Category: Anti-American

Trump’s Dangerous Push for an Endless Presidency Threatens American Democracy

Donald Trump recently toyed with the idea of remaining in office indefinitely, even suggesting that it would not be a bad idea. During his speech at the Israeli-American Council National Summit, he boasted about his presidency as the best for Israel, detailing controversial actions like moving the U.S. embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem. This decision has been met with global backlash, especially from Palestinians who consider Jerusalem their capital.

In his remarks, Trump implied a desire to extend his time in power, claiming that some had joked about him not leaving office. Trump recounted conversations with supporters, hinting at future scenarios where he could remain president, saying, “these people are so stupid… now we have to start thinking about that.” This raises serious concerns about his understanding of democratic principles and the peaceful transfer of power.

Amid audience cheers, he continued, “When they all scream ‘four more years! Four more years!’ I always say, ‘make it 12 years,’” suggesting he would revel in driving his critics into frustration. This rhetoric mirrors authoritarian tendencies, where the leader seeks to undermine democratic norms for personal ambition.

Concerns about Trump’s potential refusal to leave office have been previously echoed by political commentators and even his former associates. Issues of potential civil unrest were raised by figures like Bill Maher and Michael Cohen, who articulated fears of a violent reaction should Trump lose an election, reinforcing the idea that his commitment to democracy is superficial at best.

As Trump continues to normalize such undemocratic sentiments, it becomes clear that his vision extends beyond the presidency into a realm of quasi-dictatorship. This stance poses a profound threat to American democracy, making it imperative for citizens and lawmakers to remain vigilant against any encroachments by Trump and his Republican allies.

(h/t: https://www.newsweek.com/trump-jokes-he-wont-leave-presidency-after-8-years-its-not-bad-idea-1476178)

Trump Openly Claims Authority to Direct Attorney General To Investigate Anyone He Wants

President Donald Trump addressed the latest kerfuffle-cum-constitutional crisis in a Friday morning tweet following Attorney General Bill Barr’s apparent intervention in the sentencing of Roger Stone.

Stone was found guilty of seven felony counts last November, including lying to Congress and witness tampering during the investigation into Russian intelligence and interference in the general election. As such, prosecutors recommended a seven to nine-year prison sentence, which Trump criticized vocally. Barr eventually intervened to recommend a lighter sentence, to which Trump tweeted his thanks.

In an interview with ABC News, Barr claimed that he would never be bullied by anyone (including the president) and criticized Trump’s tweets for creating a distraction. It is worth noting that, despite his claims otherwise, Barr appeared to do exactly what Trump had asked, eventually earning Trump’s praise. So that’s the context… still with me?

Ever one to jump on a news cycle, and get ahead of a story, Trump addressed this story obliquely, saying that he has the “legal right” to ask his attorney general to do anything in a criminal case.

“Trump just openly and explicitly stated that it’s perfectly within his authority to direct his Attorney General to open criminal investigations into anyone he wants,” offered Washington Post columnist Greg Sargent, in as a pure expression of what many will see as an open flouting of checks and balances in the U.S. government.

This is the very point made Thursday night on CNN by Jeffrey Toobin following a Washington Post report about this very concept. “The idea [James Comey] committed a crime is absurd. The person in a really perilous condition right now is the CNN contributor Andrew McCabe, who is under investigation from the U.S. Attorney’s office right now. And, you know, has had his case dangling out there. The president obviously wants Andy McCabe prosecuted and it’s just grotesque that you have the President of the United States behaving this way with the power of prosecution exercised in this way.”

The attorney general IS appointed by the president, then confirmed by Congress. And it’s not unusual for the top law enforcement official to work hand in glove with the sitting president. Many might read Trump’s tweet, however, as a rather foreboding omen of what may come to Trump’s political foes.

If he feels that someone has done him wrong, and he can direct the AG to serve as his own personal henchman (of which there is an abundance of evidence) then what is to keep him from seeking investigations into those he feels might threaten his reelection? Oh wait, he’s already done that.

[Mediaite]

Trump Says He Has the ‘Absolute Right’ to Tell DOJ What to Do – but Claims He Didn’t in Stone Case Despite Angry Tweet

President Donald Trump says he has the “absolute right” to direct the Dept. of Justice in who and how it prosecutes, but claims that he didn’t, despite his furious tweet overnight attacking the DOJ and calling prosecutors’ sentencing recommendation of Roger Stone a “miscarriage of justice.”

Trump also called the 7 to 9 year recommendation of jail time for Stone, his ally, confidant, and former campaign advisor, an “insult to our country.” Trump often conflates himself and the nation, as if he is the country.

