, doesn't he!?
4
Can we hear more about how the ambush took place? Will there be Benghazi-like investigation as to why this operation failed?
7
Mr Trump doesn't like the military: he managed to avoid wartime service five times. He also doesn't like soldiers who were captured: see John McCain remarks. So it's only sensible for him not to like soldiers who get killed in combat: clearly, they are the ultimate losers!
12
What continues to confound me is why the NYT, and other major publications in the US do not simply use the words; "lie, liar". Why do you not say Donald Trump is a liar, Donald Trump lied. This president lies countless times each day, whether it is related to fallen soldiers, Puerto Rico, lies related to John McCain, HRC, rape denunciations, etc.
I respect the NYT is a time honored institution, that commensurately engages appropriate ethical protocols and demeanors but this form of constant debasement and abuse by a man who is the fake leader of the free world needs to be called out precisely who he is. Donald Trump is a liar.
8
And the real, flag waving, anthem singing American patriots that follow this blowhard find this acceptable? Yet another sad day for America.
8
As an outsider it seems all I see are complaints but why isn't anybody doing anything? If the majority of US isn't happy with someone, who let's face it, is a flat out liar and misogynist, why is he still President?
2
Mary McCarthy said of Lillian Hellman " Every Word She Writes Is a Lie, Including “And” and “The”.
To paraphrase ,every word Trump says is a lie including "and" and " the".
10
The man in White House is an absolute disgrace to the office and to this country. Maybe if he had served instead of nursing a temporarily convenient sore foot and saw his fellow soldiers fall he would know what a knock at the door of the those brave men's families mean. There are just no more words......
3
Where are the Republicans willing to call Trump out on this lie? Are they so cowardly and shameless that they won't correct even this bald-faced lie? It seems that they can all wrap themselves in the flag, but have no idea what it means to honor the men and women who serve and make the ultimate sacrifice. Absolutely disgusting.
5
IMHO,
These are nothing but a side show. Keep people talking about
nonsense. Get more mileage out of 'Black man',
(my base hate him, so let's bash him). In reality
the ACA got destroyed. They are working to turn the country into
Kansas and OK..with their tax cut plan. They also cut funding for the
planned parenthood, any possible way they could. It like none of them
has a female in their family.
5
They may have females in their families but they are paid so much that they don't need Planned Parenthood.
Trump is a lying opportunist who will say just about anything to avoid taking blame or showing just how callous an individual he really is - all one has to do is look to his rallies and the words he used there; how free he is to flip on some one when he doesn't get his way. Then look to see how he covers his tracts by insinuating that other presidents didn't care about fall troops as much as he, while out of the other side of his mouth he admits he didn't even send the letters out just yet to the families of the fallen men -maybe today maybe tomorrow?! In poker they call it a "tell". With Trump it is his gross extrapolation's into his explanations of the lies he tells.
8
To Donald Trump: This is not about you. It is not about how writing a note to families who have lost sons and daughters, husbands and wives in war is "tough" for you. It is not about your excuse for putting off acknowledging the soldiers who were killed in service to the country for two weeks and your lies that previous presidents did not write letters to families of fallen soldiers. It is about your continual lies and disrespect for America. It is about your incompetence as a president of the United States. It is about the future of our country.
22
With all the multitude of lies Trump makes daily, this just may be the most despicable lie yet.
21
NYT is being too kind by using the word "falsely". By now we know Trump is a liar, so please, call it what it is: a lie.
23
He's a liar. Plain and simple. Sadly, his supporters believe every word of it.
18
Trump disgraces the office of the presidency on a daily basis with his lies, He has no credibility, He cannot be trusted to enforce our laws or to keep us safe, His sociopathic behavior endangers us, The cowards in congress who still act like his stooges will have blood on their hands if this degenerate starts a war,
11
If you were walking down the street with Donald Trump and a gunman opened fire, what are the odds he would grab you and use you to shield himself?
22
Matt Tiabbi in Rolling Stone wrote of Trump "He would eat a baby in a lifeboat."
3
It was not totally false. Obama never called General Kelly when his son died. Obama and Clinton both loathed the military. Those are the facts. The press had a predictable hissy fit.
2
I'm pretty sure neither ever disparaged Gold Star parents, as Trump has.
5
The question remains, why on earth would President Trump sully one of life's most solemn events with petty scorekeeping?
7
Steve, what is the point where you will hold our President fully accountable for what he says to our Nation, and claims as truth. Are partial falsehoods (lies) acceptable from our President? You pivot to an unsubstantiated claim about Obama/Clinton loathing the military — do you “hear” yourself? You mirror Trump’s tactics — the master scapegoated who received five draft deferments. Who loathed the military??
8
Anything coming from Trump should be viewed as a complete lie, until proven otherwise. ZERO credibility, other than an habitual liar.
14
It is very difficult to discern from which end of his alimentary canal that Trump speaks as the same substance comes out of either end.
9
If only the Times dedicated as many column inches covering people on the left speaking the truth as they do to Trump's lies, the paper might actually be able to help shape the conversation.
6
Yes... Donald is an outlier. In fact, he's an out and out liar.
It's the ease with which he makes stuff up -- things that are readily disproved -- that reveals his unsuitability for public office. He's always puffing.
7
...and putting.
2
Sigh: they say that people get the governments they deserve, but SERIOUSLY: what did the USA as a whole do which was so terrible as to deserve a lying, cheating, utterly incompetent and willfully ignorant leader such as the one they are suffering through now?
11
Sadly too many Americans are hooked on the "news" they get staring at their phone screens. They don't appear to be interested in news that takes more than a few seconds to read.
2
Joseph, I think they abrogated their responsibility to be critical thinkers, reasoned citizens and stewards of their own government. Sadly, I think they are reaping the results of a culture immersed in celebrity worship and reality tv - where facts are apparently capable of twisting into something they aren't - who would ever thought that an idea such as 'alternative' facts could even be considered? Where the people no longer see what binds them together, but instead celebrate their division. All the while being encouraged in this by the mandate of the White House occupants and all levels of government.
I'd caution the rest of us - beware none of our countries go down this road, because we are not necessarily immune.
1
He feels badly! poor president turnip and his very, very tough days!
8
I am glad that your article's title starts with "Trump Says, Falsely..." because a lot of people don't read beyond the first few words. To not include the words 'false' or 'falsely' at the beginning imbues Trump's words with some faint aura of credibility. If only Fox News did this. I can see Fox News take on this story. "Trump reveals that Obama blah, blah, blah."
6
Mr. Larry Flynt, as you may know, is offering $10,000,000 for the solution to this problem. Amendment 25 – let's go!
4
And then there's Trump actually belittling the parents of a soldier killed in action. That abut a third of the country actually support this vile sub-human goon is a sad reflection of how far down the right has dragged the former U.S.
8
How can ANYONE believe ANYTHING Trump says?
6
Back to the question Trump refused to answer.
Why are the Green Berets in Niger?
7
I’m sure he hasn’t the slightest idea and couldn’t make up a lie quickly enough.
2
It must be very frustrating for the worst President in history trying to fill the shoes of one of the best Presidents in history. His obsession with Obama demonstrates the jealousy.
11
And he’s still president because?
6
Not one photo of the current boss with a fallen soldier. Many photos of Obama, Bush 1 & 2 and Clinton paying their respects.
Not a single response for the four Green Berets. No flags at half mast. Just a few news reports.
Forget the apologies. Time for this arrogant offender to leave the scene.
12
If Donald Trump is a genius at anything, it's at being an ace scapegoater. He can't take responsibility ever ... this time it's "my generals" who are to blame. HIS generals apparently told him Obama didn't call the families of our fallen fighters. SHAME, Gen. Kelly! SHAME, SHAME, Gen. McMaster!! And, hey, Gen. Mattis--SHAME SHAME SHAME on YOU for lying like that to your boss!
Except, of course, those honorable men did not. We know who the liar is.
3
Your headline for this article contains a redundancy. "Trump falsely claims" cannot be distinguished from any other claim the man makes.
6
So, which libelous statement is more egregious: "Obama tapped my phones" or "Obama didn't meet families of fallen soldiers"?
What's really egregious: a U.S. President stated both and is still in office.
7
Egregious but predictable. He won the nomination and presidency riding on hatred fueled by lies.
1
Our Fearless Leader doesn't know how NOT to lie.
Everything he asserts is either completely false or ...
No, that pretty much sums it up. The man's a congenital liar. He doesn't know how to tell the truth because he is utterly morally bankrupt. He never even has to think about it (if thinking were something that he actually knows how to do, which is clearly not the case). He opens his mouth. Lies pour out. The end.
One thing I've noticed is that you can definitely spot a whopper coming when he says "Believe me" or "Trust me." Every single time, he's lied.
7
Nearly impossible to believe a word that Trump utters. I'd check a calendar before accepting what day of the week he might say it is.
6
Trump is now no different from Tommy Flanagan, the Jon Lovitz character from SNL in the 1980s, who was a congenital liar. Everything he says is a lie, and the explanations get increasingly bizarre when he's called out. And he has no shame when he lies, so long as his enablers explain him away with their own patina of false facts. The press has to move from being outraged and focusing on these lies to reporting more intensively on his policy and political failures. And to warn, continuously, of the harms he will do to all of us, including his so-called base.
7
Let's be clear here. Trump gets questioned on his failure to welcome home our fallen veterans and his first (and always) instinct is to lie his way out of it by making up excuses as to why he couldn't do this. Then, he justifies that lie with another lie about Obama and other presidents not recognizing fallen veterans, and then when questioned about the second lie about Obama and others he comes up the the third lie that "he was told" that.
Is there any level so low in human behavior that this miserable excuse for a human being, much less a president, is willing to sink to in order to excuse anything he says or does no matter how egregious?
11
Seriously,can someone sign me up to where this Doofus gets his facts?! I mean,this coming from the man,who while natural disasters strikes area he governs,makes time instead to squabble with the NFL and see to all other pending personal vendettas.
If it hasn't been obvious for the last 9 months,this continuous messy one-sided beef with Obama's pure & utterly personal just like everyone else caught in his line of fire.
We know Trump and his cowardly aides MO,but what baffles me are his close-knit Advisors especially Ivanka, who has repeatedly boasted having his ears behind the scene.Clearly not and if otherwise, definitely a display of a smart bunch.Let's not even touch on Jared.
All that aside,what Trump seems to miss is,he continues to belittle the very people he's supposedly for,always using them as pawns when at their most vulnerable.There's only so much he do to tarnish Obama's reputation,but it will not change fact that Obama is part of history and unfortunately so is he,but a part that will clearly remain known as blemish no matter his victories & failures.
Now,someone,please pass this vile,ignominious toddler his pacifier.
Can you believe it,it's only been 9 months...Feels like a lifetime!
3
Trump is responsible for what comes out of his mouth. He has to fact check himself like everyone else. "Somebody" is a teenager's scapegoat. Speaking of our dead heroes off the cuff to cover one's neglect is not just outlandish, it's from another land that I do not recognize.
7
Every time a "false claim" is repeated it reinforces its potential truth. That's part of Trump's strategy. When will people stop taking that bait? Trump is successfully whittling down public education, judgeships are going more extreme right, etc.. What is in the way of exposing Trump's tax records regardless of this audit he'll never allow end? I so want the media to stop whining and making fun of his gross behavior when no action is taken to change anything. That just makes it more acceptable. What more can be revealed on the people he manipulated life savings from in bad condo investments and other top-heavy business deals? What's in the way of the press hammering those facts and flushing them out more? Who is willing to challenge his boisterous actions with concrete facts and actionable steps?
5
I still don't understand why some people can't see this man for what he is.
7
I have a fantasy that at the State of the Union, all of the Democrats will stand up and shout in unison "you lie" and then file out of the chamber.
9
Trump said that he had written but hadn't yet sent letters to the families. He also said that he planned to call them. It's been two weeks--he has done nothing.
And yet he accuses his predecessors of disrespect for the families.
Trump, by lying, disrespects them deeply, and disrespects the nation he putatively leads.
7
Just like the millions he collected for the veterans but didn't send it to them till he was questioned about it.
