Secretary Of Take: How Hillary Clinton Turned The State Department Into A Giant Cash Register For The Clinton Foundation
The AP reports that more than half the people outside government who met with Hillary Clinton when she was Secretary of State had opened their checkbooks for the Clinton Foundation. (They either donated personally or through companies or groups.)
It's an extraordinary proportion indicating her possible ethics challenges if elected president.At least 85 of 154 people from private interests who met or had phone conversations scheduled with Clinton while she led the State Department donated to her family charity or pledged commitments to its international programs, according to a review of State Department calendars released so far to The Associated Press. Combined, the 85 donors contributed as much as $156 million. At least 40 donated more than $100,000 each, and 20 gave more than $1 million.
Donors who were granted time with Clinton included an internationally known economist who asked for her help as the Bangladesh government pressured him to resign from a nonprofit bank he ran; a Wall Street executive who sought Clinton's help with a visa problem; and Estee Lauder executives who were listed as meeting with Clinton while her department worked with the firm's corporate charity to counter gender-based violence in South Africa.
The meetings between the Democratic presidential nominee and foundation donors do not appear to violate legal agreements Clinton and former president Bill Clinton signed before she joined the State Department in 2009. But the frequency of the overlaps shows the intermingling of access and donations, and fuels perceptions that giving the foundation money was a price of admission for face time with Clinton.
And what does the Clinton Foundation do to make the world a better place? Well, it mainly makes it a better place for Clinton cronies, toadies, etc., as NRO reports:
It is important to keep in mind what the Clinton Foundation mainly does: It does precious little in the way of actual philanthropy ($9 million worth out of $140 million in revenue for 2013) but instead spends almost all of its money on salaries and travel expenses for various Clintons (including Chelsea Clinton, now its vice chairman), Democratic allies, toadies, flunkies, hangers-on, and assorted minions. It is a full-employment sinecure program for friends and family of the Clinton political operation, and very little more.
It is appalling that the choice Americans have for president is either this corrupt official or loose cannon corrupto from the private sector.
Amy, THE SUPREME COURT IS AT STAKE!
I also loathe both candidates, however, if you want to live under at least semblance of a constitutional republic, you have to hold your nose and vote for Trump.
All it takes is a couple more Statist justices and we are screwed beyond belief.
David H. at August 23, 2016 11:21 PM
When the choice is a corrupt narcissistic asshole whom everyone hates and will be opposed by his own party and the media vs a corrupt narcissistic asshole willing to OPENLY sell political favors to the thunderous applause of her own party and the collusion of the media how can you justify voting for the 'adult'
Who cares what prestige our country loses with Trump shitting out his mouth every day vs the fundamental rule of law and liberty we will lose with a fully supported 'adult' selling off freedoms left and right to fill her coffers?
lujlp at August 24, 2016 1:47 AM
Considering "prestige"
"Who cares what prestige our country loses ..."
1. We should do what's good for our country and what is "morally" right as best we can. Prestige can not be bought.
2. Obama vs. Bush prestige/respect. Who's on top?
3. Venezuela was a darling of the world 2 or 3 years ago but today is a mess. Who cares other than that country's citizens?
Arguments for Clinton instead of Trump are grasping for straws. Nothing concrete is ever presented. Concepts like "prestige" maybe but substantial?
Her supporters know her foundation is not a good charity, know her wealth is because of her selling her accessibility, know her spitefulness, her inability to pick the country's needs over hers, and so on.
She has not succeeded at anything other than being Bill's wife. Name something not "tainted". Name some good political work done. Name something please. She can not stand on her own work, reputation, or even her inspirational aspirations.
Sad but true. Biden would have been an excellent choice but the Clinton machine was/has been in play and everyone knows it.
Get ready for Chelsa as she's next in line.
Bob in Texas at August 24, 2016 6:16 AM
And this illustrates the crux of the problem. Yes, Trump's a loose cannon. Yes, there's no telling what he might say or try to do in office. However, there are plenty of backstops built into our system of government, and our culture, to limit that sort of thing.
Clinton, on the other hand, has the ability and resources to corrupt the entire system. She's the darling of the class of people who fancy themselves as America's royal family. She'll have Wall Street, the labor unions (consider that unholy marriage, in of itself), the media, the civil service, the Democratic Party's client classes, and a bevy of foreign interests all backing her.