Saying he did not speak to anyone at DOJ Trump then said, “I’d be able to do it if I wanted I have the absolute right to do it.”

Calling the sentencing recommendation “ridiculous” Trump added, “I thought the whole prosecution was ridiculous.”

“That was a horrible abberition,” he concluded, apparently meaning “aberration.”

[New Civil Rights Movement]

Media


Trump Advocates for Lifelong Presidency at Taxpayer-Funded Event in North Carolina

Former President Donald Trump delivered a contentious speech at the Opportunity Now Summit in Charlotte, North Carolina, where he boldly floated the idea of extending presidential terms, undermining democratic norms with his flippant remarks about serving beyond the two-term limit. This alarming suggestion, presented in a taxpayer-funded event that resembled more of a political rally than a national address, drew immediate criticism for its blatant disregard of constitutional principles.

During his speech, Trump dismissed legitimate media coverage as “fake news” and attacked Democratic leaders, attempting to distract from the significant issues plaguing the nation. He emphasized his administration’s economic narrative, selectively highlighting statistics while ignoring the broader economic disparities and injustices that persist across communities, particularly affecting marginalized populations.

Trump’s comments about the importance of maintaining his rally-style events—even if he secures reelection—further indicate his intention to blur the lines between official duties and personal political ambitions, raising ethical concerns about the misuse of public resources for private gain. His remarks, framed as humorous, effectively trivialize the critical state of American democracy.

Additionally, his speech included references to “criminal justice reform” and economic initiatives, purportedly geared towards benefiting underserved communities. However, these statements often come under scrutiny as mere rhetorical devices rather than substantive policy changes, leaving many to question the sincerity of such claims.

This event, coupled with Trump’s recent Senate acquittal, highlights a troubling trend in which the former president continuously portrays himself as a victim, blaming external forces for his administration’s challenges. Such tactics not only undermine public trust but also serve to further entrench division within the political landscape, reflecting a broader authoritarian inclination that threatens the foundations of democracy.

(h/t: https://www.cbsnews.com/news/trump-north-carolina-opportunity-now-summit-charlotte-north-carolina-watch-live-stream-today-2020-02-07/)

As others stand at attention for anthem, Trump fidgets, points, pretends to conduct the band

President Donald Trump has repeatedly said all Americans should “stand proudly” during the national anthem, and publicly chastises those who don’t as disrespectful of the troops and the flag.

But during the national anthem at his own Super Bowl watch party Sunday night, a brief video posted to Instagram shows Trump greeting guests, adjusting his chair, and straightening his suit jacket as other attendees — including first lady Melania Trump and their teenage son — stand with their hands over their hearts. As “The Star Spangled Banner” crescendoes, Trump raises both of his hands in the air, and twirls them around as if conducting the music.

The video was included in an Instagram story by a real estate agent for a Russian-American firm who frequents Mar-a-Lago and other Trump properties and events.

Trump entered his party at Trump International Golf Club in West Palm Beach as Demi Lovato was introduced to sing the national anthem at Hard Rock Stadium, videos of the moment show. It’s unclear from the video of Trump “conducting” whether the anthem you hear is Lovato, projected on screens around the room, or if a live performer is singing at the club.

(The video appears flipped, or mirrored, likely because it is an Instagram video recorded with a phone’s selfie camera. That is why Melania Trump appears to have her left hand across her chest and there is a backward numeral 4 in the video. The Herald chose to retain the original orientation as it was posted on the social media site.)

The White House declined to provide an on-the-record response to requests for comment. The Trump Organization did not immediately respond. Copies of the video were sent along with the Herald’s inquiries.

For years, Trump has publicly attacked NFL players who chose to kneel in protest during the anthem.

The protest movement was started by former San Francisco 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick in August 2016 when he refused to stand during the pregame ritual. He described his choice as a protest against racism and police brutality. Within months, other players joined Kaepernick, taking a knee and bowing their heads during the anthem.

Kaepernick is no longer in the league and claims he was blackballed for his actions.

Trump and many others called the protests disrespectful to the flag and to the troops. In 2018, the NFL announced it would begin to fine players on the field for not standing during the anthem, but would allow them to stay in the locker room if they preferred.

Megan Rapinoe, co-captain of the U.S. Women’s World Cup team, refused to participate in the anthem during the 2019 World Cup, provoking Trump’s ire. At Sunday’s Super Bowl in Miami Gardens, Beyonce and Jay-Z stayed seated during the anthem, drawing rebukes from many, especially conservative pundits.

“Maybe they should try another country that allows them a little more freedom & success?” Fox Nation host Tomi Lahren wrote on Twitter.

