Sorry, I know this is gratuitous, but I just can't help quoting Jennifer Rubin here.
"Trump is too lazy and arrogant to learn about important issues and systematically eliminated anyone who might know better and have the temerity to go toe-to-toe with him to avert disasters. We therefore get a stream of impulsive, illogical, and often counterproductive actions. Trump will never admit errors, so blunders pile on top of each other, making bad situations even worse."
Trump has been mentally ill for much of his life and his mental illness has never been addressed. Now there’s an overlay of dementia. Expecting anything rational from him is a fool’s errand.
Trump has now passed the milepost that Regan passed when Reagan too descended into senile dementia. Reagan's subalterns ran the country from behind the scenes and we pretended nothing was wrong and we all survived.
But Trump isn't Reagan. Trump is a malignant narcissist who is in rapid terminal decline. Trump is the center of his own universe and he will not let anyone else run HIS country. Trump has quite a few months left. I fear that the worst is yet to come. Stay tuned.
Having people like Krugman around doesn't necessarily save you when you've got people like Trump running things. Having dozens of Cassandras doesn't prevent ruin when all of them are ignored.
DonnieBoy seems to enjoy every discomfort he can pay back to those who denied him in 2020. THAT is the sickest mental illness ever. …. and HE is a disgrace to humanity!
He’s a taint. “Taint refers to contaminating, spoiling, or damaging the quality, reputation, or purity of something or someone, often leaving a trace of decay, dishonor, or disease. It acts as both a verb (to spoil) and a noun (a trace of corruption or defect). Synonyms include contaminate, tarnish, pollute, sully, corrupt, spoil, and stain.” (Google AI)
And the fact that there’s a second, vulgar, slang definition for taint is just serendipitous.
and this admin has destroyed this brain trust. Something's truly rotten when the likes of Jared Kushner and Steve Witkoff represent our country as "negotiators."
I’m not sure they’re idiots, I am sure they’re crooks. They have nothing to equip them to represent the US in any matter whatsoever, but they seem to be quite smart in figuring out how to make billions in “deals”for themselves, and how to escape consequences for criminal activity.
If peace was the goal, that would be right. However when the bribe is the goal, they are the men for the job. Outcome? Who cares, as long as money is in the Swiss bank account!
Trump was not forced upon us. We chose him. Not me, not you, but he did win twice. In the here and now the question for each of us is what am I doing about it? And, then what more can I do than I'm doing currently?
Remember if everyone votes the election will be safeguarded from all efforts to steal it. KNOCK ON DOORS / JOIN PHONE BANKS. Also, we need to unseat MAGA starting from the local level and across the country. POST CARD CAMPAIGNS / SIGNATURE GATHERINGS / DONATE TO SUPPORT CAMPAIGNS ACROSS STATE LINES.
There is excellent work needing many hands on the ground right now: INDIVISIBLE / 5051.
I am 74 and attended three NO KINGS as well as several POST CARD WRITING gatherings and next weekend stopping by a local library for a SIGNATURE event which gathers up signatures to get well qualified and vetted potential candidates in a position to win those MAGA seats.
I am also signed up to volunteer at the polls locally. Plus donating thru ACT BLUE toward the campaigns across the country to unseat MAGA.
We have discovered our power. Call your representatives until the phones break because even if they are not MAGA it gives them courage and creates an energy on the floor.
I think focusing local is the key and getting out the vote. But no one can sit this one out. If we do, if any one of us does not vote, we lose and slip into the dark ages of America handing off the fight to those who come after us and all the unsolved problems that could have been addressed so they had the lives we want for them.
To me and I'm sure each of us here that is the worst outcome; literally sacrificing our own children -- and hopefully will be a motivator. Now is the time for all of us born into this time to right this ship. We are our only hope.
Agreed. I thought the flaming torches the week before the election in Hungary were pretty effective in ensuring the people were heard in their vote. Something to consider.
My husband and I have been to several rallies, including the No Kings, been to town halls, made calls, sent emails and written postcards ---- but we can still do more and will..!!!!! Thanks for the motivation. You are an inspiration to us all.
I am glad you received my thoughts on the matter, but I don’t accept the label as inspiration just one of all of us and blessed to find a forum where thinking and speaking is not judge and targeted for hate. We actually converse! That’s why I truly love being here and try to tell others to take a look but not many are interested. I don’t understand it because in every other way they are seeking guidance and hope. We must go gently and stay focused on our part not that of others; and I am if anything feeling like I’m not measuring up here, so it is me being inspired not the reverse. Not the reverse at all!!
Trump seems to be succeeding with a percentage of Americans….. Are they SOooo blind to his crimes against humanity? HE started the attack 🧨on Iran.. none other‼️
Sadly he is not the only very greedy, rich, sick man with no morals, who is very limited in knowledge or interest of the world around them. Our best hope will be that Goldilocks will blame and can Hegseth as a way to lessen his culpability for this fiasco.
it was bibi that gulled him into by his annual for the last 40 yrs saying Iran will have a nuke in2 yrs and telling butterfingers that only he can prevent that. Meanwhikle the Ayatollah issued a fatwa saying that using nuke is unislamic B/C it kills noncombatants and israel has 90-400 nukes and a plan, the Samson Option,, which destroys the ME. BTW we originally helped both Iran and israel with their nuke programs ostentually for peaceful uses.
The now dead Ayatollah. Who knows if the new one feels the same way? Talk about snatching defeat from the mouth of victory. Trump seems to be good at that.
Disagree. They are Americans, just like the rest of us. The problem is they're addicted to RW propaganda and disinformation peddled to them 24/7 by an entire tabloid-esque media ecosystem.
Requiring RW media to conform to actual journalistic standards--instead of constantly just making stuff up--would be a good start towards reclaiming our wayward GOP brethren back into the fold of decency and fairness.
A large part of his base are the Christian Nationalists who believe he is a gift from God because one of their leaders said so. They clearly don't understand what it means to be a Christian.
Can't disagree with most of what you say, Rex. But too often we Lefties go too far in demonizing or insulting our FOX-addled brethren. For being gullible rubes. Or racists, homophobes, misogynists--or all of the above. And from my experiences on Noahopinion, a smaller economics-themed Substack that has a dominant conservative readership, our Leftist insults and critiques ABSOLUTELY ENRAGE conservatives. For no other reason than the truth hurts, I guess?
During the last American Gilded Age, there was a nearly identical Liberal vs. Conservative polarization. That was so severe, there were predictions it would spark another Civil War. Which if it happened again today, would be terrible, as conservatives control the military, the spy agencies, the police, and own most of the guns.
Do you know what prevented that tragedy in the last Gilded Age? Debate. As in standing on a soapbox in a crowd of people, debating issues with your ideological opponent. Which is what revived debating in the US, and why every single school to this day has a debate club.
When we take the time to debate them on the merits of our differing policies, we have a chance to learn about their perspectives, and convince them of ours. And while plenty of people have closed minds--on both sides--even more are open to exploring what is true.
Having been abroad until late last night I am unsure whether the recent summit on the topic of a European mission to help secure the Strait of Hormuz among Macron, Merz, Meloni and Starmer has reported on here, so pardon me if it has. I relate it as an example of adults being in the room. Anyway per the lead cover story in Friday's Süddeutsche Zeitung, preconditions include an end to hostilities, and an international mission with a UN mandate. In addition the Germans are suggesting that the USA have no command function but be an active participant. In other words a member of the team but not the captain.
Maybe better to say, "You cannot grift your way *to* the truth?" But they don't feel the need to tell the truth--about pretty much anything--because they have an entire media ecosystem that will parrot their lies. And even justify and embellish said lies.
It is right to say that. The blatant market manipulation we're seeing now is a radical departure from 'normal' policy. But I worry that if we treat this as only a Trump problem, we'll miss how it's actually the ultimate stress test of a much older, more systemic issue. This isn't just about one 'clique' looting foreign policy; it's about a deep-seated tradition of US and European regimes grift that has existed for centuries. If we don't address those roots, the next person to come along won't even need to be a 'grifter' to keep the cycle going.