Against all that will be what appears to be a minority of Americans: the productive classes. What chance do they have? They, alone out of everyone in the scenario, do not live their lives to be political animals. They, alone out of everyone, do not wish to control the lives of others. Their resources and assets are miniscule compared to the forces arrayed against them.
We're seeing how this comes out, in Venezuela. Of course, almost nobody there is willing to admit what happened: this is the inevitable outcome when a government and a society goes to war against its productive classes. No, they'll believe, to a person, that it failed because the "reforms" didn't go far enough. And so human civilization rushes headlong towards the Second Dark Age.
Cousin Dave at August 24, 2016 6:32 AM
Clinton will appoint center left justices.
I have no idea who Trump would appoint, he is a wild card.
NicoleK at August 24, 2016 6:36 AM
Still voting for the adult, eh, Amy?
roadgeek at August 24, 2016 6:38 AM
Clinton will appoint center left justices.
I have no idea who Trump would appoint, he is a wild card.
NicoleK at August 24, 2016 6:36 AM
Your *center left* is my *socialist*
I dont want to go further down that road already traveled with Breyer, Sotomayor, Kagen and Ginsburg. Kennedy is probably just senile if the quality of his opinion in Obergefelt is any indicator. (It opens the door for Polygamy and incest)
And if you dont have some idea who Trump will appoint, you havent been paying attention. He published a list several months ago, of people he considered qualified for the Supreme Court.
Isab at August 24, 2016 7:12 AM
It's a lot more. It's a giant cash machine for the Clintons to use to influence US and world politics and to gain access to bilk unsophisticated foreign markets via "charity" (google: Clintons Haiti).
Without Trump as her opponent, Clinton would have already lost this election. She is a corruption; a stinking, oozing corruption on the body politic. Only Trump's outrageous comments and his unpredictability have kept her bid for the presidency alive.
Trump's shady business dealings have been just that, shady business. Nonetheless, his business dealings at least resulted in the promised building being built. The Haitians are still waiting for the promised schools, hotels, and jobs.
Conan the Grammarian at August 24, 2016 7:22 AM
Ben sucks... He's the problem.
Crid at August 24, 2016 8:48 AM
You guys have totally been sending in your checks, right?
Because Hillary!
It's important to be absolutely reductive and binary about this. Be totally simplistic about it, grinding it down to this fantasy of you-against-the-world, like when you were a kid and Mom gave Jessie more of your favorite dessert even though you did most of the work hauling the trash out from the garage. More than anything else, the 2016 Presidential election is about your most deeply-held personal resentments, and don't let anyone tell you otherwise.
Radwaste says Trump is a successful businessman, and points out that Conan doesn't have such a lustrous head of long, comboverable, freak-orange hair.
Y'know, it's so blindingly obvious that neither candidate ever moved through a single day of their lives with so much as a shred of integrity that I feel absolutely liberated. I didn't do this to America, or even just to the executive branch. You guys did. I'm not responsible... You are.
So keep on foamin', you rhetors you!
Crid at August 24, 2016 9:13 AM
"And if you dont have some idea who Trump will appoint, you havent been paying attention. He published a list several months ago, of people he considered qualified for the Supreme Court."
Why would a socialist be opened minded enough to go beyond socialist news reports? Don't confuse them with facts.
Dave B at August 24, 2016 9:15 AM
"Y'know, it's so blindingly obvious that neither candidate ever moved through a single day of their lives with so much as a shred of integrity that I feel absolutely liberated."
Uh, no it isn't so blindingly obvious. Crid, you've gone full "get off my lawn."
Dave B at August 24, 2016 9:21 AM
Mwa ha ha. You may have uncovered my evil plot Crid but not even you can prevent my allies the lizard people from taking over.
On a more serious note, you still don't get it Crid. Yes, Trump sucks. Yes, Hillary sucks. What are our other options? Well gee, the invisible man also sucks as just Ms. Green. Everyone sucks. There are no good reasons to vote for any of them. But, here is the kicker. Someone is going to be president. Someone's butt get stuffed in that chair. Since there are no good reasons to vote for anyone we are stuck with the bad reasons. And that is where Trump shines. He sucks slightly less than the alternatives.
Personally I would have preferred Walker. But he didn't make it through the primaries and that is that.
Ben at August 24, 2016 9:23 AM
"that neither candidate ever moved through a single day of their lives with so much as a shred of integrity that I feel absolutely liberated. I didn't do this to America, or even just to the executive branch. You guys did. I'm not responsible... You are."
