BS: Are we (USA) a laughingstock? (via Trump)

Subject: BS: Are we (USA) a laughingstock?
From: Mrrzy
Date: 17 Sep 15 - 09:51 PM

Does the rest of the world think that Trump being taken seriously is as ridiculous as I do?

Subject: RE: BS: Are we (USA) a laughingstock? (via Trump)
From: ChanteyLass
Date: 17 Sep 15 - 10:19 PM

I can only speak for myself, but I suspect the rest of the world would answer yes.

Subject: RE: BS: Are we (USA) a laughingstock? (via Trump)
From: Joe Offer
Date: 18 Sep 15 - 12:47 AM

There are some distressing issues festering in the US, and there are some Americans who have opinions that are truly frightening to me. Donald Trump seems to appeal to these people. Even though he might not be so right-wing as they are, there's something about Trump that appeals to the far right, even to White Nationalists. Maybe it's good to get that sort of thinking out in the open, so it can be refuted.

I heard an excellent interview on the NPR Fresh Air (click) program last week. Terri Gross was off duty last week, so Dave Davies did the interview of Evan Osnos. Osnos did an article in the New Yorker (click) Magazine titled "The Fearful and the Frustrated: Donald Trump's nationalist coalition takes shape—for now." Osnos says Trump's success has given right-wing extremists permission to express thinking that would have gotten them fired from their jobs in past years.

Maybe it's good that we know what these people are thinking, scary though it may be. I'm guessing that Trump's support is no more than twenty percent of the electorate - but he does seem to have the plurality among the Republican candidates. If Trump wins the nomination, I'm sure there's no way he can win the 2016 election.

...or so I hope.

-Joe-

Subject: RE: BS: Are we (USA) a laughingstock? (via Trump)
From: Mrrzy
Date: 18 Sep 15 - 12:52 AM

I fear that he doesn't seem ridiculous to some because at least he's white.

Subject: RE: BS: Are we (USA) a laughingstock? (via Trump)
From: GUEST,Guest from Sanity
Date: 18 Sep 15 - 01:34 AM

Trumps to the 'right of me', Clintons to the 'left'.....shit! We're doomed!

GfS

Subject: RE: BS: Are we (USA) a laughingstock? (via Trump)
From: Kampervan
Date: 18 Sep 15 - 02:05 AM

I'm someone who doesn't live in the USA and has only a minimal understanding of the political situation over there.

However, have seen some of the broadcasts featuring Mr Trump and his fellow candidates, I was tempted to ask exactly what it was about him that some voters are, apparently, drawn to.

Because from where I'm sitting, it's not obvious. Being a successful businessman and making a lot of money do not, in themselves. make a good politician.

Subject: RE: BS: Are we (USA) a laughingstock? (via Trump)
From: Ebbie
Date: 18 Sep 15 - 02:17 AM

There are bottom-dwellers all over the world. We in the US just happen to currently have a bottom feeder.

That's my take on it.

Subject: RE: BS: Are we (USA) a laughingstock? (via Trump)
From: Kampervan
Date: 18 Sep 15 - 02:25 AM

In which case might it be fair to say that having Mr Trump as a candidate doesn't make the USA a laughing stock.

However, if he was to be elected then that might be different?

Subject: RE: BS: Are we (USA) a laughingstock? (via Trump)
From: Mr Red
Date: 18 Sep 15 - 03:44 AM

Methinks Trump is the laughing matter. But time will tell.

Who can trump him? Is there an ace in the pack?

Subject: RE: BS: Are we (USA) a laughingstock? (via Trump)
From: Backwoodsman
Date: 18 Sep 15 - 03:51 AM

He's a fart (see what I did there?). But a very dangerous fart.
That's this non-American's view.

Subject: RE: BS: Are we (USA) a laughingstock? (via Trump)
From: Steve Shaw
Date: 18 Sep 15 - 04:27 AM

With Trump to the right of you and Clinton to the left, you've shown once and for all that all the people can be right all of the time.

Subject: RE: BS: Are we (USA) a laughingstock? (via Trump)
From: akenaton
Date: 18 Sep 15 - 04:56 AM

Ther are those in the UK Labour Party who think having a socialist as leader will make them a laughing stock.

It seems to me that Mr Trump is a handy whipping boy for the republicans, his remarks appal most people here, but the US public appear to treat them as they are presented .....as bad taste jokes.
Something like an American Rik Mayall.

Just to drift a little is it true that the Democrat candidate Mr Sanders supported all of America's involvement in Iraq, Afghanistan and Libya.?
If so why is he any different from Hillary the Hawk?
As Ali G used to say..."is it 'cos I is black"?

Subject: RE: BS: Are we (USA) a laughingstock? (via Trump)
From: GUEST,Grishka
Date: 18 Sep 15 - 05:57 AM

No, Trump as a person is not the problem; Europe has its own share of strangely acting populists. Rather, the image of US politics in Europe is deep down in the cellar because of news like the Snowden revelations. We get the impression that presidents have immense personal power but are not "in charge". In the end, the USA may blow up the world and nobody be responsible.

The risk is much smaller in systems where leaders are more embedded in their parties and parliamentary factions. See the recent events in Australia.

Subject: RE: BS: Are we (USA) a laughingstock? (via Trump)
From: GUEST,#
Date: 18 Sep 15 - 08:27 AM

And watch October 19, 2015 in Canada. The neocon bastard at the helm is going to be fired by the Canadian people.

Subject: RE: BS: Are we (USA) a laughingstock? (via Trump)
From: Rapparee
Date: 18 Sep 15 - 09:02 AM

Toss 'em all out and start fresh. Trump is a distraction from the real problems facing the US. So are the others, including Clinton. Sanders isn't so bad in that regard; at least he tries to address the issues, as, to a lesser extent, does Carson.

Trump is politics as (bad) theater.

But the election here if quite distant and there's many a slip twixt cup and lip.

Subject: RE: BS: Are we (USA) a laughingstock? (via Trump)
From: GUEST
Date: 18 Sep 15 - 09:10 AM

To a certain extent, yes, but there are few, if any, countries without their political nutters and
it doesn't seem as though this particular one could be electable.(I hope).

Subject: RE: BS: Are we (USA) a laughingstock? (via Trump)
From: Stu
Date: 18 Sep 15 - 09:33 AM

Not a laughing stock, but more terrifying that he's the frontrunner at any stage. Truth is, in the so-called 'civilised' western world we're all going backwards and as the US does everything bigger it's doing it via Trump and the GOP. We're not far behind in the UK and Europe, as we treat refugees like animals and batten down the hatches for the coming storm.