4
I hear many asking how can live with himself, how can he sink lower, how can he sleep at night etc etc. The answer is: all the positive reinforcement he demands and gets from the spineless, money hungry sycophants that surround him: namely the Republican party. That simple. The American people lose. Trump wins.
9
Typical, new norm for the country but unacceptable. Just like the claim he had contributed money from his "fake foundation/charity " to the Vets until he got called out by the media that he hadn't , and hurried to write out a check? The letters probably were sent after he made the false claims about other presidents. Lies upon lies .
7
Meanwhile, as Trump lies and defames and whatnot, the "Values Voters" swarm all over him as a Messiah, Bill Bennett makes idiotic statements like "Saints were often once Sinners" (true, but what he leaves out is a saint is expected to renounce their sinning ways and sin no more, Trump is still lying, which to refresh members of his holy hosannah chorus, is a major sin, being one of the 10 commandments). It goes to show you what Trump supporters are, these aren't frightened people looking for hope, these are mean, angry, bigoted people looking for someone to make what they feel okay, and Trump is it. It is telling that Trump lied to these people, with all his claims of bringing affordable healthcare that they are gonna love, go after the wealthy so working class people can have tax breaks, bring back jobs.....and all he has done is pushed the mainstream GOP agenda to cut taxes on the rich, decimate health care to where only people with large companies and the rich will have health insurance, and where promises like a 'border tax' have suddently disappeared..yet Trump nation still loves him, in large part because on the biggest things, on making racial insensitivity okay, in going after hispanic immigrants, in going after gays, he feeds into their hate and prejudices and they love it....
4
A deranged animal as Obama's spokesperson tweeted. Trump lies and creates his own reality and several doctors have already given "duty to warn". However tax cuts for the wealthy are more important to Republicans than radiation fallout on their children and grand children.
6
Trump has now used the death of the son of John Kelly to vindicate his vile, sadistic, cruel words on the death of American soldiers. How low can Trump go? Every time I think that he can't go any lower, he does.
9
Every time you think Trump couldn't possibly come up with any more despicable behavior, he finds a way to sink even lower into the most sickening sort of lies, smears, and self-serving.
An utter disgrace to our nation and doing tremendous, tremendous harm to our nation and the world order. How much more blatant does "unfit to serve" have to become before he's removed from office.
Kudos to the times for "falsely claims" in headline, but why not use simple language: Trump LIES? (again!)
7
Trump says... That's all you need to know that what follows is false.
5
OK. dt needs to go. More proof that this guy is unattached to reality and is a danger to ANY type of stability.
STOP answering him. IT just wants attention, AT ANY COST!! And that's the scary part. He'll do ANYTHING!
3
Typically, Trump just makes me angry....this makes me furious.
5
A disgraceful article, but predictable in every way. Frankly, it will be news when the president does NOT lie. Buried in the article is a single sentence that will tell you all you need to know to understand the difference between our recent and current presidents:
A spokesman for Mr. Obama declined to comment.
While Trump continues to bluster and lie, Obama continues to refuse to stoop to his level.
8
Does he really believe nobody will check on his blabberpuss nonsense? It seems they always do - is he aware of that?
3
Another example of President Trump's disgraceful and dishonest behavior--both lying about his predecessors while admitting his own "dereliction of duty" in not speaking to the families of the four fallen Green Berets. And, this from the man who had the chutzpah to prejudge Sgt. Bowe Bergdahl as a "traitor" for deserting his post. Isn't that what he's done by ignoring the deaths for over three weeks? Instead, he's been busy wrapping himself in the flag attacking African-American professional football players for peacefully protesting police brutality guaranteed by the document the flag represents. We have a President who's AWOL--Awful, Woeful, Outrageous, and Lazy.
6
Wonder why Obama is not responding forcefully to expose
the lies of Trump. Starting with the birther campaign
he has continously attacked Obama. No doubt some of
it comes from his habit of lying and some from his racist
streak. Obama shouldn't let him get away with the lies.
He is not dignified and doesn't deserve to be treated with
dignity.
2
The question is why would anyone believe anything that comes out of Trump's loud mouth. Every word that he utters if nothing but lie.
4
There is no there, there. (Gertrude Stein referencing Oakland, CA back in the 1930s).
There is no there, there. (How to summarize the man who would be President Trump).
4
I believe that a fairly recent New York Times interview with David Letterman sums it up best:
Q: How can you tell when Trump is lying?
A: He's talking.
4
What can you say about a man like Trump that hasn't been said alredy. He is a person with no desirable characteristics. How many of us would be proud to call him a father, a son, or a brother. He is a disgusting, loathsome human being. ( That could be questionable) His only purpose in life is to destroy this country, and he is doing a pretty good job at that so far. To have as your sole purpose of existence the urge NOT to help your fellow citizens but to detroy the legacy of a president who worked to improve this country, and to make the world a safer place is deplorable.
Remember : When you elect a clown to office, don't be surprised when all you have is a circus.
2
"Because I was golfing, ok?"
The truthful answer to why Trump hasn't spoken about the killing of 4 soldiers 2 weeks ago
4
Because I don't really care, OK? More like the real answer.
2
You mean he lied.
3
Lies lies lies lies.
Would some of the families any of the previous Presidents spoke to speak up pleas?
1
99% of the things which Trump says are FALSE! And he is the worst President in modern American history when it comes to honoring our fallen soldiers.....the very WORST ! I spent over 20 years in the military and I feel sorry for every man now under the command of this false leader...........
6
Why isn't the headline of this piece "Trump flat-out lies about former presidents contacting fallen soldiers' families?"
2
President Trump seemingly subscribes to the George Costanza school of thought concerning telling the truth: "It's not a lie if you believe it."
5
Why will you not use the word "LIED"? He didn't claim falsely, he lied. A false claim could be based on not knowing. This president knows perfectly well what he is doing. It is red meat thrown to his minions to reinforce their belief (and his) that his eminently more qualified, classy, virile, and all-around better predecessor, a black man, somehow disrespected the military. Forgive him not and do not give him credit for "claiming falsely", because he LIED. He knows what he is doing.
9
Can you invent a less believable excuse than the WH saying they were waiting for "the paperwork" to be done before 45 called families of the fallen solders? It's like a spoof by Andy Borowitz.
6
How low can he go? There is no limit. He will say and do anything that he thinks will destroy the Obama legacy.
7
Trump lies about everything and no topic is off-limits, or even sacred. Applying Kissinger’s famous dictum about the vicissitudes of academia (“no idea is so good or pure that an academic committee cannot kill it”), nothing is so good or pure that Trump won’t profane it by lying about it — usually pointless, empty lies that he tells without giving it a second thought. Before his election to the presidency his discourse was often described as “word salad”, a jumble of disconnected thoughts masking the fact that, for Trump, nothing is actually real except his needs at that moment, which change from moment to moment. This is why, for Trump, there is no such thing as permanent objective truth, merely a huckster’s sylvan lies told to close the sale; no two alike. The art of a swindler.
Trump’s contempt for his interlocutors, his audience, even the high office that he holds and the American nation itself is boundless, limitless. Like Pompey Magnus in Herod’s Jerusalem, his mere presence profanes it, especially the Temple sanctuary.
4
What what kind of a person can make comments such as these that dishonor war dead? First a coward (see bone spur exemption) and second, a liar. I often wonder what's going through the minds of those Marines who salute his arrival and departure from thre presidential helo.
9
Keep at it press. Keep asking questions that will prove to his base what a shameless liar-in-chief they have elected.
Next ask him why he has not visited California fire victims and made statements about them?
Find out whether Trump actually sent $1 million he committed for Texas flood relief. Who did he give it to?
12
This would seem to rise to the level of slander. I'd love to see Trump prosecuted for it.
4
The Public Shaming of Mitch McConnell.
Mitch McConnell has no soul, he is willing to let himself be humiliated by our S & M President, who loves to humiliate, emasculate anyone just to show he's in charge.
Yesterday, was as embarrassing a scene I've ever seen by someone willing to go out and let themselves be publically humiliated by a bully.
Mitch looked like he was in a hostage tape, "Liddle Mitch" might as well had a dog collar around his neck with the Trump pulling the lease leash.
I knew Mitch McConnell and Paul Ryan were willing to submit themselves to extraordinary amounts of self-flagellation, in order to gain a little support from Trump, but they have sold their souls and have shown to have no integrity or dignity.
Yesterday, Donald Trump brought out an showed his pet turtle to the reporters and it a was pathetic.
I think what really bothered me is that McConnell just stood there, while this pathetic excuse for a President and human being, used the most solemn and sacred task a President has bestowed on him, to pay tribute and notify the family's of the fallen solders, to shamelessly lie and belittle the previous Presidents Obama, Bush and others as not taking this responsibility with the dignity it requires.
8
Our president sounds like J. Wellington Wimpy from Popeye cartoons: "I'll pay you the second Tuesday of next week." whenever he is questioned about some policy or action which he has been lax in addressing.
2
October 11 2017 video of Trump when the Retreat was played should go viral..also, someone found a clip of Robin Williams when it was played when he was on a base...
Donald Trump made a joke about TV ratings during a solemn military ceremony that honours the American flag.
The US President was at the Air National Guard base in Pennsylvania when the “Retreat” bugle call started to play.
Tradition dictates that civilians are expected to put their hands over their hearts during the 25-second tune.
Referring to the bugle as a “nice sound”, Mr Trump asked host Sean Hannity: “Are they playing that for you or for me?”
Chilling
5
I saw Trump on TV when he made the announcement about how hard it was to talk to the families of the diseased solders and for a brief minute I felt that he genuinely cared and was speaking from the heart, but then was snapped back to reality when Trump started comparing what he did to supposedly what Obama didn't do.
It was a pathetic use of the deceased solders for his own aggrandizement. This man is not capable of even pretending to act like a human being. There are no other people in Trumps world, just himself.
10
Unfortunately, this lie is extreme, though not for trump. The reality is that it is slander. And when called on it trump starts blaming someone else, "I was told by someone" as he always does and abdicates any responsibility when confronted with his lies.
Other presidents have spent many more hours visiting, calling, and writing soldiers and their families than trump will ever do in his lifetime. I do recall that the parents of a fallen soldier refused to meet with trump and melania at the airport when the son's body was returned to this country. I think that many people would refuse to see him. I can't imagine being in a hospital, injured, in pain and have trump stop by to chat about how wonderful he is. That would be a horrible intrusion from a very disrespectful, lying, oaf.
11
I'm not only disgusted by Trump. I'm disgusted by the people who shamelessly continue to enable him. I have no words to express the contempt I feel for Sara Huckabee Sanders.
No matter how outrageous the lie told by Trump, she covers him. Is ANY job worth such a loss of integrity?
11
Yes, it's a lie. Repeating it, even while calling it a lie, gives it more power. I appreciate the NYT pointing out that he's, yet again, lying. How about not including the lie in the headlines?
6
Presidents Bush, Carter, Clinton and Obama should demand a public apology from the fraudulent huckster Trump for spewing his hateful lie about their failing to contact families of fallen soldiers. They should demand this in the form of a full-page ad in The New York TImes and The Washington Post, both of which would provide a reduced rate, no doubt. Trump needs to be publicly shamed for his deplorable actions, and our former presidents are the perfect candidates to see that it happens.
7
”Nearly all men can stand adversity, but if you want to test a man's character, give him power." ~ Abraham Lincoln.
7
Trump cannot open his mouth without lying. He barely even manages half truths like a novice marketer, and he certainly never relies on the consumer coming to his brand of their own accord because he has made a great atmosphere and product, like a really great marketer. He simply tells lies, like the fraudster he is, and reinforces with more blue-sky lies about how good things are and will be. He knows that a certain percentage will always believe what they want to believe, and he knows there is a profit in that. By the time the "deal" collapses, he is long gone, counting the cash, protected by lawyers. Which way to the egress?
6
My brother was honorably discharged from the US Air Force after four years of non-combat Viet Nam era service. Fast forward forty years or so. He died in Oregon. The VA was so helpful in arranging for his remains to be sent across the country to his 3 siblings. We were the only souls left in his circle to see him off. There was space in the lovely Baltimore National Cemetery for his internment.