Schadenfreud isnt much of a policy but I guess if thats all you've got.....,
This ignores the fact that all of us are going to suffer the consequences of the next administration. Not just those that vote.
The elites have done this to us, by forcing a choice between the devil we know, and the one we don't.
Four more years like the last eight will probably finish off the productive classes as well as the value of their pensions, as well as the rule of law.
And it is also looking like it might lead to World War III as the sphere of American security collapses.
My choice was Ted Cruise. In order to defeat him, the Republican elites were willing to elect Hillary. I would like the deny them this desired alternative.
Isab at August 24, 2016 9:34 AM
David H.
All it takes is a couple more Statist justices and we are screwed beyond belief.
Don't forget all the entry level judges she'll appoint. Eventually some will end up on various courts of appeal, some in the DC circuit, and then they'll be favorites for SCOTUS in 25 to 40 years from now.
Isab:
He published a list several months ago, of people he considered qualified for the Supreme Court.
Yeah, but everything is negotiable with him, so that list is not exactly as comforting as it might otherwise be.
I'll also point out that according to Hillary, Job 1 will be to overturn Citizens United. Not root out ISIS. Not work on creating a more effective business environment that might create jobs.
No, we have to stop people from organizing together to rent printing presses so they can get their political speech out in front of the masses.
After that, she'll go gunning for Heller and McDonald. Best of luck exercising your Second Amendment rights after that.
I R A Darth Aggie at August 24, 2016 9:40 AM
If Hillary does win the election, not out of the rhelm of possibility with the ignorance of voters, the media on her side, and a well oiled fraud machine, I predict that 2020 may look a great deal like 1968, where another sleezy crook didn't even run for reelection because he was conviced he was going to lose the primary.
However back in that era the media was *somewhat*more fair.
They trashed Goldwater on behalf on LBJ, and then realized what they got for their troubles, was not exactly what they thought.
The total corruption of Hillary and the Clinton foundation has been out there for over a year. Amy finally notices when the AP picks it up.
Isab at August 24, 2016 9:58 AM
Now now, Hillary has promised if she is elected the Clinton Foundation will no longer accept foreign donations . . . . . . all such funds should be redirected to the soon to be formed Clinton International Trust.
Ben at August 24, 2016 10:03 AM
Cruz has never produced anything either. He is a lawyer and a first-term senator who was willing to shut down the government in order to get his way. His prior experience was as Solicitor General of Texas. This is not a guy with significant national or international experience. And this is not a guy who has shown he has a stake in the success of the country (only his own political career). But he's a solid debater, so he sounds good.
We need someone who will govern, not proselytize.
Give me someone like Paul Ryan. I may not agree with everything he does or says, but he has shown his first priority is governing the country, passing the budget instead of holding it up just to kill a law that a significant portion of Congress supports (that they shouldn't is a matter for debate, not obstruction).
Trump is a terrible choice. Hillary is worse. That this is debatable tells you how far we've fallen. Both parties will fight a Trump power grab, whereas Hillary will have a blank check from the Democrats. Hillary has already said abortion and antipathy to the second amendment are her litmus tests for SCOTUS justices (and the next president will have at least 2 appointments). As a result, I lean toward Trump as the lesser of the two evils, overall, if not personally.
Whichever candidate wins, watch for government disfunction: weekly threats of impeachment, calls for independent prosecutors, almost weekly scandals, fervent partisanship, no-bid government contracts, exploding national debt, defaults on debt payments, and crony corruption. The next president's term (no matter who wins) will end with whimper.
How did it come to this? The Republicans had a wide field of former and sitting governors, some with experience in past presidential administrations. Instead, they allowed a populist rabble-rouser to sweep the field. The Democrats had a lesser field, Obama having wrecked most of their bench. Still, they could have talked a few or their old warhorses into running (Biden, Brown, Feinstein, Gore, Warren, etc.) or some of their newer faces (Bel Edwards, Hickenlooper, etc.) and produced a lively debate about the role of government; and possibly chosen a less nausea-inducing candidate than Hillary. Instead, they let the Clinton machine worm its way inside and corrupt the works (Pelosi, Wasserman-Schultz, et al).
Both parties are weakened by this election and at least one will be in danger of collapsing. No matter who is elected, the US is a banana republic now.
Conan the Grammarian at August 24, 2016 10:06 AM
So get your downpayment in now. She'll know who donated and she'll have use of the money when she and Bill leave the White House ("dead broke" again, probably).
