I listened this morning to General John Kelly give an impassioned “speech” at the podium of the White House press secretary where he lamented that, in his mind, pretty much nothing is sacred in America anymore.  As I listened to him I had to wonder “how can you be working for Donald Trump with those feelings?”  Does he not see that the issues which prompted him being brought to the podium to castigate the Florida representative who was in the limo with the wife and parents of one of the fallen soldiers who died recently in Niger were the result of Trump’s own precocity to LIE – virtually, ALL the time?

According to Kelly, he was the one who coached Trump into saying, “Well, he knew what he was getting into (or what he signed up for – I can’t remember), but it still must hurt.”  Of course, the family members and the representative didn’t take that as an empathetic comment while they were receiving the coffin of their loved one in a casket that could not be opened.  (The soldier’s body was found two days after the troops were attacked – in a circumstance which is still not totally clear).  And, General Kelly had pent up disrespect for this congress person – evidently, resulting in her actions during the dedication of an FBI building in Florida back in 2015.  Apparently, she did something akin, from the perspective of those in the military and FBI, to Trump’s fiasco in front of the sacred wall of the CIA shortly after he was sworn in as our so-called president.  (Although, there are multiple reports suggesting Kelly’s allegations were unfounded – honestly, Kelly’s remarks show why it’s a rare occurrence for a General to be president – or even a president’s chief of staff)

General Kelly was very sincere in his remarks and came across, at least to me, as someone who’s frustrated with the direction of America – over the past many years.  And, I have to add, I have no problem with suggesting that members of Congress do despicable things – Kelly suggested it was terrible for the congress person to listen in on this call from Trump – but, the reality is she was in the limo when the call was made and the soldier’s wife put the phone on “speaker.”  I’m not sure how she could avoid listening in.  Maybe Kelly is suggesting the wife of the fallen soldier should have taken the call at another time?  That doesn’t seem plausible to me.

I gathered that Kelly was trying to “calm the storm” that was created when his boss, as he has a tendency to do, used Barack Obama to get himself out of what, apparently, he feels is a “pickle.”  Keep in mind, Trump is the type of person who will NEVER admit to making a mistake – he’s constantly looking for positive feedback about his own performance – AND if he doesn’t get it from those around him, he’ll give it to himself.  He LIED about how Obama dealt with those who died in action.  Keep in mind, Obama inherited a REAL mess (if you remember, Trump claimed he inherited a “mess” – more on that LIE in a bit) and over two thousand troops died during his two terms in office.  It would be impractical to think that President Obama would call the families of each soldier.  There’s a protocol about how all of the notifications and who makes the calls that General Kelly outlined this morning.  Obama didn’t call Kelly when his own son was killed and Kelly was quick to say, that was not a negative.

So, all Trump had to do on Monday when he was asked about the four soldiers killed in Niger was to tell the truth.  Like, there’s a protocol on how to deal with this and he’s in the midst of taking care of it.  I really don’t know what he SHOULD have said, but another unfounded attack on his predecessor – and, I think it REALLY bothers Trump that President Obama is much more popular than he is and MOST people consider Obama a MUCH better president – was the absolute wrong way to answer the question.  (Of course, there’s many republicans who despise Obama – Trump included – and, I’ve always maintained many of them do so because of the color of his skin – but, I digress….)  So, what I’m saying here is – despite General Kelly’s impassioned speech to the contrary – this ENTIRE episode was self inflicted by Trump.

And, as Kelly was going through things that SHOULD be sacred and lamented that the death of a soldier should NEVER be politicized (that’s me trying to paraphrase the gist of his remarks – apologies for any error) – and, I have to say, I agree with him – however, his boss ignited the controversy.  It sounded as if Kelly was trying to coach Trump through the process of calling the families of these four “heroes” and he, himself, gave Trump the words that ended up being so controversial.  Those words, in my mind, would sound much different coming from a soldier’s commanding officer than the president who NEVER served and found ways to avoid serving during Viet Nam.

And, I have to say that technically – at least in my mind, I’ve never served – BUT, in 1967 I did enlist in the Marines – what was then called the PLC or “Platoon Leader Corp” – during my junior year in college.  I had been brainwashed into believing the Viet Nam war was necessary to save us all from “communism.”  I was allowed to complete my junior year of college and then reported, I thought, to head to “boot camp” in Quantico, Virginia.  However, the Marine doctor took one look at the scar on my left knee (football injury from high school), had it x-rayed and said to me, “Son, if the Red Chinese were marching down Broadway in Portland, we wouldn’t take you” and, I was given a medical discharge.  I’m only saying this because I tried to serve and then witnessed 13 of my high school classmates die from action in Viet Nam.  (and, we had a very small high school)

I don’t believe ANY of us enlisted (or, back then, in some cases were drafted) with the idea of dying for our country.  Yes, you knew it was a possibility, but what was in our heads (or at least mine) was to FIGHT for my country and it’s values.  (which, by the way, I feel I’m doing on occasion as I vent my frustration – which obviously comes in a different form than Kelly’s – with the direction of the country I love)  So, I can totally understand why a grieving wife would take offense to someone like Trump saying “He knew what he signed up for” under these terrible circumstances.  Just the FACT that General Kelly was sent out to “clarify” all this just further confirms Trumps inability to “own” mistakes and an unwillingness to NEVER admit he’s wrong.

General Kelly came across to me as a fine man – someone who has genuinely committed his life to serving America – he called those in the military the finest 1%.  I’d love to be able to have breakfast with him and have an extended conversation about his frustrations and then have him explain to me why he’s enabling Donald Trump.  I “get” that his sense of duty is strong, but in his remarks, for example, he lamented how “at one time women were sacred.”  Of course, my interpretation of those remarks may be different than the meaning he was intending, but the first thought that went through my head was, “have you heard the Access Hollywood tapes?”

And, when he lamented that “at one time ‘Religion’ was sacred in America” – as a Christian myself, I just didn’t understand how to interpret that comment.  To me what has ALWAYS been sacred in America is the “Freedom of religion” – or, from the standpoint of many – the “freedom FROM religion.”  To me, one of the main reasons I continue to write my frustrations on this blog stems from the reality that “Christians” are the base of the republican party and, just as in Nazi Germany back in the 30’s when it was the “conservative Christians” who were Hitler’s base, it’s almost like deja vu all over again in America with Trump.  And, to me, Trump’s attempts to show he’s a believer almost make me sick to my stomach.  It’s possible, maybe since his “2 Corinthians” fiasco at, of all places, Liberty University – maybe he’s become a believer – but, as they say, the “proof is in the pudding” and I’ve seen none of Trump’s actions to cause me to believe that’s true.

And, for those who are offended by any comparison to the Third Reich – check your history.  Hitler’s campaign slogan was “Make Germany Great Again.”  The “Big Lie Theory” that republicans and their media enablers like Fox “news” and Rush Limbaugh have been “married to” for years is the work of Joseph Goebbels, the chief propagandist of the Third Reich.  Additionally, if you didn’t notice, many of those “fine people” – as Trump referred to the protesters carrying Tiki Torches in Charlottesville – were wearing Nazi armbands and carrying Nazi flags.  Do you need more?  Well, how about this – in one of Trump’s campaign stops he had the audience giving the “heil” salute to get their promise of loyalty to his campaign.  Is that not enough?  Recently Milo Yiannopoulus, a Breitbart associate of Steve Bannon, and a group of his “friends” – including Richard Spencer who’s the “money” behind much of the “White Nationalist” movement in America and a strong financial backer of Trump – were kicked out of a bar because, while Yiannopoulus was apparently “lip singing” Spencer and the rest were giving the “heil Hitler” salute.  Maybe they were joking.  Personally, I don’t find any of this funny.

I’ve heard that Kelly and General Mattis and Rex Tillerson (and, maybe others) are committed to protecting the rest of us from any irrational foreign policy decisions Trump may or may not make.  Most people who bring this up do so in a way to suggest “we the people” should be comforted by this.  Personally, it’s not that comforting.  When we have a president who’s an unbelievable NARCISSIST, who’s inept at the job he has, and who has a CLEAR authoritarian personality (I mean, those around the world he admires are the DICTATORS – like Vladimir Putin) I get no comfort in thinking the “check” to Trump is a group of Generals.  While listening to Kelly today made me admire him in the sense that he’s a genuinely good man, I don’t have a lot of confidence in his political IQ – or his ability to understand the world as it exists today.  Sounded to me as if he was longing for years gone by.  My advice to him would be “stay out of politics.”  And, making the kinds of characterizations of the Congress person from Florida – while serving as Trump’s chief of staff – would be better kept personal and private.  The part I didn’t like about Kelly’s remarks was that he appeared to be politically inept and ill informed – or, maybe just trying to live in the past.  Either way, he better serves his position by not allowing himself to be used in the way he was used in this instance.

Final Thought:  I said above I’d elaborate on Trump’s comments that he “inherited a mess.”  Like just about EVERYTHING he says, he’s a LIAR.  And, in this instance, you can use his own words to clarify.  If you remember, during the campaign he blasted the economic jobs reports and the reports about the unemployment numbers consistently IMPROVING during the last 7 years of Obama’s term.  The MESS was what Bush/Cheney left for Obama to clean up – which happened thanks to the “stimulus” package which was passed shortly after President Obama took the oath of office.  Additionally, Obama used some of the TARP “bailout” money that Bush/Cheney intended for Wall Street and SAVED the auto industry – SAVING over a MILLION jobs in the process – these were REAL jobs saved – not imaginary jobs saved as Trump has claimed numerous times since taking office.  In fact, Trump has claimed credit for several jobs saving measures that were in place well before he took office.  Once in office, the jobs reports and employment statistics – which continued almost EXACTLY as Obama left them – became something Trump willingly took credit for.

As I’ve said numerous times on this site, in the first year in office a president is “saddled” with the policy of the previous administration.  So, all Trump’s bragging so far this year about the jobs and Wall Street, etc. are the results of the economy President Obama left for him.  It all has LITTLE to do with Trump – although, most people suggest Wall Street surged in anticipation of HUGE tax cuts for the wealthy and reduced environmental and economic restrictions.  Anyone who’s paying attention knows that Wall Street is a HUGE gambling casino and it’s all about the MONEY and NOT about what’s best for “Main Street.”  Apparently, republicans are able to pass their budget which will cut almost $2 TRILLION from Medicare and Medicaid in order to fund their HUGE tax cuts for the rich.  (Months ago I told anyone visiting this site that “tax reform” would be HUGE tax cuts for the top 1% and that’s EXACTLY what’s happening – Democrats SHOULD be raising Holy Hell over this)

The actual “Trump effect” on the economy will be known by this time next year – if history is any indication and republicans succeed in this tax cut – they’ll be again saying “Ronald Reagan proved deficits don’t matter.”  (they won’t matter until there’s a democrat in the “White House” again – which will likely be in 2020)

As far as “foreign policy” – by the time Trump took office, the Obama administration (and, of course the military) had ISIL on the run.  Mosul was close to being re-taken by the Iraqi’s along with their American “advisers.”  The program of using special forces around the globe to fight the terrorists along with Drone technology was well advanced.  I’ve seen nothing to indicate that Trump is doing anything but following the lead of Obama with whatever “tweaks” to the policy that General Mattis has put in place.  Maybe they’ve made gains.  Mattis is well respected.  But, the reality is there’s FAR fewer Americans in “harms way” than when President Obama inherited two unwinnable and poorly thought out occupations.  It’s true he didn’t get all the troops home “on his watch” – but, the TRUTH is it was President Obama who inherited a MESS.  To me, as I’ve watched Trump in action I would say he’s CREATING a MESS!  I’ve often lamented about the “damage” he might do as our so-called president and, it’s in the area of foreign policy where the DAMAGE may end up being the most difficult to recover from once he’s out of office – especially if he makes it to the end of his first term.