You would have thought he was a career military decorated hero they way they treated us and him at that burial. He was a musician in service and the rest of his life, so they wrangled a guy to come play taps on his bugle. Two sharp as tacks Airmen folded the flag with exact ceremonious precision. One of them approached me and while looking directly in my eyes said words of compassion and gratitude as he placed the flag in my arms.
We are not a 'military family' and I was not one overly impressed by that world, until that day. It still gives me solace. I mentioned to the funeral director how much it all meant and he said that my brother put on the uniform and served honorably and he deserved every ounce of respect they could muster, no matter if he was a rifleman or a truck drive or a double bass player.
That Trump is Commander in Chief is all by itself a travesty and tremendous shame. I am sure "his" Generals, deep down, have contempt for him. I welcome all Americans to join in this contempt and lobby your representatives in Congress daily for his removal.
18
You retelling of your brother’s funeral moved me to tears. And it’s mpossible to disagree with everything you say regarding the shame that is our president.
3
Why did he bring up what other Presidents did or didn't do. This is just crazy. Does he have to try to publicly compare himself to others all the time? There is something wrong with this man.
10
What kind of person would even want to take a call from Trump? Maybe he knows this. Maybe some of his past calls haven't gone so well.
8
This misplaced outrage about phone calls to families of fallen service members is disturbing and misses the whole point about this unnecessary loss of American life.
Where is the outrage about these insane and useless wars we have been involved in since 9/11. Don't just mourn for our lost soldiers, sailors and airmen; stop sending them to fight in the middle of hopeless civil wars started by religious fanatics.
3
Donald Trump Jr. and Pat Tillman are the same age. After the attacks of 9/11 one joined the Rangers and one went on safari. This is the legacy of bogus courage and patriotism of the Trump family. Donald Trump cannot in anyway relate to military families so he finds it unbearably hard to speak to Gold Star parents and actually expects us to have sympathy for him.......
10
Obama and Bush had hundreds of military fatalities on their watch. Nixon and Johnson and to a lesser extent Kennedy had 58,000 on their watch. No, they couldn’t personally contact all of the families.
However, thankfully, Trump has not had deaths in the thousands or hundreds. He very easily could have personally contacted the families.
Why Trump chose to bring this up is beyond me. If anything, Trump’s base is comprised of people who style themselves as more God-fearing and more patriotic than other Americans. You’d think that for the photo-op alone, Trump would be at Dover to meet every fallen soldier’s family and would offer to accompany the families to at least a local place of worship.
Trump is, well, a foolish, petulant, sad excuse for a President.
7
Never in history, far as I have seen, has a President bad-mouthed any of his predecessors. Particularly one who shoots from the hip. Bad form. Bad President.
7
This is a most peculiar kind of man who finds his ego can be best supported by tearing down those who he feels threatened by. Whether it is a former president, a prisoner of war hero or Gold Star parents of a fallen soldier. That says more about this flawed individual than any of his accomplishments.
3
The only thing Donald Trump has told the truth about was he was going to sabotage Obamacare, financial regulations, pollution regulations, and the Iran agreement. Those are the only promises he has kept: To destroy stuff that should not be destroyed.
4
That the president is a habitual liar is obvious even to a person of marginal intelligence. What is far more subtle but insidious nonetheless is the fact that he has never once taking responsibility for his actions in the course of his nine months in the Oval Office. This is particularly disturbing because at the bedrock of the presidency is the notion of responsibility. We are dealing with someone who wants credit for anything that he believes may be working without ever taking responsibility for what is not working.
My question is ,how long will we have to endure this destructive behavior in the White House? When will the American people finally say enough?!
4
Trump again lies with no consequences. Republicans again display thirst for power at all costs.
3
Gibberish. Our president’s raison d’etre is to chip away at his own, his party’s (what it is), and America’s rational and moral credibility. The fact that Americans enable this behavior is a heartbreaking sign of cultural decay.
4
No matter how much Trump lies, there are those who will believe everything
he says. Believe, repeat, retweet.
2
When you live your life wrapped in one lie after another, it becomes more and more difficult to know the truth.
And Trump's lifetime of lies - willingly told and unapologetically repeated with very few consequences - stretches back decades.
3
The thing that concerns me most is that he did not even acknowledge the deaths of these soldiers in Niger publicly, in a tweet or in public remarks on the numerous occasions he has spoken on other affairs in the 12 days. Why? Is he trying to cover up something? Did he not know? Does he not know what American soldiers are doing in Niger? Is it because Niger is an African country and there is some racist subtext to his silence on the mission and the killings? Journalists should not let him avoid answering the questions. Ask him again and again until he gives substantive answers.
3
To summarize. He's waiting for the paperwork to be completed before he makes the calls. Besides his predecessor did not make calls. Or sometimes he did and sometimes he did not. Some just write letters. But he's not sure. He needs to ask his generals.
Congratulations Trump, you are now one of those bureaucrats you are always raging about. "Hi this is President Trump. Sorry I did not call sooner about the death of your son in service to our country. I've been waiting for the paperwork to be completed."
2
Say it again Rex!
3
Well, we know two things for certain now. 1, the GOP is a bottomless pit. Its members have no standards, no substance and can be counted upon to betray all Americans. 2, we have a sizable number of citizens who have allowed themselves to be brainwashed by entities that feed their various prejudices and fears. The majority of us, who are thoughtful and reasonable people, must never again allow the gullible to have this kind of impact on our country and the world. It's really too bad they choose to side with darkness. I'm sorry for their children. But by their willful ignorance, they may have sealed our fates.
1
The toughest calls I have to make are the calls where this happens. Soldiers are killed...... It’s a very difficult thing,It’s a very, very tough day. For me, that’s by far the toughest.”
Of course that's the toughest for him. It's a short period of time when the whole world isn't a story about him, when the focus and narrative are about other people. That's gotta be hard on the poor guy.
Beyond that I find the notion that he has the focus or even ability to actually write a letter absurd.
if Trump could read, he should start with Orwell's 1984. he might even learn what distortion of the truth is by Big Brother.
1
We've had our fair share of presidents throughout our history who can tell whoppers, but Trump takes the cake -- there's a deliberately vicious and malignant element to his lies. And, irony of ironies, he's the first person to sue if anyone says anything truthful about him that also happens to be negative. Pot-calling-the-kettle-blackism. I still shake my head in disbelief and dismay that he is our president.
3
I don't know if Barack Obama gave sufficient homage to those brave military families when their members fell. I do know he put them in harms way needlessly and disrespected them, their sacrifice and their, our, country with his policies.
Trump's lies could also be the confabulations that are symptomatic of early onset dementia. He is not well and should be removed via the 25th amendment before he does something so dangerous that we might never recover.
2
Prior to 1876 not one President ever called the parents of a fallen soldier. Of course the telephone hadn't been invented yet. But Trump probably isn't aware of that.
2
I don't want a president that calls or visits families of decreased soldiers. I want a president who stops sending our youth to fight unnecessary wars. So far, neither party can come up with such a president.
1
I was really upset about this one, moreso than much of the other stuff. Obama was a decent, caring man. All the former presidents reached out to the families. Trump for whatever reason didn't, and got caught. Maybe he felt like the dead Green Berets would look like a personal failure to his presidency, who knows. It's disgraceful for him to put down men who did the decent, right thing.
4
Fresh out of school, I used wait until my student loan servicer called and then lie that check was already in the mail. I am not proud of it, but at least I can point to the ignorance and relative poverty of my youth.
My young bank account was as empty as Trump's heart. He pulled the same stunt when called out by a reporter for neglecting this simple, obvious ceremonial duty.
5
Trump is a pretty remarkable person in that he says anything and everything, and if you know nothing about him there would be no reason not to believe him. One unnerving element of his persona is that he may well believe what he says at a given time. It's easy, therefore, to see how someone with no knowledge of the man would believe some of what he says.
However, even the slightest awareness of his style readily shows that he is untrustworthy and seems to say whatever strikes his fancy at any given moment. Hard to believe he was elected President of the United States.
2
Whether or not former President Obama made calls to families of fallen service people, employing an allegation that he did not as a defense to criticism is just juvenile. Donald Trump should make the calls regardless of what his predecessors did or didn't do.Whether or not former President Obama made calls to families of fallen service people, employing an allegation that he did not as a defense to criticism is just juvenile. Donald Trump should make the calls regardless of what his predecessors did or didn't do.
3
It is clear that President Trump is largely informed by Fox News and likely from even less balanced and less honest sources. It is not surprising that he would actually believe that his statement was true. A war veteran/relative of mine similarly tuned in to the right-wing media is also convinced that Obama never offered condolences to those killed in the service of our country. Shame on those that perpetuate these smears.
4
We unfortunately have a president who is incapable of leading. All he can do is destroy President Obama's legacy achievements in foreign policy, the environment, healthcare, immigration, economy, etc. "Donald the Destroyer" will be his epitaph.
2
When President Obama left office, I figured his legacy was already set.
But every day that passes in the Trump presidency with Trump smearing, insulting and lying about Obama, Obama's greatness - his wisdom, humor, dignity and decency - are brought into ever greater relief.
Trump doesn't understand that as long as we watch the Trump presidency, as long as he smears President Obama, Obama looks even greater in comparison.
10
Beyond the obvious, what strikes me about this little speech is that by the end, he doesn't say anything specific; he says 'I was told' and 'others have done...' He denies what he said, then repeats it. Trump and his people should stop complaining about how the press treats him. He gets a wide berth every time; people are constantly interpreting him, saying that 'this is the way the president communicates' and other blather. Reporters have been quieted down unnecessarily and even roughed up.
I'm sure the howling 35% of his core supporters loved the first part about Obama but lost interest when he entered the grey area of cowardly semi denial.
2
It's not news that Mr. Trump lied. Not news that Trump does not care about fallen soldiers enough to call their families. Not news that he knows nothing of the cost of war. It's not news when Trump dishonestly attacks President Obama's legacy. Not news that such attacks are one of two consistent themes in this otherwise aimless, chaotic White House. Not news that the attacks have a troubling basis in racism for Trump and his base. Not news that the other consistent theme of this administration is racism.
No news here. And no news isn't good news.
3
Trump lies. Huckabee Sanders repeats the lies. Dog bites man.
8
Why is this news? Only because Mr. Trump is the president. He can say whatever he likes and the media somehow thinks it has to be reported. We can't ignore either the office or the man but why dignify it by reporting it?
1
Why? Because someone has to set the record straight and call out the President of the United States (note the use of the title) on the continual lying. When we give up defending the truth we demean the office, the country, and ourselves.
I will NEVER be complacent with NOR ignore this man’s blatant lack of morals, ethics, and character.
1
This was one of those real "fake news" stories that has been trolling around the web on right wing (and possibly Russian originated) fake sites for about a year. Trump gets most of his information from fake news...conspiracy sites, hyper partisan Fox, National Enquire, Alex Jones, etc. It's part of the reason he doesn't know real news when he sees/hears it.
25
Because "high Crimes and Misdemeanors" was a term of art used in English impeachments, a plausible reading supported by many scholars is that the grounds for impeachment can be not only the defined crimes of treason and bribery, but also other criminal or even noncriminal behavior amounting to a serious dereliction of duty. That interpretation is disputed, but it is agreed by virtually all that the impeachment remedy was to be used in only the most extreme situations, a position confirmed by the relatively few instances in which Congress has used the device.*
Citation:
http://www.heritage.org/constitution/#!/articles/2/essays/100/standards-for-impeachment
"impeachment can be not only the defined crimes of treason and bribery, but also other criminal or even noncriminal behavior amounting to a serious dereliction of duty."
Non-criminal behavior:
1. Lying
2. Failure to be the President of ALL the people of the United States
e.g. Puerto Rico
3. Endangering the USA - e.g. North Korea
4. Limiting the rights of all women to have abortions or birth control
5. Creating a new tax plan benefiting Americans unequally
6. Changing his mind too often without carefully researching topics
7. Having a limited concentration span of 15 minutes for a job
requiring 24 hours a day
8. Nepotism - naming your own family to key positions
9. Bad-mouthing a previous president - uncouth, immature, and disgusting
10. Insulting and lacking respect for parents of killed American soldiers
14
As far as trump is concerned, if it's not widely reported, it didn't happen. Previous presidents have considered these calls and visits an integral part of their duties and, for the most part, didn't seek the spotlight every time they carried out those duties. This is why trump doesn't think they made these visits or calls. He cannot conceive of doing anything quietly just because it needs to be done. Everything has to be a spectacle with him.
