Here are five things that struck me as particularly important in today’s hearing of the Special Committee on January 6: 1. Long before the attack on the Capitol, Trump appears to have known about the extremist groups who led it. Soon after the election, Trump confidantes Michael Flynn and Roger Stone were in close contact with the Proud Boys and Oath Keepers. Both continued their contacts. On January 5, Flynn told extremists gathered near the White House: “Tomorrow we the people are going to be here, and we will not stand for a lie.” On Jan 6, Stone was guarded by two Oath Keepers. Katrina Pierson, former campaign spokesperson for Trump, warned Mark Meadows, Trump’s chief of staff, about the “crazies” who were coming to Washington. Meadows told her “he likes crazies,” who Meadows defined as “people who will viciously defend [Trump] in public.”
Jul 12, 2022Liked by Heather Lofthouse, Robert Reich
I've watched every one of the hearings and learned a little more than I knew before. As the commission nears its conclusion, it's up to the Justice Department to act quickly and begin criminal proceedings. They mustn't drag this out, justice must be served to protect our country from future attempts to destroy our democrat laws and our country itself. What Trump did was nothing short of treason in my book and he must be held to account without leniency.
If the Justice Department does not indict Trump prior to the midterm, and the Republicans retake the House and Senate, America will never see Justice for the attempted Coup. They protected Trump through two impeachments what makes you think they will allow him to be put on trial?
I respectfully disagree, Merrick Garland will still be Attorney General until January 1, 2025. He isn't dependent on mid-term elections and President Biden has sole and only control of the Executive Branch.
Whoa…NO. The GOP will begin impeachment proceedings against Biden and seek to imprison the Jan. 6th panel! Havoc and societal breakdown will ensue if the GOP takes control of the government. These are fascists.
"Treason - the crime of betraying one's country, especially by attempting to kill the sovereign or overthrow the government."
Unfortunately, you are correct. Trump did the encouragement while his base carried out the actions.
What's the difference between sedition and treason?
Speaking in a way that would encourage others to take up arms against the government is sedition. Anyone who actually carries out or participates in such plans (or helps those who do) is committing treason.
Just because you say it doesn't make it true.... Where's the proof... Not everyone believes the nonsense you libtards spout... The country is waking up and you are scared to death. The left says "trust me, I know what I'm talking about". The right says, "don't believe me, look for yourself".
Jul 12, 2022Liked by Robert Reich, Heather Lofthouse
Was hoping we'd see (and may still) hearing broadcasts about Congress members involvement in the planning and execution, and about who financed the insurrection.
Yes! Where is the big $ coming from?—who is it that wants this usurpation of Democracy so bad as to finance this lunatic and how will they benefit? (I’m still wondering about the Overstock and Pillow Guys! Wtf!!)…but i KNOW the problem probably lies more with bigger $ like…Mercers?Kochs? And I’ll just throw in “Ginny Thomas” here to save time & space!…& more frightening—the possibility of foreign $ like from Russia.)
And like you also state…those in Congress that aided and abetted trump & insurrection before, during & after. They should be removed from office NOW! How are they allowed to stay?! And the second they are out we get all things passed that the minority rule republicans have been preventing (my dream: #1 end the filibuster). And my bigger dream: they should prove trump to be unfit, illegitimate & a traitor and anything he ever did needs to be declared unacceptable and reversed as much as possible—most importantly, his SCOTUS picks.
I’d like to see a review of the many psychiatrists who came forward early-on, feeling it their duty to report all signs are that trump is mentally sick—a (did they say “sociopathic?”) narcissist who is a danger to himself and the country. (The Committee probably fears trump would get leverage to claim innocent by reason of insanity if they did that?)
If two or more persons in any State or Territory, or in any place subject to the jurisdiction of the United States, conspire to overthrow, put down, or to destroy by force the Government of the United States, or to levy war against them, or to oppose by force the authority thereof, or by force to prevent, hinder, or delay the execution of any law of the United States, or by force to seize, take, or possess any property of the United States contrary to the authority thereof, they shall each be fined under this title or imprisoned not more than twenty years, or both.