Conan the Grammarian at August 24, 2016 10:11 AM
"Yeah, but everything is negotiable with him, so that list is not exactly as comforting as it might otherwise be."
I agree that some things are negotiable with Trump. I do not agree that everything is negotiable with him. That is a talking point of opponents.
Dave B at August 24, 2016 10:12 AM
> you still don't get it
So you look at your life and the persuasion and insight you've brought to the lives of others heretofore, you look at Western Civ, and then you affirm this is about your insight, not your lifelong capacity to be pathetically, deceived and disregarded.... By a motherfucking game show host. You say others still don't get it.... Even though you've explained it to them! You think this is a breakthrough.
Childish sarcasm without an established baseline of respected, coherent rhetoric doesn't flatter you. You're too eager to make it about some entirely unfounded, tissue-thin affirmation of your own personal grooviness. This is almost certainly about the new access to inexpensive universal media for inarticulate social sectors. You're not bright guys: The incessant eruptions from your congested spirits doesn't convey patience overtaxed, but rather inattention well-earned.
Hillary deserves better enemies: You're not up to this, but I will hold you accountable.
Crid at August 24, 2016 10:17 AM
Extra comma! I feel bad, because it almost certainly waylays you.
Crid at August 24, 2016 10:19 AM
And it is also looking like it might lead to World War III as the sphere of American security collapses.
That's probably what it will take to cull the elites around the world. It isn't just a USofA problem:
http://www.businessinsider.com/jean-claude-juncker-borders-european-union-immigration-2016-8
This business will get out of control. It will get out of control and we'll be lucky to live through it.
I R A Darth Aggie at August 24, 2016 10:24 AM
"Hillary deserves better enemies: You're not up to this, but I will hold you accountable."
That appears to be your conclusion. It also implies that you are a Trump supporter. Since a practical person knows we only have a choice between two, Trump or Clinton, why don't you come out with guns a blazing and say who want to win?
Dave B at August 24, 2016 10:27 AM
Dave B:
I do not agree that everything is negotiable with him. That is a talking point of opponents.
I'm pretty sure I heard DJTjr say that exact line, so forgive me if I take him at his word.
Or would that be an insult to his intelligence?
Conan:
So get your down payment in now.
Now, now, I'm sure the Lincoln bedroom will be listed on AirBnB.
I R A Darth Aggie at August 24, 2016 10:31 AM
"I'm pretty sure I heard DJTjr say that exact line, so forgive me if I take him at his word."
You are taking Don out of context. Don did not say, as opponents of Trump want you to believe, that everything is negotiable ad infinitum. That is just plain absurd.
Dave B at August 24, 2016 10:40 AM
"My choice was Ted Cruise. In order to defeat him, the Republican elites were willing to elect Hillary. I would like the deny them this desired alternative. ~ Isab at August 24, 2016 9:34 AM
"Cruz has never produced anything either. He is a lawyer and a first-term senator who was willing to shut down the government in order to get his way. His prior experience was as Solicitor General of Texas. This is not a guy with significant national or international experience. And this is not a guy who has shown he has a stake in the success of the country (only his own political career). But he's a solid debater, so he sounds good."
That was never my point Conan. It was about the self immolation of the political elites who would rather elect Hillary, than unite behind Cruz in the primary, when their boy Rubio self destructed.
The republicans controlled their own primary in too few states.
Their delgate selection process in many states was wide open, and easily taken advantage of by a populist outsider.
That said, a lot can happen between now and the election, and I dont believe the polls, any of them.
Isab at August 24, 2016 10:58 AM
Too many states have open primaries. The open primary process has been a disaster. if it was intended to moderate party extremists, it has failed. Primaries are now more polarized than ever. Populists like Trump and Sanders can pull in primary voters who have no stake in the political viewpoint of the party or even in outcome of the election at all.
Conan the Grammarian at August 24, 2016 11:10 AM
https://i0.wp.com/media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/39/34/ce/3934ced8df67c725350e0a16a91a86df.jpg
Bob in Texas at August 24, 2016 11:13 AM
Too many states have open primaries. The open primary process has been a disaster. if it was intended to moderate party extremists, it has failed. Primaries are now more polarized than ever. Populists like Trump and Sanders can pull in primary voters who have no stake in the political viewpoint of the party or even in outcome of the election at all.