Subject: RE: BS: Are we (USA) a laughingstock? (via Trump)
From: Bill D
Date: 18 Sep 15 - 09:49 AM

I'd love to have recordings of the phone calls in the polls that gave Trump those numbers. Remember, Carson & Fiorina also are high in the polls, even though none of the 3 have ANY experience in politics. These polls are expressions of frustration among right-wingers who see the flaws and deceptions in the more 'experienced' candidates.

It will be interesting to see who actually gets real votes in the primaries.


Also remember that about 70% of Republicans are NOT in favor of Trump & his behavior.
Also remember that Barry Goldwater won only 6 states in 1964. Trump could beat that record.

Subject: RE: BS: Are we (USA) a laughingstock? (via Trump)
From: Uncle_DaveO
Date: 18 Sep 15 - 10:34 AM

Kampervan (upthread) said, in part:

Being a successful businessman and making a lot of money
do not, in themselves. make a good politician.

On NPR I heard an analysis of Trump's "qualifications". As
I recall, the highlights of the analysis included the following:

Number one that I can recall is that he got his money start
the easy way: He inherited forty million dollars!
That was maybe 30 years ago, maybe longer.

He used that inherited windfall in various businesses.
His corporations have filed bankruptcy seventeen times
(I believe it was)over the years in his unfocused set
of business operations.

The AVERAGE stock investor, investing $40 million in a general diversified stock portfolio, just letting the stock market do its thing, riding along with the general growth of market averages, could expect to grow his holdings' value something like 9% per year, compounded. That doesn't require an investment superstar, nor a talented business executive; just an ordinary passive buy-and-hold stockholder, exercising ordinary prudence.

Trump's enterprises have indeed increased their value and made
him a richer man, but the degree of growth doesn't even come
close to what an average stock investor would have realized by maintaining a passive diversified stock position.

In my book, that doesn't make him "a successful businessman."
Even if it did, Kampervan's comment is true, although an
understatement.

Dave Oesterreich

Subject: RE: BS: Are we (USA) a laughingstock? (via Trump)
From: McGrath of Harlow
Date: 18 Sep 15 - 12:39 PM

After Bush, nothing surprises us. Those whom the gods would destroy they first make mad.

But it's a bit frightening watching it happen.

Subject: RE: BS: Are we (USA) a laughingstock? (via Trump)
From: Mrrzy
Date: 18 Sep 15 - 12:42 PM

I think of Clinton as right of center for a Democrat here...

And McGrath, that is my precise fear. And a Trek reference.

Subject: RE: BS: Are we (USA) a laughingstock? (via Trump)
From: Big Al Whittle
Date: 18 Sep 15 - 12:43 PM

don't think anybodys actually laughing. maybe at the wig. perhaps if he had a revolving bowtie and a nose that lit up.....but then he'd lose all credibility.

Subject: RE: BS: Are we (USA) a laughingstock? (via Trump)
From: GUEST,Guest from Sanity
Date: 18 Sep 15 - 02:40 PM

..as far as the politics in America, or even on Mudcat,I think this says it ALL!!

GfS

Subject: RE: BS: Are we (USA) a laughingstock? (via Trump)
From: Joe Offer
Date: 18 Sep 15 - 03:21 PM

I think Trump has been successful so far by expressing all the bigotries of the most bigoted people of America. They may sometimes be conflicting bigotries, but the bigots aren't smart enough to know that. All they care about is that Trump expressed their pet bigotry - women, immigrants, people of color, overseas manufacturing. He tells the people what they want to hear, whether or not it makes sense.
Since candidates are selected more-or-less by plurality vote, a person can get himself nominated with far less than half of the vote of his/her party. And that's the game Trump is playing, and he's playing it very well.
I'd be happy with either of the Democratic frontrunners, but many of the Republican candidates scare me.
-Joe-

Subject: RE: BS: Are we (USA) a laughingstock? (via Trump)
From: GUEST,Guest from Sanity
Date: 18 Sep 15 - 03:28 PM

Joe Offer: "...I'd be happy with either of the Democratic frontrunners.."

Hillary???? Come on Joe.

GfS

Subject: RE: BS: Are we (USA) a laughingstock? (via Trump)
From: Jack Campin
Date: 18 Sep 15 - 07:11 PM

This is the country that elected Reagan, for crissake. Twice.

NOBODY is any more of an internationally embarrassing idiot than that.

Subject: RE: BS: Are we (USA) a laughingstock? (via Trump)
From: Joe Offer
Date: 18 Sep 15 - 07:38 PM

Jack, "If you knew Donald like I know Donald, oh, oh, oh...."
The Donald makes one yearn for The Ronald.

For that mater, the whole slate of Republican candidates makes Reagan look pretty good in retrospect.

Yes, GfS, I know the extreme right has been waging a campaign against Hillary for the last ten years or more. Even some American liberals are starting to believe the Benghazi and email "scandal" propaganda, but I don't believe any of it. She's an intelligent woman, and what she says makes sense to me.

And in general, I don't tend to believe that our leaders are the demons that the propaganda makes them out to be.

-Joe-

Subject: RE: BS: Are we (USA) a laughingstock? (via Trump)
From: Steve Shaw
Date: 18 Sep 15 - 08:29 PM

Depends which leaders you're talking about. Reagan and Dubya caused more misery in this world that any manifestation of Satan I've ever come across.

Subject: RE: BS: Are we (USA) a laughingstock? (via Trump)
From: Joe Offer
Date: 18 Sep 15 - 11:20 PM

I have a personal code that doesn't allow me to demonize anybody. My head tells me that nobody can be THAT bad, especially somebody that's smart enough to get himself to national office in a civilized country.

Trump, Reagan, and Dubya present a real challenge to my code. I find it hard to think much good of any of those three. But I keep trying.

-Joe-

Subject: RE: BS: Are we (USA) a laughingstock? (via Trump)
From: olddude
Date: 19 Sep 15 - 01:01 AM

I hear he had his ancestry dna done. It came back unknown primate

Subject: RE: BS: Are we (USA) a laughingstock? (via Trump)
From: GUEST,Guest from Sanity
Date: 19 Sep 15 - 02:29 AM

Well, OK~~~~~

GfS

P.S. Or is that the 'so-called liberals' take on it?
Actually, it's a lot worse...but it involves a WHOLE lot of people...both parties!<--- Not a 'right's position.

Subject: RE: BS: Are we (USA) a laughingstock? (via Trump)
From: akenaton
Date: 19 Sep 15 - 05:59 AM

"Yes, GfS, I know the extreme right has been waging a campaign against Hillary for the last ten years or more. Even some American liberals are starting to believe the Benghazi and email "scandal" propaganda, but I don't believe any of it. She's an intelligent woman, and what she says makes sense to me."