Apparently Dec. 21, 2020, Reps. Jim Jordan (R-Ohio), Andy Biggs (R-Ariz.), Mo Brooks (R-Mo.), Matt Gaetz (R-Fla.), Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-Ga.), Louie Gohmert (R-Texas), Jody Hice (R-Ga.), Paul Gosar (R-Ariz.), Debbie Lesko (R-Ariz.) and Scott Perry (R-Pa.), were on a conference call to establish a conspiracy to support the big lie.
They will not testify before the committee, but a grand jury could inquire at any time.
They did cover this in an earlier hearing. I wish they had spent more time on it. The trump campaign was soliciting money for the "election defense fund" and used that money to make a very sizeable donation to the event planning company who handled the logistics for the Jan 6th rally and subsequent insurrection.
You're correct, they talked about bilking donors who contributed to this fund. But they didn't go into who funded the PBs, OKies, and other any other seditionists. Hotels, transportation, meals, body armor, weapons, etc aren't free!
All good points, both of you. We need to know everyone involved and boycott any business for one year or until they give in and agree unequivocally to never repeat. Also we need to levy HUGE fines against them, leave them just enough to live modestly instead of jail time. That would have better, longer lasting, and wider effect
The problem is they usually end in a "Country Club " prison where they continue their domineering lifestyle. Back in the 90's after de-regulation was running rampant Savings and Loan companies were stealing the life savings of workers. One, in particular was a guy named Keating. He saw what was coming and put all his assets into his wife's name. He spent a very short sentence in a "Country Club" prison, was diagnosed with cancer and was given a "mercy" release, He returned home to live out his days in luxury and his family suffered nothing, while tens of thousands of retired workers lost everything and ended their lives in abject poverty. Another culprit was Michael Milliken. He served his short prison sentence, also in a "Country Club" prison and upon release, reclaimed all his fortune stowed in off-shore accounts. He was forbidden for life to enter the same industry he exploited (stocks and savings and loans) BUT he got a job as and economics teacher in a prestigious private college teaching all his dirty tricks to a new generation of criminal economists. (Most economists are decent intelligent people, but every profession has in criminal fringe) Ever since, I have objected to prison for these slimy #$@^^ Take away all but a mediocre amount of their misbegotten fortune, leave them barely enough to live modestly. This is cruel, I know, but they deserve it and it is far more effective because the wannabe's don't idolize them. This would be the lowest blow for trump too. A jail sentence where they are waited on hand and foot, treated respectfully for 2 to 5 years, then released to resume their luxurious life style is neither rehabilitative nor punitive nor a deterrent for others.
I have yet to see any proof come out of that soap opera. I’ve seen hearsay, colluded hearsay, and outright lying....but no proof. No one is showing tweets, messages between cellphones, emails, or has any recorded messages proving anything. If I’m going to believe what they are selling, I want to see solid proof.
Taking the amber heard approach eh? Everyone is lying under oath except the people you like? Also, they've shown TONS of actual evidence, texts, emails, etc. And testimony under oath from trumps inner circle, all corroborating the evidence and facts.
Actually you are quite pretentious. I never said I liked any of them. Also, I actually work for a living so I don’t have time to concern myself with some television production about a bunch of degenerates who legally steal from me everyday and their infighting. I supposed we will have to see what comes of this, but I implore you in the future to not assume things about people. Thanks!
Do you WATCH these hearings or listen with your eyes closed. If you are blind, i am sorry to know that, but at each hearing they have shown letters, hand written notes, twitters, emails, and recorded conversations.
I’ll refer you to my previous reply. I was simply asking if anyone HERE has proof. I’ve personally seen how the media and politicians can make things up that look very official to ruin someone’s life that has a different political view than themselves. I research EVERYTHING!
In other words you refuse to believe what the January 6 Committee supplies, but if your Fascist Party says it's true you believe every word - and demand people like myself, Robert Reich, Daniel Solomon who have no access to Federal files display the original emails, letters, and tweets. You live in a strange world Will.
Who said I was a Fascist? You seem to be having issues with having a valuable conversation here. I’m an Independent and don’t trust any of them. You shouldn’t make assumptions about people you don’t know.
I continue to be stunned by these hearings - how beautifully they are presented to us and how clear the insights are, albeit deeply disturbing. I was especially struck by the words of one of the witnesses today, referring to the events of January 6th. "Call things what they are!" he implored us. Call things what they are .... as Prof Reich asked us several days ago ... these are not "conservatives". Indeed. These are radical reactionaries.