Agreed. If anything this administration has underscored in how I lead my life, choosing a virtuous path (as best as possible) is more gratifying. I have my daily concerns, but I am happy and can find solitude. I doubt those in the administration know that feeling, and its worth more than whatever riches they pad their nests with.
We weren’t at war with Iran. The Strait of Hormuz was open and free to all shipping, and Iran’s nuclear program was already obliterated, according to President Trump.
THEN
Trump chose to go to war with Iran, without authorization from Congress, without our allies, and without a plan. So far, thirteen Americans dead, many billions in U.S. weapons depleted, and countless civilians killed.
NOW
Trump treats a temporary ceasefire like VE Day. He’s trying to bring Obama’s Iran nuclear deal back, after he rashly canceled it. The Strait of Hormuz is firmly under the control of the Ayatollah. Oh, and the Iranian regime is still in place, with its hold on power as strong as ever. Which side really holds the cards now?
Every time — EVERY SINGLE TIME — a Republican takes the White House, they light the world on fire. Then Democrats do the hard work of putting those fires out. Then, those same Republicans complain we aren’t doing it fast enough, retake power, and start up those very same fires.
We see this year after year, election after election. It has to stop.
I believe our continued growth and maturity as Americans starts with hypervigilant daily acts of civic duty that we practice beyond the current crisis. If we continue united to make the progress many are seeing in unseating and holding back MAGA, then my dream is that we remember how to maintain.
Americans are born with freedoms guarded and strengthened generation after generation. We are on the receiving end of generational activism and engagement. Generations committed to the citizen’s responsibility as stewards of something rare, but overtime we looked away. I own it.
But I also have seen what can be done united. I also see what happens when we allow ourselves to be divided and forget how much we have in common.
I believe we at this time must acknowledge that by the nature of our birth comes with it the obligation to remain united against all enemies and not divided for it will bare our flank and open the gateway for total annihilation? This is my hope. I wish for us to maintain for to not do so is no longer an option and will not be sustainable.
It is not a choice but a necessity. Considering how we are targeted and how much is at stake; and in recognition that what happens here will affect negatively or positively everyone on this planet our daily acts and attention to civic duty is not a part-time occupation but full-time one
Teach your children well by your example not word. This is a priority to ensure the future generations can take up the mantle and approach civic duty not as required course work (if they are lucky to have it taught in any curriculum) but required life work as an American.
Ask them to verbalize and if unable to write be recorded by you as to what they see should be done to make the world a better place. Ask them for ideas on what they can do to make the world a better place and what the family together can do to make the world a better place.
Teach them history and geography starting with their home and town and state and then widen their awareness to states across the nation and the larger world, and then the universe.
Take them to Mars. Travel with them in the deepest of seas. Encourage them to travel and learn about other cultures and their languages and the multitudes of cultures and religions.
Hang a map on the wall. Leave a small notebook and pen by their bed and encourage them (not a demand just an opportunity for expression if they so choose to take it) to draw or write something about their day before they fall asleep.
Speak to them of examples as to how our country has committed to be a sanctuary for the downtrodden and helper. Draw a parallel for them that our commitment to help and raise up the vulnerable is much like being on a “playground” where children are taught by their teachers to watch out for each other and step in to help when needed.
America is one of many countries and cultures on a “world ground”. Committed to each other as members of NATO and other esteemed organizations where it is acknowledged the nations of the world can do more for everyone when united in goodwill than they can divided and estranged.
The best lessons start where the child is -- the home, the neighborhood, the church, school -- places that should be viewed as a landscape each of us can leave better not worse.
Just some thoughts as to how we can make civic duty part of our nature starting in childhood versus simply consuming what we can grab for ourselves.
I am not a teacher, but I am a parent who once was a child and so I know the good work of other parents including my own as I am sure is the experience of everyone here.
We are in America. Let us be the adult at the very least who thru our example and values, integrity and honesty and kindness might open the eyes of a child to possibilities and the world.
I guess I'm just trying to pass along and point out that civic duty at the level we see today and the activism we see today needs to be much more than an event recorded in photos to look upon later; it should be constant, one of the obligations we think about as to how we can fulfill it every single morning.
And an obligation we instruct our children on much as a King would instruct the prince for our kingdom is more valuable than any palace or even wealth. And, therefore, our children must be prepared to carry the mantle after we are gone.
We have come a long way in 250 years. Most notably America's face is changing. America today is united. We see each other today. And we take joy in what we have discovered. Be kind in word and deed. And keep marching.
Equality is key. Diversity is our greatest weapon a jewel that has been disabused and kicked around at our feet for far too long. It is in fact our strength and will be our savior. Teach your children well.
John F. Kennedy's words come to mind, "Ask not what your country can do for you, but what you can do for your country."
Sadly, it is obvious that the Republican Party is committed to the pursuit of power and money as its primary aims. Along the way it has trashed honesty and keeping the oaths they've taken to protect and preserve the Constitution and the health and safety of the United States. Anyone who votes Republican is supporting traitors. It is time for this party to die. Period.
Lets leave mr. trump for a moment...he is after all sad specimen of humanity with so much obvious evidence in front of everyone.
I suggest more concentration on the following, the ones who helpmake it all possible.
mr. vance: Chief enabler:
Unwilling to finally enact legal statutes within the Constitution that could stop the demented man that is unraveling (destroying?) his country, their friends, allies etc.
Assistant enablers:
mr miller, mr. bessent, mr. rubio, mr hegseth.,
mr. blanche, etc., etc: Multiple enablers by descending rank.
All apparently unwilling to suggest any legal ways to gather tools of the Constitution to help stop the destruction of their country, etc. etc.
I do not pretend to know all the statutes of the Constitution, but grasp its original purpose to enable its people to function with safeguards to allow
a free and fair governance.
Oh yes, I must ask...are the majority of the Republican Congress not voting to force any seemingly constructive measures to help their country?
Mr. Trump looked so savvy on The Appretice thanks to a process called Editing. People who worked on the show told - later on - about fumbling and stumbling. But they were all muzzled by NDAs. Why is there not a rule that NDAs can be voided when they pertain to people who seek a high office, either State or Federal? The People deserve the truth because they need it.
Lina Khan of the CFPB had been working on a substantial nullifying of most NDA's, as Corporate abuses them to ridiculous degrees. Like now for many min-wage workers. Imagine requiring busboys, cashiers and dishwashers to sign NDA's.
I can imagine a reason if an establishment caters to celebrities, that are nowadays preyed on for "social" media, tv-programs like TMZ, etc. Even worse are those who manage to record a stupidity, or an incorrect word, and keep it for a few years waiting for the "right moment" (when the pay-off is better).
All I can suggest Mobiguy is that there is a much larger population of ignorant people out there than we realize, or at least ones so triggered by emotions (the hate that Trump stirs up, along with the empty promises of everyone being "rich"), that its easy for them to fall into the mirage that is Trump, created courtesy of a painfully stupid reality show. He's been on my RADAR since he was going on Letterman and anywhere else he could entertain, I recall the battle for "Resorts International" between him and Merv Griffin which Merv was able to outbid him, and then the big news of the "Trump Shuttle" I watched that one the closest as it was pretty simple....he was buying the bankrupt Eastern Airlines Shuttle. When that failed in a matter of like 18 months, I knew he was an insufferable buffoon. Unfortunately, I underestimated the general population and their lack of a BS meter. Rather than be told the truth, they want to hear the lies because they sound so much more pleasant! I was travelling overseas right after the 2016 election, and I remember the subject of Trump coming up. I made no comment other than trying to be as open minded as possible, and one young man said to me, "He's a businessman and can run the country like a business." This was a random encounter so I have no idea of his thoughts now. But I have friends abroad who are pro-Trump (which has really put a wedge in the relationship because they haven't a clue what goes on in the US, nor ever have traveled off the continent.) but at the same time have other friends who are very like-minded, rather centrist, and either hate him as much as I do (Canadian) or someone who obviously knows the situation but wisely has a policy of refraining from talking politics (German). What I've learned is that people are the same across the world. Remember how our mainstream news is focused on Washington DC, with some financial news out of NY regarding the stock market, and what's going on in Hollywood. Beyond that, the rest of this vast country vies for the rest of that small percentage devoted to it. So we're just bombarded by garbage out of Washington. I can tell you that other than Canada where the population is concentrated toward our border, so there is a close sense there of what is happening here, most people abroad are not tuned into the constant garbage out of this administration. So in a nutshell, there are just too many ignorant people in the world, and the elite see educating / enlighting them as a threat to their power and wealth.