33
"That's why trump doesn't think the made these visits..." Just a quibble here, but I don't see that he "doesn't think they made these visits..." I don't think the issue of truth enters his mind. He said what he said just because it served his immediate purpose, to defend himself by attacking others, especially Obama. He might or might not be aware of what other presidents have done, but he would have said the same thing regardless. IMHO
An interesting sidelight: Trump chose to insult all previous Presidents this time. We know Obama did very well in honoring troops and visiting their families, and generally supporting people in times of trouble. I actually don't remember how previous Presidents were in this regard.
4
He didn’t see it on Fox and Friends
1
I found myself thinking about how I would rank the Presidents of my lifetime. I was born in 1947, so that would include everyone from Truman on. I thought about the things that happened during their terms and how they handled the situations. Their actions ranged from heroic to despicable. I won't go into the whole list, and I'm sure there would be disagreements and discussions. The one thing I found undeniable was that Donald Trump comes in dead last by every measure including alphabetical order.
45
Agree. My only hope is that Trump will be the worst President into the far future. Our country will survive this horrific man but hope we will not see another like him or worse.
It is frightening to see that we have a president, who's maturity level appears to be that of 12 year old.
16
Even 12 year olds have empathy. And they know when they’re lying, too.
4
Please don't embarrass the 12 year olds. They are too better than that.
1
Try as I might, I don't get riled anymore to whatever Trump says. He has said worse during the elections and still got elected; electoral college apart millions of people voted for him and continue to blame Clinton for uninspiring campaign.
He is not going to get impeached unless more Democrats get elected to the Congress, and common citizens can only wait until the next elections.
8
The Times has made a cautious step in the right direction by headlining this article with the words "Trump falsely claims". I'm all for journalistic balance and generally don't like "situational ethics", but I will applaud the day when news outlets of all stripes recognize that a president who is an out and out liar is in and of itself a crime against humanity that must be brought to the public's attention in bold print.
40
Until now, I"m sure the thinking within Democratic circles has been don't get involved in the potential sideshow of impeachment. Not only would it be
doomed to fail, the end result is a Mike Pence, who is worse in some respects.
However, we have reached a real tipping point where even if it's only symbolic, the democrats in congress must initiate the mechanism.
I don't believe it is a choice anymore, I believe it is a moral imperative.
23
But what made it worse is when Sarah Huckabee Sanders then went on to defend the lie, stating that it was the truth when she knows full well it is a lie. I would like the President's cabinet and entire staff discontinue their enabling behavior for a man that lies to the public almost daily. We are reading reports that he is truly unstable; how about the enabling of such instability in the White House? When do those people begin to take some responsibility for the truth?
38
When the book offers get lucrative enough, or when a prime-time gig at Fox NewsTalk opens up.
2
I wonder if her father knows how much Sarah lies. Is that still a sin?
4
Simply another example of the country getting what they voted for. Again, shame on the voters for enabling him. And shame on the Congress, religious leaders, business people and anyone else who shows any bit of respect.
28
"It’s a very, very tough day" for him. Awh!
People lost their husbands, wives, children, father's, mothers, sisters, bothers and he talks about how tough it is for him.
Again, it's all about Trump. He has absolutely no decency, no compassion he uses and abuses everyone for self-gratification – using soldiers families, their pain and anguish, their sacrifice to attack Obama and shill for himself is unconscionable, as is Sarah Huckabee Sanders shilling and barefaced lies.
There is no goodness at all in this White House.
38
US Armed Services deaths in 2009: 303.
2010 was the deadliest year in Afghanistan - 496
Trump has along way to go to catch up with Obama's compassion or empathy.
8
Not to forget all of the mass shootings like New Town where President Obama personally went to try and offer comfort.
1
Trump blurbed, "Ask my generals". Little Mr. Trump needs to remember, or be informed, they are our generals, not his, loyal to our Constitution and not his other-planet whims and ownership fantasies.
23
What worse than Trump's lies? (And this is an entire story about just one of his lies.) What's worse is that his base believes, and even hangs, on his lies. Even lies that are demonstrably false, as is this one.
23
This is true. These people believe this stuff because they fell for the greatest lies of all: that Hillary Clinton, liberals, the ACA, programs that help the poor and the environment, and Barack Obama were all worse and more universally un-American that Donald Trump and his cronies. I guess as long as "the base" remains so fixated on what they want to hear, they won't notice that the Donald has robbed them blind until it's too late for them to do anything about it.
1
The only redeeming thought in this article is: "Now, it gets to a point where, you know, you make four or five of them in one day. It’s a very, very tough day. For me, that’s by far the toughest.” Perhaps that will offer some introspective guidance to him as he considers his next steps in North Korea.
6
He makes everything, even these awful losses, about him.
13
Doubling down on his 'rock bottom' (see Morning Joe) behavior of yesterday, today - during a radio interview with FOX News - Donald Trump told reporters to ask General Kelly if President Obama had contacted him upon the death of the general's son, Robert.
The general's son was killed in Afghanistan in 2010.
I have no words to adequately express my disgust and loathing for Donald Trump.
No.words.
NOT my president
42
What else do we expect from The Liar ? I can just hear parents of young children" no kids whatever he says are lies." "You really shouldn't listen to him." How sacrilegious can you get? He has no compassion, and evidently no truth either. As opposed to newspaper page of lies, probably turning into full days' edition by now, I wonder how much space his true statement would take? Are there any? Hey, he is not taking any of the blame. If it wasn't so serious I could laugh . What other president has ever had to say that?
7
My heart goes out to the families of the soldiers killed in Niger who have not only not heard from Trump but must now deal with Trump pinning the blame on Obama. The rest of us can say "more of the same" but this does make their suffering worse in a very real way.
279
Don't worry....damage done in Puerto Rico was the fault of the people there according to trump. At some point trump will blame the fallen for dying; after all, John McCain is not a hero because he got captured.
1
Whatever his missteps in the realm of policymaking, Obama was fundamentally a decent, compassionate man with a deep reverence for his country and conscientiousness regarding the responsibilities of his office. None of Trump's lies can change that fact, and every one of them reveals him to be the complete antithesis of Obama in every respect -- a petty, spiteful coward who thinks of only of himself and has no awareness of how his breathtaking arrogance, ignorance, and incompetence are slowly destroying this once-great nation.
21
This was a "the dog ate my homework" moment. Anyone who thinks Trump wrote those letters is gullible beyond words. You can tell Trump is lying when his mouth is moving. I, too, felt this lie was one of his worst. His nose should be as long as his tie. I couldn't shake this last night, as lying about fallen soldiers seems a new low. The compassion that Obama showed in times of crisis was genuine. His emotion was so deep, especially about our troops. He took their deaths and injuries with such seriousness. It was clear how much that pained him. And, then the crazy-making statement from the White House, telling us we didn't see and hear what we know we DID see and hear. How much longer. How much longer.
21
Another example of the lack of leadership qualities of Trump. This man continues to defile the Office of the President, the spirit of the constitution and the greatness of this country. He does not deserve our respect. He only sows fear, divisiveness, confusion and ridicule.
13
Our leader. Does his portrait hang in government offices nationwide?
6
He'll probably contact the families after the IRS completes the audit of his tax returns.
5
Mr. Trump makes journalism a matter of a few simple recipes, does he not? Just grab few stock headlines from the cookbook and fill in the blanks:
'Trump falsely claims ......'
'What Trump doesn't know about .....'
'Trump in twitter war with .....'
'Trump fails to ......'
The man says he hates the press, almost as much as late night talk show hosts and talking heads. But he's their very best friend in the world. So much material!
6
Not to forget Trump said he hated his cabinet
1
What a sickening appalling spectacle to see this so-called commander in chief standing before a cadre of military men and women who are committed to serve and indeed sacrifice for the country in times of war and peace. Trump of course knows about sacrifice in war personally. He evaded sacrifice not once but five times in the Viet Nam war ... a draft dodger par excellence while over 50,000 of his fellow americans gave it all up as he carried on his self-serving hedonistic life style with absolutely no regrets or second thoughts.
23
I can't imagine what sort of deplorable individual could be proud of this President. We're past what a truly despicable man this is. Now it's about the people who support this depraved failure of a human being. Do they want to be like him? Do they want their children to grow up like him? OK, Trump supporters, let's hear your rationalizations for this one.
28
Tax Cuts - Never before in our history have so many with so much signed up to serve this Satanic force. And they 'hold their noses', 'looks the other way', or whatever they must do to get their tax cuts, and ruin this country forever.
1
Trump has problem in speaking truth. Anybody says ' believe me' too much is most likely is a habitual liar. Moreover he is too much jealous of Obama. Obama lives in Trump's head. I am sure Trump sees Obama's shadow 24 hours a day ( even in dream) and get scared. Trump is scared of Mueller and Obama's record. May God help our POTUS.
14
NYT: Let's call them as it is from now on. Here are some definitions and words that can be applied to describe the words that emanate from Trump's mouth:
Lying
ADJECTIVE Present participle of lie
Not telling the truth.
Synonyms:
untruthful, false, dishonest, mendacious, perfidious, deceitful, deceiving, deceptive, duplicitous, dissimulating, dissembling, double-dealing, two-faced, janus-faced, guileful, underhand, disingenuous
As an alternative, many headlines could just start with "Trump Lies Again ..." and then the article can begin by utilizing the synonyms. That would be most accurate and readers wouldn't have to disseminate words like "Falsely Claims".
18
In the video, the Psychiatric-Patient-In-Chief said he prefers a combination of "letters and phone calls to the families" of fallen soldiers.
....and he prefers a combination of falsehoods, whoppers, distortion, defamation, slander, perjury, bluff, fiction, nonsense, falsification, misinformation, deceit, dishonesty and fraud when communicating with everyone else in the world in order to puff up his complete absence of self-esteem.
This sociopath in the Oval Office needs immediate relocation to Burghölzli, the very capable psychiatric hospital at the University of Zürich, Switzerland, where his condition can be attended to and treated on an hourly basis.
31
Actually he should be sent to Guantanamo and held there as an Enemy to the Nation and a Terrorist. That or permanent incarceration in the GenPop ward at Rikers Island Facility! And in either case with a full size portrait of Obama just out of reach of his cell but very visible from it! McConnell should have the cell next to him.
3
“This is an outrageous and disrespectful lie even by Trump standards,” Benjamin J. Rhodes, a former deputy national security adviser to Mr. Obama....
***
At the beginning of this administration, there was a concern about "normalizing" Trump's behavior, whether it was the sexual abuse of women, the utter disregard for facts, or the attacks on freedom of the press. Over time, many have normalized his behavior.
Trump is not mentally fit to serve in any public office. He does not think like "normal" people. His disorder is severe enough to have ruined many (most?) of his personal and professional relationships. He is mentally ill.
I have looked for evidence to support the claim that he lies, but it is lacking.
Lying involves the awareness that there is a fact that the speaker/tweeter is incorrectly reporting. When my brother, an Air Force Colonel, reported that the Harry Potter series was demonic in nature, he was not lying. He simply could not comprehend that his limited worldview was wrong. When my nephew told me that the Taliban fighters were incompetent and then related a story of how they pinned down a company of Marines and left the battlefield after injuring and killing a score of them, he was not lying. He simply could comprehend the fact that the two tales were contradictory.
It appears that Trump cannot understand that his ideas about the world, even those about his own statements, could be wrong. He is a narcissist, not a liar.
This is not normal.
5
What else is new?! Think happy thoughts...think happy thoughts.......
3
Disgusting. Trump showed such disrespect to the Mr. and Mrs. Khan during his campaign because Mr. Khan dared to criticize Trump. It's absolutely intolerable for him to now make up lies about his predecessor.