As usual, Dr. Reich did a fine job summarizing a several hour meeting in just a few paragraphs. The thing that struck me was the general gullibility of the Trump supporters, Trump's awareness of that, and his willingness to use those people for his anti-American, anti-constitutional attempt to grab power. The scary part is that those people are all still in place, many of them actually running for high-level office. Why is the 14th Amendment not being invoked to stop them and to help Trump supporters become more aware and less willing to be puppets to "leaders" who only want to use them, not improve their situation one iota? I am clearly missing something!
The Repugnicans will not support Trump's prosecution as they think they can still use him to grab power over our country. They are all Fascists and have no ethics or honor of any kind. Justice is a foreign concept to them.
Yes, true. I wish it wasn't true and I pine away for republicans like Eisenhower and others. Those were people with a core of ethics, honesty and honor.
Lauritis. Those were the days during Eisenhower. Unfortunately today we have over 8 billion people on the planet and over 330 million in America. They can all communicate with each other. The technology revolution has changed our world.
And Biden. Those over 70 do have the life knowledge of recent history. They may use it for the good of the nation or self interests. If nothing else their age will limit their time in power. I have just turned 70 and my political views are much more rational than when I was in my 30s, then my self interests were dominate. The value of life experiences can be an asset or deficit and we need to carefully judge the character of the candidate.
"Changing the Constitution" is not something easily accomplished. It would require that an amendment be proposed and passed by two-thirds of BOTH houses of Congress, OR, if two thirds of the States request one, a Constitutional Convention. That amendment must then be ratified by three-fourths of the State's legislatures, or by three-fourths of conventions called in each State for ratification. I can't see such a thing happening in the current political situation.
TL Mills. You are correct. It would take a lot for the amendment to be ratified but the timing right now is perfect. Many politicians and citizens know changes need to be made. This would also prevent Trump and Biden from running for office again. Which would be a blessing for the USA. To quote Elon Musk yesterday: "The world has a "serious issue with gerontocracy" – meaning the government is controlled by old people. Former president Donald Trump is 76 years old. He would be 78 in 2024, and he would be 82 by the end of a second term, if he were elected. President Joe Biden is 79 years old. He would be 81 should he run for reelection in 2024, and he would be 85 at the end of his second term, if he's reelected. Timing is PERFECT FOR THIS ADMENDMENT!
Elder statesmen can and often do provide guidance behind the scenes or even up front; it is just that they are no longer the office-holders at the highest level.
Even then, these elders can advise right or wrong but at least they are not the ones making the final decisions, nor with their finger on the football.
Either way, term limits are a good thing, whether time or age based, as they give the younger ones a chance to come through. I served on a board for 15 years and was pleased to stand down as term limits meant I was not eligible for reelection.
What you seem to be missing is that just because you have several political hacks on the left running around saying there was an insurrection, and that there were Senators and Representatives involved, doesn't make it so. The fact that the Attorney General is reluctant to prosecute makes it appear less so... especially after 18 months of "fact finding" and 12 months of obviously biased commission hearings. The commission appears to be a well orchestrated show. Make you wonder how many Hollywood writers/producers they have on staff.
Have you watched none of the hearings! If you’re a Trump supporter at this point or believe this smart, perceptive and wise commission is for show you are anything but a patriot!!
Only enough to know that what is being produced is a prime time made for TV farce that pretends to follow some kind of legal process. Our legal process is built on contention. This "wise" commission is an exercise in mob rule.
First the hearings are not legal proceedings but fact finding missions to determine thru testimony, visual documentation and documents what happened after the election that led us to the Jan. 6 riots. The commission is bipartisan in the sense that it is comprised of Congress people who are open to examining the facts and piece together a coherent string of events that led to the riots. That is not mob rule that is our representational democracy at work.
The legal process will take place when and if the AG decides there is evidence to indite.
Please note that all witnesses have been republicans with the majority serving in Trump’s administration.
Do you have evidence that any of the voluntary testimony given so far is false, that documents sited are false or that testimonies have been coerced?
It is safe to say you oppose the hearings, but I would ask you to stay curious and open Mr. McMullen our representative democracy depends on it.
I work for a living and still carved out time to watch the hearings, on my lunch, after dinner, wherever I had a few minutes. There's one hearing every 5-10 days. Make time. It's possibly the most important hearings in our country's history. You have zero excuses.