It’s like the “stuff” is never ending with the Trump “White House” and it’s looking clearer and clearer that Bob Mueller is going to get through the “stuff” and Trump is going to be in a “world of hurt” when Mueller’s investigation is made public AND these cowering republicans are really going to be on the spot.  Do they follow their oath and do what’s right or do they try to placate Steve Bannon to avoid a “primary challenge?” (From a “White Nationalist for that matter – what has this country come to???)  Today’s “drama:”  Trump’s battle with the “gold star” families and his LIES about President Obama and Obama’s predecessors AND Jeff Sessions testifying in front of the Senate Judiciary Committee.

Let’s start with Sessions.  His testimony SHOULD have been routine – because, after all, it’s the Senate Judiciary Committee which has the obligation for “oversight” of the Justice Department of which Sessions is the “head” – as Attorney General.  Well, of course, Sessions’ testimony was anything but routine.  From my perspective Sessions did the very same thing he did during his confirmation hearings – he LIED to Congress.  His answers to questions relating to the “Russia thing” and his involvement made little sense.  (Trump was “tweeting” in “real time” during the testimony so I have a feeling it was orchestrated as well as these inept Russian dupes – Trump and Sessions – are capable)  And, his own characterization of his own testimony was confusing at best.

Sessions repeatedly refused to answer questions relating to his conversations with Trump despite no claim of “executive privilege” – which, from the lawyers I’ve listened to, would be easily challenged in court if the Committee had the will to do so.  Of course, the chairman of the committee is Chuck Grassley who’s doing everything he can to BLOCK the Russia investigation as if their attack on our most fundamental values means nothing.  In fact, Sessions himself stated there’s NO Justice Department investigation into what the Russians did and there’s NO plan to STOP them from doing it again.  (Evidently, republicans are counting on the Russians to help them keep control of Congress in 2018 – which, considering the stupidity of so many American voters, just may be possible.) (And, go ahead Lars Larsen, call me an “elite liberal” again – as you’re one of the “water carriers” that keep so many Americans in ignorant bliss)

Sessions came across himself as a bit short “upstairs” as he was fumbling through any of the pointed questions designed to get “straight answers.”  The thought of him at the helm of the Justice Department makes me a bit queezy in the stomach AND knowing they’re doing NOTHING to prevent this type of ATTACK in the future is UNACCEPTABLE.  All Americans should be angry when they hear this stuff – republican, democrat, and independent.  Can you hear the republican uproar if President Obama had been elected because of outside interference – no matter where it came from?

The Russians were helping Trump – and, apparently there were Americans helping the Russians help Trump (do you think they were affiliated with the campaign?).  The Russians, as reported more than once by people who follow Russia’s media, think they actually swung the election Trump’s way.  Of course, there was also a plethora of “voter suppression” scams that affected key battleground states – states like North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Michigan, and Wisconsin that could have, by themselves, made the difference in those states – all decided by small to “razor thin” margins.  I heard in one report that Wisconsin republicans succeeded in disenfranchising over 350,000 potential voters – with the target being democratic leaning demographics.  And, I have to add, democrats oblivious to it all because “Hillary was going to win.”

So, why isn’t the Justice Department, the foundation of American liberty, FIGHTING to make sure that foreigners CAN’T affect our elections and EVERY American who wants to vote has the RIGHT to vote?  Well, as republicans have famously said, “The fewer people who vote, the better we do.”  Maybe their new “mantra” will be “the more Russian influence in the election the better we do.”  I have to believe the ultimate person who will determine who did what and who needs to be held accountable for their words and actions will be Bob Mueller.  And, from what I can tell, he means business and he’s not going to be intimidated by ANYONE including our so-called president – Donald Trump.

Sessions testimony and his alleged LYING to Congress (again – or so it appeared to me and others) SHOULD have “ruled the day.”  But, NO, Trump just won’t have that.  As he’s done so many times he finds a way to change the subject and get just about everyone arguing about something else to get the topic off of Russia.  Trump’s diversion?  Well, yesterday, as I wrote just last night, Trump insulted the wife of one of the soldiers who was killed in Niger when he FINALLY called her – more than likely as a result of a question at a Rose Garden impromptu news conference on Monday – where he accused President Obama (always Trump’s fallback target when he has to make up a story – remember: “Obama wiretapped Trump Tower, Sad”) of not calling the families of “fallen soldiers.”

Trump was challenged on that assertion in real time – he was “outed” – so he went to his “secondary” story telling strategy (that he always uses – remember the “Birther movement?”  Trump would say, “I don’t know if he was born here, I’ve just heard that.  Why doesn’t he show his birth certificate?”) when he then said, “well I don’t know, it’s just what I’ve been told” as if that would make his LYING true.  Of course, Trump is never satisfied with his LIES (reminds me of a sign we had at my school – I was a sixth grade teacher – at the Principal’s office – “Tell the truth, there’s less to remember”) and he just gets deeper and deeper.  Why?  Because he’s INCAPABLE of admitting a mistake – which would have been the honest answer to the initial question.  In this instance he then, inexplicably, referenced the son of his chief of staff General Kelly who died in Afghanistan and said, “ask General Kelly if Obama called him.”  As if, General Kelly wants to re-open that terrible wound.

This approach is similar to sixth grade behavior – when a student would clearly do something that required some form of discipline or accountability – we’d call it a “teaching moment” – many would invariably defend their abhorrent behavior by saying, “but ‘so and so’ did this, or did that” as if “so and so’s” behavior – whatever it may or may not have been, made their misbehavior OK.  In my 23 years of teaching I could only estimate the number of times I had to deal with that type of thinking.  With sixth graders you feel you can teach them the “error of their ways” and help them change their behavior going forward (and, many times we did) – but with Trump?  The man is 71 years old, he’s the MOST narcissistic person I’ve EVER seen, AND, he appears to lack any moral compass or sense of compassion or empathy – I don’t think he will be changing anytime soon.

Today, we heard verification that Trump did insult the family of the soldier in Florida who were at the airport for the return of his remains – there was his grieving wife and his and her parents – the parents, along with the Congress person – who had a lifelong relationship with this very fine young man and was in the limo – all confirmed Trump said, “He knew what he was signing up for, but, I guess it still hurts.”  He said this to the fallen soldier’s wife in earshot of his parents (the phone was on “speakerphone”) and the Congress person.  According to the wife, Trump couldn’t remember the soldier’s name.  As Trump might end a “tweet,” SAD!  But wait, this is Trump, so of course, there’s more.

A “gold star” mom came forward (I heard her gut wrenching interview on “The Beat” with Ari Melber on MSNBC) and pointed out her son was killed last May and she has received no letter or phone call from Trump in the ensuing five months – neither of which, as she so emotionally stated, would bring her son back – she just wanted to KNOW that these soldiers – the ones who give their lives and those with injuries – she mentioned PTSD – would be remembered and they and their families would be taken care of.  This would not have been an issue for Trump had he simply said, on Monday, “you’re right, I should have said something about these fine soldiers who gave the ultimate sacrifice in Niger.  I’ve got to do better in the future.”  (Can you imagine how, if he actually did something like that, it would be received?)  No Chance, you say.  But, you’re correct: there’s even more.

Another young soldier was killed (I believe) in June and Trump DID call his father to give his condolences.  IN FACT Trump promised the Dad he would “write a check for $25,000” out of his own funds and send it to him.  That was in June.  Well, as of today, NO CHECK.  Trump, or his press secretary, was asked about the check and true to Trump form “it’s going out in today’s mail.”  Evidently, that’s another in a long line of Trump coincidences – just like the letters to the four soldiers who died in Niger:  “The letter was written this past weekend and it’s going out either today or tomorrow.”  If you actually believe that, I’ve got a bridge I’d like to sell…………..

Actually, that Trump promised the father of a fallen soldier a check for $25,000 seems to me a “good thing” – especially, because I didn’t hear him bragging about doing it.  Well, apparently he wasn’t bragging about doing it because he DIDN’T actually do it.  Of course, that nasty media found out and now Trump or his spokesperson has to say, “The check’s in the mail.”  I guess, maybe it is – so far, the Dad hasn’t received it – and, I hope he does.  (Do you remember Trump promising a MILLION dollars to veterans during the campaign and then NOT delivering until it was reported that he had “stiffed” the vets.  I’m assuming he’s since made the donation, but, again, it took the media to uncover the FACT he wasn’t following through on his promise.)  Trump has a long history of “stiffing” contractors and workers and lawyers and companies during his business career.  What’s the saying? “Bad habits are hard to break.”  (I know, I’ve got some)

So, there’s constant chaos at the “White House” and most of us think it’s the result of an amazing incompetency.  But, what if we’re all wrong?  What if all of this Trump chaos is an attempt to throw off (probably futilely) Mueller’s investigation or, at the minimum, “we the people’s attention to the “Russia thing” along with a constant “nurturing” of the 25 to 30 percent of Americans who are going to erupt when Trump is impeached?  That, to me, is why there’s no action by Sessions and the Justice Department (Trump has BULLIED Sessions into being a submissive surrogate) to make any attempt at PREVENTION against this “Russia thing” happening again.  It’s why Trump continues to call it a “hoax.”

Sessions unwillingness to answer questions today in front of the Judiciary Committee is further evidence that the “White House” is covering up whatever it was/is they’re trying to prevent “we the people” from learning.  It appears Sessions – and SURELY Trump – are trying to protect their own “skins” and that republicans in Congress care more about staying in power than defending this country against the most dangerous of attacks – the surreptitious cyber-attack that MILLIONS of Americans remain clueless about aimed at the fabric of our republic.  If our country is to survive as we’ve known it for the past 80 years, at least, it’s apparent Trump, Sessions, Pense, and many  republicans in Congress need to “go.”  Either via impeachment (Trump, Pense, Sessions) or at the ballot box – any republicans up for re-election in 2018 who defend this attack on our nation and it’s perpetrators.  I believe there’s a “method to Trump’s madness.”  He’s CONSTANTLY trying to divert the attention of “we the people” from the “Russia thing.”  Let’s hope he fails!

Today Trump gave a press briefing on the “White House” lawn and shortly after he had finished explaining about the “made up story” of the democrats – you know, the “Russia thing” – he was asked about his response to the families of the four American soldiers killed recently (about two weeks ago) in Niger, Africa.  Well, what do you do when someone asks you a question which may make you look bad?  You’re correct!  You make up a story!

So, our “so called” president, first of all, LIED (what else is new) about his own response – which was apparently NOTHING – “last weekend I wrote some letters and, I believe, they’re going out today – maybe this evening (RIGHT)” – then, to top it off he HAD to reaffirm he is an institutionally MAGNANIMOUS Narcissist (I thought I made up the word “magnanimous,” but, thanks to “spell checker” it’s a word, I’ll let you guess the meaning) by claiming he’s the only president who “calls” the victims of war and “Obama and most of our previous presidents never did this (meaning calling the families of the fallen soldiers).  Of course, this is a LIE on two fronts: first, President Obama not only CALLED the families of the fallen soldiers, he met their caskets at Dover Delaware or the other places receiving them as they were returned from the battlefield.  Trump, OF COURSE, failed on both those accounts for our fallen troupes from Niger – he neither called the families NOR met the caskets.  What did Trump do?  He played GOLF on the day it was announced the boys died.

That was yesterday, today, as usual, Trump made a bad situation worse.  Why?  Because, first of all, the most NARCISSISTIC person EVER could never own a mistake and secondly, because Trump is, essentially, a terrible person.  When all you do is LIE, you’re constantly needing to make up stories to “cover your tracks” – AND, as the saying goes, “one LIE leads to another.”  So, today Trump invoked the son of his chief of staff General Kelly who was killed in Afghanistan in 2010 while Barack Obama was president.  On a radio interview Trump just couldn’t help himself – I think it was the typical Fox “softball” interview – and he questioned whether or not Barack Obama “called General Kelly when his son was killed.”  Well, I still don’t know the answer to that question because the members of the news media I listen to apparently know General Kelly doesn’t want his son’s death to be politicized under any circumstances.  Other than lambasting Trump for bringing this up, they didn’t get into any other details (I’m sure they didn’t want to call General Kelly and ask him to get into this political diatribe).