These points may be debatable Joe, but Mrs Clinton was the driving force in the removal from power and subsequent murder of Col Gaddafi.
Arguably the detonator for the ISIL explosion.

That did not make good sense, it would be difficult to find any informed person who now thinks Gaddafi's removal was a good idea. Her chortling antics in response to Gaddafi's murder said everything about Mrs Clinton's personal character.

President Obama's biggest mistake in taking office, was to allow the Clintons within one hundred miles of his administration.

Subject: RE: BS: Are we (USA) a laughingstock? (via Trump)
From: akenaton
Date: 19 Sep 15 - 07:10 AM

The people who killed Gaddafi, with the assistance of France, the UK and ultimately the US lobbied by Mrs Clinton, are the same people who behead bound prisoners and burn captured pilots alive in a cage.

Why are we not supporting Assad against this menace?
If we do not Putin will be forced to, then we ALL START PRAYING TO GOD, Even the atheists.

Subject: RE: BS: Are we (USA) a laughingstock? (via Trump)
From: GUEST, ^*^
Date: 19 Sep 15 - 12:01 PM

Tell us what you really think of Hillary, akenaton! You've been reading too many newspapers in the grocery store checkout line. Those headlines area all a combination of fiction and wishful thinking on the behalf of the cohort of yellow journalism practitioners.

Subject: RE: BS: Are we (USA) a laughingstock? (via Trump)
From: GUEST,JTS.
Date: 19 Sep 15 - 01:07 PM

Certainly Trump is a laughingstock. I don't respect him as a businessman. But he is a very good entertainer. People like the spectacle.

Subject: RE: BS: Are we (USA) a laughingstock? (via Trump)
From: akenaton
Date: 20 Sep 15 - 05:58 AM

Guest...I don't read newspapers, or watch US tv. I rarely watch UK tv any longer.
I get most of my information from internet sources, and I was responding to Joe's assertion that Mrs Clinton is a "sensible" person.

She is a dangerous, powerful and unscrupulous politician....not in the mould of President Obama, more in the mould of our own dearly loved Mr Blair.

Subject: RE: BS: Are we (USA) a laughingstock? (via Trump)
From: GUEST,#
Date: 20 Sep 15 - 09:54 AM

I agree with you, Ake.

Subject: RE: BS: Are we (USA) a laughingstock? (via Trump)
From: GUEST
Date: 20 Sep 15 - 01:14 PM

According to Google, Bernie Sanders did not vote to oppose the war in Afghanistan...he voted against the war in Iraq, but voted for the funding for that war. Which, in a way, makes sense. If the government is going to send its military into an ill-conceived and impulsive war, at least vote to buy them guns and bullets with which to defend themselves, and hope for the best. Sanders was opposed to the intervention in Libya.

Donald Trump is making a mockery of the political process by trying to turn it into some sort of reality TV show. During the last Republican debate, he at times looked like someone who, without letting on, was trying to absorb the answers of the other candidates in order to gauge what he should think about those issues. He is woefully misinformed on anything substantive, and on those issues with which he has a fundamental grasp, his solution is simplistic and inadequate. Illegal immigrants? Build a wall. What to do with the purported 11 million undocumented immigrants already here? Send 'em back. (Really? ..how do you go about rounding up 11 million people?).. Jobs? He's going to create 'em by bringing back corporations to the US (by cutting taxes, apparently). Obamacare? Repeal it (and do what with the millions of Americans who are enrolled in it?). Trump speaks in 2 second soundbites that pander to those voters whose attention spans are just that long, but when it comes to details, well...supposedly he would populate his cabinet with people who would handle all the messy complications of implementing those policies.

People love to hear, "It's gonna be great", as the solution to any problem that arises, but for those who wonder How is it gonna be great, Trump offers no hope for a legitimate answer.

Subject: RE: BS: Are we (USA) a laughingstock? (via Trump)
From: akenaton
Date: 20 Sep 15 - 01:35 PM

" Donald Trump is making a mockery of the political process by trying to turn it into some sort of reality TV show"

Every US election for the past few decades has been exactly that.

.....but this one is more like a circus....of horrors.

Subject: RE: BS: Are we (USA) a laughingstock? (via Trump)
From: akenaton
Date: 20 Sep 15 - 01:36 PM

Thanks #

Subject: RE: BS: Are we (USA) a laughingstock? (via Trump)
From: GUEST,#
Date: 20 Sep 15 - 01:58 PM

"Every US election for the past few decades has been exactly that.

.....but this one is more like a circus....of horrors."

Bingo!

Subject: RE: BS: Are we (USA) a laughingstock? (via Trump)
From: akenaton
Date: 20 Sep 15 - 02:04 PM

See what I mean#.....Even good friends can agree sometimes! :0)

Subject: RE: BS: Are we (USA) a laughingstock? (via Trump)
From: Big Al Whittle
Date: 20 Sep 15 - 05:39 PM

no of course not.........

(snigger. snigger.......ho! Ho! HO! HO!HO!)

Subject: RE: BS: Are we (USA) a laughingstock? (via Trump)
From: Backwoodsman
Date: 21 Sep 15 - 02:25 AM

Has anyone heard what Fart plans to do about club which supports the clowns who contrive to shoot to death 11.000 of their fellow citizens every year?

That will be interesting, methinks. Even more interesting than the plan to send illegals back where they came from. And just as realistic.

Subject: RE: BS: Are we (USA) a laughingstock? (via Trump)
From: GUEST
Date: 21 Sep 15 - 03:32 AM

As a country - yes
As individuals - no

I am reminded of when George W got in when every actual American I knew held up their hands in horror and said "it wasn't me".

Subject: RE: BS: Are we (USA) a laughingstock? (via Trump)
From: GUEST,#
Date: 21 Sep 15 - 07:49 AM

'I am reminded of when George W got in when every actual American I knew held up their hands in horror and said "it wasn't me".'

Similar thing here in Canada when the Conservatives under Harper got it. I concluded from that that about half my friends were liars.

Subject: RE: BS: Are we (USA) a laughingstock? (via Trump)
From: keberoxu
Date: 09 Nov 16 - 01:17 PM

Got our answer now, I guess.

Subject: RE: BS: Are we (USA) a laughingstock? (via Trump)
From: McGrath of Harlow
Date: 09 Nov 16 - 01:21 PM

As the saying goes, if you didn't laugh, you'd cry.

Subject: RE: BS: Are we (USA) a laughingstock? (via Trump)
From: punkfolkrocker
Date: 09 Nov 16 - 01:40 PM

.. all together now.. singalong....

"Hillary Clinton packed her bags
And said goodbye to the White House
Off she went with a trumpety-trump
Trump, trump, trump".....