I was no W. Bush fan, but the man did not have an open and hostile feud with Cindy Sheehan. Such behavior is completely unbecoming to a leader.
9
He lies....then he lies about his lies. There is only ever one stranger at his door: the truth.
18
'Falsely Claims' should read, 'Trump Lies Yet Again.' Why doesn't it?
13
"Falsely claims" or in other words, lies. Trump lies (again). If the NY tabloids used this word more often in the 80's when Trump was hustling his crazy business deals, maybe we wouldn't be in this mess.
11
Does Trump get paid by the lie? We know he is devoid of intellect, and that he possesses not a shred of compassion; now we know that he has absolutely no dignity whatsoever. He is a shameful excuse for a human being. Just when you think he cannot drag the presidency to more profound depths, he manages to find a way. What bubonic plague was to Europe in the 14th century, Trump is to America in the 21st. God help us all.
5
Using the death of soldiers and their family's grief as grist for his mill is profane.
11
So a former senior aide to Obama, Ms Mastromonaco, calls the President of the United States "a deranged animal". Is the level to which political discourse has now devolved? Disgusting.
Unfortunately, this president has never behaved remotely like a president. He has debased the office beyond all recognition. Perhaps that's what Ms Mastromonaco is referring to.
3
Our president is indeed a "deranged animal." He also doesn't engage in "political discourse." He simply lies.
4
Trump is to busy raiding the public coffers for personal financial gain to be concerned.
Too busy.... playing golf.
Too busy.... destroying our democratic institutions.
Too busy... watching Fox.
Too busy.... blowing up our norms and rules of our society.
Too busy... race baiting and stoking culture wars about kneeling during the anthem... because it's disrespecting the vets. You know, those people who sacrifice their lives ....
10
The leading originator of fake news (the President of the U.S.) strikes yet again.
5
It should be obvious to all, except perhaps Trump himself, the default operation of Trump's brain and mouth are to lie.
5
Why isn't the headline: "Trump lies again, his 4,137th since taking office"?
11
Starting with taking the Oath of Office
Sad thing is the leader of the free world President Donald Trump is a compulsive liar , whatever comes out of his mouth is fake and false.
This has become a cry for wolf, on a critical day he might be forced to tell the truth and everyone will go in their merry ways not believing him.
5
Another day, another lie (or three, or five). It would be appropriate for the newspaper of record to include a front page running tally of those lies, so that the cumulative effect of the sociopath-in-chief is noted every single day of his term. The American public deserves to understand the true meaning of electing such a deceitful, dishonest, cynical, self-serving person.
7
Hi lies about everything even something as sad as this. What a disgrace.
5
We're used to Trump attacking Obama with his usual lies. But to use our fallen troops to lie about Obama would be the low point if not for Mr. Trump's outrageous personal attacks on the Gold Star family during the campaign. Trump is the worst person to ever serve as president. We will never forgive those who made this possible. Russians and their useful idiots.
10
amazing what a poor liar he is..... like a high school kid who dented the family car. what i am wondering about is.... we are sending troops to Niger?
5
trump LIES! Pure and simple. Please, NY Times, use the correct word in your headline!
14
would love to see the post marks on the letters he supposedly sent.
7
What do you expect from a inhumane man? Trump's words and actions should surprise no one. He has been telling us who he is since he filed for the Republican primary, yet the press still gets surprised.
Why?
6
First of all, notice that it's all about him: "For me, that's by far the toughest." Second, notice that he backs away from his statement almost instantly. He clearly just says whatever comes to mind without even thinking. Third, this is a guy who threatened to sue the family of a dead soldier while he was running for president.
There is no bar low enough for this guy not to slither under.
26
My father served in Korea, his elder brother, my late uncle, flew a PBY Catalina in WWII, and I volunteered to serve in the Army in the '80s, asking for the 82nd Airborne Division. None of us did those things for bragging rights or recognition; we did them out of a sense of duty. But for the President of the United States to spend his weekends playing golf and lounging at his Florida resort rather than taking the time to visit or even write letters to the families of our fallen soldiers, pretending to embrace the flag I was ready to die for, lie about the genuine gestures of grief and gratefulness of Pres. Obama and Bush, and then blame his lie on military generals... this is just about more than I can stand. I have a question for Sen. McCaine and other members of Congress who served their country, and the Joint Chiefs of Staff: "When is enough, enough?"
51
Hurtful, disrespectful, demeaning to the families of fallen soldiers, grotesque lies lead to calls for impeachment, crossing a line of rationality, in a sign of blind hatred, service men and women call for his resignation....yes lies, but so much more!
4
At this point is there any reason to even ask the rhetorical question:
"Finally Sir, have you no decency at all?"
The letter's are "in the mail" huh?
Craven. And the American people sit there and watch this?
18
yes because they watch it on Fox which grinds up the news to "spoon-feed" their viewers
the word "lie" only appears in this article when quoting former aides and advisers to Obama.
he lied again later when pressed and said that he was told. he was not told that, no chance, and if he was that in itself is a story.
what good are we doing for the country not calling his lies lies?
12
And yet, I have no doubt Trump's supporters have no problem with this and his many other utterly outrageous proclamations against President Obama. Beyond sad!
5
Isn't it a misdemeanor to lie under oath?
Isn't the President of the United States always under oath?
Seems like grounds for impeachment.
4
This makes me wonder if there are people on Trump's staff deliberately feeding him false information so he looks bad in public. Interesting theory, yes?
1
No.
Why bother?
They can't get Trump to stop making himself look bad in public. He has always looked bad.
That's why his election is such a clear measure of the USA's decline.
4
I just finished reading Paul Krugman's latest list of Trump lies and--surprise, surprise--here's another lie from Trump.
"That's what I was told." Ah hah, the old blame-it-on-an-anonymous source trick. That and "people are saying" are classic Trump.
12
NBA legend, San Antonio coach Popovich, called Trump a "soulless coward" yesterday for this remark. He said Trump must drag others down to try to lift himself up. The 2 words sum up both Trump and the Republican Party.
26
Donald Trump has done to the act of presidents expressing condolences to the families of fallen soldiers what he has doe to every other decent thing he has touched in his life; he has sullied and debased it. It's incredible. Not even this simple and uncontroversial act of courtesy and caring was safe from his poisonous touch.
As the Republicans have made it clear that, due to cowardice, ambition or the lust for power, they will stand with him no matter what he does it is left to the Democrats to remove this cancer from our government before he causes catastrophic damage to the nation and the world. 2018 can't get here fast enough.
7
Trump saying, "most of them (presidents) didn’t make calls" is correct. The majority of presidents were in office prior to telephones becoming generally available. At the time of Teddy Roosevelt, our 25th president, only about 1% of people had access to a telephone, so Trump is correct. That said, Trump's being correct in this example is purely accidental. As has become the norm, Trump has no idea what he's talking about. He's the Chance Gardener of presidents and we're all foolishly attempting to make sense of that which is nonsense.
2
What we’re seeing is our own version of “The Madness of King George.”
Trump’s worsening, pathological obsession with Obama, his conviction that any news report that is less than fawning is “fake,” his belief that reality is whatever he says it is, and his seeming lack of any shred of human empathy or emotion toward the hardships of others all point to a man in rapid psychological decline, or to one so ruthless in his quest for ultimate power in a representative democracy that truth simply does not matter.
Or — the worst possble case — both of the above.
It all scares the life out of me. I feel we, as a nation, are very much in deep, uncharted water with this man. My only hope is there are those in his inner circle who are just as concerned and will act for the good of the country when the time comes, but there are times when I think I can’t even depend on that.
The 25th is there for a reason — to save us, in part, from unstable and malignant personalities holding high office. And if it becomes clear beyond any doubt that it needs to be invoked, please do so sooner rather than later, for Trump’s own good and for the good of us all.
7
"Mr. Trump said he had written letters to the family members over the weekend, which he said would be mailed later in the day or on Tuesday. He said he also planned to call them."
In reality, what Trump admitted with the above quote was that he has NOT sent them letters or called them. He only claims to have written letters over the weekend, something no one can confirm or refute. But he admits that he has not even sent letters two weeks after these men died. Does anyone believe he would call or write them if reporters didn't ask him about it?
10
There are days when I cringe in despair at the thought that 37% of Americans support our current president, who has taken narcissistic personality disorder to a new level. How the Trump supporters do not see the shell of a human being who mocks the disabled, pushes his way to the front of the line, and somehow makes deaths of our soldiers about his high character compared to Obama's--it really is beyond comprehension.
But after a moment of disappointment, I think that it is time to fight back, so that this administration does not ruin life for our children.
7
Did anyone else notice that Trump said that he wrote letters of condolence to the families of the fallen soldiers and that those letters were mailed yesterday – or today. A few moments later he said that those letters would be mailed today – or tomorrow. Translated, this means that he had not yet written the letters. I’ve come to accept that nothing he says is completely truthful – so I automatically never believe anything he says.
7
I am appalled by the statement that calling the families of soldiers who died makes for a "very, very, tough day" for Trump, so he has put off making those calls. THIS IS NOT ABOUT YOU! Every day is a tough day for these families.
567
Ms. McAfee, he is a malignant narcissist. His brain, such as it is, is incapable of understanding that other peoples' pain means anything at all. No one can convince him that it's not "all about him." Everything's "all about him." That is how is mind works.
1
Martha.
Thank you. The man is a classless, cruel, selfish, sick individual. He has no idea of empathy. Maybe that comes with using money to lead your life instead of honesty and respect. How dare he undermine other presidents!
MIMA
And remember...his BONE SPURS!
2
If my son had died when he was deployed in Afghanistan, I would not have wanted a phone call or a letter from 45.
14
I am not from a military family, i have not served in the volunteer armed forces. I am anti-war, and against having a large standing army. that said, i recognize the rituals of war as necessary and honorable, in their context. One has to maintain a sense of purpose and dignity in the face of the horrors of war. its one of the ways to mitigate trauma and despair. i think of the dignity of the honor guards, esp. those who prepare the horse and carriage for the coffins of slain soldiers. every detail must be precise and orderly. the music played, the standing at attention. these are sacred acts, even if the ultimate cause may be doubted. I cannot imagine anyone disrespecting these rituals, and would be ashamed of myself if i did so. The president is dishonoring the dead, and dishonoring our soldiers with his lies. This, for me, is his worst moment among a multitude of worst moments. May God have mercy on his soul.
83
I agree with you, but I cannot ask God for mercy for 45*.
1
I would have recommended, but for the last sentence.
Michael.
Your words brought tears to my eyes.
Thanks.
It's important to remember with reverence those that give their lives for the rest of us.
Bless their souls.
My office has a view of Walter Reade hospital in Bethesda, MD. During Obama's tenure, the presidential helicopter made frequent landings there, and would stay for at least an hour and a half. Since Jan. 20th, I think I've seen it land once.
105
This isn’t newsworthy.
What is newsworthy is when Trump tells the truth.
25
If I saw trump walking down the street, I would cross to the other side. If he walked into my business, would ask him to leave. I would keep my children as far away from this pathological lier as possible. I am embarrassed for our country. I don't understand how any man or woman of conscience could support him, stand next to him, or in any way tolerate his presence.
234
even worse, those same people that voted for him will be back in 2018, using the same metrics and sources
45th lies for no reason. That's the way he is.
36
Trevor, He does lie for a reason. Almost invariably, it is to pump himself up and to insult everyone around him.
2
Actually, he lies for a very good reason: he is a pathological liar. This is a recognized psychological condition, and Trump shows all the markers. In a nutshell, the pathological liar lies for any reason, or no reason; whether it is to his benefit, or not. Often the truth is easily discerned, even obvious (example: inaugural crowd size). The lie may be completely disproportionate to the importance of the subject of the falsehood. Trump's chronic condition appears to be the result of profound insecurity or self-doubt. His lies are documented virtually daily. He has an overpowering need always to be the best, the most successful, the smartest, the solver of all problems, the bravest, the shrewdest, and so forth. This is a destructive condition in anyone who holds a position of responsibility, and in the president, is dangerous.
It seems Ms. Huckaby is even worse than Sean Spicer. She lies for Trump without looking embarrassed.