The reality is that Obama, Bush 1, Bush 2, Clinton, Carter, (and, I’m sure Reagan) all managed to do what they claim is the hardest part of their job – because, in essence they are the ones sending our troops into “harms way.”  I personally, during Obama’s term, saw several instances where he was honoring the returning remains of fallen soldiers with NO fanfare.  No one had to ask him if he was consoling “gold star” families – because it was routine.  Someone, in the media, obviously got wind that Trump wasn’t doing this – hence the question which caused him to make up (another) story.  Then, Trump compounded his folly by actually, tonight, calling the grieving widow of one of the soldiers killed in Niger as she was in the car heading to meet the casket at the airport (unbeknownst to Trump, her congress person was riding in the car and the phone was on speakerphone).

Trump, showing his INCREDIBLE lack of empathy (or class or fill in the blank) said to this young widow – mother of two with a third child two months from delivery – “Well, he knew what he was getting into.”  When I heard that I almost damaged my neck as I was shaking my head in disbelief.  Even Trump should know better than that – was my first thought – and then my mind reminded myself of his mimicking the disabled reporter, his attacks on John McCain for “getting captured,” his degrading comments about virtually every republican running against him in the campaign, his recent tweet referring to Bob Corker as “liddle,” (the spell checker doesn’t like that one), and – of course – the Access Hollywood tapes.

Then, of course, as I’m attempting to come to my senses my mind reminds me that Trump’s “base” is the so-called “Christian right.”  As a Christian myself (I guess I’m part of the Christian “left” if there is such a thing) I shudder each time I’m reminded of that reality.  How could we get to this place and it’s not hard to wonder why so many “Christians” have children who are rejecting anything that has anything to do with “religion.”  And republicans – where are they?  They have control of Congress – are they going to allow this to continue until the 2018 mid terms?  And, if democrats take control of Congress in 2018 will republicans block the inevitable impeachment of this man (and, hopefully, his “running mate” – and, believe me, I’m no fan of Paul Ryan – but, he looks better to me than either of the alternatives!

The reality is that “we the people” will have to wait until at least 2020 to FIX this problem – AND if 92 MILLION of us stay home and don’t vote – as what happened in 2016 – or they vote for some ridiculous third party candidate in protest – then we deserve what we get.  That’s the beauty of our system – we GET to choose our leaders.  If our people are going to continue to believe the garbage coming from FOX and/or the blowhards on the radio airwaves like Rush Limbaugh then we deserve to continue the plummet to third world status.  And, all these MILLIONAIRES and BILLIONAIRES who can’t get enough tax cuts and are more than willing to buy our corrupt CONGRESS to get them – well, it won’t take much more of “Trumpism” to totally turn the world off (with the exception, of course, of places like Russia, Turkey, the Philippines – if that’s what we want to rest on) and our great Wall Street “rally” will be heading south.  Will that be enough to get their attention?

Honestly, I’m not even sure another financial meltdown will be enough to get the attention of all the “white” disenchanted Fox viewers who are the most ill-informed people in America (that’s a fact) who will believe anything they’re told by Sean Hannity or Rush Limbaugh.  They’ve been brainwashed to believe their troubles are the fault of those who check “other” on their application forms and not on the real problem which is the fast changing technologically driven international economy.  While we’re all arguing about abortion, White nationalism, gay rights, etc. etc. the Chinese and Indians are developing alternative energy technology.  Germany already is way ahead of us in the ways of the future as Trump and his “cronies” (ie – the real inhabitants of the “swamp”) are pushing “clean coal” and “drill baby drill.”

So, here’s the question as we’re facing disaster from EVERY direction with Trump at the “helm:”  Will LYING about and insulting MORE gold star families be enough to get the attention of the republican enablers of this deplorable person?  (If you remember, he insulted a gold star family in the campaign with NO blow back from republicans – evidently, because it was a Muslim family – ugh!)  The constant LYING doesn’t seem to bother our republican Congress, the clear ineptitude doesn’t seem to bother them, the destruction of our image around the world doesn’t seem to bother them, the COLLUDING with the Russians doesn’t seem to bother them – or Trump’s unwillingness to even admit Russia attacked us and his unwillingness to do anything to PREVENT them from doing so again – especially the House, who’s Intel committee “chairman” is about as half baked as Trump – NONE of this seems to bother our republican Congress.  How bad does it have to get?

I’m even worried the republicans will cower even after Mueller completes his investigation – which clearly is NOT going to be a positive for Trump.  During the campaign, Trump said he could shoot someone on Fifth Avenue in New York and his supporters would still be there.  If he committed TREASON will they still be there.  If he OBSTRUCTED JUSTICE will they be there?  Obviously, the list of my objections is a long one – but today and yesterday as he LIED about his own response to our fallen soldiers and then attacked his predecessors for allegedly doing what he was LYING about regarding himself – that was too much.  Actually, my mind just reminded me of the accusation about President Obama wiretapping him.  He just can’t help himself!  Deluded is too kind a word for Trump – our “so-called” president.  Please republicans, live up to your oaths!  IMPEACH!

Final thought: I’m publishing this post without re-reading it and editing out the “foopahs.”  Yes, even after editing some of my writing would be given back to me by my sixth grade teacher – so, I apologize for that – maybe in a day or two I’ll fix the mistakes – but, in the meantime, “I hope you get my drift.”

I’m going to try to make this short.  Over the past few years I’ve watched fewer and fewer football games.  I’m not sure it that’s because I’m getting old or just tiring of watching grown men trying to mash each other.  And, it could be all the “fans” screaming at the tops of their lungs as one player “drills” another player into the turf.  Then there’s the millions of us who play “fantasy football” where winning means nothing and statistics means everything.  I still remember back when I actually played sports and my coaches reminded me that “statistics are for losers.”  I often think of those words when I’m putting “my” fantasy roster together.

That all being said, yesterday I happened to be watching the first part of the Green Bay Packers vs. Minnesota Vikings football game when the Packers’ quarterback Aaron Rodgers got pile driven into the turf with the result was a broken collarbone in his throwing shoulder.  This, presumably, precludes Rodgers from playing anymore football this year (depending, I guess, on the severity of the fracture).  So, after the game, Green  Bay’s coach was quoted as saying they would rely on Brett Hundley and Joe Callahan to man the quarterback position for the rest of the year.  Hundley is someone I’ve heard of – he played at UCLA while in college, Callahan????

So, most people are saying, “Green Bay’s season is done.”  Well, as stated above, I’ve had a diminishing interest in all of this over the years and this year watching NFL owners squirm as their players continue the protest started by Colin Kaepernick last year designed to bring attention to the racism in America – especially regarding the murder of African Americans by police officers.  To me, watching Jerry Jones of the Dallas Cowboys kneel arm and arm with his players PRIOR to the national anthem and then tell them if any of them don’t stand during the anthem they “will not play” was the height of hypocrisy.  The NFL owners “fraternity” are a significant part of the BILLIONAIRES who are responsible for the election of Donald Trump.  I seriously believe, like Trump, any of them served to protect that flag they’re so concerned about.

And, Trump of course, has found the issue with these players kneeling during the anthem (virtually ALL of them are Black) as a way to further gin up his base of white nationalists who march in places like Charlottesville carrying Tiki Torches and wearing Nazi arm bands.  Of course, the avid NFL “fan” cares not about this issue unless they are the phony “patriot” like Trump who never spent one day fighting for that flag.  In fact, Trump’s expertise, when it comes to our military, is getting deferments.  He had five deferments including a PHONY one suggesting he had “bone spurs” in his heal – enough to make him 4-F.

Of course, there are many who would support Kaepernick’s protest but just wish he’d find another way to make it.  But, when you think about it, NOTHING else was able to get people’s attention.  People like Trump ridicule Kaepernick as someone who should be thankful for all the money BLACK athletes make and they should just stand at attention and do what they’re told by the BILLIONAIRE owners who are making even more BILLIONS from all these Black athletes entertaining people who love to see those huge “hits” in football.  Trump, himself, lamented the game of football for actually trying to protect the health of its players.

Well, here’s why I TOTALLY respect Kaepernick (and, if you’ve been on this site you know I have NO respect for Trump) – he gave up his MILLIONS per year of income over this issue. (Trump wouldn’t even give up his millions to be president) Now, I don’t know why he “opted out” of his contract with the San Francisco 49ers, but – obviously – NO ONE in the NFL has offered him a job this year DESPITE the FACT he’s MUCH better than many of the quarterbacks on NFL rosters.  Now, you have the Green Bay Packers – with a good team that has a solid chance to make the playoffs (every teams’ first goal) – and their backup quarterback is Joe Callahan.  Kaepernick has taken a team to the Super Bowl.  The rumor is that the NFL is “blacklisting” Kaepernick.  Well, that’s a hard thing to prove.  But, after Rodger’s injury, If the Green Bay Packers don’t sign Colin Kaepernick that tells you all you need to know about the NFL!

On many occasions I’ve pointed out that the right wing republicans and their agenda are like a bad dream that just continues coming back time and again.  These people, led by the now infamous “Koch brothers” have emerged from being marginal 40 years ago (and, actually, before that – I’m just going off my own memory) to controlling the Congress of the United States as I’m writing this.  They’ve been “hell bent” on repealing every part of the “New Deal” and the “Great Society” – which they consider “socialist” since the days Social Security and Medicare – as the main “targets” – were passed.  Time and again, they’ve been defeated AND the programs have been improved.  But, here we go again!

First we had the repeated attempts to “repeal and replace” the Affordable Care Act (“Obamacare”) – since Trump’s “election” to become our “so-called” president there have been several attempts at repealing “Obamacare” with a “tax cut disguised as health care.”  Make no mistake – the focus of the legislation wasn’t “health care” it was TAX CUTS – for the wealthiest Americans – those people who continue BUYING our republicans in Congress.  Well, now it’s time for Trump’s budget (along with Paul Ryan) and “here we go again.”  If this budget passes republicans will have succeeded in their attempts to bludgeon Medicare – people will be waiting until they’re 67 to be eligible for Medicare and Ryan will have FINALLY turned it into a “voucher” program that will undoubtedly put MILLIONS of seniors into debt or health decisions.

These people are, to me, almost unbelievable.  And, they’re such good LIARS that they get enough people to vote for them so that – people like Ryan – are “safely” re-elected year after year – despite their draconian beliefs.  Coming from someone who watched Martin Luther King get shot (on TV) and Robert Kennedy come to the same end (also on TV) I can’t believe what we in this country have come to.  That this is even “on the table” is shameful in my eyes.  Instead of attempting to make these programs stronger these right wing politicians continue in their long standing efforts to undermine them.  When is the backlash from “we the people” going to purge these right wing “thugs” from our political scene?  In my mind, you don’t have to be republican or democrat – conservative or liberal – to see how WRONG this mindset is.

I understood back in the days of Ronald Reagan the push to turn America into a “me” society instead of the “we” society I felt I grew up in.  I’ve witnessed the continual batch of LIES supporting this type of thinking – the “I’ve got mine – too bad for you” type of thinking that is tearing this country apart and it’s hard for me to understand why so many “working class” Americans are falling for this.  These TAX CUTS won’t benefit them – the so-called “trickle down” philosophy is the HOAX of the century (not the “Russia thing”) – this won’t be the first time they’ve pulled it on “we the people.”

The reason Ryan and Trump are proposing over a TRILLION dollars in cuts to Social Security and Medicare (and who knows what else – at this point in time) is because the “budget hawks” are going to DEMAND these cuts before they vote for Trump’s TAX CUTS for the wealthiest Americans.  They’re trying to gain what they lost in the “Obamacare” fight through the “back door.”  It’s deplorable – in the words of Hillary Clinton.  Trump is making her sound prophetic in so many ways.  Although, I don’t think Trump understands what’s in ANY proposed legislation.  He just wants to sign something – ANYTHING!

If there’s anyone out there at this point who fails to understand our (so-called) “president” is a PATHOLOGICAL LIAR then he or she has not been paying attention.  (or, possibly has been watching Fox “news”)  In the campaign, on many occasions, I heard Trump say if he was president there would be no cuts to “Social Security, Medicare, or Medicaid.”  And, we often hear his surrogates say – after some executive order which is deplorable – he’s fulfilling a campaign promise.  So, how is he going to “spin” a cut of $500 BILLION to Medicare and $1.5 TRILLION to Medicaid after PROMISING to defend both?  Not sure how he’ll pull that one off – it should be interesting to see if he’ll claim he’s fulfilling a different “campaign promise.”