It's not enough to be vilifying Trump.. he's an easy target...

The main serious problem is, whatever possessed the Democrats to select Clinton in the first place...!!!??? 😣



If she'd scraped a victory, at best the reaction might have been..

"oh well, at least she's not as shit as Trump...?????"

Subject: RE: BS: Are we (USA) a laughingstock? (via Trump)
From: keberoxu
Date: 09 Nov 16 - 01:45 PM

Well, I'll go so far as to say that I don't think Mrs. Clinton is a laughingstock, or a laughing matter. Made of stern stuff, whatever you think of her, and she isn't going away quietly if she goes away at all, which I suspect she won't.

I might have to look harder at, what's his name? Pence? Because a target as easy as the declared winner of this election, well, he may be an easy target, but his fall will be a hard one. He can run, but he can't hide.

Subject: RE: BS: Are we (USA) a laughingstock? (via Trump)
From: Mrrzy
Date: 09 Nov 16 - 01:51 PM

Are people laughing, or terrified?

Subject: RE: BS: Are we (USA) a laughingstock? (via Trump)
From: Donuel
Date: 09 Nov 16 - 02:25 PM

Having missed this thread, Joe certainly earned more moderate points.


Laughing stock tout d'monde?

It is now beyond a laughing matter.

What is apparent to the world is that our electorate is willing to overlook a complete lack of truth, decency, ethics and knowledge in exchange for a chance for a job that will never return, a home the bank took and a racial resentment they learned from their father.

Enough financial fraud and lies can even turn the home of the brave into hypocritical, unconstitutional cowards.

Victorious cowards do not know they should be ashamed, they are too close to what is happening for now.

We all know the story about selling one's soul.
But I don't demonize either

Subject: RE: BS: Are we (USA) a laughingstock? (via Trump)
From: gnu
Date: 09 Nov 16 - 02:41 PM

I am as upset as the next person but people are tired of war. That was the single 'most' impetus that drove people to vote for trump... the (illusionary) promise of not going to war after war after war.

I'll get my sou'wester and slicker on my way out in case the shit flies before I can get out the door.

Subject: RE: BS: Are we (USA) a laughingstock? (via Trump)
From: Greg F.
Date: 09 Nov 16 - 02:45 PM

As the saying goes, if you didn't laugh, you'd cry.

Kevin, the last thing that the prospect of that piece of human garbage polluting the White House, is amusing.

Subject: RE: BS: Are we (USA) a laughingstock? (via Trump)
From: gillymor
Date: 09 Nov 16 - 02:49 PM

Trump has promised to "bomb the shit out of ISIS". Sounds like war to me. I feel like a citizen of the shabbiest country on the planet today.

Subject: RE: BS: Are we (USA) a laughingstock? (via Trump)
From: Greg F.
Date: 09 Nov 16 - 03:20 PM

Great - The Turd With Legs channeling Curtis LeMay. That worked out just farkin' great back then, didn't it.

Dumbfarkkistan, indeed.

Subject: RE: BS: Are we (USA) a laughingstock? (via Trump)
From: FreddyHeadey
Date: 09 Nov 16 - 07:23 PM

gillymor - PM
Date: 09 Nov 16 - 02:49 PM
Trump has promised to "bomb the shit out of ISIS". Sounds like war to me.
People buying BAE shares seem to agree.

https://www.google.co.uk/search?q=bae+systems+shares+graph

Subject: RE: BS: Are we (USA) a laughingstock? (via Trump)
From: McGrath of Harlow
Date: 09 Nov 16 - 09:17 PM

"Riddikulus"

Subject: RE: BS: Are we (USA) a laughingstock? (via Trump)
From: Jason Xion Wang
Date: 09 Nov 16 - 09:50 PM

ISIS is shit per se. Certainly the most disgusting group of terrorists in the 21st century. I can fully understand why people want them to be eliminated. They should be, but it won't happen because the cost would be too much for a country to bear.

Subject: RE: BS: Are we (USA) a laughingstock? (via Trump)
From: Mr Red
Date: 10 Nov 16 - 03:03 AM

Only in America has morphed lexicographically!

Blame it on the "Silent Trumpers" - those too ashamed to admit they were going to vote Trump.
You know, America is going to adopt an English word now. (There's a novelty!)

The British meaning - trump=fart.
Silent but deadly. And the rest of the world can smell it.

Air-freshener stocks rise - shock horror.

Subject: RE: BS: Are we (USA) a laughingstock? (via Trump)
From: Senoufou
Date: 10 Nov 16 - 08:00 AM

I agree with Mrrzy and Donuel. This isn't a laughing matter. One feels more like weeping with utter despair.

I'm imagining a large team of President Elect advisors grouped round Trump, showing him a book called 'How To Be A President', written in words of one syllable for a Reading Age of about 5. Opening line:-
Do not start a war.

Subject: RE: BS: Are we (USA) a laughingstock? (via Trump)
From: Donuel
Date: 10 Nov 16 - 08:15 AM

LETS NOT MAKE FUN OF THE GRIEVING PROCESS.


If some people have to protest in denial look the other way.

The positive ways to preserve Constructional rights and civil liberties are law you can practice. Improvise when you must and organize when time allows. Petition according to the rules.

If your only image of a Tramp supporter is from a rally remember fear and worry brought them there. It was not hate alone.

Hate was the mobilizing tactic Trump used but Americans are not all hateful.

Subject: RE: BS: Are we (USA) a laughingstock? (via Trump)
From: Greg F.
Date: 10 Nov 16 - 08:20 AM

Democracy is the theory that the common people know what they want, and deserve to get it good and hard. -H. L. Mencken

And now, citizens of the U.S. of A., bend over, but first lay in a good supply of petroleum jelly; purchase it in bulk if possible.

Recommendatrion to the rest of the world: invest in petroleum jelly futures.

USA ! SIEG HEIL !! USA ! SIEG HEIL !! USA ! SIEG HEIL !! USA !

Subject: RE: BS: Are we (USA) a laughingstock? (via Trump)
From: McGrath of Harlow
Date: 10 Nov 16 - 09:16 AM

But don't forget, more people voted for Hillary than for Donald.

Subject: RE: BS: Are we (USA) a laughingstock? (via Trump)
From: Greg F.
Date: 10 Nov 16 - 09:21 AM

Small consolation under the circumstances, Kevin. ;>)

Subject: RE: BS: Are we (USA) a laughingstock? (via Trump)
From: punkfolkrocker
Date: 10 Nov 16 - 09:43 AM

Does anyone genuinely understand how US voting works...???