A successful con means that a person can lie about a color of the sky, and his supporters will hunt anyone pointing out the obvious truth before their eyes.
19
Perhaps a change in attribution is needed. Instead of “Trump said,” it should be “Trump lied” every time he makes a statement.
34
Donny's motto is, "My family first, golf second, and all that other trivial stuff dead last."
21
You are too generous. The motto actually is: "Worshipful admiration of me first, my familial accessories second, my weekly holes in one next, and all that other trivial stuff dead last."
3
No no no no no. It's "Me first . . . "
3
I think it's golf first. He spends more time with irons and putters than he does with Barron.
1
"Now, it gets to a point where, you know, you make four or five of them in one day. It’s a very, very tough day. For me, that’s by far the toughest.”
Amazing, horrifying yet not at surprising that he made it about himself. In the end, we're supposed to feel sorry for HIM! He's not just a child - he's the most self-centered, dishonest, unlikeable child in the room.
86
Sociopaths often try to make other people feel sorry for them. Pity allows them to get away with the most egregious behavior,
4
I can no longer abide President Trump's vainglorious boasts of personal infallibility, which are frequently coupled with mean-spirited, ignorant and false accusations against his predecessors, opponents, and even those who strive to serve his administration. He is unfit to be President. There's an old saying that maintains "we get the government we deserve." We don't deserve this. He must be removed, for the good of the country.
58
thank you for saying vainglorious. Its an perfect word.
2
Trump has had the indecency this morning to say that journalists should ask General Kelly if Obama called regarding his fallen son.
Nothing Trump won't say to try to dig himself out of the deep hole he lives in.
34
You know that Obama definitely called a general about his son. That's pretty high profile.
My question is whether Kelly would lie about it for Trump's sake.
1
These brave young people gave their lives for their country , yet their Commander in chief chooses to politicize and lie in order to cover up his lack of empathy and neglect in contacting their families.
This disrespect, his attack on John McCain, John Kerry and the parents of Captain Khan shows complete disrespect for those who truly serve.
You can add to that his callous Attack on the people of Peurta Rico , a community that together with other territories eg Samoa and minority groups in the USA form a disproportionate number of those who serve
Trump is beneath contempt.
70
It's not only that Trump lied. We're all pretty used to that by now, even though many of us despise it.
He used the dead bodies of American soldiers, draped with the United States flags, to manipulate and condescend thoughts aimed at Barack Obama.
Many of us believe, and let's face it, know, Donald Trump is a sick man. But what we simply cannot understand is how do the DC and all Republicans, cabinet members, generals on his staff, and other supporters allow this to go on?
John McCain has a very poor prognosis, but even he, a servant of this country for decades, has been attacked. And it was allowed. That alone should have stopped Trump in his tracks.
Trump's words are like an infection, spewing out bacteria, awaiting antibiotics, but the antibiotics are never ordered. So the infection grows and grows, and festers and festers. It manifests itself in a sickness, a plague that just continues to find its way across the country, across the world.
His statements yesterday were among the lowest he's expressed. But yet day after day, he seems to find ways to go lower, and infect and infest even further.
625
Well said.
2
Correct. He is sick, mentally. An intervention is needed soon.
1
Thank you, Leslie. You can maybe tell I think in nurse/medical terms in regard to the dangerous pathogens brought to this country by Donald Trump. If there was only a vaccine that could free us!
MIMA
1
Let's just start with he's a vindictive, cruel, pathological liar. Meanwhile, has the Republican Congress considered that if he starts a nuclear war then a tax break for the wealthiest won't matter?
40
Except that those one percenters are the people who own the armament industries so they are cheering for a war. Regular people die, they get rich.
My heart breaks for the families of these lost soldiers. I ache for them to be tortured anew by this horrible, unfit Commander in Chief. The heartbreak for them, and for our nation, continues.
37
There has not even been any explanation from the White House about what their mission is.
It is always, always about himself, even when the people for whom he is responsible die or their lives and livelihoods are uprooted - soldiers, Puerto Ricans, Houstonians, Floridians, Californians. Either it is "very tough" for him or he is doing "the best" job ever. Never does he see events through the eyes of others. He is a disgrace.
58
Trump shows the causal arrogance of a professional liar in this exchange. When will he learn that there is a difference between a real estate developer lying in a deposition which is expected and lying as the POTUS where one is expected to try and tell the truth?
21
Yes, remember how he "honored" John McCain and the Kahn family? The respect factor has been scorched by this person who I have such a hard time identifying as president.
24
Sewing seeds of doubt has helped Trump, biggly. No reason not to continue with the strategy using those recently killed in the line of duty. He's the king of he deplorables.
10
I don't believe that there was a single fallen soldier under Obama, Bush Sr/Jr, Clinton, Reagan, etc. going back as far as our Republic where the President neglected to either call, write or visit to console the family in a timely fashion. By timely, I DON'T mean two weeks later after 5 rounds of golf and 157 rounds of lying. If there is a single gold star family that has been neglected by a previous POTUS, let them speak up. So far, on social media, I haven't seen ANY.
What actually infuriates me is that Trump lies, but adds in vagaries of speech like "not all presidents did" or "that's what I was told". His supporters are trying to use this as justification for his reprehensible neglectful actions. Moreover, this lame nonsense that Trump wrote letters over the weekend and was going to mail them out soon is such an obvious lie. No letters were written, he would have ignored it completely if not called out, and now that he has been called out, he'll make an excuse. In the best case scenario, a White House flunkey will write letters he'll sign. Sorry, but starting from first grade, I made my kids write thank you notes for birthday presents in a more timely fashion.
F- for complete lack of effort, Trump.
44
Talk about FAKE NEWS!
Is our President "THE" purveyor of fake news?
I will just reiterate my favorite TRUMP quote - - "SAD!"
10
Trump's a disgusting human being. And so is Mitch for standing there and letting him lie like that. Of course, the Republicans lost all respect for human decency once Trump attacked McCain for being captured in war, and saying he was not a war hero, as well as attacking a Gold Star family.
22
The media needs to ask him directly everyday, "When will you stop lying?"
And keep asking.
And keep asking.
Until he has "liddle" feelings hurt so bad, he stops.
Which will never happen.
24
Caught flatfooted and totally unprepared, by an unexpected press question, our Fake President automatically reverted to his well practiced m.o., freely lie and cast aspersion on our former Real President. When challenged by a follow-up question to his shameless, despicable falsehood, the Chief Bully did what bullies do, he cowardly backtracked while getting entangled in his incoherence.
Trump continues to daily devolve into this dark, chaotic pit of angry, harmful, lashing out behavior, while fearful Republicans idly sit on their hands, and the common welfare of Americans is neglected.
27
Trump lies and those lies continue to become more irrational and cruel as time goes by. Unless the GOP is willing to finally stand up and say 'no more' and move to remove him from office this will continue. This is perverse and it is unacceptable. Have the Republicans really sold their souls to the highest bidders who value tax cuts and 'conservative judges' over everything else? Trump is a very damaged man enabled by a very damaged party of enablers.
16
An unintentional misstatement, even a serious one, can merit the phrase "falsely claimed" -- Trump's consistent reckless disregard for the truth or evidence for anything that comes out of his mouth earns him the rubric of liar. Put him under oath and we'll have cause for perjury charges in a half hour. Probably you wouldn't even have to ask any questions, he'd just start talking and lie soon enough.
11
Has the NY Times fact checked Trump's statement about writing to or calling the fallen soldiers' families?
Has he ever called a single family? I would be surprised if he did.
21
I agree. I'm very interested in someone getting to the bottom of that. I'd also like to hear what Mitch McConnell has to say about the incident. I'd really also like to know if a general told him that Obama did not contact the families of American troops killed in duty as he "falsely asserted" when pressed.
3
Your headline still contains the lie. Please consider something more like "Trump Misstates About Whether Obama Contacted Families of Fallen Veterans".
2
"President Trump falsely asserted ... "
Why does the Times go through such contortions to avoid saying "lied." It's not as if all the rest of us don't already know -- even most of his supporters, I think.
I don't know where our country would be without the very expensive, quality reporting this newspaper does.
But geez.
I've had enough of the turgid writing such as "falsely asserted" and all the other acrobatics to avoid calling something what it is. And not just in political writing.
I'm imagining an "Mimicking Erudition 101" handbook on the copy desk in the newsroom there. Maybe try something a little more direct.
12
"Why does the Times go through such contortions to avoid saying "lied.""....Trump sincerely believes he is great and everyone else belongs to some lesser class. Trump didn't lie. Because he believes everything he says is imparted from a higher level, he believes whatever he says must therefore be true.
2
W.A. Spitzer ...as reasonable as any other theory out there.
The best way to deal with any assertion by Trump, or his administration, is to assume it's a lie until it's substantiated by a news organisation, like the New York Times, that actually fact checks.
12
Obama visited and called all of them?
That would be nearly impossible for a head of state when you look at the number of deaths.
in 2009, 303 servicemen died in Afghanistan. 2010 was deadlier - nearly 500 (496 to be exact).
1
President Obama never claimed he visited or called every family. Your comment is a red herring. The issue is not whether President Obama contacted every family, it is why Trump constantly feels the need to lie, and why his fellow Republicans won't stand up to him.
1
Bearing false witness? Prevarication? Falsehood? Deceit? Dishonesty? Mendacity?
At what point does the New York Times finally call a lie a lie?
13
Not a big deal. He can mail the letters on his way to the golf course.
10
Most Disgraceful President Ever!
Has it been 4 years yet?
Can we trim that down?
10
Trump is ignorant and mean-spirited. It's not his fault he's in power or that he stays in power - it's the fault of those that know better that don't condemn his lies. How much longer will this go on and how much more damage can he do? If you are not one of his followers with nothing to lose then you would be one of his more affluent followers who are selling out the country for lower taxes. He's just incompetent and he is shamless.
5
He's like a 3rd grader hoping for a gold star on his report of current events.
9
Sure he'll send your son or daughter off to war without a 2nd thought but can't be bothered to offer condolences once they've given their life for their country. He's too busy golfing, blaming others or tweeting. Everyone that voted for this abomination and has a loved one in the military should be scared .... very, very scared
342
No, they should be ashamed,... very, very ashamed.
2
Since when is Trump lying "news"?
2
One more lie, just add it to the list.
Too bad the American public really doesn't seem to care, the Kool-Aid they drank was mighty potent.
13
When will Trump realize that every time he compares himself to Obama, he always, but always, comes out diminished? Give it up, Donald, stick to what you don't know.
25
Trump is a liar about everything! When will the GOP stand up to him. Trump has no ethics, intergrity or common sense.
6
Journalism question: Why does the newspaper used the convoluted phrase,"falsely claims," (a negative reversal of a positive) instead of the plain English "lie"? There must be a sufficient reason for this silliness which should be explained to us subscribers. Who on the staff can explain this to us? It's no different from other elaborate synonyms such as "prevaricate" or "dissimulate" or "calumniate." It's not a matter of impressing school dropouts or your English teacher.
30
I believe the word "lie" means a stated falsehood that was known to the person to be false when it was said. That latter intent is what separates a lie from a "falsely claims". "Falsely claims" could be a falsehood said when the utterer believed it to be true. Editors have to jump through hoops to prevent libel when intent is not known.
That's the technical/legal answer to your question. Legality aside, we all know that this is a bald faced lie.
7
Headline:
TRUMP SPEAKS THE TRUTH!
never going to happen
6
Not shock at all
...what does he says that's true????...
...what has he said that's true???...
That's Trump.... and the whole wide world knows it...
6
So is this really a surprise?The president has committed verbal outrage after verbal outrage against Barack Obama going back to his birther lie about Obama's birth certificate, all to diminish America's first black president. It's just another attention-getting comment that will play well to his racist base. If the president's very own hand-picked SOS thinks his boss is a "moron", what does that say about the 63 million people who voted for him?
11
Trump's deceit and lies occur almost on a daily basis, I think it has become apparent by now that he will continue this pattern in an effort to advance his own agenda regardless of the truth. He has made a mockery of the presidency. Soon, like Hitler, only his fanatical supporters will believe him,
8
And Senator McConnell stood by silently.