If you’re reading a post on my site for the first time you might get the idea that I’m “anti Trump.”  Well, you’d be CORRECT!  As a Christian (and a husband, and a father of two daughters and two granddaughters), it made my stomach churn when I watched the “Access Hollywood” tape – and, I’m guessing (and hoping) you wouldn’t need to be a Christian to find that tape disgusting. The issue of powerful men taking advantage of women seems never ending in the United States.  Just today I heard of Harvey Weinstein, a Hollywood producer and donor to democrats getting fired for essentially the same reason Bill O’Reilly and Roger Ailes were fired from Fox “news” AND Bill Clinton was impeached in the 90’s AND Trump SHOULD be impeached.  In America, sexual harassment is “bipartisan” and is tolerated.  Trump was correct when he said, “I get away with this because I’m famous.”  Well, to me, Trump’s behavior is no less disgusting than Weinstein’s, Clinton’s, O’Reilly’s, or Ailes’, and he should get the same consequence – FIRED!

I look back on that day (the Access Hollywood tapes) and it makes the Russian intrusion into our election even clearer.  Less than an hour after that tape was made public, the emails Russian “hackers” had stolen from John Podesta, Hillary Clinton’s campaign manager, were published on “Wiki Leaks.”  It was as if Julian Assange of “Wiki Leaks” was ordered to release this “stuff” at just the “right” time – and, it worked.  The release of those emails – many of which had been “doctored” by the Russians to make Ms. Clinton look even worse – took the focus off of the reality that republicans had nominated a sexual predator to represent their party in the presidential election.

This, in itself, tells me how far DOWN the nation I love has fallen since the Reagan years when the “trickle down” HOAX was first imposed on “we the people” and the republican party has creeped farther and farther to the “right.” (Do you remember their claims to be the “party of family values?”)  I still remember the BACKLASH from those on the “right” who clearly fall in the racist category in relation to Barack Obama’s election in 2008.  This caused the so-called “Tea Party” that was CLEARLY racist and put the right wing takeover of the republican party “on steroids.”  It’s true, the “Tea Party” is a minority in the republican party, but the reality is they have enough clout to block ANYTHING they don’t like – and, their mantra is that “compromise” is a dirty word.  And, many are connected to Richard Spencer and those marching on Charlottesville with the Tiki Torches.  Enough said!

Republicans, at the time, were in as much disarray as present day democrats – who, since Obama’s election, lost a lot of ground due to a lack of willingness to defend their own fundamental beliefs.  In 2010 republicans welcomed, wholeheartedly, the Tea Party into their caucus – and, with that, they gained a direct connection to the White Supremacist movement that clearly is the “base” of Trump and his supporters like Steve Bannon.  If you look deeper than what you’ll see on the “surface” of media coverage you’ll see the TRUTH behind this movement.  The similarities to the 1930’s Germans should get the attention of any American who believes in our constitution and the fundamental values that actually made this country great in the first place.

The other day I read where a bartender somewhere in America kicked a bunch of Trump supporters out of her bar when Milo  Yiannopoulos was singing his own version of “America the Beautiful” while his “alt right” buddies, including Richard Spencer – one of Trump’s major donors – were giving the “heil Hitler” salute.  There’s a trove of both obvious and subtle evidence to connect Trump and these “alt right” supporters to Nazism.  If you remember the protests in Charlottesville, where Trump ended up trying to defend those carrying the “Tiki Torches” and shouting anti-Jewish slogans – many of those he was defending had Nazi armbands on and many were carrying the Nazi Flag.  I don’t understand why this is so hard to “get” in today’s America.  Are people just so illiterate regarding 20th Century history that they’re willing to look the other way on this.

To me, the sexual deviancy should be enough for any voter to turn away from Trump.  When you add the “Russia thing” – which, when you put together all the “dots” – that we now know – shows COLLUSION and OBSTRUCTION of justice,  that should be enough to say “no mas” in regard to Trump’s days in the “White House.”  Add to that the connections with the so-called “alt right” and the Nazi sympathizers among them and you’ve got a “trifecta” that really confuses me why people are still defending Trump.

There’s two ways this “nightmare” can end – from how I see it.  First, republicans could do the “right thing” and IMPEACH Trump (and, Pense as well – who’s been a willing LIAR in the cover up to the “Russia thing” – more than likely making himself a co-conspirator in the obstruction of justice) or we wait for the mid term elections in 2018.  It’s unlikely Democrats can retake the Senate, but taking control of the House of Representatives could, at the minimum, block Trump’s agenda (although, I am expecting him to turn to “Chuck and Nancy” because republicans likely will be unable to pass their TERRIBLE legislation – aimed at the top 1% – without help from democrats). Trump’s “tax reform” is actually another attempt at a HUGE “Tax cut” for the top 1% and one more Paul Ryan attack on Social Security and Medicare – hopefully, “that ship has sailed” as far as sneaking it past “we the people.” Democrats in control of the House hopefully would lead to IMPEACHMENT.  Although, democrats don’t have a strong track record of political courage (and, I’m thinking Trump is thinking ahead as he cozies up to “Chuck and Nancy” to garner democratic support in any Impeachment trial – can you imagine what would happen to the democratic party if they were the ones who blocked impeachment?).

To me, the most important thing “progressives” (liberals) should be doing – now, and going forward – is embarking on an information tour of the rust belt and the South FIGHTING the propaganda that’s been unchallenged for the past 35+ years.  To do this, the first thing democrats need to do is to understand they can co-exist with people who believe abortion is the taking of a human life – because, it is.  Undoubtedly, that is a very complicated issue and one that’s been allowed to turn many working class people away from their democratic roots.  It’s NOT a cut and dried issue, as “both sides” seem to present it, and if those in the democratic party would welcome those who say they believe in “life” – an important dialogue could take place.  Republicans have been cynically using this issue for years to keep a one issue voting block while democrats have essentially blocked those people from their party.  I say, BOTH sides are wrong – and “we the people” are the losers.

Those who believe in “life” believe in and depend on Social Security and Medicare (and Medicaid) every bit as much as those on the so-called “left.” (And, I could say that on a lot of issues)  Before we end up with a fascist government that will be progressively more difficult to stop as time goes by, we need to come to our senses.  Trump and the republicans are continuing the fleecing of America’s taxpayers while “we the people” are arguing about abortion and other “wedge issues.”  The sensible way forward is to purge this right wing assault by agreeing on the ideals and institutions MOST of us hold dear – and, in the process begin a dialogue aimed at healing the wounds that have ripped our society apart (and, that people like Trump are essentially “salting”).  Democratic leaders (if they exist) need to demonstrate the courage of their convictions and head into “red” states with the purpose of pulling people together – and, I can guarantee you, the issue that will allow a breakthrough is an open dialogue on the abortion issue.  Invite so-called “pro lifers” into your party, democrats.  Encourage a dialogue.  Listen to their concerns and share yours.  The issue really does have two sides!

Final thought: I realize there are members of the democratic party who are Christians and believe in “life” just as there are members of the republican party who are “pro choice.”  To me, the problem is the persona of each party that’s been propagated via the media and the political leadership of each party as well.  Women were having abortions before Roe v Wade and they will continue to do so should it be over turned.  What should happen is a dialogue designed to reduce the demand for abortions and improve the access to health care for low income (and especially single) parents for their children (and themselves).  What shouldn’t happen is people voting for cuts to Social Security, Medicare, Medicaid, school lunches, meals on wheels, children’s health care, education, environmental issues, and much more because they oppose abortion.  It makes no sense, but that’s what’s happening with MILLIONS of republican voters.  The republicans AREN’T going to “fix” this, so – if it’s going to get fixed, it’s up to the democrats to “make it happen!”

If you haven’t read the so-called “dossier” on the Russian interference into the 2016 election you might want to do so before reading this post.  I read the “dossier” shortly after it was published by “Buzzfeed” which is an internet site I’ve visited only that one time.  Based on what I had learned from public information at the time, the “dossier” made a lot of sense to me as a credible document.  It was a document that makes Trump look really bad and should lead to his impeachment.  Many people wonder why Trump, to this day, NEVER says anything negative about Vladimir Putin and/or Russia.  Well, I believe it’s because the “dossier” is true and the Russians are holding the real evidence over Trump’s head as per his potential to be blackmailed.

To MOST Americans the Russians attempting (and possibly succeeding) in determining the outcome of an American election is fundamentally SERIOUS.  To Trump it’s apparently an issue of no interest and, therefore, we’re NOT seeing any effort on behalf of “we the people” by Trump’s administration to protect us from this happening again.  So, now we have investigations in various parts of Congress with MOST members of Congress realizing the serious nature of a foreign government attempting (and possibly succeeding) in determining the outcome of an American election and a president referring to the investigations as a “hoax.”

Additionally, there’s a very detailed investigation of all this by the FBI led by Robert Mueller – a “special counsel” appointed after the firing of James Comey in Trump’s attempt to BLOCK the investigation he refers to as a “hoax.”  Obviously, this “Russia thing” is not a “hoax” and the only thing left to discover is how bad is what happened.  I mean, what we’re really talking about here is TREASON – and, Trump, despite being called a MORON by his own Secretary of State, is smart enough to know what being accused of TREASON will mean to his administration – which would include him, his son, his son in law, and possibly his daughter – yikes!

Well, last night it was reported that Mueller has met with the author of the “dossier,” Christopher Steele, on more than one occasion.  While much in the “dossier” has proven true in the days since “Buzzfeed” published it, the members of the Congressional investigations continue to seem skeptical of its contents without actually meeting with Steele.  What I find interesting about their claims is the committee members claiming they’re unable to “connect” with Mr. Steele while his lawyer says he’s willing to meet with them.  Congress is less popular than the dog catcher and it’s not going to help their public image if it turns out they’re trying to protect Trump and blocking “we the people” from the TRUTH.

We all know Trump has a serious (pathological) issue with the Truth and we know that members of Congress are essentially “bought” by moneyed interests – BUT if it turns out those in Congress FAIL to protect us from Russia ATTACKING our most fundamental value (privilege) there had better be “hell to pay” for them the next time they face  an election.  Yes, there’s HUGE divisions in this nation – much of it provoked by the ACTUAL “fake news” that the Russians are strategically placing in places where many people are susceptible to their LIES.  But there should be NO disagreement among “we the people” that our elections SHOULD be free from foreign intervention.

I’ve listened to Chuck Grassley, the republican head of the Senate Finance Committee, on several occasions attempt to block parts of the investigation into the “Russia thing” and  try to block use of the “dossier” as part of the investigations.  Well, here’s the TRUTH.  If the members of Congress LIE to “we the people” about the availability of Mr. Steele we will know that the republicans in Congress are attempting to do the same thing Trump was trying to do when he fired Comey – and, that’s to block the investigation. (ie, “obstruct justice” – a serious felony)

Personally, I wouldn’t be surprised if the section of the “dossier” describing the “golden showers” (you’ll have to read the dossier to know what that means – if you want to read it click here) is true and the rumors there’s a video of this would have to scare Trump into just about anything the Russians would want from him.  (It would also prove the severity of Trump’s racist nature)  Apparently, they’ve been collecting “compromising” material on Trump for a period of years.  This is how the Russians work as far as creating “patsies” they can use for their own purposes.  I have to believe Trump as president has exceeded their wildest dreams (other than we now understand what Russia did – which makes Trump a compromised “tool”).

Unfortunately, many republicans continue to delude themselves into thinking Trump can be a reliable leader of their party.  It’s apparently going to take confirmation of the most egregious allegations to bring the republicans to their senses so that they do what they should – which is IMPEACH him.  In the MEAN TIME it’s likely NOTHING will get done in Congress (at least we can hope) but, Trump will continue to cause “DAMAGE” in ways where he can bypass Congress via executive orders.  In the process the rights of people he targets, the environment, and potentially the nation’s health care system – and, who knows what else he might target – could suffer very consequential damage.