The Super Bowl watch party at Trump International Golf Club in West Palm Beach, just miles from Mar-a-Lago, is a tradition that predates the Trump presidency. It has taken on a new price tag in recent years due to the need for presidential security and travel budgets. Taxpayers will shell out $3.4 million for Trump’s visit to Palm Beach this past weekend, according to an analysis by the HuffPost.

Last year’s party stirred controversy when Trump inadvertently posed for a selfie with a woman who turned out to be Li “Cindy” Yang, founder of the massage parlor where New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft allegedly paid for sex.

[Miami Herald]

Media

Trump’s Disturbing Remarks on Presidential Term Limits Threaten Democracy

President Donald Trump’s recent flippant comments about potentially extending his presidency beyond the constitutional two-term limit reveal a troubling disregard for democratic norms. During various appearances, Trump has claimed he might not leave office, stating, “Four more years, four more years,” and even jesting about serving for a total of 12 years, indicating he strives to provoke the media’s ire. Despite framing these remarks as humor, the implications suggest a serious threat to the democratic process.

This pattern of rhetoric is not new; since taking office in 2017, Trump has made at least 27 references to the idea of remaining in power beyond prescribed limits. Such declarations tap into authoritarian tendencies and resonate with his base, reinforcing their adoration for him as an indispensable leader. Trump’s comments can easily be interpreted as a test of loyalty among supporters, who amplify his suggestions, often with chants of “Twelve more years!”

Moreover, Trump’s historical reluctance to accept election results raises questions about his intentions if future elections do not favor him. He is known for insinuating that elections are “rigged” or “stolen” when results are unfavorable, employing the notion of voter fraud without any substantiated evidence. These tactics threaten to destabilize trust in the electoral process and exemplify a broader fascist creep within the Republican Party.

The potential fallout from Trump’s reckless claims grows, especially in a deeply polarized political climate. With implications that carry into tightly contested states, Trump could declare victory prematurely, casting doubt on legitimate ballots that take time to count. This sets the stage for chaos, with Trump and his followers potentially disputing the vote count based solely on his initial lead.

These comments, even if intended as jokes or rhetorical flourishes, underscore a significant risk to American democracy. They point to a willingness to undermine foundational principles of governance in favor of consolidating power and can lead to severe repercussions if left unchecked. The road to loss of democratic integrity, paved with humor, is fraught with peril for the future of the nation.

(h/t: https://slate.com/news-and-politics/2020/02/trump-jokes-rigged-elections-chaos.html)

Trump Flirts with a Third Term, Undermines Constitutional Limits at Prayer Event

During a recent White House prayer event, Donald Trump made alarming comments regarding his desire to extend his presidency beyond the constitutionally mandated two terms. He joked about possibly serving a third term, saying, “So while I’m president — which will be hopefully for 5 years, and I dunno, maybe we’ll work with the media on a major extension of that.” This flippant remark highlights a disturbing trend within the Republican Party, where adherence to democratic norms is increasingly questioned in favor of authoritarian ambitions.

Trump’s comments were made amidst the backdrop of his ongoing impeachment trial, revealing the pressure he faces. However, rather than addressing serious constitutional issues, he chose to pander to his audience with absurd jokes. By trivializing the sacred principles of American democracy, Trump not only undermines the significance of the electoral process but also emboldens his followers in their disdain for established democratic limits.

The setting of the National Prayer Breakfast, typically a bipartisan event honoring faith, became an alarming platform for Trump’s authoritarian messaging. His casual dismissal of the 22nd Amendment serves as a blatant disregard for the rule of law and reflects a broader trend in Republican rhetoric that seeks to normalize undemocratic behavior. This indicates a troubling path forward for a party that increasingly embraces disregard for both the Constitution and institutional checks.

Trump’s ability to make light of such a serious issue further demonstrates his contempt for democratic norms and the rule of law. The implications of such statements are profound, as they further entrench the idea that the presidency can be seen as a personal empire rather than a role bound by constitutional limitations. This pattern showcases how Trump, with the support of the Republican establishment, continues to threaten the foundations of American democracy.

(h/t: https://www.vox.com/2020/1/17/21070218/trump-prayer-event-impeachment)

‘Maybe we will, maybe we won’t’: Trump doubles down on threat to take oil from Syria

Donald Trump has renewed his threats to forcibly steal oil from Syria, a move which experts say would amount to a war crime.

The president defended his decision to leave a small number of American troops in the war-torn nation after a general withdrawal in October by claiming they were only there to secure Syria’s oilfields.

“They say he left troops in Syria… do you know what I did? I took the oil,” he said during a Fox News interview.

“The only troops I have are taking the oil, they are protecting the oil.”