Conan the Grammarian at August 24, 2016 11:10 AM
It isn't just the open primaries. You can have a closed primary in a state that allows people to switch parties at the polls with no notice, and still end up with the same result.
Primaries are always vulnerable to populist candidates. A caucus system is less so.
Isab at August 24, 2016 11:16 AM
> It also implies that you
> are a Trump supporter.
No no no no a thousand times no, but fuck everything because you guys can't handle it, and ten thousand words of clarity mean nothing. You are SO EAGER for this to be a binary event... You want it to be simple beyond simplistic. You want your own internal dialogues reduced to a globally-stupendous true/false quiz with a single question.
I can't imagine living in the mentality that's reduced our choice of government servants to these two sinister fuckbots. I sleep deeply tonight and will evermore in the certainty that I didn't do this. It's not my fault. Goofs who trying to prove how darned clever they were decided Donald Motherfucking Trump should be their champion: And he should contest the election against the most corrupt government figure of my lifetime.
YOU DID THIS. Not me. Beeyotches, don't come cryin'. Bring me anything but your tears.
Crid at August 24, 2016 11:21 AM
"but fuck everything because you guys can't handle it, and ten thousand words of clarity mean nothing."
Get off my lawn Crid. And, stay out of my garden when things get bad. Actually, I don't have to worry about you on my lawn, or in my garden. Odds are you'll never make it out of Cali.
Dave B at August 24, 2016 11:35 AM
Jeb was the 'elite's' first choice. But he went nowhere. Rubio was their second choice. After that they preferred Hillary to Cruz. Trump gained a lot of his support from white blue collar men who were forced out of the democrat party. It will be interesting to see if they stick around for the general election.
As for you Crid,
"Childish sarcasm without an established baseline of respected, coherent rhetoric doesn't flatter you. You're too eager to make it about some entirely unfounded, tissue-thin affirmation of your own personal grooviness. This is almost certainly about the new access to inexpensive universal media for inarticulate social sectors."
Yep you really don't get it. My own personal grooviness?
"I sleep deeply tonight and will evermore in the certainty that I didn't do this. It's not my fault. Goofs who trying to prove how darned clever they were decided Donald Motherfucking Trump should be their champion: And he should contest the election against the most corrupt government figure of my lifetime.
YOU DID THIS. Not me. Beeyotches, don't come cryin'. Bring me anything but your tears."
I think the gentleman doth protest too much.
Ben at August 24, 2016 11:38 AM
I can't complain about Amy's support of Hillary. Look at where she lives, what her job is, who her friends and neighbors are. If she comes out as a public supporter of Trump that can have huge personal consequences. California is not a safe place to speak your views.
Ben at August 24, 2016 11:43 AM
> I can't complain about Amy's
> support of Hillary.
While it's unlikely that no one in your life GAF whether you complain or not, your appraisal of others is inane... You don't know how to read. You're learning-disabled, and you think we can't tell because it's a blog. Have you met Orion/Artemis?
Crid at August 24, 2016 12:01 PM
"I predict that 2020 may look a great deal like 1968, where another sleezy crook didn't even run for reelection because he was conviced he was going to lose the primary."
But LBJ dropped out because he knew he'd lost the Left and would get trashed. And the reason he lost the Left was because back then, they had at least a semblance of a set of principles that they were determined to stick do, and one of them was ending the Vietnam war. When LBJ expanded it instead, that's when he lost them.
Today, the Left has no scruples at all. It's all about class and tribe loyalty now. There is literally nothing Hillary can do that would lose them. If she declared an Old Testament theology, with the death by stoning for adultery, the Left would be all for it.
Cousin Dave at August 24, 2016 12:59 PM
Cousin Dave, Hillary couldn't even win this primary without manipulating the process with the super delegates
Isab at August 24, 2016 2:23 PM
I don't know about that CD. The democrat party (not the left but bear with me) is very fragmented. So is the republican party. It is quite possible for both parties to fragment and form something new. Hillary's big business, pro war, and big bribery stances could cost her any chance at the primaries in 2020. After all she almost lost to Bernie Sanders of all people.
Ben at August 24, 2016 2:23 PM
You are taking Don out of context.
Then what is the context? where can I find the context?
assertion != proof
Words have meaning. If one says that everything is negotiable I take that to mean everything can at least be talked about.
I will allow that Trump is imprecise with his use of language, so it is quite (very?) likely you are correct.