I noted, some years ago, that I as an Australian was more knowledgeable about the US than a great many Americans. Including subscribers to the New York Times. Not surprising when a large percentage of Americans cannot place their home state accurateley on an outline of the country. And cannot distinguish between "Austria" and "Australia".
That is complicated and our brains are shrinking. I suggest Australia comes up with a better name so not to be confused any longer with the other Australia, the one in Europe.
One of the biggest differences between the US and most of the rest of the world is culturally, stupidity is a competitive sport here. There is no shame in it, just a race to the bottom. The only thing that keeps it in check is a fear of the other. ”Look countrymen, we have to be better or *they* might get us. — Oh! oh. Yeah right. Digs toe in earth. Can’t be stupid today. Gotta hold it together one more day.” When the other is USSR, we were able to pull together. When the other is us, we fall upon ourselves like a pack of rabid dogs. In that regard, very little has changed in 50+ years except the decline of the Soviet Union.
Too many people could not believe that Trump is really that crooked and that crazy'. A lot of Americans still refuse to believe. And remember, during his first term, there were still "adults in the room". Now there are not any.
The world is going to pay a very high price for MAGA.
True that the world didn't vote for him. But they have, and most still do, continue to treat him as if he is a competent head of state. The respect he is continually given by other countries for the most obvious falsehoods has propped up his ego, reinforced his belief in his twisted self-image, and given him oxygen to commit ever more outrageous behavior on the world stage.
The world continues to treat Trump as a rational actor instead of shunning him, or just laughing at him. That's the world's part in this farce.
It would be pointless to argue with Trump. The pope shows us the way. You do not argue with a petulant child past his bedtime, when said child has a gun in his hand.
What the rest of the world is doing is : stay out of his way as much as possible and work around him: The EU and UK planning a feasible monitoring of the Strait of Hormuz (when it becomes feasible), supporting Ukraine, resisting Russia’s influence and aggression, the EU building up its defence (a slow process…), reducing its reliance on fossil fuels, etc…
You can blame the world for relying too long on the US’s power and apparent stability, not for pretending to think Trump is normal.
He's been getting caught in his own web of lives since he was sent off to military academy......BUT, he's never been made to face the consequences of being caught.
Absolutely - these people have their own businesses, work for themselves because they would never last anywhere else and when the bullying/grifting gets too egregious in the business arena, contractors, investors etc have the option of walking away. In this instance the stakes are too high for anyone to walk away and he is clueless as to how to 'negotiate'.
Doesn’t it seem likely, if not obvious, that the erratic swings in announcements and strategy are simply designed to allow friends and relatives to make a killing on the markets?
R - Doesn’t that assessment depend on what you imagine their objectives ti be? Seems that they have been successful, so far, in enriching their cronies.
There were allegations that $20 billion was made in insider trading as a result of 9/11. Mainly by short selling of airlines stocks in the days after. The story was even briefly picked up by Bloomberg. Then abruptly dropped.
I've got my doubts, as I strongly--but not absolutely--believe 9/11 was to some degree orchestrated by elements of our Natsec establishment. Who *may* have been disciplined enough to maintain OPSEC regarding insider trades.
But like the current allegations that Trumpist cronies are making insider bank on WH leaks, it's just unprovable speculation.
We've had omen after omen of how bad it would be, yet the excuse of the price of eggs led to the re-election of the most ignorant, stupidest, most dishonest and proven criminal in the history of the U.S.
Yes, it's a familiar pattern from the trade war with China, when Trump claimed that Xi had called him to beg for a deal, when in fact Xi was cutting off the rare earth exports.
It's part of a delusional syndrome. You believe something has happened just because you want it to happen.
Trump started off with a weak intellect, now even that is degraded by delusional thinking, and this has reached the point where the 25th needs to be discussed.
This is very, very serious. The Senate must be briefed by senior representatives of the psychiatric profession.
Trump reminds me of that piece of Karl Rove apocrypha about empires not being part of the "reality-based community" because they make their own reality.
Trump manifests the headline first and then hopes reality will follow. But he can't manifest hydrocarbon molecules.
Isn’t this similar to the so-called “Law of Attraction”, where your desires are supposed to manifest reality? It seems to work for small-scale grifters on YouTube, but their audiences are somewhat more gullible than the masters in Tehran, and probably on a par with MAGA types.
Trump is in too much of a hurry for a deal. He's been exaggerating and outright lying to talk up financial markets and talk down the price of oil. His house of 'cards' is tumbling and now Iran holds them. In Lebanon, Hezbollah says the sham talks between Israel and Lebanese govt. does not concern them.
One more point: unlike N. Korea, India, Pakistan and Israel, Iran is signatory to the Nuclear Nonproliferation Treaty. No shortage of speculation Iran has been violating the pact but it gives Iran the right to enrich uranium at low levels for civilian uses.
Which is very interesting, btw, as Pakistan *does* have both enrichment capacity, and nuclear weapon technology. That the US gave them to act as a nuclear backstop to prevent their being overrun by the much stronger India, then a USSR ally.
But now India is a quasi-US ally, and Pakistan is increasingly allied with our nemesis, China. Oh, how the worm turns.
It wasn't confidential. It was part of the declared ceasefire agreement and was conditional on a number of things but one of them was that Israel and Hezbollah would ceasefire, which took longer to happen so the strait didn't open for a while. The whole thing has generally been bullshit and lies while the US flies crazy amounts of arms to the region and everyone updates their target lists.
I'll give you guys a hint that you won't like. Trump is not the root of this evil. This has been in motion for a long time and both sides domestically have bought into this while saying whatever is politically convenient
It sounds like there were conflicting reports from Iran. The government said the Strait was open. Then the IRGC said it wasn’t and shot at two ships to drive home the point.
Remember Trump is the man that had the great strategic business deal of bankrupting billion dollar Casinos n Atlantic City — losses that took 25 years for him to recover as ‘loss deductions’ on his taxes. He actually ain’t ever been good at getting a good deal, only at conning the most gullible.
Trump just said "we won" to juice the markets before they closed yesterday. The market jumped and oil futures dropped. Some of his buddies probably made killings on that.
Donny Evans: The United States military is preparing in the coming days to board Iran-linked oil tankers and seize commercial ships in international waters, The Wall Street Journal reported Saturday, citing U.S. officials. The Journal described the move as part of a wider pressure campaign now unfolding at sea, as Washington escalates its effort to choke off Iranian shipping without formally declaring a return to full-scale combat.
At the same time, Iran has continued tightening its grip on the Strait of Hormuz, attacking multiple commercial vessels Saturday after declaring the waterway was being “strictly controlled” by Iran.
That has left shipping companies scrambling, barely a day after Iran’s foreign minister said the strait was fully open to commercial traffic, a move that had briefly eased nerves in global shipping and energy markets and was publicly welcomed by Trump.
Maybe that is true generally, but there have been reported complaints from the troops in this particular case that the food has been very inadequate in both quality and quantity. For example, one reported meal consisted of only a small lump of meat and a tortilla. Care packages sent by relatives to supplement the meager diet are not being delivered because all of the military postal facilities in the area have been closed. Needless to say, hungry troops will not perform at their best.
This Iranians are setting a trap. If we board vessels, they can attack those who board and know the exact location of the U.S. ship. If they down a U.S. Naval ship, Trump's Presidency is over and there's no way to save face.
We've set our own trap, as a naval blockade is by US law a declaration of war. Something that the GOP-controlled Congress must vote to ratify.
But they probably won't, for several reasons. Not least of which because 90% of US citizens have no clue of what foreign policy-related laws are.
The USN is probably not at great risk of losing any ships. But they are expending smart munitions at an unsustainable rate, defanging us as it were, should China decide now is the time to move on Taiwan.
Yes, Trump can’t do anything right, except profit himself and friends.