Subject: RE: BS: Are we (USA) a laughingstock? (via Trump)
From: Jim Carroll
Date: 10 Nov 16 - 10:03 AM

Declared 100 day intentions by Trump
Deport illegal Mexicans and build the wall
Abolish Obama's health reforms.
Renege on any previous agreements on climate change
Little wonder that decent Americans right across the country - New York, Washington - San Francisco - have taken to the streets claiming he does not speak for them them
Jim Carroll

Subject: RE: BS: Are we (USA) a laughingstock? (via Trump)
From: Rusty Dobro
Date: 10 Nov 16 - 11:35 AM

Sixteen years ago, Lisa Simpson was elected President, and complained about the deficit that her predecessor, President Trump, had left. Sometimes life is too bizarre for satire........

Subject: RE: BS: Are we (USA) a laughingstock? (via Trump)
From: McGrath of Harlow
Date: 10 Nov 16 - 01:43 PM

I keep on seeing people on the box saying "Don't worry. That was only campaign talk, rhetoric. He won't really do that."

And the nasty Godwin's Law thought kicks in - that was precisely what optimistic voices said when Hitler was elected.

Let's just hope this time they might be right. The feeble ray of hope is the man has contradicted him on just about everything.

I get the impression this is all just a kind of game for Trump. The biggest play thing of his life. As always there are Bob Dylan lines that seem apposite. In this case, chillingly apposite. From Masters of War.

You that never done nothing
But build to destroy
You play with my world
Like it's your little toy...

Subject: RE: BS: Are we (USA) a laughingstock? (via Trump)
From: Greg F.
Date: 10 Nov 16 - 01:58 PM

And the nasty Godwin's Law thought kicks in - that was precisely what optimistic voices said when Hitler was elected.
Thank you Kevin, I'm glad that folks like yourself realize the seriousness of this situation.

ThoI'm sure Joe and the Ostrich Crowd will continue to make lame jokes about it.

Subject: RE: BS: Are we (USA) a laughingstock? (via Trump)
From: gnu
Date: 10 Nov 16 - 05:11 PM

There is a big difference between saying "bomb the shit out of ISIS" (which is what has been going on for a while now with little effect as that is the desired outcome, if you haven't noticed) and putting 300,000 troops on alert in Europe because the Russian Bear did to ISIS in less than a week what the US and the rest did in over two years. The US bombs hospitals and whatever... no problem. The Russians do it (MAYBE... was it the Saudis?)... WAR CRIMES! Please try to keep up. Having said that, I shall go read more about the actual situation than engage in the bullshit with those that don't. In the end, we all know Trump or Hillary or anybody is not Commander In Chief. That is BP and Shell and Monsanto and Nestle and....

Subject: RE: BS: Are we (USA) a laughingstock? (via Trump)
From: Teribus
Date: 11 Nov 16 - 03:25 AM

gnu - 10 Nov 16 - 05:11 PM

There is a big difference between saying "bomb the shit out of ISIS" (which is what has been going on for a while now with little effect as that is the desired outcome, if you haven't noticed) and putting 300,000 troops on alert in Europe because the Russian Bear did to ISIS in less than a week what the US and the rest did in over two years. The US bombs hospitals and whatever... no problem. The Russians do it (MAYBE... was it the Saudis?)... WAR CRIMES!"

1: The "bomb the shit out of ISIS" (which is what has been going on for a while now with little effect as that is the desired outcome, if you haven't noticed) thing would look pretty good if you had done some research and actually had read about it gnu:

(a) At the time they first decided to engage in the air campaign against ISIS targets it applied only in support of the Iraqi government. Going after specific targets inside Syria came much later.

(b) At the time they first decided to engage in the air campaign against ISIS they stated quite clearly that it would take time.

(c) At the time they first decided to engage in the air campaign against ISIS they stated clearly that to defeat ISIS and drive them out of the territory they occupied it required a ground element that could only be provided by the Iraqi's and Kurds themselves.

2: "putting 300,000 troops on alert in Europe because the Russian Bear did to ISIS in less than a week what the US and the rest did in over two years."

Putting 300,000 NATO troops on alert in Europe has got S.F.A. to do with either the POTUS or what Russia is doing in Syria. Decision taken by Jens Stoltenberg the Secretary General of NATO probably has something to do with Russian moving nuclear armed missiles into Kallingrad. Oh by the way the Russian Bear's target of choice in Syria has and always will be Syrian civilians in rebel held areas.

3: "The US bombs hospitals and whatever... no problem. The Russians do it (MAYBE... was it the Saudis?)... WAR CRIMES!"

In the former there is a full and open independent investigation and admission of fault and regret - In the latter there is blank denial until the weight of evidence produced to demonstrate otherwise id so overwhelming that it can no longer be denied.

Bulk of Russian airstrikes have been against targets inside the Syrian city of Aleppo - there are no ISIS forces in Aleppo.

When ISIS were attacking the Syrian Kurdish city of Kobane there were no Russian airstrikes against ISIS targets in the area.

Subject: RE: BS: Are we (USA) a laughingstock? (via Trump)
From: Jim Carroll
Date: 11 Nov 16 - 03:43 AM

"would look pretty good if you had done some research and actually had read about it gnu:"
You can't help talking down to people, can you?
It really doews look ridiculous from someone of your intellectual stature -especially when you make things up and refuse to qualify anything.
If the West had acted against Assad, Isis would have remained the wet-dream of a bunch of fanatics - if there had been oil involved the Marines would have been stamping in in no time.
Instead, despite his human-rights criminality, he was considered a safe pair of hands and now we are fighting on his side against a monster we helped create.
Please stop talking down to people - the thought of a mental midget talking down to anybody always makes me spill my coffee
Don't suppose there's any chance of qualifying any of these makkie-ups - no? - thought not
Jim Carroll

Subject: RE: BS: Are we (USA) a laughingstock? (via Trump)
From: Iains
Date: 11 Nov 16 - 03:45 AM

For a country whose politicians support Saudi and are illegally trying to topple Assad I think not electing Clinton has postponed WW3.
Trump may have faults but warmongering to support the military industrial complex does not appear to be one of them.

Subject: RE: BS: Are we (USA) a laughingstock? (via Trump)
From: Mr Red
Date: 11 Nov 16 - 03:53 AM

The weight of evidence that Trump is a belligerent loose cannon gives a lie to him not being a warmonger. Go back and listen to his rhetoric. He means it, and he don't use words like rhetoric neither.

"How to be a President" wouldn't that be "Presidential for Dummies"?

You know, we outside the USA can only weep or laugh. And in the UK we are dun outa tears PAL!