Thank you Adriane. No excuses. We make time for what's important to us. Technology allows us to watch on demand as well. If you haven't watched the hearings, you have nothing to contribute to the related discussions.
It is the culmination of thousands upon thousands of hours of investigation and depositions over a years time by a bipartisan panel. It may be easier to put your head in the sand and pretend that it's all just a dog and pony show, because that means you can go on believing that you arent complicit in treason. But the facts do not lie and one can ascertain the truth by simply listening to the interviews with trumps trusted advisors and friends. Even those who are still loyal to trump did not refute the facts.
What YOU seem to be missing is that the person in the White House would do anything to avoid having to leave that nice place. He didn't care who was hurt, or how. All he wanted was to keep the power he had.
If the commission is well-orchestrated, why does that disturb you? Are chaotic, inconclusive hearings full of peacocking fame-seekers better?
If your view of justice is a lynching by a mob then you will have your justice. I know this is the process set in motion by Pelosi but it isn't the way our system is supposed to work.
Jan Churchwell. And you know this about Trump because how? That he wanted to keep his power? Did you actually sit down and talk with the President or just fed information from left leaning TV shows and propaganda left leaning media. You actually believe he didn't care who was hurt? I feel sorry for you. I am NOT a fan of Mr. Trump. I find people on the left and right to be very gullible. We are fed information and believe it to be true.
If you're not "a fan," why do you care what I think or say?
How do I know? It's called judgment, a component of critical thinking.
Narcissists are missing the piece that lets them care about others. Trump checks all the boxes, and I've concluded that he is therefore a narcissist and should be viewed through that lens.
I've drawn conclusions about the kind of person he is based on his own words, as well as from other sources. I HEARD him say women like being grabbed by the pussy. I SAW him quoted at the beginning of the pandemic saying things that were all based on how sick and dying Americans reflected on HIM, the stock market, and the election. If you can't or won't make a decision about what kind of person he is based on YEARS of info about him, that's your choice. You seem to think that nobody could learn (or already know) anything about Trump before 2016. That's quite an ASSumption.
"We are fed information and believe it to be true." And you ASSume that's what I do -- but not, of course, what YOU do.
Why do you think Trump didn't concede the election as EVERY other LOSING candidate has done?
Jan. Trump did NOT concede the election because he was fed information that it was stolen. Just like you and I are fed information every day too. You can believe whatever you want. That is what makes this a great country. Our country goes too far left and then too far right. Trump was fighting fire with fire. He was the first Republican presidential candidate to do that in over 40 years and not worry about being "politically correct". We have become a nation of being TOO politically correct. Why we are in the shape we are in now. Trump style does suck. BUT! His policies were working for many Americans. As far as grabbing women by the pussy's men have talked that way for years. I can't tell you the things I have endured over my past 70 years as a woman. It is not the smart or the educated who survive in this world. It is those of us that can adapt. I remember when the F word was never used. Today it is every day language. It is in our rap music. The world has changed. Adapt.
Who fed it to him, Cecilia? He was saying as far back as July that if he lost it would be because the election was stolen. Maybe nobody fed it to him. Maybe he made it up. Maybe he LIED.
His advisors told him there was no there there. He filed dozens of challenges, none of which got to first base, even in courts where judges he'd appointed were on the bench. Insanity is doing the same thing over and over and expecting different results. I don't want to "adapt" to an insane person's style.
"Trump style does suck. BUT!"?? But, what? It either does or it doesn't. There's no "BUT!" You can't be a little bit pregnant. Some things don't allow for relativism, much as you obviously want otherwise (believe what you want, it's ok to be wrong).
If you want fascism and a roll-back of as many human rights as the RW can manage, keep adapting. I'm sure they'll be pleased to let you lie down and "adapt" again and again. Me, I'd rather stand up and say "No."
Being too PC is NOT why we're in the shape we are. Who fed that to you?
Once again you ASSume. I'm older than you and therefore have heard men talk for longer and have likely endured more. Who told you they've talked that way for years? Was it fed to you? Did you hear it yourself? I've never heard a man say that (except Trump), and what I heard was contempt for and indifference to women. Do you have any standards or do you just "adapt?"
What other Republican occupant of the WH should have complained about a stolen election?