He and his party have the power to end this farce of a presidency. That they choose not to do so says as much about them as it does about Trump.
13
In all of the discussion about Trump negating his duties and moral decency regarding the death of the American soldiers - namely his not mentioning them, nor contacting the families, nobody mentions the dead Niger soldier. It's not just those leaving comments, it's the news agencies as well - this very article included.
It's normal to be centric towards your own, but on this, it's hypocritical to overlook a fallen ally without so much as a one line mention.
3
To our military, thank you for protecting our nation and its citizens. You and your families have tirelessly without question have sacrificed and continue to do so time and again. With great respect, Karen
4
"...Trump falsely asserted on Monday that his predecessor, Barack Obama, and other presidents did not contact the families of American troops killed in duty, drawing a swift, angry rebuke from Obama's..." It is not only those who served under President Obama that should be angry at yet another false accusations from Trump, but the entire nation should be. If this behavior by Trump were happening in Europe, the people would have excoriated Trump and asked him to step down. But here in the supposedly epitome of democracy and shinning light, and one that purports to be a Christian nation-- not a word of denunciation is coming from the self acclaimed gate keepers of morality, conservatism and family values--the 'moral' Republican Party, the evangelicals, and 65% Catholics who placed this guy in power. Trump is the very antithesis of Judeo- Christian teachings, including those of Islam, Buddha, or even the basis of human civility. Trump has a propensity for evil, in his thoughts, actions and deeds. Add to these; his frightening level of knowledge or even the slightest interest in acquiring it, his arrogance regarding his own superior judgment and IQ over more qualified people, including his abusive temperament are not only way beyond comprehension but put together, are extremely toxic to the people of this nation, especially our children, and to the rest of the world. How long America?
13
Seems to be trying to make a name for himself as the Anti-Christ. He probably is so confused that he thinks that the Apocalypse will start out by ArchAngel Gabriel blowing him....
1
Trump reminds me of certain students in middle school, with all the scrambling for excuses, the amusing attempts to avoid responsibility and conceal laziness, and the transparent shifting of blame. Of course, we do hope those kids grow out of this, better sooner than later. Some never do, apparently.
3
A task that would be certainly a tall order for this POTUS, to actually stop and think of someone who made the ultimate sacrifice for our country - near impossible without the capacity to understand values and actually experience empathy for others.
4
There is no doubt that Trump willingly lies in response to virtually any issue that he confronts. Of him, we should expect no more. Will he change before the end of his presidency? Not a chance, as his personal history indicates he has been a liar throughout his business life.
What is this nation doing with a President/Commander in Chief that would rather tell a lie than respond truthfully and honestly? That is an issue that we can properly respond to. Do not forget to use President Trump as an example
as you instruct your children and grandchildren as they mature in life.
5
All these claims that trump offers as truth--how would he even know? Did President Obama let him know what he did and didn't do? Is that how a White House is run? (I doubt it.)
1
Since this latest abomination includes discussion of families of the soldiers, I would like to include a question directed to the family of this seriously sick Trump. To the Trump family: At what point will you step up and acknowledge the deep mental and psychological illness your father is under, and when will you take action to remove him from the serious duties and responsibilities he is so incapable of fulfilling? It is incumbent upon you, as his close family, to take the first steps in seeking dedicated medical/psychological treatment for his profound illness. By neglecting to do so, you are doing your own father a serious dis-service, and as a by-product, you are endangering the health and safety of a nation and possibly the world due to those responsibilities he is supposed to be addressing, but cannot. If you have any sense of decency and respect, at the very least for your own father, please take action to remove him from his public position and provide a safe and supportive institutional environment where he may possibly have an opportunity to heal at least a bit of his very serious illnesses. Even though you have, to this point, shown no interest in, or concern for, the country's wellbeing, you can at least grow into your own duties as adult children...for his sake if no-one else's.
3
"The letter is in the mail."
It's a rather standard lie. Normal people say it to bill collectors. President Trump says it to the families of soldiers.
22
But several officials said it was not always realistic to expect presidents to call the families of every fallen soldier.
7
He waited two weeks to mention them or their families, much less call anybody.
7
John on nothing: I'm afraid I don't understand the point you're making.
it sounds like you're defending Trump on the basis of an assumption that Trump said this:
"Unlike past presidents, I will call the family of every fallen soldier."
But no, he didn't say anything like that. His initial statement was that Obama and other presidents DIDN"T MAKE [any] CALLS (the implication being that Trump is the first president to make even one call to the families of fallen soldiers).
Here's the facts as related in the article:
1. Trump claimed that unlike past presidents, who never made calls or wrote letters to the families of fallen soldiers, he has done so and will continue to do so "when appropriate."
2. Trump lied (if you wish to be excessively cautious, you may say that Trump made a mistake, rather than that he "lied." Personally, I think the vast accumulation of evidence, not only from his presidency but from his life back to reported incidents of lying in elementary school, supports the claim that he lied)
3. ALL past presidents have written (some) and called families of fallen soldiers.
But perhaps you weren't defending Trump - you were simply trying to get some clarity.
I hope that helped.
2
Perhaps when there are 100s, but not when there are only 4.
1
When my brother Tom (Thomas F. Shaw) was killed in Vietnam along with his Huey copilot and two Korean soldiers in the An Khe pass, April 27, 1972, President Nixon wrote a letter to his widow, his 18 month son, and my parents offering his condolences. So other Presidents have personally recognized fallen service members, as President Obama has as well with obvious heartfelt sorrow. Tom was a member of the 129th Assault Helicopter Company who over the course of the Vietnam War lost many servicemen. Our family is forever grateful to Tom’s hooch-mate, Warrant Officer Jim Crigler, who brought Tom’s body back in a flag draped coffin, and has stayed close to the family ever since. Jim told me that Tom would have been President of the Vietnam veterans against the world if he didn’t give his ultimate sacrifice at age 24. His name is on panel 1972, sixth line from the top in DC. All Presidents should hold the memories & sacrifices of the young American soldiers & sailors who are killed in a special place in their hearts.
23
Your pride in and love for your fallen brother brings him to life for me. Thank you.
7
I meant "Vietnam Veterans Against the War", not world. When Tom was alive, in college, he and I didn't have cell phones with "auto-incorrect". Tom would call home with a dime and "reverse the charges" or keep plugging the phone booth phone with multiple dimes. Either way he got to talk to his future wife, or our parents, and felt he was "home" with the sound of their voices.
1
Those who do stand next to him probably tell themselves they are doing it for the good of the country. They are lying to themselves, and deep down, they know it.
3
The words and actions taken by the Commander in Chief are more than his usual petty lies and grandiose self-praise. Not only did he make the tragedy of the loss of four soldiers about himself, but then instead of admitting his fault of not contacting the victim's families in a timely manner, he lashed out and blatantly lied about his predecessors. Stop calling his actions false claims or false statements. He lied. He also knows that nothing will happen to him because he lied. It's a disgrace to the history of the presidency and the office of our founding fathers for him to continually lie and attack others. The focus of this tragedy should be on the fallen and the issues surrounding Niger, not how difficult it is for him to call the families of the fallen. Twelve days after the incident (and five rounds of golf later), do not say you'll get to calling "at some point".
523
Very well said. It is amazing how Trump can always turns things around to make it about himself. In this case, when we are supposed to be honoring the fallen victims of war. Your comments are right on the mark. The Trump Presidency is a very sad chapter in American history.
3
Trump NEVER tells the truth!
I'm surprised hjs nose didn't grow so big (Pinocchio) as to drop off his lying face.
14
Gepetto would need the General Grant Sequoia to carve it.
2
Why the surprise? Trump insulted and disrespected a Gold Star family BEFORE he was elected. Not to mention maligning a genuine American hero, who endured captivity and torture. If Trump could sink so low and GET ELECTED, why should he change once he's President.
Aren't Americans tired of being outraged by a man who was outrageous before they elected him? Did anybody honestly think that Trump would rise to the occasion? No, he's dragged the presidency down to his subterranean level.
54
Laura174, You are correct. I was thinking of posting a comment and then I saw your comment. Well said! Thanks.
4
I am going to choose to believe that our already great country is stronger than any one president. That those around this president who have deep, honest care and concern for all of us, will step up and do the jobs we elected them to do. That they too want their own families safe and understand that their lack of action, will place them in jeopardy, like the rest of us. We cannot control hurricanes and fires but we can contain the madness that this president dishes out on a daily basis.
8
Wow. Just wow. What next?
“My predecessors may not actually have been elected. I don’t know. I’m only going by what I’ve heard. I’ll have to ask my aides.”
“My predecessor may have been a space alien brought here to end humanity. I don’t know. I’m just going by what I’ve heard.”
This is the stuff that proves Trump’s inadequacy, indecency and insecurity. It’s the main vehicle by which we publicly see that he will never, ever change and become a President who will raise our standing rather than lower our standards.
31
Exactly! Trump is very aware of what he is doing: offers lies that he knows will be believed by many who choose not to read deeper into the issue. When called out about the lie, he defrays responsibility to aides, generals, anyone around him.
"I don't know if he did... I was told he didn't often... All I can do is ask my generals."
3
I was in Boston last week. For the second time, I had the opportunity to spend time at the JFK Lbrary. As all humans and presidents, JFK had his shortcomings. However, when I reflected that he wrote Profiles in Courage (at the age of 38) while recovering from surgery for injuries that he received while defending our country, (no heel spurs for him) and he also wrote Why England Slept, clearly demonstrating a keen intellect and a respect and knowledge of history. His restrained and competant handling of the Cuban Missle Crisis in contrast to Trumps' tweets and taunts is chilling. The contrast of that with the toxic words and actions of Donald Trump, literally brought me to tears.
I have never been embarrassed to be an American, but how does one respond to people from England and Norway who were visiting the Library, and both asked the exact same question, "what is wrong with your country, how did Trump become president?" The Brits said that they have their own issues with Brexit, but at least Theresa May is not deranged.
We can only hope that Trump, Steve Bannon and his ilk are soundly defeated.
68
Doesn't matter to the trump supporters. It's the cult of trump - he tells them what to say and think, and they abide without question.
Reality is that trump disparaged a Gold Star family on national TV, dodged military himself, and played golf while soldiers lost their lives.
Does reality even matter to some people ?
24
Of all of Donald Trump's serial calumnies against President Barack Obama, this slur has to rank among the bottom. An American president has forever disgraced himself and his office--but not the man to whom the lie was destined.
The American president doubles as the commander-in-chief. When John F. Kennedy held the office, he hand-wrote personal letters of condolence to the families of the fallen soldier. This grievous task, as American involvement in wars grew, became impractical (see: Johnson, Lyndon Baines; Nixon, Richard Milhous; Bush, pere et fils).
Mr. Obama did all he could possibly do to assuage the grief of surviving parents and siblings of those who made the last sacrifice for their country. For a sitting president to disparage, to blatantly savage the duties of his several predecessors speaks not only to his meanness of spirit but to a paucity of goodness in his narrow and petty soul.
He has trashed every American, in absentia, for having placed his or her life on the line, something Donald Trump, as a much younger man, refused to do. When the colors called, he raced the other way, leaving the hard duty to others, a trait that is now a signature of his abysmal tenure as "president."
How can America be proud of him? How can serving men and women be confident of his authority?
52
SOXARERED 04 0713You are so right. I remember President Obama comforting the families and almost weeping, as I am now remembering all that sadness
3
Here's a simple, foolproof test to determine if Trump is telling the truth.
If one or more of the following are true, then Trump is lying:
1) He uses the phrase "just so you understand."
2) He uses the phrase "believe me."
3) He uses the phrase "people are saying that."
4) He uses an unquantifiable superlative (e.g. "most successful").
5) He uses a quantifiable superlative (.e.g. "biggest electoral college win").
6) The statement in question appears in a tweet from "@realDonaldTrump."
7) His lips are moving.
Feel free to try it at home. Never fails.