I really hope no one misses the Kim Lane Scheppele post yesterday. It’s wonderful and fascinating with all the details I haven’t seen anywhere else. The role of zebras!
The moral for us seems to be to shout about the corruption, the public money not spent for public needs. And show up in person to make the case.
One thing that stood out to me was how much Kim Lane Scheppele’s fluency in Hungarian shaped her work: it allowed her to (1) uncover the backstory and (2) explain it clearly to an international audience.
If you’re trying to understand a country, speaking the local language really matters. Without that skill—or a professional interpreter—journalists can miss nuance, tune out too quickly, or end up relying on an incomplete narrative.
A case in point: on Sunday evening, when the Hungarian election results were announced, I found it disconcerting that a BBC journalist covering the riverbank returns in Budapest spoke only English. No interpreter. She did her best under the circumstances, but the coverage became repetitive and superficial, even as important speeches were unfolding.
Hmm, I don’t know. As a symbol of the regime’s corruption? We have so many, but none as amusing as the excess of a herd of zebras. What’s her name Noem’s plane with trysting boudoir in the back? Not amusing, just maddening.
A quick note on the language tech side: you’re using closed captions (automatically generated subtitles), and desperately need a human proofreader.
Captions aren’t just for viewers who are hard of hearing; many non-native English speakers rely on them to confirm they’ve understood you correctly.
Here's the deal: automated subtitles can be convenient and are often free but they are NOT reliable.
(I've just seen "And also, they have promised that we can have the Iranian [make that URANIUM], which they had not." And "If that's what's going to happen, then you might as well keep the street [make that STRAIT] blocked." Distracting? Yes.
Happily there's an easy fix: get a literate adult to quickly review and correct the glitches before publishing.
You're absolutely right: Trump cannot process, let alone accept the situation he stupidly created with Iran because, to use his terms, they've grabbed him by the p*ssy. When he grabs someone by the p*ssy, he expects them to capitulate. But he can't capitulate, his narcissism would never allow it. So he's short-circuiting, the first step in self-destructing.
You can almost hear Kirk saying, "Nomad, you say you are perfect and humans are imperfect, but humans created you so you are imperfect too."
Trump doesn’t have the capacity to distinguish between what happened and what he needs to have happened. The crowd size. The election. The weather map with the Sharpie. These aren’t lies in the conventional sense, but rather suggest he genuinely cannot hold a fact that contradicts his self-image.
All the pronouncements are to gas-light the market. Notice, that we are always ‘2 days away’ from whatever with the markets down, then on the weekends the real story is told. **Someone** is making out like a bandit with this market manipulation, and I don’t think it’s too difficult to figure out whom.
You are exactly right Michael . And it’s just so out there that a blind could see it. trump and billionaires buddies are filling their pockets every other day.
I grew up with the story of little David slaying giant Goliath with a stone. How regretful that Trump never read children’s fairy stories. Now he is living David vs. Goliath with Iran.
Trump, strongly influenced by Netanyahu (who seeks to destroy Iran) has launched a devastating attack against Iran. Despite cautions from his military advisors (not Hegseth), he thought that Iran would surrender in 2-3 days. OOPHS!
Now all he has, with no traditional allies volunteering to support his bizarre ‘excursion,’ is even more military action.
Iran, already a failed state, has Trump by the short hairs with the Strait of Hormuz. If Trump attacks (or blocks) Iran’s petroleum resources, Iran almost certainly will retaliate—with Hormuz and attacking oil rich countries that have US military bases.
Trump, a self-proclaimed global emperor, is fast losing his luster. He has mucked up the American and global economy, played his cards for Orban and lost heavily, and now he is challenging Pope Leo XIV.
I and many others no longer fear the big bad wolf.
This has already happened more than once in politics. It's very convenient when the president is crazy. You can scare everyone. But there is a condition - in the world, at any time, there should be only one madman. Who's next?
We are being led by grifters who believe their own lies and delusions. You cannot grift your way from the truth.
This is what happens when you are governed by morons! Thank Goodness for people like Paul.
Sorry, I know this is gratuitous, but I just can't help quoting Jennifer Rubin here.
"Trump is too lazy and arrogant to learn about important issues and systematically eliminated anyone who might know better and have the temerity to go toe-to-toe with him to avert disasters. We therefore get a stream of impulsive, illogical, and often counterproductive actions. Trump will never admit errors, so blunders pile on top of each other, making bad situations even worse."
In a nutshell...
Trump has been mentally ill for much of his life and his mental illness has never been addressed. Now there’s an overlay of dementia. Expecting anything rational from him is a fool’s errand.
Trump has now passed the milepost that Regan passed when Reagan too descended into senile dementia. Reagan's subalterns ran the country from behind the scenes and we pretended nothing was wrong and we all survived.
But Trump isn't Reagan. Trump is a malignant narcissist who is in rapid terminal decline. Trump is the center of his own universe and he will not let anyone else run HIS country. Trump has quite a few months left. I fear that the worst is yet to come. Stay tuned.
She's on The Contrarian. You can get the free version or subscribe.
She also has a substack
Rubin has a terrific daily Substack presence called "The Contrarian." A modest subscription fee and free access, too.
Unfortunately he does not have the power, they do. And they are incompetent to use it.
Having people like Krugman around doesn't necessarily save you when you've got people like Trump running things. Having dozens of Cassandras doesn't prevent ruin when all of them are ignored.
DonnieBoy seems to enjoy every discomfort he can pay back to those who denied him in 2020. THAT is the sickest mental illness ever. …. and HE is a disgrace to humanity!
Yep - djt puts the 'vindictive' in Vindictive Malignant Narcississt :(
He’s a taint. “Taint refers to contaminating, spoiling, or damaging the quality, reputation, or purity of something or someone, often leaving a trace of decay, dishonor, or disease. It acts as both a verb (to spoil) and a noun (a trace of corruption or defect). Synonyms include contaminate, tarnish, pollute, sully, corrupt, spoil, and stain.” (Google AI)
And the fact that there’s a second, vulgar, slang definition for taint is just serendipitous.
The taint Trump's most familiar with is Putin's.
I think you misspelled "Netanyahu."
😂
maybe the pope can name him "Saint Taint"!
That is awesome. You MUST broadcast that. It perfectly captures the surreal landscape around us
Since "human" means Homo sapiens sapiens - thinking, reasoning man - are you sure that Trump is "human"?
Another illusion
He’s really good at getting revenge and grifting.
A couple of things known to career diplomats and students of history:
1. Incremental escalation leads to forever wars
2. If you embarrass the other side's negotiators, you empower their hardliners and militant factions, prolonging the war.
This kind of wisdom accumulates in corners of the government now referred to as the "deep state."
and this admin has destroyed this brain trust. Something's truly rotten when the likes of Jared Kushner and Steve Witkoff represent our country as "negotiators."
I’m not sure they’re idiots, I am sure they’re crooks. They have nothing to equip them to represent the US in any matter whatsoever, but they seem to be quite smart in figuring out how to make billions in “deals”for themselves, and how to escape consequences for criminal activity.
People who have no experience as negotiators, which is clear. Pitiful!
If peace was the goal, that would be right. However when the bribe is the goal, they are the men for the job. Outcome? Who cares, as long as money is in the Swiss bank account!
I know. Those two are idiots.
"useful idiots" - useful to Putin
Trump was not forced upon us. We chose him. Not me, not you, but he did win twice. In the here and now the question for each of us is what am I doing about it? And, then what more can I do than I'm doing currently?
Remember if everyone votes the election will be safeguarded from all efforts to steal it. KNOCK ON DOORS / JOIN PHONE BANKS. Also, we need to unseat MAGA starting from the local level and across the country. POST CARD CAMPAIGNS / SIGNATURE GATHERINGS / DONATE TO SUPPORT CAMPAIGNS ACROSS STATE LINES.
There is excellent work needing many hands on the ground right now: INDIVISIBLE / 5051.
I am 74 and attended three NO KINGS as well as several POST CARD WRITING gatherings and next weekend stopping by a local library for a SIGNATURE event which gathers up signatures to get well qualified and vetted potential candidates in a position to win those MAGA seats.