John. You hit the nail on the head. The January 6th committee is political theatrics for those with nothing else to do but watch TV. Mostly retired people or educators off for their long summer vacations.
We do not live in a “Democracy”!!! How many times must I correct people? We live in a Constitutional Republic. This fact has been stated millions of times over since the night the Republic was formed!
Donald Trump's "Wild White House Meeting " on Dec. 18, 2020 was his insurance policy.
The infamous lawyer, Roy Cohen was Donald Trump's mentor and probably taught Trump that he could avoid prosecution if he hired lawyers and accountants that would advise him that certain crimes are legal, even if they are not. He applied that excuse, with great success, in business and in his taxes.
He will soon use the "My lawyers told me" excuse, because he has been plainly exposed to be a seditionist criminal. It might work or it might not, but It should not allow him to avoid prosecution.
There is no excuse now about not charging trump for the insurrection. There is no excuse about not charging the Proud Boys and Oath Keepers as terrorist organizations. There is also no excuse for the armed forces not to recall all military members and courts martial them.
You might want to consider this. It's quite enlightening: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YLeMKM4ArlA It has the virtue of making clear exactly >why< it's taking so long - why Garland is seemingly "dragging his feet."
On the other hand, what we're seeing now is a committee deliberating on whether or not to press charges. It's not an impeachment and it's not a trial. They want to be able to make a solid, air-tight case to justify pressing charges with the DOJ. Note, they made a referral in passing, today, over his trying to illegally contact one of the witnesses.
HEADLINES OF TOMORROW -- "Former President Trump Pleads Insanity"
WASHINGTON -- Former President Donald J. Trump today pleaded not guilty by reason of insanity in federal court to multiple charges stemming from his planning and incitement of the January 6, 2021, insurrection at the United States Capitol. Claiming that he suffers from dissociative personality disorder, commonly called a split personality, he told the court, "I don't even know that Donald Trump. Never met him."
I want to better understand the role of Gen Flynn in not providing support to LEO and FLEO on the ground during the insurrection. He and his General brother in the Army knew this was going to happen long before the event as did the intelligence communities. Not only did the Generals Flynn do nothing to prepare they did nothing the day of or during until long after the Capitol was engulfed in violence. WHY?
Exactly! This is an oath we Vets take to "Defend This Country Against All Threats Both Foreign And DOMESTIC"! I felt that oath come up into my throat the day this Wannabe Dictator took office!
The appropriate reference for these rioters was 1861 rather than 1776. I'm finding it frustrating that Trump's possibilities for another presidency are the same as Biden's at this point.
Fascists is more a European phenomenon. Confederates were and are home-grown. They're always with us, and to deny what it is or call it something else doesn't admit that it is and has always been an active trend in US politics since the very beginning. Although fascism is one of their traits, it's not their true identity. We should never delude ourselves that they >ever< went away after the Civil War.
I live in the country in Florida and they drive up and down the road with 2 really big confederate flags flying in the back of their big old mud trucks! My neighbors are living proof of what you just stated!
Oh I forgot to mention the automatic gunfire! I am a Vietnam Vet and have some terrible problems with gunfire out of the blue. When I first moved out here I damned near started firing back it was such a shock! I mean it can be even in the dark.
I was struck by, in view of the number of red flags, there wasn't more of a police presence. Even if there were no threats of violence, I would have thought that a crowd of that size would have more police presence.
I feel this is the most imp question. I think the lack of preparation and lack of response immediately before and during is at the heart of the violation of our democracy.
This was staged. These are criminals battening down the hatches! This was done to purposely determine what is necessary to stop a legitimate group of people from throwing the next dictator out by force because this is what is coming next. The only way will be by force because we will all be under rule by these fascist scum and violence is their way of life.
The mountain of evidence that Trump led & incited a Seditious Conspiracy against the government of the the US is without question!
The price of lives, the Constitution, Our Democracy, the outrageous & criminal abuse of power was of little consequence to a man who had been entrusted as President of the US. His Sociopathic, Narcissistic, Chronic Lying & purely Criminal behavior did not matter- the goal was to get his way -power & greed.
Our Country has never been here before!