When the interviewer, Laura Ingraham, attempted to correct Mr Trump by insisting the soldiers were not there to take the oil but to guard the facilities, the president cut her off.

“I don’t know, maybe we should take it, but we have the oil. Right now, the United States has the oil. We have the oil.”

This is not the first time the erratic former business tycoon has publicly mused about stealing Syria’s oil reserves.

In October, shortly after his abrupt withdrawal of US forces and abandoning of their Kurdish allies in the region, Mr Trump said he wanted an American oil firm to fly in to tap Syria’s oil on behalf of the government.

“What I intend to do, perhaps, is make a deal with an ExxonMobil or one of our great companies to go in there and do it properly,” he said.

However, such a move would likely constitute pillage and looting, actions which have long been designated as illegal under international law and the rules of war.

The Geneva Convention, which the US is a signatory to, explicitly prohibits the looting of property during conflict, defining it as a war crime.

“The president appears to believe that the US can sell the oil, based on his statements in the past about Iraqi oil and Libyan oil … thinking that we can loot countries,” Benjamin Friedman, policy director at think tank Defence Priorities and adjunct professor at the George Washington University, told The Independent last year.

“I am sure people in the White House have tried to explain to him that is not how it works.

“Taking the profits from the sale of Syrian oil for the US treasury would be illegal. That would probably qualify as pillaging under the law.”

Ironically, experts say Syria’s oil fields are not much of a prize anyway. Even before the country descended in a chaotic civil war, it only produced about 380,000 barrels of poor-quality oil a day.

In 2018, after its production was several hampered by the conflict, it produced about the same amount of oil as the state of Illinois.

Before he entered the White House, Mr Trump had said several times that the US should have “taken the oil” from the other Middle Eastern nations its armed forces had intervened in, including Iraq and Libya.

Some commentators have speculated that defence officials desperate to persuade the president to permit some US forces to remain in Syria as a counter-balance to Isis and the Assad regime were forced to appeal to his oil obsession to gain his approval.

[The Independent]

Trump tells evangelical rally he will put prayer in schools

 U.S. President Donald Trump on Friday said his Democratic opponents would tear down crosses and pledged to bring prayer to public schools at a re-election rally to shore up evangelical support.

Trump spoke on the outskirts of Miami at the King Jesus International Ministry, a “prosperity gospel” church that teaches that the faithful will be rewarded with health and wealth on earth. 

“We are defending religion itself, it’s under siege,” Trump said. “A society without religion cannot prosper.”

More than 80% of white evangelicals voted for Trump in the 2016 election. But a crack in evangelical support opened up last month when the magazine Christianity Today wrote a blistering editorial on Trump’s “grossly immoral character.” 

Attendees, some of them wearing Trump’s signature red campaign hats, nearly filled the room, which the church says holds 7,000. Some raised their hands in a sign of praise and swayed while music played loudly over the speakers before the president entered the room. 

Pastors gathered around Trump on the stage for an opening prayer, while much of the audience remained standing with their hands aloft. 

In his speech, Trump mocked Democratic challenger Pete Buttigieg, the Indiana mayor, for having what he said was an unpronounceable last name, and told attendees Democrats were waging war against religion. 

“These angry radicals want to impose absolute conformity by censuring speech, tearing down crosses and symbols of faith and banning religious believers from public life.” 

He got a big reaction from the crowd when he promised to bring religion into U.S. schools. A clause in the U.S. Constitution prohibits the government from promoting one religion over the other, which means public schools don’t promote prayer or religious symbols. 

“Very soon I’ll be taking action to safeguard students and teachers’ First Amendment rights to pray in our schools,” Trump said. “They want to take that right along with many other ones.”

According to a 2019 survey here by the Pew Research Center, 43% of U.S. adults, or some 110 million people, identify with Protestantism; 59% of those, or 64 million are born-again or evangelical Christians. 

Christian support for Trump remained relatively constant from his inauguration until March of 2019, Pew Research shows. Some Christians believe that support has frayed since. 

Friday’s rally “is Trump’s desperate response to the realization that he is losing his primary voting bloc — faith voters,” said Doug Pagitt, the executive director of Vote Common Good, a progressive Christian group, on Friday.


[Reuters]

Trump sides with Putin on impeachment in late Friday night tweet

President Donald Trump continues to side with Russia on questions of domestic politics.

On Friday, the commander-in-chief tweeted out Russian President Vladimir Putin’s views on impeachment, adding that it is “a total witch hunt.”

Trump has received a great deal of criticism for believing the Russian military intelligence conspiracy theory that it was actually Ukraine that interfered in the 2016.

The scandal is at the heart of the impeachment trial expected to start in January.

[Raw Story]

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