I am also signed up to volunteer at the polls locally. Plus donating thru ACT BLUE toward the campaigns across the country to unseat MAGA.
We have discovered our power. Call your representatives until the phones break because even if they are not MAGA it gives them courage and creates an energy on the floor.
I think focusing local is the key and getting out the vote. But no one can sit this one out. If we do, if any one of us does not vote, we lose and slip into the dark ages of America handing off the fight to those who come after us and all the unsolved problems that could have been addressed so they had the lives we want for them.
To me and I'm sure each of us here that is the worst outcome; literally sacrificing our own children -- and hopefully will be a motivator. Now is the time for all of us born into this time to right this ship. We are our only hope.
Agreed. I thought the flaming torches the week before the election in Hungary were pretty effective in ensuring the people were heard in their vote. Something to consider.
can you post a clip for this discussion ??
Very well said. We MUST ALL do our part!!!
My husband and I have been to several rallies, including the No Kings, been to town halls, made calls, sent emails and written postcards ---- but we can still do more and will..!!!!! Thanks for the motivation. You are an inspiration to us all.
I am glad you received my thoughts on the matter, but I don’t accept the label as inspiration just one of all of us and blessed to find a forum where thinking and speaking is not judge and targeted for hate. We actually converse! That’s why I truly love being here and try to tell others to take a look but not many are interested. I don’t understand it because in every other way they are seeking guidance and hope. We must go gently and stay focused on our part not that of others; and I am if anything feeling like I’m not measuring up here, so it is me being inspired not the reverse. Not the reverse at all!!
Well said. Thank you for telling it “like it is”
Trump seems to be succeeding with a percentage of Americans….. Are they SOooo blind to his crimes against humanity? HE started the attack 🧨on Iran.. none other‼️
…STOP him NOW!‼️
Sadly he is not the only very greedy, rich, sick man with no morals, who is very limited in knowledge or interest of the world around them. Our best hope will be that Goldilocks will blame and can Hegseth as a way to lessen his culpability for this fiasco.
it was bibi that gulled him into by his annual for the last 40 yrs saying Iran will have a nuke in2 yrs and telling butterfingers that only he can prevent that. Meanwhikle the Ayatollah issued a fatwa saying that using nuke is unislamic B/C it kills noncombatants and israel has 90-400 nukes and a plan, the Samson Option,, which destroys the ME. BTW we originally helped both Iran and israel with their nuke programs ostentually for peaceful uses.
The now dead Ayatollah. Who knows if the new one feels the same way? Talk about snatching defeat from the mouth of victory. Trump seems to be good at that.
The US blockade seems to be working: several ships have been turned back.
The Iranian blockade is also working: two ships fired on today.
And the rest of the world suffers the consequences.
Yes, it’s a huge mess.
Orban-ize Trump
Disagree. They are Americans, just like the rest of us. The problem is they're addicted to RW propaganda and disinformation peddled to them 24/7 by an entire tabloid-esque media ecosystem.
Requiring RW media to conform to actual journalistic standards--instead of constantly just making stuff up--would be a good start towards reclaiming our wayward GOP brethren back into the fold of decency and fairness.
A large part of his base are the Christian Nationalists who believe he is a gift from God because one of their leaders said so. They clearly don't understand what it means to be a Christian.
They are a perfect illustration of the, unfortunate, fact: that everyman creates the "god" that he wishes - often in his own image.
They follow "Churchianity," not Christianity.
Can't disagree with most of what you say, Rex. But too often we Lefties go too far in demonizing or insulting our FOX-addled brethren. For being gullible rubes. Or racists, homophobes, misogynists--or all of the above. And from my experiences on Noahopinion, a smaller economics-themed Substack that has a dominant conservative readership, our Leftist insults and critiques ABSOLUTELY ENRAGE conservatives. For no other reason than the truth hurts, I guess?
During the last American Gilded Age, there was a nearly identical Liberal vs. Conservative polarization. That was so severe, there were predictions it would spark another Civil War. Which if it happened again today, would be terrible, as conservatives control the military, the spy agencies, the police, and own most of the guns.
Do you know what prevented that tragedy in the last Gilded Age? Debate. As in standing on a soapbox in a crowd of people, debating issues with your ideological opponent. Which is what revived debating in the US, and why every single school to this day has a debate club.
When we take the time to debate them on the merits of our differing policies, we have a chance to learn about their perspectives, and convince them of ours. And while plenty of people have closed minds--on both sides--even more are open to exploring what is true.
That is an important factor in negociations as well.
Why DT will never be a good negociator,
Having been abroad until late last night I am unsure whether the recent summit on the topic of a European mission to help secure the Strait of Hormuz among Macron, Merz, Meloni and Starmer has reported on here, so pardon me if it has. I relate it as an example of adults being in the room. Anyway per the lead cover story in Friday's Süddeutsche Zeitung, preconditions include an end to hostilities, and an international mission with a UN mandate. In addition the Germans are suggesting that the USA have no command function but be an active participant. In other words a member of the team but not the captain.
I laughed when I read that.
Maybe better to say, "You cannot grift your way *to* the truth?" But they don't feel the need to tell the truth--about pretty much anything--because they have an entire media ecosystem that will parrot their lies. And even justify and embellish said lies.
"Alternative facts." I.e., lies.
It is right to say that. The blatant market manipulation we're seeing now is a radical departure from 'normal' policy. But I worry that if we treat this as only a Trump problem, we'll miss how it's actually the ultimate stress test of a much older, more systemic issue. This isn't just about one 'clique' looting foreign policy; it's about a deep-seated tradition of US and European regimes grift that has existed for centuries. If we don't address those roots, the next person to come along won't even need to be a 'grifter' to keep the cycle going.
That may be part of it — but focusing only on individuals risks missing the larger pattern.
⸻
Systems don’t become fragile simply because of who is in charge.
They become fragile when narratives begin to replace feedback.
⸻
When decisions are no longer constrained by reality,
but by the need to maintain coherence with prior claims,
distortion becomes structural.
⸻
At that point, it’s no longer just about “grifters.”
⸻
It’s about a system that can no longer correct itself in real time.
⸻
And that’s usually when instability accelerates.
This WH writ large has form the ongoing situation of wishcasting.
While the ultra-rich get even richer, families are getting squeezed by a rigged economy.
It's time for the government to stop listening to the richest of the rich and start working for working people.
Agreed. If anything this administration has underscored in how I lead my life, choosing a virtuous path (as best as possible) is more gratifying. I have my daily concerns, but I am happy and can find solitude. I doubt those in the administration know that feeling, and its worth more than whatever riches they pad their nests with.
Trump corruption knows no bounds & the world's dictators & billionaire developers know it. https://www.nytimes.com/2026/04/19/us/politics/syrian-billionaires-needed-a-favor-in-washington-they-invoked-the-trump-name.html?smid=url-share
How could it possibly have taken ten years for the world - not just the American people, but the world - to figure this out?
It didn’t. From 2015 it was painfully clear that nothing good was to be expected from this loose cannon.
From VoteVets:
FIRST
We weren’t at war with Iran. The Strait of Hormuz was open and free to all shipping, and Iran’s nuclear program was already obliterated, according to President Trump.
THEN
Trump chose to go to war with Iran, without authorization from Congress, without our allies, and without a plan. So far, thirteen Americans dead, many billions in U.S. weapons depleted, and countless civilians killed.
NOW
Trump treats a temporary ceasefire like VE Day. He’s trying to bring Obama’s Iran nuclear deal back, after he rashly canceled it. The Strait of Hormuz is firmly under the control of the Ayatollah. Oh, and the Iranian regime is still in place, with its hold on power as strong as ever. Which side really holds the cards now?
Every time — EVERY SINGLE TIME — a Republican takes the White House, they light the world on fire. Then Democrats do the hard work of putting those fires out. Then, those same Republicans complain we aren’t doing it fast enough, retake power, and start up those very same fires.
We see this year after year, election after election. It has to stop.
The cycle will only stop when America grows up and gains the humility of maturity.
I believe our continued growth and maturity as Americans starts with hypervigilant daily acts of civic duty that we practice beyond the current crisis. If we continue united to make the progress many are seeing in unseating and holding back MAGA, then my dream is that we remember how to maintain.