On the other hand, he's...not quite flip-flopping on deportations, but it sure looks like flip-flopping. So, the man has a list of Supreme Court candidates he might nominate. That, and $5 can buy you a fancy coffee at Starbucks.
I R A Darth Aggie at August 24, 2016 2:35 PM
Hillary's big business, pro war, and big bribery stances could cost her any chance at the primaries in 2020. After all she almost lost to Bernie Sanders of all people.
Heh. But no, not without some sort of popular grass roots revolt on the left. If she wins, she will be the de facto leader of the Dem party. She will make sure that the party's leaders, movers, and shakers will all be Friends of Hillary.
Super delegates, one and all. Committed to the re-election of HRH.
Those who do not kiss the ring will be cast out in the darkness, with great wailing and gnashing of teeth.
Besides, who would run against her? we'll have to wait and see who gains fame or notoriety over the next two years. Corey Booker, perhaps? Chuckie Schumer?
Amy Schumer?
I R A Darth Aggie at August 24, 2016 2:45 PM
A primary is more responsive to the voters, part of the reason it is more vulnerable to the populists.
A caucus, on the other hand, enables the party to maintain a certain amount of control over the process, no last-minute party switchers or non-party voters to gum up the works. You're sure that the people voting in the Democratic caucus are Democratic voters and affiliated with the party, likewise for the Republicans.
With an open primary or last minute vote switching a possibility in too many states, the wide selection of Republican candidates left that party at a disadvantage to the Democrats.
Closed primaries channel the people directly associated with the party to chose the party's candidate and message in the forthcoming election. Open primaries introduce wild cards.
Conan the Grammarian at August 24, 2016 2:46 PM
"Words have meaning. If one says that everything is negotiable I take that to mean everything can at least be talked about."
YUP. Yup. yup. But not "ad infinitum." I said it and I mean it. It can be talked about, but not forever. I've never read his book, but I know he says it, like all good real estate developers do. At some point you have to walk away.
You see what you want to see. He will enforce immigration. I believe he will. He will follow the list of proposed justices, and if not available, he will follow up with like minded individuals. You don't believe it. So what? Since I think you are from Texas, do you have the same low opinion of Trammel Crow, Boone Pickens et al?
Dave B at August 24, 2016 4:11 PM
> He will enforce immigration.
> I believe he will.
Free Ferraris for white guys... This I believe!
I mean, sure, he's never really done anything for another human being in his entire life, but you guys should go ahead and send checks to him if you want.
Y'know....
Crid at August 24, 2016 7:56 PM
Spotted on Trump's Facebook page:
Lee Walker: If Hillary wins I'm moving to Benghazi at least there I know she'll leave me alone!
Isab at August 24, 2016 8:07 PM
"I mean, sure, he's never really done anything for another human being in his entire life,"
You do not know that. That I also believe. I think he has. You believe shit like free stuff for white guys - well, good for you.
You're a famous guy Crid. Do you know Trump personally?
"> It also implies that you
> are a Trump supporter.
No no no no a thousand times no"
I was gone quite a while. I do not know why you do not support Trump. Do you have a reason?
"You are SO EAGER for this to be a binary event... You want it to be simple beyond simplistic. You want your own internal dialogues reduced to a globally-stupendous true/false quiz with a single question."
I've recently noticed a lot of people using the word binary when they talk about this election. Must be cool to use it. I haven't heard it used since college in 1963. Pray tell, is this election not between Clinton and Trump? I guess I'm in search of enlightenment so I can evaluate my own internal dialogue.
Dave B at August 24, 2016 8:22 PM
My best guess is that Amy is being held hostage by her publisher. Anti-Hillary = career suicide. I don't blame you Amy.
Mattt at August 24, 2016 9:11 PM
> You do not know that.
Jeez, the failure to contract "do not" to "don't" suggests that you're being terribly precise with language here, as if the proposition required metaphysical certitude; As if, had he even once held an elevator door for a man with crutches and a cast on his leg, he must therefore be deemed fit to serve the United States through government office.
> I think he has.
And yet you can't (or don't) name anything he's ever done for anything that would imply decency or reliability.
> Do you know Trump personally?
Why should I have to? The point is that I want evidence of a lifetime of engagement with the larger world beyond his own (pathetically mismanaged) interests... A series of efforts at social engagement in the style of Romney et al. Trump's got his dick in his hand.
> Must be cool to use it.