Subject: RE: BS: Are we (USA) a laughingstock? (via Trump)
From: Jim Carroll
Date: 11 Nov 16 - 04:30 AM

"illegally trying to topple Assad "
Assad is a war criminal who has slaughtered his own people and has freely used chemical weapons against them (possibly facilitated by British materials)
The fact that toppling him can be described as "illegal" is an indication that the world is in a really ******* up state.
You are right about Saudi, of course - a further indication of the state of Western Democracy.
Never mind - Donald is going to sort all this out with one little wave of his nuclear finger
Jim Carroll

Subject: RE: BS: Are we (USA) a laughingstock? (via Trump)
From: Greg F.
Date: 11 Nov 16 - 09:26 AM

warmongering to support the military industrial complex

Jaysus - Trump IS the military industrial complex.

Subject: RE: BS: Are we (USA) a laughingstock? (via Trump)
From: akenaton
Date: 11 Nov 16 - 10:31 AM

If we had gone in for regime change in Syria.....which was what was being proposed by the UK, France and latterly through the endeavours of Mrs Clinton, the US, Syria would by now be totally in the hands of ISIS, Christians would have been butchered, women enslaved and mass graves of civilians filled to overflowing.

These people are dangerous fanatics and anyone who sides with them for any reason is a legitimate target in my eyes.

In this situation human rights don't even come into the reckoning this is about survival.
Removing Assad would have the same effect as the removal of Saddam and Gadhafi.

Subject: RE: BS: Are we (USA) a laughingstock? (via Trump)
From: Greg F.
Date: 11 Nov 16 - 11:44 AM

These people are dangerous fanatics and anyone who sides with them for any reason is a legitimate target

you mean these people, Ake?

http://www.usnews.com/opinion/articles/2016-08-19/why-donald-trumps-kkk-and-white-supremacist-supporters-matter

And since Trump sides with them, is HE a "legitimate target"?

Subject: RE: BS: Are we (USA) a laughingstock? (via Trump)
From: McGrath of Harlow
Date: 11 Nov 16 - 12:55 PM

The truth is there are some very nasty people among those opposed to Assad, and by no means all of them split away when many did to be a central part of Isis when this was set up. To assume that backing the rebels in 2013 (while those who set up Isis were still part of the phalanx of "moderate" opposition groups) would have ended with a democratic regime replacing Assad is extremely optimistic.   

At all times it appears that the Islamist fighters, whether in Isis or not, are perhaps the most effective, and it does not seem likely that they would have been ready to take a back seat in any new dispensation, especially one attempting to operate in secular or non-sectarian way.

It's a particularly horrible conflict, as civil wars almost invariably are. How far Assad is any different in his behaviour than other heads of State in such conflicts is unclear. Lincoln was accused of slaughtering "his own people", and it was true enough. Nor is it by any means clear whether those opposing him were more representative of the people of Syria or less. Many things have happened that pretty clearly were and are war crimes. But similar things and even worse can be said of what Americans did in Vietnam. And none of their leaders ever stood in the dock, though we may wish they had.

Subject: RE: BS: Are we (USA) a laughingstock? (via Trump)
From: Jim Carroll
Date: 11 Nov 16 - 02:56 PM

"the US, Syria would by now be totally in the hands of ISIS,"
Don't be even more stupid Ake
Opposition to Assad came from people trying to change Syria for the better - the Arab Spring - it was a social uprising, not a political or religious one.
The small bunch of fanatics that became Isis stepped into the void left by Western and U.N. action - Assad managed to turn the protests into a Civil War.
Britain did nothing other than sell Assad riot control equipment (following a shipment of sniper ammunition).
Even after Isis got involved, amny of the volunteers leaving Britain for Syria were not fanatics but young men who wished to see justice done in that par of the world - "Jihadist" became a term to protect the West's safe pair of hands - the Assad regime.
Throughout all the criminal slaughter carried out by Assad, he still owns millions of pounds of untouched property in London.
If things don't change radically in the Middle East, this war will never end.
Britan has a tiger by the tail and has to work how to let go.
Jim Carroll

Subject: RE: BS: Are we (USA) a laughingstock? (via Trump)
From: akenaton
Date: 11 Nov 16 - 04:21 PM

Yes Mr McGrath I agree completely with that excellent summation.

I think you and I are in agreement on more occasions than when we are in disagreement.   More power to you.

Subject: RE: BS: Are we (USA) a laughingstock? (via Trump)
From: Greg F.
Date: 11 Nov 16 - 06:18 PM

Lincoln was accused of slaughtering "his own people"and it was true enough.

You mean the people who bore arms against and attacked the government of the United States, THOSE people, Kevin? Those traitors?

Subject: RE: BS: Are we (USA) a laughingstock? (via Trump)
From: bobad
Date: 11 Nov 16 - 06:54 PM

Johnathan Pie thinks he knows who is to blame for the rise of Trump...and you're not going to like it!

YouTube

Subject: RE: BS: Are we (USA) a laughingstock? (via Trump)
From: Jim Carroll
Date: 11 Nov 16 - 07:39 PM

Johnathan Pie thinks he knows who is to blame for the rise of Trump.
OTHERS DISAGREE
AND AGAIN
Jim Carroll

Subject: RE: BS: Are we (USA) a laughingstock? (via Trump)
From: McGrath of Harlow
Date: 11 Nov 16 - 07:44 PM

You mean the people who bore arms against and attacked the government of the United States, THOSE people, Kevin? Those traitors?

I imagine that's more or less how Assad might put it.

Makes it easier to allow the killing to continue.

What matters is to find a way it can stop.

Subject: RE: BS: Are we (USA) a laughingstock? (via Trump)
From: Greg F.
Date: 11 Nov 16 - 09:24 PM

So you think Lincoln and Assad are comparable Kevin? Interesting.

Subject: RE: BS: Are we (USA) a laughingstock? (via Trump)
From: Stim
Date: 11 Nov 16 - 09:26 PM

GregF-He could also be referring to this:Baltimore Riot of 1861 , which, I think, is one of the reasons that Bobert doesn't like Abe Lincoln.

Subject: RE: BS: Are we (USA) a laughingstock? (via Trump)
From: Greg F.
Date: 11 Nov 16 - 09:39 PM

I'm familiar with the episode you refer to, Stim.

Perhaps you'd care to explain how a mob of Confederate sympathizers attacking US troops (and killing several)en route to Washington to protect the Capital is germaine or was Lincoln's fault?

Subject: RE: BS: Are we (USA) a laughingstock? (via Trump)
From: McGrath of Harlow
Date: 11 Nov 16 - 10:00 PM

Insofar as both were heads of state waging war against rebels, yes, Greg, they are comparable.