Americans are born with freedoms guarded and strengthened generation after generation. We are on the receiving end of generational activism and engagement. Generations committed to the citizen’s responsibility as stewards of something rare, but overtime we looked away. I own it.
But I also have seen what can be done united. I also see what happens when we allow ourselves to be divided and forget how much we have in common.
I believe we at this time must acknowledge that by the nature of our birth comes with it the obligation to remain united against all enemies and not divided for it will bare our flank and open the gateway for total annihilation? This is my hope. I wish for us to maintain for to not do so is no longer an option and will not be sustainable.
It is not a choice but a necessity. Considering how we are targeted and how much is at stake; and in recognition that what happens here will affect negatively or positively everyone on this planet our daily acts and attention to civic duty is not a part-time occupation but full-time one
Teach your children well by your example not word. This is a priority to ensure the future generations can take up the mantle and approach civic duty not as required course work (if they are lucky to have it taught in any curriculum) but required life work as an American.
Ask them to verbalize and if unable to write be recorded by you as to what they see should be done to make the world a better place. Ask them for ideas on what they can do to make the world a better place and what the family together can do to make the world a better place.
Teach them history and geography starting with their home and town and state and then widen their awareness to states across the nation and the larger world, and then the universe.
Take them to Mars. Travel with them in the deepest of seas. Encourage them to travel and learn about other cultures and their languages and the multitudes of cultures and religions.
Hang a map on the wall. Leave a small notebook and pen by their bed and encourage them (not a demand just an opportunity for expression if they so choose to take it) to draw or write something about their day before they fall asleep.
Speak to them of examples as to how our country has committed to be a sanctuary for the downtrodden and helper. Draw a parallel for them that our commitment to help and raise up the vulnerable is much like being on a “playground” where children are taught by their teachers to watch out for each other and step in to help when needed.
America is one of many countries and cultures on a “world ground”. Committed to each other as members of NATO and other esteemed organizations where it is acknowledged the nations of the world can do more for everyone when united in goodwill than they can divided and estranged.
The best lessons start where the child is -- the home, the neighborhood, the church, school -- places that should be viewed as a landscape each of us can leave better not worse.
Just some thoughts as to how we can make civic duty part of our nature starting in childhood versus simply consuming what we can grab for ourselves.
I am not a teacher, but I am a parent who once was a child and so I know the good work of other parents including my own as I am sure is the experience of everyone here.
We are in America. Let us be the adult at the very least who thru our example and values, integrity and honesty and kindness might open the eyes of a child to possibilities and the world.
I guess I'm just trying to pass along and point out that civic duty at the level we see today and the activism we see today needs to be much more than an event recorded in photos to look upon later; it should be constant, one of the obligations we think about as to how we can fulfill it every single morning.
And an obligation we instruct our children on much as a King would instruct the prince for our kingdom is more valuable than any palace or even wealth. And, therefore, our children must be prepared to carry the mantle after we are gone.
We have come a long way in 250 years. Most notably America's face is changing. America today is united. We see each other today. And we take joy in what we have discovered. Be kind in word and deed. And keep marching.
Equality is key. Diversity is our greatest weapon a jewel that has been disabused and kicked around at our feet for far too long. It is in fact our strength and will be our savior. Teach your children well.
John F. Kennedy's words come to mind, "Ask not what your country can do for you, but what you can do for your country."
Sadly, it is obvious that the Republican Party is committed to the pursuit of power and money as its primary aims. Along the way it has trashed honesty and keeping the oaths they've taken to protect and preserve the Constitution and the health and safety of the United States. Anyone who votes Republican is supporting traitors. It is time for this party to die. Period.
Lets leave mr. trump for a moment...he is after all sad specimen of humanity with so much obvious evidence in front of everyone.
I suggest more concentration on the following, the ones who helpmake it all possible.
mr. vance: Chief enabler:
Unwilling to finally enact legal statutes within the Constitution that could stop the demented man that is unraveling (destroying?) his country, their friends, allies etc.
Assistant enablers:
mr miller, mr. bessent, mr. rubio, mr hegseth.,
mr. blanche, etc., etc: Multiple enablers by descending rank.
All apparently unwilling to suggest any legal ways to gather tools of the Constitution to help stop the destruction of their country, etc. etc.
I do not pretend to know all the statutes of the Constitution, but grasp its original purpose to enable its people to function with safeguards to allow
a free and fair governance.
Oh yes, I must ask...are the majority of the Republican Congress not voting to force any seemingly constructive measures to help their country?
Gary Ruttle
That severely overstates JD Vance's role.
He is just there to keep track of Thiel's luggage in the caboose.
I agree with you. The ONLY way he gets away with this is because OTHERS let him do it. We should be focused on them.
The Apprentice. Ove a decade he built up this stage persona that millions bought into.
Mr. Trump looked so savvy on The Appretice thanks to a process called Editing. People who worked on the show told - later on - about fumbling and stumbling. But they were all muzzled by NDAs. Why is there not a rule that NDAs can be voided when they pertain to people who seek a high office, either State or Federal? The People deserve the truth because they need it.
Lina Khan of the CFPB had been working on a substantial nullifying of most NDA's, as Corporate abuses them to ridiculous degrees. Like now for many min-wage workers. Imagine requiring busboys, cashiers and dishwashers to sign NDA's.
But the GOP wants more NDA's--not less.
I can imagine a reason if an establishment caters to celebrities, that are nowadays preyed on for "social" media, tv-programs like TMZ, etc. Even worse are those who manage to record a stupidity, or an incorrect word, and keep it for a few years waiting for the "right moment" (when the pay-off is better).
All I can suggest Mobiguy is that there is a much larger population of ignorant people out there than we realize, or at least ones so triggered by emotions (the hate that Trump stirs up, along with the empty promises of everyone being "rich"), that its easy for them to fall into the mirage that is Trump, created courtesy of a painfully stupid reality show. He's been on my RADAR since he was going on Letterman and anywhere else he could entertain, I recall the battle for "Resorts International" between him and Merv Griffin which Merv was able to outbid him, and then the big news of the "Trump Shuttle" I watched that one the closest as it was pretty simple....he was buying the bankrupt Eastern Airlines Shuttle. When that failed in a matter of like 18 months, I knew he was an insufferable buffoon. Unfortunately, I underestimated the general population and their lack of a BS meter. Rather than be told the truth, they want to hear the lies because they sound so much more pleasant! I was travelling overseas right after the 2016 election, and I remember the subject of Trump coming up. I made no comment other than trying to be as open minded as possible, and one young man said to me, "He's a businessman and can run the country like a business." This was a random encounter so I have no idea of his thoughts now. But I have friends abroad who are pro-Trump (which has really put a wedge in the relationship because they haven't a clue what goes on in the US, nor ever have traveled off the continent.) but at the same time have other friends who are very like-minded, rather centrist, and either hate him as much as I do (Canadian) or someone who obviously knows the situation but wisely has a policy of refraining from talking politics (German). What I've learned is that people are the same across the world. Remember how our mainstream news is focused on Washington DC, with some financial news out of NY regarding the stock market, and what's going on in Hollywood. Beyond that, the rest of this vast country vies for the rest of that small percentage devoted to it. So we're just bombarded by garbage out of Washington. I can tell you that other than Canada where the population is concentrated toward our border, so there is a close sense there of what is happening here, most people abroad are not tuned into the constant garbage out of this administration. So in a nutshell, there are just too many ignorant people in the world, and the elite see educating / enlighting them as a threat to their power and wealth.
I noted, some years ago, that I as an Australian was more knowledgeable about the US than a great many Americans. Including subscribers to the New York Times. Not surprising when a large percentage of Americans cannot place their home state accurateley on an outline of the country. And cannot distinguish between "Austria" and "Australia".
That is complicated and our brains are shrinking. I suggest Australia comes up with a better name so not to be confused any longer with the other Australia, the one in Europe.
That goes for Canadians as well.
Sometimes we complain about US ignorance of Canada, without thinking of US ignorance of their own country.