It's even better to consider the context it describes, the one in which you spin like a straitjacket on a barstool:
> Pray tell, is this election
> not between Clinton and
> Trump?
You see nothing else: You need it to be like this. You regard Trump with the rapture of a seven-year-old watching Batman: He will enforce immigration, sez you, again without high-falutin' contractions.
But why on Earth would anyone think so?
Crid at August 24, 2016 10:05 PM
"Jeez, the failure to contract "do not" to "don't" suggests that you're being terribly precise"
No. Just used to hear it a lot from Joe Soucheray on his Garage Logic radio show. When someone would make such an all knowing statement that everyone is supposed to believe as fact, a tape would play "you do not know that." You know nothing about the man, Trump, just what you've heard someone else say about him. Is he a perfect politician, all polished and with all the memorized bullshit material. Nope.
"And yet you can't (or don't) name anything he's ever done for anything that would imply decency or reliability."
He has built, and run, a very successful business and has hired many people. Has made himself, his family and many other people a lot of money. He has worked through some very public bankruptcies and has come back bigger and stronger. He thinks very highly of himself. A trait not uncommon for real estate developers - they take big risks (leverage). But if he didn't think highly of himself he would not have been able to make a comeback. He provides jobs for many, many people.
I shouldn't be writing this much. You know nothing of the man and you are not one to have his mind changed. Sometimes, maybe more, you are just a prick. A entertaining and lovable prick, but still a prick. That's how us real estate developers talk. Oh, and Rosie O is a pig. Really.
"It's even better to consider the context it describes, the one in which you spin like a straitjacket on a barstool"
I do not get your meaning. What are you trying to say?
"You see nothing else"
Oh Great One Crid - please give your list of likely persons to be elected.
"He will enforce immigration, sez you, again without high-falutin' contractions.
But why on Earth would anyone think so?"
I think so. I know him.
Does anyone really know what time it is?
Why don't you come down with us mere mortals. We just give it our best shot. We never know what will really be done until its done. But if we have to act, something you seem to be afraid of doing, we act based on the best information we have. You just have strong opinions - but don't want to stick your neck out by explaining yourself.
Maybe you are just jealous of Trump - I don't think you match up - his success, his kids, his wives.
Dave B at August 25, 2016 1:07 AM
> He has built, and run, a very
> successful business
This isn't true, but it's the "Batman" part of this for you guys... This is the part where you imagine him casually walking up the side of a building with a rope where other celebrities open the windows and pop out to make pithy jokes... On his television shows, because the man is literally a game show host...
> and has hired many people.
...a game-show host known best for the petulant catchphrase "You're fired."
There is zero persuasion to be gained by describing this man as a business achiever: It's not true. I've posted plenty of links from from thoughtful observers and investigators, but you won't read them. It's indisputable that if he'd invested his inheritance in index funds and stayed indoors to masturbate in silence, he'd be worth billions more than he is today, having squandered so much of his fortune on lame ventures. There are thousands, hundreds of thousands of businessmen and women with more success and social involvement to offer as qualifications for that office.... But you apparently want to go with the guy you've been watching on the teevee every night... The one in the cape.
> You know nothing about the man,
> Trump, just what you've heard
> someone else say about him.
WHAT THE FUCK IS THE MATTER WITH YOU PEOPLE? Jesus Cocksucking Christ on Stick. YOU ARE TALKING LIKE IDIOT SCHOOLGIRLS....
The blithering idiot has been famous, in the least-flattering (or entertaining) way, for more than thirty years! If I don't know what he's about, why the fuck not?And for the love of Christ, what is happening in your little purple-felt-tip-on-ruled-paper-poetry hearts to give you the illusion that YOU have some first-hand experience with him?
> I know him.
Jeez, you never mentioned it. Lemme guess,you shook his hand at the opening of a 7-11?
It wouldn't matter. This is not a matter for which you schoolgirls are going to be permitted to say 'Trust me on this guy!'
Mostly, this year has convinced me that a lot of people who are licensed to drive automobiles and check out library books are profoundly STUPID... And I've run out of reasons to be delicate about it. It's been demonstrated that in no realm of social coherence is your judgment going to be useful... It's built on naivete and adolescent resentments rather than discipline and investigation.
YOU'RE FUCKING THIS UP. Both of you... Hillary and Trump supporters. I didn't do this, you did, and you will not be forgiven.
Crid at August 25, 2016 10:58 AM
It's not just me.