I’ve written MANY TIMES the outcomes resulting from the Trump administration are completely on republicans.  However, the bottom line is it’s up to “we the people,” ultimately, to fix this problem.  If progressive Americans continue to be complacent when it’s time to vote, when it’s time to take the effort to educate themselves on the issues, and when it’s time to stand up for their fundamental beliefs in conversations with those around them we could continue to be subjected to this right wing assault on our nation’s government.  There was a HUGE “protest” to Trump’s election on the day following his taking the “oath” – republicans in Congress are going to make us wait until the elections of 2018 to find out if that “resistance” is real.  We can hope!

From what I can tell, here’s the dilemma of those republicans in Congress that have no moral compass aside from their own reelection.  They have to decide if they’re going to continue holding their noses and attempting to push through Trump’s (and, in the case of HUGE tax cuts for their donors their) agenda in the face of OVERWHELMING public OPPOSITION or actually STOP all the LYING and attempt to actually do what a large majority of Americans would like to see them accomplish.  If you even have a short term memory (I say that because, at 70, I’m wondering about my own) you know the one week where Trump’s approval ratings rose was after the agreement with “Chuck and Nancy” which kicked the debt crisis “down the road” for three months.

Now, I fully understand that the LYING will NOT stop and the push for the draconian legislation will continue – and, most likely (I can hope) will continue to FAIL – unless Mitch McConnell, in an act of desperation, actually does end the filibuster in the Senate – because of one important reason.  The republican members of Congress DEPEND on huge checks coming in regularly from their so-called “donor class.”  These are the people who have so much money they don’t know what to do with it all, so they’ve developed the habit of giving it to republicans in return for constant attempts to LOWER their taxes.  Right now, they’re not happy.  With Trump as president and republicans in control of Congress virtually NOTHING of consequence has been accomplished.

I’ve read reports from multiple sources that the “donors” are starting to refuse to “donate.”  They don’t like what they’re seeing in Washington DC for an entirely different reason people like me don’t like what we’re seeing.  And, the battle goes on.  If the people in the “rust belt” actually understood where the corruption in Congress was coming from and who the major benefactors are I believe they’d be more inclined to “get” that republicans are not their friends.  The reality, however, is those with the money are PUSHING their “puppets” to get them a return on their “investment.”  At some point, the ACTUAL battle in America will be PUBLICLY defined.  It almost seems to me it’s simply the wealthy “class” against the rest of us – they believe those with the MONEY should rule.  It’s a form of fascism!  As I’ve said many times on this site – the saddest part in all this is their “base” is the “Christian right.”

So, if you’re at all like-minded with me, get ready for another in the “never ending” fight to save the ideals put forth in the “New Deal” and “Great Society” – the ideals that actually did MAKE AMERICA GREAT.  Reports of the republican budget proposal (I believe it was actually passed in the House) call for cuts of $500 BILLION to Medicare – including increasing the eligibility date to a person’s 67th birthday – AND $1.5 TRILLION in cuts to Medicaid.  These are the cuts they couldn’t get through in their “health care” proposal – so, it’s in their budget.  And, the cuts are necessary to offset the HUGE tax cuts they have aimed directly at people like our president.  Like I’ve said, they NEVER take “no” for an answer.  The ONLY solution to this attack on the ideals that made America great is to vote out republicans FOREVER!

While republicans SHOULD be impeaching Trump for his many transgressions – including obstructing the investigation into Russia’s ATTACK on our prized fundamental right – voting – they’re, instead, continuing to use the FACT Trump will sign anything they can manage to put in front of him as a way to achieve cuts to social services that will be life threatening to many Americans.  It’s actually hard for me to believe we’ve fallen to this point.  Just as, as a Christian, I have a sense of obligation to share the “good news” of Christ, as an American I feel an obligation to share the BAD NEWS of Trump and the republicans.

Final Thought:  Republicans have been “laughing all the way to the bank” since the days of Ronald Reagan.  They’ve evolved to the point where their agenda can simply be defined as “greed run amok.”  There’s no end to how much money they feel they can STEAL from “we the people” and they’ve adopted “the Big Lie Theory” of the Nazi’s to pull this off.  If you’re a republican reading this – look closely at Trump and his surrogates.  You’ll see many many similarities to Nazi behavior. (Trump actually had supporters giving the “heil” salute at one of his campaign rallies just as his campaign “motto” was a copy of Hitler’s “Make Germany Great Again” motto)  If Trump and the republicans are not STOPPED America may never recover.

To the democratic leaders – It’s time to get your “butts” into middle America – like the rust belt – and educate voters there why they’re getting “jobbed” by republicans and give them a reason to “come home” to the democratic party.  (disclaimer: I’m not a democrat or republican – I just “get” we have a two party system, so we’ve got to do the best with it that we can)  Your message can’t always be “anti Trump” or “anti republican” – DEFEND what you’re for!  And, while people like Roy Moore are winning elections in the South – I believe “progressives” should be actively convincing those people why republicans are screwing them over.  This would require the democratic party to accept – willingly – people who oppose abortions.

Has the United States evolved to a national Peyton Place?  The “drama” seems to never end and it’s becoming very embarrassing.  So, what’s the topic for today?  Well, as I was driving around I tuned into MSNBC (on my XM radio) as I often do and Trump was about to speak in Las Vegas regarding the horrific shooting which took place this past weekend.  I regret to say I immediately changed the channel because I can no longer even stand the sound of Trump’s voice.  Just yesterday he was in Puerto Rico bemoaning their debt and what they’re doing to our “budget” (that Trump is BLOWING up with another HUGE tax cut for himself and the others in the so-called 1% – although they’ll likely try to find ways to “pay for it” via cutting more social programs – ie look out Medicare and Social Security) while throwing rolls of paper towels to those in attendance.  I guess the thought was they could wipe up the rivers of water in their towns with these Brawny “picker uppers.”  Bad optics – I’m just sayin…….

Then today, when I tuned back in – after giving the time necessary to where I wouldn’t be forced to listen to Trump’s actual voice – the commentators were saying Trump did a good job of reading from the teleprompter and, apparently, hadn’t pulled ANOTHER major BLUNDER. (the “bar” is really low for this president)  Soon, the topic changed to “politics” – which is what MSNBC is usually about.  And, sure enough, here come’s another in the never ending barrage of “stories” which happen almost EVERY day in “Trump world!”  If you’ve wondered, as have I, why Rex Tillerson remains as Secretary of State despite Trump undercutting his message on almost every occasion, you’re not alone.  (not to mention Tillerson’s apparent incompetence at the job from an administrative standpoint) At the minimum, I’m right there with you.

Now, first of all, I need to be clear. last year I read Steve Coll’s book “Private Empire” which was a detailed expose’ on Exxon Mobile and their incredible power around the world.  It’s almost as if they’re a sovereign nation unto themselves – certainly a corporation at the “head of the class” – at the very least.  I NEVER viewed Rex Tillerson as someone who was qualified to be Secretary of State.  My cynical mind believed Tillerson was chosen for this post to facilitate the REMOVAL of sanctions ON Russia which are preventing the development of a HUGE oil reserve in northern Russia.  A situation which requires Exxon’s expertise to advance Russia’s oil empire.  A “win win” for Russia and Exxon that was stymied by Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and annexation of Crimea.

So, I’m trying to make clear I’m not the person to be applauding or defending Tillerson in the inevitable conflict he was bound to have with Trump from the beginning – especially when it became clear removing those sanctions was a “non- starter” because of Trump’s campaign colluding with Russia as they ATTACKED our nation in the most fundamental place – the voting booth.  Yet, today it was reported that Tillerson and I have one thing clearly in common!

NBC reported today, with certainty, that Tillerson – sometime during the past few months – referred to Trump as a MORON!  OK, now I realize Tillerson is Secretary of State and is likely on the job only until Trump can find someone willing to work for him, and he shouldn’t (probably) be referring to his “boss” in this manner.  But, the reality, to me, is that FINALLY I’ve got something I can totally AGREE on with Tillerson.  It’s a sad day in American “history” when the president of the United States is called a MORON by his Secretary of State and people all across the country want to see a poll which checks to see how many Americans agree.

Of course, Trump’s first words when asked about Tillerson’s comment was “NBC is fake news” – isn’t that kind of his signature response?  Then Trump said, “I have full confidence in Rex.”  Well, that’s definitely the kiss of death for Tillerson as far as his job is concerned – and, if he would tell the truth (Tillerson, that is – we KNOW Trump is incapable of telling the TRUTH) he will be relieved when he’s no longer saying one thing and almost immediately being undercut by Trump.  Again, Tillerson was not made to be Secretary of State.  He’s likely to go down as the WORST Secretary of State in modern times no matter how much longer he’s on the job.  His memoir should be very interesting!  I do have to give Tillerson credit in that I’ve seen signs he prefers negotiation to bluster in regard to foreign policy.  That’s always a bit of relief – until the Trump “tweets” confirming Tillerson’s insignificance.

Just a few days ago, almost as if there was going to be signs of actual “adults in the room” regarding the issue with North Korea Tillerson suggested we have “back channels of Communication with North Korean officials – asking them if they’d like to talk?”  Seemingly within minutes (but, more likely the next day) Trump was undercutting his Secretary of State (again) by “tweeting”, “Rex Tillerson, our wonderful Secretary of State, is wasting his time trying to negotiate with Little Rocket Man.”  Would it surprise you to find out those in North Korea who might be able to help diffuse the situation with the U.S. are a bit confused?  Would it surprise you to think leaders around the world may agree with Tillerson’s characterization of Trump above?  In America, this is now the daily routine.  (I did here a reporter state that the term “moron” IS being used by leaders around the world in describing Trump)

I listened to an interview with Mike Pense’s former press secretary (I believe) and his attempts to defend Trump were almost as astonishing as listening to Trump himself.  (I have to add that I’m one who believes Pense is at least “knee deep” in the obstruction of justice related to the “Russia Thing”)  The MSNBC commentator (I believe it was Nicole Wallace) asked Pense’s former spokesman what has Trump accomplished.  Just as Trump would do, he listed a littany of “stuff” that’s simply an extension of what President Obama was “accomplishing” as he left office.

For example, the economy (and jobs numbers) continue on a “straight line” that was continued under Obama’s leadership – numbers Trump himself ridiculed while running for office and quickly taking credit for once elected.  Trump’s administration has done NOTHING to change the direction of the economy he inherited.  And, they always refer to the stock market’s record closings.  Well, after the meltdown of 2008 the Dow Industrial Average dropped to around 6500 and by the time Obama left office it was nearing 20,000.  Clearly, there was a “Trump affect” after his “election” which, by most accounts is Wall Street’s excitement over the possibility of HUGE tax cuts for the rich and a reduction in regulations aimed at the environment and the protection of every day consumers.

Wall Street would like nothing better than to get rid of the Consumer Protection Agency which is a watch dog on the predatory behavior which got us into the 2008 mess in the first place.  Obviously, Wall Street felt little pain after they almost brought us into another Great Depression during the term of Bush/Cheney because of the TARP bailouts by our previous republican administration (you know, the conservatives who “believe” in a “free market”).  In my mind, those bailouts were quickly forgotten due to “we the people” electing an “other” in 2008 leading to the “Tea Party” and ultimately to Trump.  Those giving credit to Trump for a gain in the Dow of a couple thousand points are the same people who were BLASTING Obama as he oversaw a gain of something like 300% on the DOW.  These record closings (since Trump’s election) are based on the anticipation that Trump can deliver on pro Wall Street legislation AND the continuation of the SLOW recovery Obama orchestrated after 2008 which was continuing to gain “steam” as President Obama left office.  Make no mistake though – Trump inherited a “bull market” – Obama inherited a near DEPRESSION.