There are those who question if prosecuting an X president is worth the price that our country will pay? I believe that no matter the price, the threats that are sure to come will pale in comparison if we don’t prosecute Trump & all want to be Trump will be invited to attack our country & finally achieve the ultimate goal to Destroy our Democracy- which is the greatest threats to Authoritarianism!
Make no mistake without Democracy we the people will no longer have Human , Civil Rights or a Habitable Planet! So the price of not prosecuting is our very survival!
The day Trump is in jail is the day that the Rule of Law will again will have meaning & purpose. If not we invite a Dictator to take over our country!
So vote in numbers for the only party we have that is fighting to protect Democracy ! Unite don’t get distracted by imperfections the cost will be unimaginable! Democracy must be our guide!
Watching those militias form, seeing them “deploy” for Cliven Bundt, you could feel the threat in the air. After Trump won I began calling them Trump’ Troops. The formation of rogue militias is not a good sign that a society is healthy. I just wonder how high the bar is for connecting Trump directly to the January 6 insurrection. It seems to me we are already there but the lawyers keep expressing doubt that there is enough evidence. Will the country combust if Trump faces consequences?
I've watched every one of the hearings and learned a little more than I knew before. As the commission nears its conclusion, it's up to the Justice Department to act quickly and begin criminal proceedings. They mustn't drag this out, justice must be served to protect our country from future attempts to destroy our democrat laws and our country itself. What Trump did was nothing short of treason in my book and he must be held to account without leniency.
If the Justice Department does not indict Trump prior to the midterm, and the Republicans retake the House and Senate, America will never see Justice for the attempted Coup. They protected Trump through two impeachments what makes you think they will allow him to be put on trial?
I respectfully disagree, Merrick Garland will still be Attorney General until January 1, 2025. He isn't dependent on mid-term elections and President Biden has sole and only control of the Executive Branch.
Whoa…NO. The GOP will begin impeachment proceedings against Biden and seek to imprison the Jan. 6th panel! Havoc and societal breakdown will ensue if the GOP takes control of the government. These are fascists.
Fascists can only be ignored at a society's peril.
Ya no kidding..
Agree
Who tried to stop the Coup? Who was in power? We’re they doing what they were supposed to do? Are they now?
If a Republican is in office everything will stop! Protect the Big Liar!
Something to consider: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YLeMKM4ArlA
Not helpful.
As usual, Daniel. Thank you for this very informative post (without half hour of histrionics) (:-)
"Treason - the crime of betraying one's country, especially by attempting to kill the sovereign or overthrow the government."
Unfortunately, you are correct. Trump did the encouragement while his base carried out the actions.
What's the difference between sedition and treason?
Speaking in a way that would encourage others to take up arms against the government is sedition. Anyone who actually carries out or participates in such plans (or helps those who do) is committing treason.
Just because you say it doesn't make it true.... Where's the proof... Not everyone believes the nonsense you libtards spout... The country is waking up and you are scared to death. The left says "trust me, I know what I'm talking about". The right says, "don't believe me, look for yourself".
It needs to happen ASAP (before the midterms)
Why are you afraid...
I was thinking much the same thing. The difference is this is now on record rather than just on TV.
I agree; boils must be lanced and bad infections must be treated with strong countermeasures.
I agree 100%. He is a traitor and we must make sure that he cannot run for President in 2024.
Another take on the 7th hearing worth considering: https://youtu.be/ooUrPA4tbtk
Was hoping we'd see (and may still) hearing broadcasts about Congress members involvement in the planning and execution, and about who financed the insurrection.
THIS! We MUST follow the money. I don't care who it exposes. We know we have corporations funding the christo-fascists. EXPOSE THE FUNDERS.
In America, it is always about the MONEY. That is your God now.
Yes! Where is the big $ coming from?—who is it that wants this usurpation of Democracy so bad as to finance this lunatic and how will they benefit? (I’m still wondering about the Overstock and Pillow Guys! Wtf!!)…but i KNOW the problem probably lies more with bigger $ like…Mercers?Kochs? And I’ll just throw in “Ginny Thomas” here to save time & space!…& more frightening—the possibility of foreign $ like from Russia.)
And like you also state…those in Congress that aided and abetted trump & insurrection before, during & after. They should be removed from office NOW! How are they allowed to stay?! And the second they are out we get all things passed that the minority rule republicans have been preventing (my dream: #1 end the filibuster). And my bigger dream: they should prove trump to be unfit, illegitimate & a traitor and anything he ever did needs to be declared unacceptable and reversed as much as possible—most importantly, his SCOTUS picks.