64
I'm past venting about his vile behavior. Instead, I'm trying to focus on the legislation being introduced, quietly, that we're missing because we're focusing on this vulgar carnival barker. Also, those who voted for him bear at least as much responsibility for the damage he is doing now. Those who have been voting GOP for years bear responsibility for the damage the GOP has been doing for years. Their ignorance, complacency, laziness, mean-spiritedness, greed, and bigotry--in whatever combination--has brought us to this sorry state of affairs.
29
trump lied ..again. print that. his supporters will understand that.
6
I'm a military mom. If, Good Lord forbid, the unthinkable were to happen, I would reject any phone call, visit, or letter from this person who does not deserve the title of Commander-in-Chief.
50
For the thousandth time, they are not "your" generals. They are OUR generals, and their oath is to the Constitution, not to you.
82
When I was a young man my father taught me to beware those who seek to appear taller by lopping off the heads of anyone standing near them.
Trump's pathology was on clear display once again as he made up the lie on the spot. When called out on it by a reporter he quickly shifted the blame as all cowards do, muttering his customary excuse that he didn't really know if the extraordinarily offensive lie he just told was actually true or not...but hey don't blame me, someone told me this, I just pass this stuff on, I'm not actually responsible for what I say.
826
Mr. Bantree,
Thank-you, sir, for writing "Trump's pathology."
Pathology - a mental, social, or linguistic abnormality or malfunction.
What irreparable damage must this man do before members of Congress stop rationalizing the fact that our country and the world is in the hands of a dangerous mind?
1
Yes, and you use the correct word to describe the man: pathology. The man should be under psychiatric observation, and definitely not be permitted to remain in office.
Mima have replied to other good comments,you are exactly right my sentiments exactly on McCain.Good Job.
Once again our president manages to claim the lower ground.
22
I agree with others here: If I had lost a child, husband, or wife while they were serving, the last person I would want to hear would be Trump. His voice would be a dishonor their service, as his jingoism has nothing to do with patriotism, and everything to do with stoking his ego and lining his pockets. He shouldn't be allowed to utter the names of fallen soldiers, much less spread his stench to the families.
33
I think intentional lying by a president is an impeachable offense. Let's investigate which of his generals told him previous presidents did not contact families of fallen soldiers. When they all deny it, he obviously lied. Or is mentally deranged and either way, unfit to serve and impeachable.
8
We should not forget that Trump attacked a Gold Star family for criticizing him. This act alone tells us what he thinks about families that sacrificed a child in defense of the United States.
I also do not need any further evidence that Trump is a classic case of Narcissistic Personality Disorder.
9
The NYT should have a special section at the top of each edition that is "Trump' Lastest Lies". Make it crystal clear that he lies constantly and relentlessly about everything. A day would not pass without material! Put it in his face that we are not falling for any of it.
22
When 45 speaks, it brings to mind the hackneyed joke about lawyers. To paraphrase: How do you know he's lying? His mouth is moving.
18
All anyone needs to know about Donald Trump, is on the day word came about death of the 4 Green Berets in Niger 12 days ago, he was playing golf at his country club and he never mentioned it, tweeted about it or publicly paid tribute to them, instead his first commenting on their sacrifice was prodded by a reporters question.....12 days later.
Donald Trump has proven himself to be nothing more than a shameless liar and self promotor and nothing more; Donald Trump is a National Embarrassment, just what Colin Powell said last year.
86
A new low.
And I’m betting his staff started scrambling around to get letters written.
There is always a lie, and it’s always about him. Pathetic.
38
One lie after another.
The master of deception and deceit.
Trump softened his tone the second time he was asked the question regarding President Obama contacting the family of servicemen and woman killed in action.
"I don't know if he did."
If you don't know, why did you say what you said??
Donald J. Trump one gigantic LIABILITY to the United States of America.
22
Trump said that Obama and Bush never contacted the families of dead service people because it's all about Trump. Trump hates Obama so he'll always lie about him to try to make Obama look worse. Trump loves himself above everyone else so he will always lie about himself to make himself look better. Trump, the narcissist, can't recognize truth. I also think is hatred of Barack Obama has to do with the fact of Barack Obama is black. Trumps father was a member of the clue Klux Klan. Trump's real estate company was found guilty in the 1970's of discrimination in rentals against African Americans.
9
Since the soldiers died, he's golfed five times ... five.
29
Our President is frequently ignorant, and doesn't know it. For him, and so for us, sort of an unknown unknown.
109
He only "knows" what he wants to know. He only thinks what he wants to believe.
if it were only ignorance. The real trouble is we don't know what the problem is.
Bill , can I add that he's not only frequently ignorant but that he simply does't care. He has gotten away with bluffing for so long that he he feels immune but everything always comes to a full circle, not today, not tomorrow but eventually.
Falsely claims??? Seriously? Can't we just call him a liar? He lied. He lies all the time. Call a spade a spade please.
22
Could this headline please read, "Trump lies again, this time about ...."
19
For someone that cares so much about the military, he sure does a great job of trying to get them killed. They are soldiers before they get KIA.
10
Isn't it time to call his lie a lie ("says, falsely" ???). It's a daily occurrence with this con man-child.
14
Why doesn’t this headline read ‘Trump lies about...?’
Stop tiptoeing. It’s not a false claim. It’s a lie. Period.
23
Headline: "Trump Falsely Claims ... "
End of that story. And every other story emanating from the White House.
9
Trump must be cudgeled, at the very moment he lies, by the press each & every time.
The drum beat of calling him out needs to grow louder and louder and louder.
This pathetic, deeply flawed & destructive person has tragically (for America & the world) gotten to be where he is because he wasn't shut down years ago.
It's more than time . . .
16
He lies. It's what he does. He's a liar. His supporters voted for him because of it, not despite it.
17
Trump supporters are like everyone else. They heard what they wanted to hear. The way that they different is that they didn't bother to think about whether Trump's assertions could be true or investigate the truth of Trump's assertions at all.
1
Trump: Untethered to Reality.....Unhinged.
8
This from a Vietnam draft dodger who insults POWs, attacks a Gold Star family and goes golfing when the coffins arrive. I never thought the bar could go any lower for Trump but I now realize there is no bar. Trump has no soul. He is an empty bag full of lies and braggadacio.
30
"says, falsely" "falsely claims" = "lies"
11
"I was told...(followed by a despicable lie that pops into his head as a default)". "They said...(same default lie process)". Our national disgrace the Liar in Chief of the United States was also most likely lying about having already written letters to the deceased Green Berets.
10
Trump is a disgrace. A man with honor does not lie as he does.
12
Again, DT using lies in his attempt to demean others while he puffs up his chest to tell everyone how great he is. It is outrageous that he is using lies and Gold Star families to once again puff up his chest. He is disgusting.
13
he word is lied. He lied about Obama. It may get repetitive having to use it in every headline, but call it what it is. Lies. Lies. And then more Lies.
16
PATHETIC.
But then we all knew that before he was elected.
For those of you who actually voted for this narcissist who is shredding the fabric of America to shreds, look in the mirror. He is a reflection of you;
A Harvey Weinstein predator and draft dodging, foul mouthed, vindictive, liar of a man who is everything Americans say they are not but in reality seem to be...
At least when judged by the hateful CHINO (CHristian In Name Only) they have elected to lead them.
30
Why NYT no longer put out the statistic of his lying? Every lie is a news and is a insult to the moral and compassion of descent human being.
NO one wants to grow up to be a president anymore, POTUS has become a symbol of bulling, no dignity, no integrity, and vail racism.
12
“Trump falsely claims......” So, nothing new, then. Some day the NYT may get to publish a headline stating “Trump tells the Truth” , now that would be real news, but I’m not holding my breath waiting for it.
11
The Draft Dodger in Chief couldn’t interrupt his golf game and meaningless tirade against the NFL to write letters to the fallen. He has priorities.
And then he had lo lie about Obama to cover up his neglect.
Par for the course.
“Values Voters”’ ?
27
Mr. Trump far far exceeded former president Obama, who only wrote personal letters to dead soldiers.
Mr. Trump actually sent rolls of paper towels. And not just any paper towels, the greatest double strength paper towels.
10
... he wrote letters but hadn't mailed them yet?
That's even better than "the dog ate my homework".
Or "Mitch McConnell and I are working together."
Or "I will restore coal miner's jobs."
You know he's lying when his lips are moving.
73
...or "the check's in the mail?"
4
At some point, President Obama has to speak up against this disgraceful and disgusting man passing as President. Every day he engages in insulting and degrading former President Obama, blaming him for everything under the stars. President Obama never disrespected the Office and nation he served, always dignified never stooping to the level that this abomination stoops to daily. He is just devoid of any respect for anyone, devoid of empathy, devoid of care for others. The worst specimen of a human being is what he is, selfish, uncaring, dishonest, and totally engrossed into himself and his psychotic ego. Republicans had 16 other candidates to choose from and they picked the very worst one they could, a liar, a con man, a man without morals and values, and one that would be the worst to represent our nation here and abroad. This is something out of a real horror show and threatens our very existence as a nation. He must be impeached and removed as every day that he remains in office subjects America, our democracy, and it's people to peril and risk. Congress needs to do their duty which is to protect it's citizens and country from harm, even from this man.
63
Write them a letter? Given the depth of his empathy, I assume he'd just...tweet.
26
His "brilliant" staff writes the letters -- he just signs, just like his executive orders!
6
The trouble is not that Trump lies, he's lied since the beginning, lies almost daily and we all know this.
The problem is that any Trump lie becomes processed through the Hannity, Limbaugh machine of "explanation using convoluted logic", false references, then thoroughly justified with more false lies and then spit out for the Trump base to swallow.
And swallow they do, with childish naivety. At this point, a discussion is impossible because the base has been so thoroughly conditioned (over 20 years) to accept what they hear from these propagandists without question.
This is far more disturbing to me than anything the Trump machine produces.
849
Gaucho....I fully agree. It’s Trump’s base that concerns me the most.
6
Yes. This is it exactly. Because of Hannity, Fox and Friends, and Limbaugh there is no course correction. It just gets worse. And he doesn't just use these media outlets, he gets his sense of what is real from them. It's like an elderly man being told he's 19 so often he believes it, and then all of his underlings treat him as 19 and say publicly he's 19. That's how Trump conducts himself, with disastrous results for nearly everyone, his base included.
7
Gaucho you have hit the source of this anger which started with Rush and evolved to the TV network.
3
Trump Falsely Claims Obama Didn’t Contact Families of Fallen Troops.
If brevity is the soul of wit, the headline should read: “Trump lies, again.”
26
Obama's former deputy chief of staff Alyssa Mastromonaco tweeted that this is a lie & Trump's "a deranged animal."
I have a friend whose grandson lost his legs after stepping on an IED in Afghanistan the 1st week he was deployed there as a Marine. President Obama visited him twice when he was a patient in Walter Reed. The family was very impressed w/ Obama's kindness & sensitivity to the entire family. They're conservative Republicans but can never say enough about what a fine human being Barack Obama is. My friend described him repeatedly as "a great man."
I was opposed to almost all of George W. Bush's policies but admired the way he conducted himself as a human being on 9/11 & dealing with people's suffering. Bush was a terrible president in terms of policy but an obviously decent man capable of personal kindness.
Both of these men were temperamentally fit to be President. Neither is a perfect person but we never had to be ashamed when we observed their capacity for empathy & decency.
Trump's a rotten soulless monster. It's a disaster this pathologically disturbed man became President. Installed by the Kremlin, a stinking byproduct of the electoral college, a gross expression of racism by the far right. Whatever.
Trump's despicable.
Whatever he is, he is fouling the office every single day.
It's horrifying that Trump would tell such a grotesque life. If he'll lie about this, which is completely false and so indecent, what won't Trump lie about?
372
You're spot on. Watch the memorial for the fallen Dallas police officers (if you can get through it) to see the compassion of those two men. Now imagine Trump there. To quote Dana Carvey quoting GHWB, "Not gonna happen."
6
Calling Trump "a deranged animal" is an insult to deranged animals. He's far worse than that. Animals are not generally considered responsible for their actions. Trump is supposed to be a human being, and thus a responsible agent.
1
It's time repugnantklans to exercise the 25th amendment. There is a cancer on the presidency