In my mind, it will take about another 6 months for Trump to lead us in the opposite direction economically (and, when this happens, he’ll probably still be blaming Obama) IF he can get his “agenda” passed – which, at this point, appears less than certain.  I keep wondering how republicans will respond when Robert Mueller reports on his investigation and, at the minimum, suggests their WAS collusion (we KNOW this from the June 9, 2016 meeting between Trump Jr., Manafort, Kushner, and a bunch of Russians connected to Putin – what hasn’t been talked about much is Trump’s comments right after that meeting suggesting the next Monday he would have incriminating “stuff” on Mrs. Clinton) and OBSTRUCTION of justice.  How will they be able to get huge tax cuts for the rich through while dealing with that reality?

After hearing about Tillerson’s characterization of Trump today, I couldn’t help but think back to all the times when Trump did stuff that I feel fits that word – MORON.  The first that comes to mind is Trump meeting with Lester Holt shortly after firing James Comey and having his surrogates – led by the Vice President – out en force telling virtually EVERY media outlet he was fired because of the recommendation of Rob Rosenstein – the newly confirmed Assistant Attorney General who was over seeing the “Russia Thing” due to Jeff Sessions’ recusal.  In that interview, Trump famously (and stupidly) confessed to why he fired Comey – it was the “Russia thing” – a “made up story by the democrats.”  Then a day or two later, Trump met with the Russians in the oval office with ONLY media from Russia where he confirmed why he fired Comey – to reduce the pressure of the Russia investigation.  This really is the work of a MORON!

All the LIES and the willingness to publicly defend the LIES is MORONIC – and, in the case of Sean Spicer and, now, Sarah Huckabee Sanders, is likely ruining the careers of this surrogates – the ones who will not get caught up in the illegal “stuff” regarding Russia and the cover up.  I don’t think Spicer will ever purge the STUPIDITY of his first press conference where he defended Trump’s claim that his audience was the LARGEST ever, PERIOD!  Now that he’s left office he seems to be willing to parody himself on that one – but, the reality is that kind of stuff is not funny when you think of the importance of the office and those who speak to the American people for the office holder.  In my mind, the honorable thing to do would be to resign instead of LYING for Trump just to save your job.  I believe Ms. Sanders will be somewhat toxic by the time she’s looking for work after Trump – unless, of course, she lands at Fox “news.”  She’d probably fit in nicely there.

Finally, there’s a thought I can’t seem to get out of my mind as I’m writing about our “Peyton Place” in Washington DC.  Two things happened almost simultaneously and I believe they leave a picture that pretty much says it all.  As the reports were coming out about the Secretary of State calling Trump a MORON there were pictures of Trump throwing (actually “shooting” as if he had basketballs) paper towels to the desperate people of Puerto Rico.  Sometimes we don’t have to prod very far to find out the truth behind a story.  As I said above, Rex Tillerson and myself FINALLY have something on which we can agree!

The insanity coming from the Trump administration seems to be never ending.  So, we’ve just finished dealing with (hopefully, it’s over) the worst hurricane season anyone I know can remember and the climate change “deniers” in Trump’s administration continue marching along as if nothing ever happened. (As I write this I’m reminded to pray for those affected by the Hurricanes – especially, right now in the Caribbean although the FACT Texas and Florida are not in the headlines doesn’t mean they don’t need our support)  I read today where Rick Perry, who somehow was considered competent enough to run the Department of Energy is proposing 3.7 BILLION dollars in loan guarantees to Georgia Power Company in order to finish TWO nuclear reactors that were scheduled to be “online” ALREADY and now are being proposed to be finished by 2022!  That’s loan guarantees from “we the people” which will likely go into the pockets of the power executives who planned this abominable project years ago and will likely never be completed.  (Do you remember the saying “Don’t send good money after bad?”)

And, even if our government gives them enough money to complete this project, just try to imagine what “could have been” had “we the people” invested the OVER ten BILLION dollars that will be wasted on this futile attempt to recreate the idea that nuclear power is “the way to go” in America.  The likely result of all this is the executives who’ve backed Trump will get “theirs” and “we the people” will be the ones “footing the bill” for an ill advised adventure.  It has been no secret for YEARS that nuclear power is a BAD idea and Georgia’s fiasco won’t be the first example of this.  To me, this is just another example of Trump’s stupidity and the astonishment (for me) that he can get something like a third of American voters to go along with his schemes.

This is almost a carbon copy of the “White Nationalists” futile attempt to “keep America White.”  The reality is that just as we can’t determine the color of the skin of America’s citizens, like it or not, we can’t resurrect BAD ideas.  The many nuclear “meltdowns” already on record are the reason it’s NOT economically feasible for the construction of ANY MORE nuclear power plants.  Insurance companies don’t want anything to do with them and actual banks don’t want anything to do with them – unless, as in the case of the Trump administration, a power company can get government GUARANTEES for the loans.

Do you find it as interesting as myself to see who always ends up supporting government largess?  These bailouts always seem to be coming from the “fiscal conservatives.”  Bush/Cheney left “we the people” with an obligation that conceivably could have gone into the TRILLIONS with the TARP bailout and now we have the Trump administration – they’re trying to cut school lunches (and just about anything else aimed at “the least of these”) in their attempt at “austerity” – then BAILING out Georgia Power Company on a project that is likely NEVER to reach completion – and, if it does will be out dated and more dangerous (over the long haul) than it’s worth.  I’m just trying to imagine what $10 BILLION infused into solar power would have accomplished, for example.  I’m guessing much more for much longer than this nuclear fiasco.

As I’m writing this I can’t help but think the news would sound so much better if our Energy Department was guaranteeing loans that would rebuild the power grid in Puerto Rico – with Rick Perry urging “all hands on deck” without delay so the people of that Island could survive the terrible disaster of Hurricane Maria.  And, what about the Virgin Islands?  We’re not hearing about them – or the people of Florida and the people of Texas who were hit hard by Hurricanes a few weeks ago.  For those in the Caribbean it sounds to me, from what I’ve heard, that we’re talking about life and death issues – and, the response is needed NOW!  Trump will complain about Puerto Rico’s debt but not Georgia Power Company’s debt without this bailout.

I’m not one to feel the need to give Trump advice, but I’m pretty sure the Bush/Cheney administration never recovered from a poor response to Hurricane Katrina.  You might have personnel working their butts off to help, but if those at the “top” seem to be preoccupied with other “stuff” that, in the long run, will be considered inconsequential the damage, politically, can be devastating.  Even a LIAR like Trump won’t be able to LIE his way out of an insensitive response to a crisis where many lives are on the line.

Today, I again heard Trump (with my own ears – this is not “second hand”) reference Puerto Rico’s debt and the question of how they’re going to pay for the American assistance that’s needed.  The country will virtually need to be rebuilt.  Is Trump suggesting that if Puerto Rico can’t afford it………….?  I hate to speculate on something as basic as this.  Maybe he’s going to need a couple Trump Towers in Puerto Rico in order to “make a deal.”  Don’t get me wrong – I’m certain there’s MANY who are working hard to help the Puerto Ricans (and, those in the Virgin Islands) – our country is FULL of hard working GOOD people – it’s just the people at the “top” need to define the agenda.  If people are suffering we don’t want it to be because a FULL effort is NOT being made to minimize it.  Right now, the topic shouldn’t be the NFL or Puerto Rico’s debt!

While driving around today I tuned in to MSNBC and there was a guest (I believe from the NY Times) who was lamenting the reality that “we the people” are seemingly unable to talk to each other in a way that respects our differences – which has led to this terrible division in our country.  I couldn’t agree with him more – but, as they (the guest and Chuck Todd) were trying to figure out what has happened to cause this I felt a bit of frustration because they were “tip toeing” around the problem.  It should be obvious to them – because it’s part of what is driving the republican party into the “loony bin.”

From the early days of Newt Gingrich, the “strategy” of OBSTRUCTION has ruled the day in republican circles.  That “strategy” has evolved into causing words like “liberal,” “progressive,” and “compromise” to be almost like “dirty words.”  I’ve listened to this “mantra” since the 80’s and the emergence of Rush Limbaugh and his fellow right wing “talkers” to Fox “news” and their commitment to the “Big Lie Theory” of Joseph Goebbels.  (Fox SHOULD be called “GOP TV”) This shouldn’t be so hard to figure out.  The challenge is that in identifying the problem one realizes the depth of the problem and the gravity of Americans being BRAINWASHED for years.  Once you “get” this, it’s easier to understand what I’ve been writing about for the past 10 years or so on this site.  Republicans, for years, have threatened anyone who strays from the sheep mentality a well funded PRIMARY opponent.  They encourage division with their “my way or the highway” philosophy.  It’s no secret!

For some reason media “pundits” don’t want to point out what is obvious.  Trump is the classic case.  For example, Trump’s LIES are not subtle – media personalities SHOULD call him a LIAR because whether he’s president or not, that’s what he is.  Trump’s racist behavior is only debatable by those who live in his world of “alternative facts.”  His actions define him – and, he’s a racist. (in association with those White Supremacists he tried to support after Charlottesville)  Trump’s “birtherism” and his history of racist behavior prior to running for president is well defined.  When people like Chuck Todd and the guest I referred to above are lamenting the lack of dialogue in our nation – it’s because, for many of us, we’re “not going there” in regard to Trump and his white nationalist supporters.  There did use to be a “center” where most political successes were found – although, almost ALL true monumental ADVANCES in American history have come from the so-called “left.”  That’s what the corporate interests who’ve been hijacking the republican party over the past 40 years are afraid of.

As it presently exists, the republican party has got to go!  Their own divisiveness has now permeated their own party – which is why they are TOTALLY unable to govern.  People like John McCain, Bob Corker, and others are sick of all this themselves.  McCain has pleaded for a return to “regular order” – which simply means working through issues with both political parties participating and solving issues via compromise.  The truth is there are MILLIONS of Americans on “both sides of the isle” and both sides deserve to be heard and honored.  “Gotcha” politics needs to come to an end – and, people like Trump (and, his former “adviser” Steve Bannon) are busing STILL fanning the flames of discontent.  (that’s the ONLY way they can remain relevant)  And, most of America’s voters aren’t sophisticated enough to understand what’s going on so we have what seems almost like two countries – while MOST of the people on both sides are good hard working Americans.

I don’t for a minute believe the White Nationalists that Trump is ginning up represent more than the fringe they’ve always represented.  It’s just that – with the advent of the “Tea party” the republican party sold themselves to the ultra right in an attempt to recover from the disaster that was Bush/Cheney.  (They believe “the end justifies the means”)  The election of our first African American president was used as the spring board to catapult those who would use the “race card” to scare older white Americans into believing they needed to “take our country back.”  I mean, just that “saying” was always, to me, absurd on its face.  Take it back from what?  Right wing republicans played to the darker sides of many susceptible Americans who were willing to believe a constant barrage of LIES.

Now, I’m not the one to suggest that – at least in my view – President Obama was perfect.  But, seriously, compared to Trump?  Are you kidding me? President Obama was like “the adult in the room.”  And, compared to Bush/Cheney who LIED us into Iraq and essentially LIED to us about Afghanistan so that we’re still there and left us with an impending financial meltdown?  The damage caused by Bush/Cheney could take years to overcome – and, the scary thing is they’re looking good to me compared to Trump.  Obama turned things around economically from Bush/Cheney, but evidently the color of his skin led to Trump.  The damage caused by Trump is mounting fast – and, could become catastrophic if he’s allowed to continue ginning up North Korea.  It’s true, Trump is causing a mounting “resistance” that could lead to the political engagement of MILLIONS of previously complacent (progressive) voters – which would be a good thing.  But, a war with North Korea would threaten the world’s stability and, to me is unthinkable, it’s unwinnable, and even threatening the use of nuclear weapons is heretical.

As I’ve said many times here – “we the people” have no choice but to depend on republicans to end this NIGHTMARE of Trump’s presidency.  There are already a plethora of reasons to IMPEACH Trump – but, I’ve accepted that republicans are going to wait out Robert Mueller.  He can’t work fast enough for me – but, then we’re all depending on republicans having the courage to act.  Yes, if Trump is impeached it will be messy.  All those people who marched with the Tiki Torches in Charlottesville are likely to create a HUGE “scene.”  Trump has been busy BRAINWASHING his supporters into believing the “Russia thing” (which he’s obsessed with) is a “hoax” and the media is “Fake.”  He’s a cagey manipulator – but, he’s also likely going to be accused of criminal activity.  Trump is ruining the republican “brand” which is why it’s so interesting that most republicans fear him.  The question will soon be, has he intimidated them to the point they won’t impeach him?