One of the biggest differences between the US and most of the rest of the world is culturally, stupidity is a competitive sport here. There is no shame in it, just a race to the bottom. The only thing that keeps it in check is a fear of the other. ”Look countrymen, we have to be better or *they* might get us. — Oh! oh. Yeah right. Digs toe in earth. Can’t be stupid today. Gotta hold it together one more day.” When the other is USSR, we were able to pull together. When the other is us, we fall upon ourselves like a pack of rabid dogs. In that regard, very little has changed in 50+ years except the decline of the Soviet Union.
Very sensible and perceptive. Except that the Soviet Union has declined into a facsimile of the old Russian Empire. Complete with Cszar.
Too many people could not believe that Trump is really that crooked and that crazy'. A lot of Americans still refuse to believe. And remember, during his first term, there were still "adults in the room". Now there are not any.
The world is going to pay a very high price for MAGA.
The US as well.
The world?? "The world" did NOT vote for Trump. We watched in disbelief as the US elected him, not just once, but twice. NOT GUILTY!
True that the world didn't vote for him. But they have, and most still do, continue to treat him as if he is a competent head of state. The respect he is continually given by other countries for the most obvious falsehoods has propped up his ego, reinforced his belief in his twisted self-image, and given him oxygen to commit ever more outrageous behavior on the world stage.
The world continues to treat Trump as a rational actor instead of shunning him, or just laughing at him. That's the world's part in this farce.
It would be pointless to argue with Trump. The pope shows us the way. You do not argue with a petulant child past his bedtime, when said child has a gun in his hand.
What the rest of the world is doing is : stay out of his way as much as possible and work around him: The EU and UK planning a feasible monitoring of the Strait of Hormuz (when it becomes feasible), supporting Ukraine, resisting Russia’s influence and aggression, the EU building up its defence (a slow process…), reducing its reliance on fossil fuels, etc…
You can blame the world for relying too long on the US’s power and apparent stability, not for pretending to think Trump is normal.
He's been getting caught in his own web of lives since he was sent off to military academy......BUT, he's never been made to face the consequences of being caught.
Absolutely - these people have their own businesses, work for themselves because they would never last anywhere else and when the bullying/grifting gets too egregious in the business arena, contractors, investors etc have the option of walking away. In this instance the stakes are too high for anyone to walk away and he is clueless as to how to 'negotiate'.
There are men running governments who shouldn't be allowed to play with matches. Will Rogers
The fall of the tRumpty Dumpty Reich must be close at hand now.
Whomp whomp
Doesn’t it seem likely, if not obvious, that the erratic swings in announcements and strategy are simply designed to allow friends and relatives to make a killing on the markets?
That would imply intelligence and strategy, neither of which has been much in evidence from the Trump Badministration.
R - Doesn’t that assessment depend on what you imagine their objectives ti be? Seems that they have been successful, so far, in enriching their cronies.
There were allegations that $20 billion was made in insider trading as a result of 9/11. Mainly by short selling of airlines stocks in the days after. The story was even briefly picked up by Bloomberg. Then abruptly dropped.
Because the claim was false. The firm concerned actually lost money on a net basis. They were hedging
I've got my doubts, as I strongly--but not absolutely--believe 9/11 was to some degree orchestrated by elements of our Natsec establishment. Who *may* have been disciplined enough to maintain OPSEC regarding insider trades.
But like the current allegations that Trumpist cronies are making insider bank on WH leaks, it's just unprovable speculation.
Not necessarily intelligence so much as cunning.
Or a base, vile, cunning greed. Not much intelligence required
If not designed to benefit friends. Market swings are certainly benefiting his associates
Yes
Definite possibility.
We've had omen after omen of how bad it would be, yet the excuse of the price of eggs led to the re-election of the most ignorant, stupidest, most dishonest and proven criminal in the history of the U.S.
Right on the nail, Anca.
And eggs still cost too much. Lose-Lose!
Never underestimate the power of eggs
if you didn't see that coming you haven't been paying attention.
Yes, it's a familiar pattern from the trade war with China, when Trump claimed that Xi had called him to beg for a deal, when in fact Xi was cutting off the rare earth exports.
It's part of a delusional syndrome. You believe something has happened just because you want it to happen.
Trump started off with a weak intellect, now even that is degraded by delusional thinking, and this has reached the point where the 25th needs to be discussed.
This is very, very serious. The Senate must be briefed by senior representatives of the psychiatric profession.
Trump reminds me of that piece of Karl Rove apocrypha about empires not being part of the "reality-based community" because they make their own reality.
Trump manifests the headline first and then hopes reality will follow. But he can't manifest hydrocarbon molecules.
Right. The irony is that now Rove detests Trump for actually living the life of self made unreality.
What!? Wait!! You mean the six foot invisible rabbit Trump is taking to, isn't the Iranian negotiator?
No, it is Harvey again.
Isn’t this similar to the so-called “Law of Attraction”, where your desires are supposed to manifest reality? It seems to work for small-scale grifters on YouTube, but their audiences are somewhat more gullible than the masters in Tehran, and probably on a par with MAGA types.
that's what really stupefies and disheartens me!
He lies constantly. HCR had a great example in last night’s newsletter.
https://heathercoxrichardson.substack.com/p/april-17-2026
I always envisioned that conversation like a parent saying "This is going to hurt me more than it hurts you."
Xi probably said he didn't want to relate, and Trump thought it meant Trump had won.
Trump is in too much of a hurry for a deal. He's been exaggerating and outright lying to talk up financial markets and talk down the price of oil. His house of 'cards' is tumbling and now Iran holds them. In Lebanon, Hezbollah says the sham talks between Israel and Lebanese govt. does not concern them.
One more point: unlike N. Korea, India, Pakistan and Israel, Iran is signatory to the Nuclear Nonproliferation Treaty. No shortage of speculation Iran has been violating the pact but it gives Iran the right to enrich uranium at low levels for civilian uses.
Which is very interesting, btw, as Pakistan *does* have both enrichment capacity, and nuclear weapon technology. That the US gave them to act as a nuclear backstop to prevent their being overrun by the much stronger India, then a USSR ally.
But now India is a quasi-US ally, and Pakistan is increasingly allied with our nemesis, China. Oh, how the worm turns.
israel did not sign the NPT and has 90-400 nukes. why doesn't israel get shamed for that?
It wasn't confidential. It was part of the declared ceasefire agreement and was conditional on a number of things but one of them was that Israel and Hezbollah would ceasefire, which took longer to happen so the strait didn't open for a while. The whole thing has generally been bullshit and lies while the US flies crazy amounts of arms to the region and everyone updates their target lists.
I'll give you guys a hint that you won't like. Trump is not the root of this evil. This has been in motion for a long time and both sides domestically have bought into this while saying whatever is politically convenient
meanwhile he is letting putin sell oil which will help him stay in power and fund the war vs Ukraine
Well, there are “fine people on both sides”, after all.
It seems that Trump and the Iranians reached some kind of a confidential deal for:
a) opening the straight. Who knows what Trump might have conceded for that.
It seems that the Iranians did not get (did not know to ask for?)
b) that Trump would not spin the deal as his victory against them, and
c) removal of the US blockade.
And then:
a) the Iranians opened the straight, but
b) Trump’s spin was that he won, and
c) the US continued the blockade.
It seems that the Iranians did not like that! So, then they:
a) reclosed the straight, and
b) rebuked Trump’s spin (CNN said something like Trump speaks from alternative facts. (Believable? to those counting Trump's lies, yes.)
Even worse, now the Iranians are discovering they too, can be fickle (open yesterday, closed today), just like Trump.
It sounds like there were conflicting reports from Iran. The government said the Strait was open. Then the IRGC said it wasn’t and shot at two ships to drive home the point.
Remember Trump is the man that had the great strategic business deal of bankrupting billion dollar Casinos n Atlantic City — losses that took 25 years for him to recover as ‘loss deductions’ on his taxes. He actually ain’t ever been good at getting a good deal, only at conning the most gullible.
Ivana Trump said it all plainly even wrote a book. Check out this interview.
https://youtu.be/yFRPOdgNWrA?si=0MwcPgfjlOhlfYir
But that was OPM (other people's money) wasn't it- and I always wondered if some of those billions lost might have belonged to his pal Vlad.