Different countries, different rebels, different ways of waging war. All kinds of difference, but there are indeed points of comparability. That doesn't imply that if you judge one a villain, you must judge the other a villain. Or that if you judge one a hero you must judge the other a hero.

Subject: RE: BS: Are we (USA) a laughingstock? (via Trump)
From: Stim
Date: 12 Nov 16 - 02:14 AM

I was merely providing information on the Baltimore Riots, as they are generally regarded as the the first bloodshed in the Civil War. Since you have asked, and for the benefit of our friends across the pond who might not be as familiar with the events as you and I are, I will relate what I understand of the matter.

There was an idea, held in many quarters, that Abraham Lincoln sent the troops into Baltimore as a deliberate provocation to the city, with the intent of escalating tensions to violence, and in that way justifying further military action. It immediately became a rallying point for secessionists. This belief was in fact immortalized in our state song, which was widely performed in to build support for the Southern cause. This, as you know, is somewhat ironic, since Maryland remained in the Union. Most of us here in Maryland have let this idea go, though there are a few hold outs.

Subject: RE: BS: Are we (USA) a laughingstock? (via Trump)
From: Mr Red
Date: 12 Nov 16 - 03:25 AM

There will be a few laughs when your Mr Lump meets our resident buffo - Boris.

Boris will quote Shakespeare and Virgil. And Lumpy will think he is being insulted. King Boris (ex mayor of London) has already opined your man is not welcome in London.

Subject: RE: BS: Are we (USA) a laughingstock? (via Trump)
From: Mr Red
Date: 12 Nov 16 - 03:26 AM

Boris is currently our Foreign Secretary!

Subject: RE: BS: Are we (USA) a laughingstock? (via Trump)
From: McGrath of Harlow
Date: 12 Nov 16 - 07:48 AM

Asked on TV to comment on how Donald and Boris might get on, his sister, who does not share too many views with her brother, said they'd probably get on "like a house on fire - which is rather a disturbing thought".

Subject: RE: BS: Are we (USA) a laughingstock? (via Trump)
From: Mr Red
Date: 12 Nov 16 - 08:10 AM

They have a lot in common, survivors against all odds, not afraid to wade in, rich parents. Though Boris is quick witted and Lumpy fires from the hip. It should (please) be in the full glare of publicity.

Lumpy will win in the eyes of his constituency.
Boris will score points they can't understand.

We will laugh and weep at the same time.

Subject: RE: BS: Are we (USA) a laughingstock? (via Trump)
From: McGrath of Harlow
Date: 12 Nov 16 - 08:28 AM

The thing with Boris is that he's aware when he's being absurd, and plays with it. He's very shrewd. Many people who detest all he stands for (whatever that might be) do find him quite engaging.

Do Americans feel that way about Trump? To people here he just cones across as thoroughly unpleasant and unsavoury.

Subject: RE: BS: Are we (USA) a laughingstock? (via Trump)
From: Greg F.
Date: 12 Nov 16 - 10:21 AM

There was an idea, held in many quarters, that Abraham Lincoln sent the troops into Baltimore as a deliberate provocation...

Thanks, Stim - but not quite. The troops from the North were sent THOrUGH Baltimore en route to Washington DC because that's the way the railroads ran, and rail was the fastest way to get troops to defend the capital with the transportation system of the time.

There was also an idea, held in many quarters (and may still be!) that the Moon Landing was faked in a movie studio.

Subject: RE: BS: Are we (USA) a laughingstock? (via Trump)
From: McGrath of Harlow
Date: 12 Nov 16 - 10:33 AM

Could hardly have got to Washington without going through Maryland...

Subject: RE: BS: Are we (USA) a laughingstock? (via Trump)
From: Greg F.
Date: 12 Nov 16 - 11:03 AM

Do Americans feel that way about Trump?

Hard to find a lying, racist sexual predator "engaging" Kevin, unless you're one of his brownshirts.

Subject: RE: BS: Are we (USA) a laughingstock? (via Trump)
From: McGrath of Harlow
Date: 12 Nov 16 - 12:11 PM

I wasn't really thinking of you there Greg.

But with his supporters, is it that they actually like him, or that it's more a case of "He's a nasty lying bastard - but he's our nasty lying bastard"?

The latter would make some kind of sense. The former seems inconceivable - and yetit does seem to be how many followers seem to feel.

Subject: RE: BS: Are we (USA) a laughingstock? (via Trump)
From: Greg F.
Date: 12 Nov 16 - 12:45 PM

The former seems inconceivable -

Only if you assume that the supporters are rational human beings capable of reason, or forget that said supporters embody the same loathsome characteristics of Trump himself.

And I don't mean this as a snide comment, insult or joke in bad taste. Its a fact.

Subject: RE: BS: Are we (USA) a laughingstock? (via Trump)
From: McGrath of Harlow
Date: 12 Nov 16 - 12:58 PM

That's 60,470,406 of your fellow citizens who are not "human beings capable of reason". So what do you propose in what you see as a zombie takeover? Kill them all?

Subject: RE: BS: Are we (USA) a laughingstock? (via Trump)
From: Greg F.
Date: 12 Nov 16 - 01:13 PM

Dunno, Kevin - suggest you ask the Repulican Party; their policies & antics of the last quarter-century (& especially since Pres. Obama was elected) created this Trump-zombie & his zombie followers.

Subject: RE: BS: Are we (USA) a laughingstock? (via Trump)
From: akenaton
Date: 12 Nov 16 - 01:28 PM

Most people found Mr Blair Most engaging and even likable.....more so as he began to produce power for the Labour Party.

Slowly the truth dawned......except for a few of we socialists, we knew what he was right from the beginning. Nis prodigy still infest the corridors of power.
I don't suppose he ever thought of grasping a "pussy" in his life, unless it was the hated no 10 cat :0)

Subject: RE: BS: Are we (USA) a laughingstock? (via Trump)
From: Jim Carroll
Date: 12 Nov 16 - 01:36 PM

"except for a few of we socialists"!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Subject: RE: BS: Are we (USA) a laughingstock? (via Trump)
From: Donuel
Date: 12 Nov 16 - 01:46 PM

Dear President Obama and Secretary Clinton,

The one note song 'The business of America is business' has gone on too long.   One bit of advice,
IT'S THE ECONOMY STUPID; THEN, NOW, FOREVERMORE until the end of time.

The banks were bailed out, even the wives of bankers were bailed out.
Your chance to be an early FDR is done. We were cleaned out.

Thank you for your misguided efforts,
We The People.

Subject: RE: BS: Are we (USA) a laughingstock? (via Trump)
From: Stim
Date: 12 Nov 16 - 03:31 PM

Greg--The troops were in Baltimore, wherever they happened to be going, and Lincoln had sent them. There was a very strong, vocal secessionist movement in Maryland, and they exploited this, both with the riots and in subsequent recruiting efforts.   