Final thought:  Do you find it interesting that Trump and his white nationalist followers are busy attacking Mitch McConnell and Paul Ryan – the leaders of the republican party in Congress?  This should also be interesting as it plays out.  McConnell and Ryan hold Trump’s future in their hands.  They will likely be unable to pass Trump’s huge TAX CUT (for himself and his Billionaire buddies) because their LIES (that is, those pushing this tax giveaway to the rich) are already being exposed – and Trump will blame McConnell and Ryan.  Trump is a HUGE reason why they can’t get THEIR agenda through their own Congress.  Are they really so TIMID they will be unable to impeach Trump?  That decision, of course, falls into Ryan’s “lap.”  It’s clear Ryan can’t stand Trump – what’s not clear is why he’s so afraid of Trump.  Theoretically, both Trump and Pense SHOULD be impeached for obstruction of justice.  That would make Ryan president.  Maybe that’s what he’s afraid of!

Oops! – one more thought:  Possibly, in the long run, among the most damage done by Trump will be in the area of the blatant denial of “climate change.”  From the support of the coal industry (which is dying no matter what Trump might do), to the funding of ill-advised nuclear plants, to the push to “Drill, baby Drill” – Trump is sending the message to the rest of the world they can have a free run at developing the new clean energy technologies that will undoubtedly be the “future.”  The damage caused by Trump’s encouragement to businesses living in the past will be measured in the years to come.  China, as they encourage the development of solar and wind power technology, will be laughing all the way to the bank.  As we’re “deconstructing our administrative state” they’ll be developing theirs.

I read the other day where Trump (again) suggested that National Football League owners should “fire” players who kneel during the National Anthem to protest Trump’s own divisive words (he called the players “sons of bitches”) and the racial injustice that continues to permeate through parts of America.  After reading this, the first thought that went through my head was that Trump should be FIRED (impeached) for STOKING the racial injustice these players are protesting (not to mention all his other transgressions – not the least of which is the never ending “Russia thing”).  And, there’s (apparently) no shortage of Americans who willingly fall for Trump’s divisive rhetoric.

For some reason there’s many Americans who check “white” when asked their ethnic background on surveys and questionnaires who don’t “get” they’ve spent a lifetime enjoying “white privilege” and, seemingly, want to go back to the original document of our constitution which referred to “Black” persons as 3/5 of a human being.  These are the “White supremacists” that Trump so willingly associates himself with.  The people who pushed the “birther” movement when President Obama was in office (do you remember those rational days when we had a president who was trying to unite instead of one who thrives on division?).

In Trump’s most recent “campaign style speech” where he referred to the Black football players who don’t like him as “sons of bitches” he was in Alabama campaigning for an Alabama Senator, Luther Strange, who was appointed by a corrupt Alabama governor to fill the seat of the racist Jeff Sessions who’s now our Attorney General.  (What a world, huh? – and, to top it off Trump can’t stand Sessions because he did the “right thing” once he became Attorney General and Trump blames him for the “Russia thing.”  Trump, of course, is always blaming someone else for his stupidity)  Strange was running against maybe the only man in the United States who could be more unpopular in the Senate than Ted Cruz (or even maybe Trump), “Judge” Roy Moore – infamous for no longer being a judge because he, himself, couldn’t follow the law.  The same night Trump was campaigning for Strange “Judge” Moore was brandishing a firearm in front of a campaign rally to show he’s in favor of the 2nd amendment.  Wow! Impressive!

These people in Alabama are so susceptible to brainwashing it’s almost unbelievable.  The NRA has MILLIONS of Americans believing democrats are going to break down the doors of their homes to take all their guns so now they vote republican because of the abortion issue AND the propaganda of the NRA.  The FACT they were cheering Donald Trump as he was belittling John McCain was what many would call “the proof in the pudding” that they can’t think for themselves.  I want to say I found it interesting listening to Trump belittle Senator McCain to place the blame for HIS own failure to figure out how to “repeal and replace” the Affordable Care Act, but the truth is I found it DESPICABLE!  And, the crowd booing at the sound of McCain’s name – that was even more DESPICABLE – in fact, in the words of Hillary Clinton, it was DEPLORABLE!

So, this southern audience is cheering as Trump refers to Black football players as “sons of bitches” and booing as Trump was eviscerating McCain.  We need a little background here.  Most of these same people CHEER every Saturday as their Alabama or Auburn football teams, mostly consisting of young Black Americans, steamroll virtually every other football team America’s colleges and universities can put together.  And, most of them probably claim they’re diehard supporters of our military veterans.  Would you call that the “height of hypocrisy?”  (I’m guessing you know, I would)

But there’s more.  Now, if you’ve read many of my posts of “yesteryear” you’d know that I’m not a strong “fan” of Senator McCain based on differences of political viewpoints.  That being said, from the day Trump was elected I’ve been pining for republicans with the “stones” to stand up to him and potentially remove him from office (which is what SHOULD happen).  I speculated earlier this year that maybe it would be McCain and his buddy Lindsey Graham who would “step up.”  Obviously, Graham doesn’t “have what it takes” – but, McCain appears to be regaining his conscience as he’s looking “going home” straight in the face.  McCain is not likely to serve out his term – he has the same brain issue that took Ted Kennedy a few years back and it appears McCain is trying to fill that role of “hero” who leads the way as the Trump NIGHTMARE is ended.  I’m ready to jump on his bandwagon if he persists!

Regardless of how you look at McCain, to listen to Trump ridicule him and a southern audience boo the sound of his name sickened me.  Let’s look at this from a different perspective.  Trump had just “hammered” football players for using their first amendment rights to protest – so they’re “sons of bitches” and the crowd boos McCain’s name at Trump’s urging because he voted his conscience in the Senate (for a change).  This is the same Trump who got FIVE deferments from serving during Viet Nam – including a PHONY doctor’s excuse claiming “bone spurs” in his heels – that didn’t bother his golf game or the FACT he played football.  This is the man wrapping himself in the flag McCain was willing to defend.  McCain, on the other hand, spent five years in the “Hanoi Hilton” and has PERMANENT disability due to the TORTURE he endured while there.  The crowd SHOULD have been BOOING Trump!  I’m embarrassed by Trump as president and disgusted with the Alabama audience for their STUPIDITY in supporting this man and disparaging one who, whether you agree with his politics or not, should be considered an American hero.  He fought thinking he was defending the right of those “sons of bitches” (in Trump’s words) to protest.  (Even though Viet Nam was a similar sham as Iraq)

Additionally, in his speech, Trump was unveiling his so-called “Tax reform” plan – which is nothing more than a MASSIVE tax cut for TRUMP himself and his corporate “buddies” at the expense of either the Middle Class or the DEFICIT – or, more likely, BOTH.  And, of course, the audience – made up mostly of middle class Americans – sucked it in “hook, line, and sinker.”  Trust me, these Trump supporters are an easy target for his propaganda.  He says it, they believe it (despite his PROVEN propensity to LIE – it’s been documented his PROVABLE lies went OVER the one thousand mark after only 6 months in office – so, he’s likely pushing the 1500 mark as I’m writing this)  I know some Trump supporters.  They don’t fact check anything (well, I have to add, they think if they check with Sean Hannity or Rush Limbaugh they’re “fact checking” – and, in many places in the South, all they get in regard to media coverage is Fox “news” and bloviators like Limbaugh – so, they’d have to read and look for information to read that didn’t come from people connected with Fox and Limbaugh)

What is likely to end up happening is the tax cut, if it somehow passes, will balloon the deficit EVEN MORE.  If you’ve actually studied this, the “fertilizer” for the ballooning deficits has been the republican tax cuts – beginning with the Reagan “trickle down” tax cuts in the 80’s and put on “steroids” by Bush/Cheney at the beginning of the “new millenium.”  (I’ve always called them “trickle up” tax cuts – because MOST of the money goes to the wealthy – and, contrary to republican claims they – the 1% – don’t hurry out and hire people at living wages in appreciation of the MILLIONS in tax cuts)  Additionally, if you’re like me and in the middle of the “Middle Class” you’ll be paying more.  The proposal, as I understand it, will cancel many deductions that actually HELP Middle Class Americans and make little difference to the so-called 1%.

So, this Middle Class Alabama audience is cheering the thought of a tax cut from Trump that will likely RAISE their taxes from a president who’s committed to the “deconstruction of the administrative state.”  (Those were the words of Steve Bannon Trump’s former “chief adviser” who’s busy himself “ginning” up division wherever he can – these people are fascists)  This “administrative state” is the government these people are so quick to condemn because it’s constitution has brought us to the place where equality is more than a “catch phrase.”  Of course, to those basking in “White privilege” that’s really threatening.  And, people like Trump have little trouble “ginning” them up and casting blame – well, usually on democrats – but, in reality, on whoever seems convenient enough – like football players or people like McCain (who’s not cooperating) – so it makes them feel better.  Unfortunately, all this just accentuates the stupidity of the audience and the predatory willingness of the speaker – Trump.

Here’s the ultimate irony for you regarding the Alabama audience that’s cheering Trump and booing McCain.  Most of the federal “income” comes from the “blue” states and most of the federal “outgo” goes to the “red” states with Alabama near the top of the recipients.  I actually “googled” this – anyone could – and, what it means is these people who are buying into Trump’s propaganda are going to be the ones hurt the most should his agenda somehow pass Congress.  And, of course, when it’s time to complain they’ll get sucked in to blaming democrats, liberals, and quite possibly all those “sons of bitches” who play football and make “too much money.”  That’s how “dividers” like Trump work.  They get people arguing against their own self interests and soon the country is in disarray – which allows predators like Trump to FLEECE the taxpayers for even MORE.

If you don’t believe me – actually do some research.  Check out how much money all these members of Trump’s SWAMP are FLEECING “we the people” for – simply because that’s been their style as members of the “elite” in Wall Street.  Trump’s cabinet is devoid of anyone who’s got Middle Class common sense.  His “draining of the swamp” took out the frogs and replaced them will alligators.  It’s really interesting to me that his supporters are unable to see this – like cabinet members who charter planes to go from Washington DC to Philadelphia or charter military aircraft to take their families on European vacations.  I’m sure we’ll never know how much they’re really FLEECING us for, but what we know is they’re doing it.  Trump, himself, is putting previous presidents to shame regarding the expense of protecting him and his family.  It’s been reported that Trump actually bills the government outrageous amounts (like $500 per night) as he’s staying in his OWN property.  Can you imagine the republican uproar had President Obama done anything close to this???

Obviously, I’m going “on and on” about all this (I wanted to say, “I could go on and on”) and, I could do much more – Trump gives you much to “consider” virtually every day.  I believe much of his “controversy” is strategically designed to get the topic of “Russia” “off the table” and he’s obsessed with doing just that.  However, I don’t believe he’ll ever manage to accomplish that until the Mueller investigation is complete.  And, as I’ve said before, Mueller is going to put these timid republicans in the uneasy place of needing to IMPEACH Trump while they fear the backlash of his “White Supremacist” base.  If you’ve read much of their rhetoric you know it won’t take much to set them (Trump’s base) off – anarchy appears to be a tool of their movement.  (Steve Bannon is the real “torch bearer” for them – pun intended)  When this happens we’ll find out if we’re a nation of laws – where I live, the one really noticeable trait of those who were openly supporting Trump were the guns on their belts.  The truth is that “we the people” either quash this racist “White Supremacist” power grab or we face a future that more resembles 1930’s Germany than any time in American History.  (Republicans bought this outcome when they aligned themselves with the racist “Tea Party” which arose after “we the people” unexpectedly elected a (very competent) Black President.)