See also the NY Times reporting on how he scammed his siblings out of Daddy's money in a way that avoided taxes.
Trump just said "we won" to juice the markets before they closed yesterday. The market jumped and oil futures dropped. Some of his buddies probably made killings on that.
I get the alleged market manipulation by Trump and the oligarchs, but how on earth can any market participant believe anything Trump asserts?
Exactly this.
Greed…pure and simple.
Yes George , as we see is all about the money and corruption…
Donny Evans: The United States military is preparing in the coming days to board Iran-linked oil tankers and seize commercial ships in international waters, The Wall Street Journal reported Saturday, citing U.S. officials. The Journal described the move as part of a wider pressure campaign now unfolding at sea, as Washington escalates its effort to choke off Iranian shipping without formally declaring a return to full-scale combat.
At the same time, Iran has continued tightening its grip on the Strait of Hormuz, attacking multiple commercial vessels Saturday after declaring the waterway was being “strictly controlled” by Iran.
That has left shipping companies scrambling, barely a day after Iran’s foreign minister said the strait was fully open to commercial traffic, a move that had briefly eased nerves in global shipping and energy markets and was publicly welcomed by Trump.
Trump didn't want Somalia to retain its monopoly on piracy in the region.
That's very droll, George!
Trumpy Piracy 'R' Us!
Aren't the U.S. ships, and the starving troops manning them, in danger of attack by Iranian drones if the cease-fire ends?
As I understand it, the U.S. ships are stationed far out of range of Iran's drones. As for starving troops, I've heard the Navy feeds pretty well.
Maybe that is true generally, but there have been reported complaints from the troops in this particular case that the food has been very inadequate in both quality and quantity. For example, one reported meal consisted of only a small lump of meat and a tortilla. Care packages sent by relatives to supplement the meager diet are not being delivered because all of the military postal facilities in the area have been closed. Needless to say, hungry troops will not perform at their best.
The US ships aren’t in the Strait. They’re outside, to the east. They’ve successfully turned several ships around.
This Iranians are setting a trap. If we board vessels, they can attack those who board and know the exact location of the U.S. ship. If they down a U.S. Naval ship, Trump's Presidency is over and there's no way to save face.
We've set our own trap, as a naval blockade is by US law a declaration of war. Something that the GOP-controlled Congress must vote to ratify.
But they probably won't, for several reasons. Not least of which because 90% of US citizens have no clue of what foreign policy-related laws are.
The USN is probably not at great risk of losing any ships. But they are expending smart munitions at an unsustainable rate, defanging us as it were, should China decide now is the time to move on Taiwan.
The cost of having the US Navy attempt to run down and board hundreds of tankers and cargo ships would be astronomical.
Trying to board a ship would definitely be dangerous.
Sounds illegal to me. We have no declaration of war from Congress so wouldn’t that be piracy?
Yes, Trump can’t do anything right, except profit himself and friends.
I really hope no one misses the Kim Lane Scheppele post yesterday. It’s wonderful and fascinating with all the details I haven’t seen anywhere else. The role of zebras!
The moral for us seems to be to shout about the corruption, the public money not spent for public needs. And show up in person to make the case.
Great exchange—absolutely.
One thing that stood out to me was how much Kim Lane Scheppele’s fluency in Hungarian shaped her work: it allowed her to (1) uncover the backstory and (2) explain it clearly to an international audience.
If you’re trying to understand a country, speaking the local language really matters. Without that skill—or a professional interpreter—journalists can miss nuance, tune out too quickly, or end up relying on an incomplete narrative.
A case in point: on Sunday evening, when the Hungarian election results were announced, I found it disconcerting that a BBC journalist covering the riverbank returns in Budapest spoke only English. No interpreter. She did her best under the circumstances, but the coverage became repetitive and superficial, even as important speeches were unfolding.
Three reporters at the NYT put out a video discussion of the situation in Hungary. The reporter from Hungary was much more poorly informed than is Kim Lane Scheppele. For those who are interested, here's a gift link https://www.nytimes.com/2026/04/18/opinion/hungary-election-orban-loses-trump-maga.html?unlocked_article_code=1.b1A.Xz-Y.v7PqkdmGLnjy&smid=url-share
Kim pointed out that the foreign reporters were chosen to be favorable to Orban.
They might eventually get out something more complete. Takes them a while.
Thank you for the link! I went and read.
So Carol, I was thinking what would be the American equivalent of the zebra in the midterms or in 2028?
Hmm, I don’t know. As a symbol of the regime’s corruption? We have so many, but none as amusing as the excess of a herd of zebras. What’s her name Noem’s plane with trysting boudoir in the back? Not amusing, just maddening.
Excellent commentary, as always—thank you.
A quick note on the language tech side: you’re using closed captions (automatically generated subtitles), and desperately need a human proofreader.
Captions aren’t just for viewers who are hard of hearing; many non-native English speakers rely on them to confirm they’ve understood you correctly.
Here's the deal: automated subtitles can be convenient and are often free but they are NOT reliable.
(I've just seen "And also, they have promised that we can have the Iranian [make that URANIUM], which they had not." And "If that's what's going to happen, then you might as well keep the street [make that STRAIT] blocked." Distracting? Yes.
Happily there's an easy fix: get a literate adult to quickly review and correct the glitches before publishing.
Thank you.
You're absolutely right: Trump cannot process, let alone accept the situation he stupidly created with Iran because, to use his terms, they've grabbed him by the p*ssy. When he grabs someone by the p*ssy, he expects them to capitulate. But he can't capitulate, his narcissism would never allow it. So he's short-circuiting, the first step in self-destructing.
You can almost hear Kirk saying, "Nomad, you say you are perfect and humans are imperfect, but humans created you so you are imperfect too."
Nomad? Wasn't that "Vijjer"?
Both! Nomad in "The Changeling," according to Wikipedia, was a predecessor to V'Ger in "ST: The Motion Picture."
It’s one thing to lose and move on. It’s another to refuse reality and make the loss worse.
Thank you Paul!
Trump doesn’t have the capacity to distinguish between what happened and what he needs to have happened. The crowd size. The election. The weather map with the Sharpie. These aren’t lies in the conventional sense, but rather suggest he genuinely cannot hold a fact that contradicts his self-image.
The Pedo Felon has always been incompetent & this time daddy ain’t there to buy the chips to pull him out.
Someone needs to tell him he needs to eat the crow W his Big Mac.
We’ll need a generation to solve this mess & the Iranian opposition will need the same.
This war on a whim makes Shrub & Chaney look like geniuses.
All the pronouncements are to gas-light the market. Notice, that we are always ‘2 days away’ from whatever with the markets down, then on the weekends the real story is told. **Someone** is making out like a bandit with this market manipulation, and I don’t think it’s too difficult to figure out whom.
You are exactly right Michael . And it’s just so out there that a blind could see it. trump and billionaires buddies are filling their pockets every other day.
"who" rather
DAVID VS. GOLIATH/IRAN VS. TRUMP
I grew up with the story of little David slaying giant Goliath with a stone. How regretful that Trump never read children’s fairy stories. Now he is living David vs. Goliath with Iran.
Trump, strongly influenced by Netanyahu (who seeks to destroy Iran) has launched a devastating attack against Iran. Despite cautions from his military advisors (not Hegseth), he thought that Iran would surrender in 2-3 days. OOPHS!
Now all he has, with no traditional allies volunteering to support his bizarre ‘excursion,’ is even more military action.
Iran, already a failed state, has Trump by the short hairs with the Strait of Hormuz. If Trump attacks (or blocks) Iran’s petroleum resources, Iran almost certainly will retaliate—with Hormuz and attacking oil rich countries that have US military bases.
Trump, a self-proclaimed global emperor, is fast losing his luster. He has mucked up the American and global economy, played his cards for Orban and lost heavily, and now he is challenging Pope Leo XIV.
I and many others no longer fear the big bad wolf.
The Emperor has no clothes!
Frank An accurate insight, but a revolting image.
This has already happened more than once in politics. It's very convenient when the president is crazy. You can scare everyone. But there is a condition - in the world, at any time, there should be only one madman. Who's next?