The threat of losing Maryland to the secessionists was significant enough that, immediately after the riots, Governor Hicks, who was a Unionist, asked Lincoln not to send anymore troops thru Baltimore. In response, Lincoln shipped the troops to Washington by way of Annapolis instead.

Subject: RE: BS: Are we (USA) a laughingstock? (via Trump)
From: Greg F.
Date: 12 Nov 16 - 04:05 PM

Sorry, Stim, Sim, Lincoln HADN'T "sent them".

Lincoln requested troops from the several northern states to defend the national capital (largely militia units) who supplied them, and the only practical way to get them where they had to go, considering the transportation infrastructure of the time, was through Baltimore.

The later route thru Annapolis- by way of the sea - took considerably longer, and was evidence of Lincoln's willingness to attempt mollify secessionist traitors rather than the reverse.

Yes, there was a strong secessionist element in Baltimore, and the "riot" was down to them. Period.

I really do get weary of this whole new/old Neo-Confederate slant on reality. This nonsense has all been debunked before, but zombie-like, it refuses to die. Perhaps I need a crossbow.

Subject: RE: BS: Are we (USA) a laughingstock? (via Trump)
From: Stim
Date: 12 Nov 16 - 05:26 PM

I am a Neo-confederate? I am just telling you what they thought, not what i think. I am not any sort of apologist for the Confederacy. Never have been, never will be. If you had paid any attention to anything over the years, you might remember that I've tangled in the past with some Mudcatters who claim that secession had nothing to do with slavery, but you don't.

I am going to avoid posting in any thread that you've posted in, because your capacity to misunderstand is surpassed only by your disagreeable manner.

Subject: RE: BS: Are we (USA) a laughingstock? (via Trump)
From: Greg F.
Date: 12 Nov 16 - 05:28 PM

YO, AKE! Shut up for once & listen to Bernie!!

https://www.yahoo.com/news/bernie-sanders-wants-to-revitalize-democrats-after-loss-174429895.html

Subject: RE: BS: Are we (USA) a laughingstock? (via Trump)
From: Greg F.
Date: 12 Nov 16 - 05:36 PM

Stim - I never claimed you were a neo-Confederate, just that your take on the event under discussion seemed to lean in that direction.

Now if deliniation of the facts of the matter somehow translates to you that I'm calling you a neo-Confederate, that's unfortunate. If you choose to take offense, I'm sorry, but there it is. Perhaps you should consider your capacity to mis-state.

Avoid posting or whatever you wish; your call.

Best,

Greg

Subject: RE: BS: Are we (USA) a laughingstock? (via Trump)
From: McGrath of Harlow
Date: 12 Nov 16 - 06:28 PM

Arguing about Lincoln might make for a welcome respite from thinking about Trump. The good thing about the past is there's no need to worry about how it's going to turn out. So such arguments shouldn't be spoiled by any unpleasantness.
........

Any thoughts on similarities and differences with Trump and Teddy Roosevelt? For all the latter's faults it'd be good to imagine that Trump's populism could end up producing a few things to match what Teddy left behind.   But I rather doubt it.

Subject: RE: BS: Are we (USA) a laughingstock? (via Trump)
From: Greg F.
Date: 12 Nov 16 - 06:49 PM

Any thoughts on similarities and differences with Trump and Teddy Roosevelt?

Simalarities? Absolutely farkin none. TR was an imperialist in an age of imperialism, so gets a bit of a pass in that he wasn't ahead of his time.

He was also dead against the "malefactors of great wealth"- which is Trump incarnate.

Nothing whatsoever similar in the platform of the Progressive (a.k.a. Bull Moose) party.

The Republicruds haven't been the "Party of Lincoln" since 1876 or "The Party of TR " since 1912.

Subject: RE: BS: Are we (USA) a laughingstock? (via Trump)
From: Greg F.
Date: 12 Nov 16 - 06:53 PM

The good thing about the past is there's no need to worry about how it's going to turn out.

Unfortunetely, Kevin, the past is very much in our present, with the KKK, Neo-Nazis, white supremecists and miscellaneous anti-government "patriot"[sic] militias as Trumpist supporters.

Subject: RE: BS: Are we (USA) a laughingstock? (via Trump)
From: olddude
Date: 13 Nov 16 - 01:05 AM

Hey Greg, I have to thank trump for one thing. I fit in my jeans better after puking off several pounds from the thought of him in office

Subject: RE: BS: Are we (USA) a laughingstock? (via Trump)
From: Jim Carroll
Date: 13 Nov 16 - 03:26 AM

"We The People."
One of the distressing things about all this is that those defending Trump have never attempted to defend his policies or deny the summing up of what he stands for, so presumably they are happy to have a racist, misogynist, antisemitic, dangerous thug with his finger on the nuclear button as their President.
In which case, the answer to the OP's original question is a resounding "NO" - America is not a laughing stock - America has become a place to be feared and not trusted - a very, very dangerous state - "by the will of the people".
I re-watched Michael Moore's 'Bowling for Columbine' a few nights before the result was announced and thought, 'surely that has to stop sometime'?
Nope - that seems to be a majority of the U.S. people summed up perfectly.
'Make America Hate' now seems to be the order of the day.
Jim Carroll

Subject: RE: BS: Are we (USA) a laughingstock? (via Trump)
From: Jim Carroll
Date: 13 Nov 16 - 05:14 AM

Headlines this morning.
Trump has announced that building a wall to keep Mexicans out was "just talk" and that he has no intention of scrapping Obamacare - a double whammy really.
He's exposed himself as a liar and has hung his supporters out to dry by allowing themselves to expose themselves as what kind of people they are.
Never mind - he might have thrown them a bone - Sarah Palin is tipped as Minister of the Interior
Gawd Bless America
Jim Carroll

Subject: RE: BS: Are we (USA) a laughingstock? (via Trump)
From: Greg F.
Date: 14 Nov 16 - 09:55 AM

Hey Ake! Trump is the boy that's gonna clean up all the corruption in Washington, right??



WASHINGTON — Rudolph W. Giuliani, a top adviser to President-elect Donald J. Trump, said on Sunday that it would be "unrealistic" to remove Mr. Trump's children from their roles in running his business empire and place the assets into a blind trust like the ones used by previous presidents.

Ethics experts said Mr. Giuliani's remarks were misguided on ethical and political grounds.

"It is extremely inappropriate,"said Richard W. Painter, a White House ethics officer during the George W. Bush administration. "In the past 200 years, we have never had a president with such egregious conflicts of interest with family business holdings."