Many Americans have never been put in a position to have to fight for the freedoms we (are supposed to) enjoy.  Black football players in the NFL (those “sons of bitches” according to Trump) are standing up and protesting racial injustice.  (or should I say “kneeling down”)  Here’s the interesting question in my mind: Are the rest of us willing to stand up and defend what we have and what we SHOULD be?  And, I’m not referring to the “White Supremacists” – we saw them in full regalia in Charlottesville.  They’re ready to overthrow the government as we’ve known it (as per Steve Bannon)  I’m talking about all of us in the Middle Class who’ve had it great for so many years but have sub consciously fallen into that place where we take so many privileges for granted and we look to BLAME someone else for our own complacency.  Are we willing to defend the “New Deal” ideals that we really all are “created equal?”  The ideals that “made America great” in the first place.

If you’ve got this far you’re a proficient reader :o) But one or two final thoughts:  When Trump was calling football players SOB’s  he also bemoaned the game as becoming less violent – as if that was a bad thing – like taking the health of the players into consideration, in his mind, is ruining the game.  (After all, most of them are Black)  I couldn’t help but think of those (STUPID) remarks last night as I watched a portion of the Green Bay/Chicago NFL game.  A wide receiver for Green Bay caught a pass in the middle of the field and, while two members of Chicago’s team were wrestling him to the ground another Chicago player hit him helmet to helmet so hard that his mouthpiece came flying out and he lay motionless on the field – obviously, at least temporarily, unconscious.  Trump, evidently, loves watching extreme violence like that.  The guy for Green Bay could have been killed or disabled.  I found myself praying for him last night (and, again, just now) – I hope he’s OK and can resume his career.  I hope the guy who hit him (in my mind, a totally “cheap shot”) is fined and suspended.  It sickens me and turns me off to the NFL that almost every player who’s brain is checked after they pass away has severe trauma (CTE) which causes terrible side effects over time.  (This injury is also common in military personnel resulting from action in combat zones).

Finally, I applaud the “media” who are forcing our government and the FBI (ie Robert Mueller) to follow the “evidence wherever it leads” regarding the “Russia thing.”  I believe their (the Russians) intrusion into the 2016 election was so far above anything done previously that it was an attack on the basic foundation of our nation.  If we can’t GUARANTEE our voting privilege is unimpeded it won’t be long and our nation won’t resemble what we’ve grown up with (I’m talking about all us “baby boomers”)  It’s the media that is investigating all the shenanigans going on in the Trump “White House” and “we the people” should be thankful and supportive of what they’re doing.  History will look kindly on them.

I don’t know where to start.  Really.  I guess the best place to start is to ask, when is the republican Congress going to come to their senses and IMPEACH Trump – before the damage he’s doing is irreparable?  The racism, the misogyny, the xenophobia, the false patriotism, these are all issues that are debatable and the damage Trump is causing in these areas is HOPEFULLY reparable.  Even his attempt to hide a TRILLION dollar tax cut in the guise of “health care reform,” is “fixable” should it actually happen.  And, his DEPLORABLE actions (actually INACTION) regarding Puerto Rico and the US Virgin Islands could be “minor” (despite an incredibly serious situation there) compared to what his CHILDISH war of words with Kim Jung Un could conceivably lead to.

This bravado in Trump’s words toward Kim along with his attack on National Football League players who are protesting the treatment of African Americans who’ve been discriminated against, mistreated by, or – sadly – in all too many instances KILLED (while innocent) by police is past the “too much” stage.  This is HOLLOW patriotism – just like many who criticize people like Colin Kaepernick who has/had the courage to risk (and, at least temporarily, lose) his “livelihood” for his personal beliefs – as they sit on their couches cheering on their favorite football team while NEVER taking a real stand on anything. (the perfect image of Trump, himself)  Trump is ginning up his base to get them focused on football players on their knees while ignoring Puerto Ricans – American citizens – who are wading KNEE DEEP in flooded communities attempting – still – to rescue those in danger – and desperately needing supplies like WATER, food, gas, and more.

As one would suspect, Trump NEVER served a day in the military.  He’s essentially my age, so he graduated from High School right about the time of the Gulf of Tonkin resolution.  He managed FIVE deferments from military service – the last one a PHONY deferment based on a doctor’s note “alleging” bone spurs in his heels.  Back then, young Americans from wealthy families had no difficulty getting out of the military – and, leaving all the fighting to the African Americans, other minorities, and the less affluent White kids (who’d been brainwashed into believing we were saving the world from “communism”)  who were unable to get deferred – and, in many cases who volunteered to “defend their country” out of a true sense of patriotism.   (Even though we later learned that Viet Nam was as much based on lies as Iraq via president Bush)  When I listen to Trump’s bravado it makes me want to puke.

I really don’t understand how so many in America’s “rust belt” – good Americans who actually served during Viet Nam fell for Trump’s act.  Obviously, there was a lot of animosity toward Hillary Clinton based on 25 YEARS of attacks – most which proved to be baseless, but which left a lasting impression in MILLIONS of Americans’ minds – plus, you have the Fox “news” affect, and the “Rush Limbaugh affect” – where so many Americans have been actually brainwashed.  Studies have shown that people who watch NO NEWS are better informed than those who only watch Fox – if that surprises you, it doesn’t surprise me.  People I know who watch Fox are hard to even talk to.

I’m sorry, but I’m tired of people like Trump who were cowards when it was their time to defend this nation – as he (and others) like to boast.  Trump’s only knowledge of war is what he’s seen on TV and in the movies.  He’s got his finger WAY too close to the nuclear “trigger” for my liking.  The really bad part in all this is that NONE of the MILLIONS who voted AGAINST Trump (3 MILLION MORE voted for Mrs. Clinton than for him) nor the MILLIONS more who’d vote AGAINST him today if the election were held again can do ANYTHING about this.  As I said above, UNFORTUNATELY “we the people” are dependent on the republican Congress to end this NIGHTMARE.  Eventually, Robert Mueller will provide Congress with enough evidence of COLLUSION and OBSTRUCTION of JUSTICE to hopefully, FORCE these timid republicans to act.  However, it appears they FEAR Trump’s “base” more than their lasting place in the dregs of American History.

The scene this past weekend was perfect Trump cowardice.  He’s in Alabama talking to an ALL WHITE audience about African American football players who he referred to as “sons of bitches.”  Evidently, in Alabama that kind of rhetoric is considered “presidential.”  Here in the state of Washington I’m confident that those who approve of Trump’s words are still considered the “fringe element” of politics.  I was looking at many of the players on their knees prior to this past weekend’s games and had to wonder if Trump has the “stones” to call them “sons of bitches” to their faces?  The answer to that question is probably similar to Trump’s COWARDICE during the Viet Nam war.

So, his bombastic rhetoric may very well stir up his base and get them to pee all over themselves in glee, but apparently it’s received differently in North Korea.  The North Koreans appear to think Trump has declared war on North Korea.  And, despite the new public LIAR for Trump – Sarah Huckabee Sanders – saying it’s absurd to think that – neither Trump NOR Sanders has any idea of North Korean politics and how his words are interpreted.  Trump is getting even FARTHER in over his head.  It’s been apparent since the first day he was in office he has NO IDEA what he’s supposed to do as president – and, the DAMAGE (I’ve referred to repeatedly on this site) he’s causing is getting MORE dangerous all the time!

Again, I PLEAD with republicans in Congress – DO YOUR JOBS!  You need to IMPEACH this man.  And, as much as I loathe the idea of Paul Ryan as president, you need to IMPEACH Mike Pense – the assistant LIAR in chief right along with Trump.  Pense clearly has participated in the OBSTRUCTION of Justice regarding the firing of James Comey.  It’s time Congress demonstrates to “we the people” our leaders are subject to the same LAWS the rest of us must follow.  And, the list of “naughty” people in the “White House” just grows every day.

Of course, anyone paying attention knows Jared Kushner is in DEEP trouble up to his eyeballs.  His potential “relief” will be that he gets indicted and convicted prior to Trump himself – so that his Daddy in law can pardon him – and, make no mistake, Trump’s got the pardon pen out ready to go as I’m writing this.  It’s up to Mueller to ” out smart” him – which may be more difficult in circumstances where Trump is trying to “skirt” the law – as he’s got much experience in doing just that.  Trump was facing 75 lawsuits when elected and has been sued almost 150 times since taking office (that’s in just 8 months!)  We all have known about Kushner’s LIES regarding meetings with the Russians, his incomplete security clearance forms, and his connection with the obstruction of justice in the firing of James Comey.  But, there’s more…..

Now, today, we learned that Kushner was USING A PRIVATE email server while doing White House business!   Go ahead, laugh out loud!  I can hear the chants now – LOCK HIM UP, LOCK HIM UP!  You do remember the “lock her up” chants don’t you – some led by Mike Flynn who claimed if he did “one tenth” what Hillary Clinton did he’d get years of jail time (well, what’s the old saying?  “Be careful what you wish for”)  Well, we’re not only likely to hear these “Lock Him up” chants for Flynn and Kushner, we might very well be hearing the “lock her up” chants again – but, this time, not for Hillary Clinton.

Apparently, Ivanka Trump has been using a private email server while doing business in the White House.  You can’t make this stuff up!  This is the same Trump daughter who had her line of clothing plugged by White House “adviser” Kellyanne Conway (probably, next to Trump, the most proficient LIAR in the administration – she’s kind of an after thought now because of her outrageous LYING) which is illegal and wrong in so many ways.  I guess Ivanka was trying to “be like Hillary.”  Should be interesting to read Trump’s tweets about his daughter and son in law doing the same thing he chanted “lock her up” when attacking Mrs. Clinton.

And, I guess, there’s more.  Reince Preibus and Steve Bannon were evidently using a private server for some of their emails when in the “White House.”  Maybe the argument coming from the White House will be they only did this with some of their emails.  Or, maybe they did it much less than Hillary.  Or Hillary was in the State Department and that’s different.  Here’s what I’m thinking:  It’s much easier to LEAK damaging information on people you HATE by using a private server.  Trump’s “White House” has been referred to by many as the “leakiest” White House ever.  I’m just sayin…………………

When it gets right down to it, I guess what I’m focused on here is the INCREDIBLE hypocrisy coming from Trump and those around him.  And, the absurdity that while Puerto Rico is flooding and people there are DYING Trump is focused on the NFL and a Senate race in Alabama pitting one racist against another.  I suppose that would be a place Trump would feel perfectly at home.  Trump, himself, is a DRAFT DODGER, he’s a racist and misogynist and, also he – much to my dismay – is the president.  Instead of provoking North Korea, instead of attacking NFL players willing to risk everything to express their views, instead of provoking a crowd of white supporters in Alabama and calling BLACK football players “sons of bitches” Trump SHOULD have been providing aid to those suffering from Hurricanes the likes of which we haven’t seen in almost a Century.

Tonight I saw Trump’s first “tweet” referencing Puerto Rico and his focus was on their substandard infrastructure and their debt to Wall Street.  This is another example of Trump claiming to be “draining the swamp” while, in reality, kissing up to Wall Street and FILLING the so-called swamp.  Puerto Rico is knee deep in water – like a swamp – and Trump’s worried about what they owe to our too big to fail banks.  With Trump, there’s no end to the hypocrisy.  Our president is a draft dodger and a racist and this was never more apparent than when he SHOULD have been focused on the disaster in Puerto Rico!  Words, once they leave your mouth, can’t come back in.  Regarding North Korea, the NFL, health care, and pretty much everything else of importance – maybe the answer for Trump is to just keep his mouth SHUT!

Final thought: I’m a Christian.  I’m guessing most in the crowd in Alabama would refer to themselves as Christians.  All I could think of as I listened to Trump calling men who bravely are using their “platform” to bring a really important issue to “light” “sons of bitches” to a roaring and approving crowd – shame on you Alabama.  Whether you’re a “liberal” or “conservative” the words in the Bible don’t care.  And, I can’t believe there’s anyplace in the Bible that would suggest that kind of horrific rhetoric is acceptable!  I believe the Bible would encourage us all to be HELPING those affected by these hurricanes – even if their infrastructure was poor and they owe money to Wall Street.  I believe Jesus Christ would be leading the fight against police misconduct.  Maybe a focus on those issues would cause Trump to shut his mouth regarding North Korea.  Just sayin………………………..