Crid at August 25, 2016 11:06 AM
"It wouldn't matter. This is not a matter for which you schoolgirls are going to be permitted to say 'Trust me on this guy!'"
School yard talk.
"Mostly, this year has convinced me that a lot of people who are licensed to drive automobiles and check out library books are profoundly STUPID... And I've run out of reasons to be delicate about it. It's been demonstrated that in no realm of social coherence is your judgment going to be useful... It's built on naivete and adolescent resentments rather than discipline and investigation."
Sorry for you dude. You really have a very high opinion of yourself - a lot like Trump, but nothing to show for it. Little people really get you - and you do not even know them - but you think you do.
"YOU'RE FUCKING THIS UP."
Oh just give it up. What are you? You must be an EST graduate. You sure sound like one. Again, Oh Great One Crid, what is "THIS" you say we are fucking up.
"and you will not be forgiven"
Duh. My life is over. A dude that goes by the name of Crid is not going to forgive me for something. I couldn't care less.
Dave B at August 25, 2016 12:29 PM
"It's not just me."
David Boaz. Oh, OK. Now that is a big thing and I'm really chastised. David Boaz. Oh, and Crid, I know David too.
Dave B at August 25, 2016 12:38 PM
All this "knowing" has left you, with the articulation of a 7th grader, in a position of wanting to vote for Donald Trump to become president of the United States.
Amy alkon likes to drop names, too.
Do people who do that imagine themselves to be flattered?
Why?
Crid at August 25, 2016 1:17 PM
"All this "knowing" has left you, with the articulation of a 7th grader, in a position of wanting to vote for Donald Trump to become president of the United States.
School yard talk.
"Do people who do that imagine themselves to be flattered?"
You also asked why. I did it to give some information that you were not aware. You do not, even if you think you do, know everything, even though you pretend here on this site, that you do. I do not know everything and mostly ask questions rather than pontificate. Are you asking do I feel flattered by saying who I know? It is what it is. Why do you keep acting like a petulant child? Teacher, Teacher,"Amy alkon likes to drop names, too."
"in a position of wanting to vote for Donald Trump to become president of the United States."
In the real world of us cave men, either Clinton or Trump will be elected President of the United States. Given that that is the choice, I will vote for Trump. It isn't really a matter of "want." My choice is that between the two, I choose Trump - David Boaz notwithstanding.
Dave B at August 25, 2016 1:39 PM
"All this "knowing" has left you, with the articulation of a 7th grader, in a position of wanting to vote for Donald Trump to become president of the United States."
I'm not voting for Trump. I'm voting for the Republican party. Trump just happens to head the ticket for a position with very little real power when the office is help by someone constrained by the press, and the constitution, and criminal law.
Mrs. Cash Register Clinton will have no such constraints, and you all know it. Huma's going to be running the whole damn criminal enterprise right out of the oval office.
Isab at August 25, 2016 1:51 PM
Trump just happens to head the ticket for a position with very little real power when the office is held by someone constrained by the press, and the constitution, and criminal law.
This
Recall how torture, rendition, GITMO, troop surges, free speech zones, corporate bailouts, NSA spying, TSA harassment, signing statements, executive orders, FISA warrants, specious denial of FOIA requests, and drone killing children stopped being a problem when they happened under Obama?
lujlp at August 25, 2016 6:12 PM
Taking pleasure in helping "evil" is evil.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BdNHf1g4ivA&feature=youtu.be
Lot of noise Crid but you are speaking so obscurely that your message (if you have one other than "It's not my fault.") is lost.
The DNC joyfully allowed the Clinton machine to prosper and grow. Even today its minions do not talk against the Great Ones. Are you? If so where?
Why the anguish? What are you upset over? I think you protest too much.
One game is over and your party "won". The next game is in play and you have a choice. Do you play or sit it out. Sounds like you already have your stadium seat.
Bob in Texas at August 26, 2016 6:28 AM
At this point I'm trying to figure out why Trump-Hillary is Crid's and only Crid's fault. That whole don't think of an elephant thing. Here is the best scenario I've come up with:
Crid was trying to save the world by sending The Donald a magic potion of baldness. (One of 'shut the hell up' works too). But mistakes were made. The magic potion of win the presidency is the same color and shape. And now we have Trump within spitting distance of the presidency.
If however implausibly that is how it went down we forgive you Crid. Everyone makes mistakes. ;)
Ben at August 26, 2016 11:16 AM
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