I’d like to see a review of the many psychiatrists who came forward early-on, feeling it their duty to report all signs are that trump is mentally sick—a (did they say “sociopathic?”) narcissist who is a danger to himself and the country. (The Committee probably fears trump would get leverage to claim innocent by reason of insanity if they did that?)
There are a lot of international entities who want America to eat s_t and die. They have millions to spend.
18 U.S. Code § 2384 - Seditious conspiracy
If two or more persons in any State or Territory, or in any place subject to the jurisdiction of the United States, conspire to overthrow, put down, or to destroy by force the Government of the United States, or to levy war against them, or to oppose by force the authority thereof, or by force to prevent, hinder, or delay the execution of any law of the United States, or by force to seize, take, or possess any property of the United States contrary to the authority thereof, they shall each be fined under this title or imprisoned not more than twenty years, or both.
(June 25, 1948, ch. 645, 62 Stat. 808; July 24, 1956, ch. 678, § 1, 70 Stat. 623; Pub. L. 103–322, title XXXIII, § 330016(1)(N), Sept. 13, 1994, 108 Stat. 2148.)
Apparently Dec. 21, 2020, Reps. Jim Jordan (R-Ohio), Andy Biggs (R-Ariz.), Mo Brooks (R-Mo.), Matt Gaetz (R-Fla.), Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-Ga.), Louie Gohmert (R-Texas), Jody Hice (R-Ga.), Paul Gosar (R-Ariz.), Debbie Lesko (R-Ariz.) and Scott Perry (R-Pa.), were on a conference call to establish a conspiracy to support the big lie.
They will not testify before the committee, but a grand jury could inquire at any time.
Some members of Congress asked for pardons. Tantamount to an admission of guilt.
Also must investigate members of the senate, Hawley, Cruz, Grassley, Ron Johnson who may have conspired to keep Pence from certifying the election.
Grassley. No love lost for this guy.
First time I've heard Lesko's name connected with this insurrection. Arizona Republicans were in deep.
They did cover this in an earlier hearing. I wish they had spent more time on it. The trump campaign was soliciting money for the "election defense fund" and used that money to make a very sizeable donation to the event planning company who handled the logistics for the Jan 6th rally and subsequent insurrection.
You're correct, they talked about bilking donors who contributed to this fund. But they didn't go into who funded the PBs, OKies, and other any other seditionists. Hotels, transportation, meals, body armor, weapons, etc aren't free!
All good points, both of you. We need to know everyone involved and boycott any business for one year or until they give in and agree unequivocally to never repeat. Also we need to levy HUGE fines against them, leave them just enough to live modestly instead of jail time. That would have better, longer lasting, and wider effect
Jail time too please. These people committed treason against our country. Throw them in jail and seize their assets.
The problem is they usually end in a "Country Club " prison where they continue their domineering lifestyle. Back in the 90's after de-regulation was running rampant Savings and Loan companies were stealing the life savings of workers. One, in particular was a guy named Keating. He saw what was coming and put all his assets into his wife's name. He spent a very short sentence in a "Country Club" prison, was diagnosed with cancer and was given a "mercy" release, He returned home to live out his days in luxury and his family suffered nothing, while tens of thousands of retired workers lost everything and ended their lives in abject poverty. Another culprit was Michael Milliken. He served his short prison sentence, also in a "Country Club" prison and upon release, reclaimed all his fortune stowed in off-shore accounts. He was forbidden for life to enter the same industry he exploited (stocks and savings and loans) BUT he got a job as and economics teacher in a prestigious private college teaching all his dirty tricks to a new generation of criminal economists. (Most economists are decent intelligent people, but every profession has in criminal fringe) Ever since, I have objected to prison for these slimy #$@^^ Take away all but a mediocre amount of their misbegotten fortune, leave them barely enough to live modestly. This is cruel, I know, but they deserve it and it is far more effective because the wannabe's don't idolize them. This would be the lowest blow for trump too. A jail sentence where they are waited on hand and foot, treated respectfully for 2 to 5 years, then released to resume their luxurious life style is neither rehabilitative nor punitive nor a deterrent for others.
I agree, Fay, but Trump won’t live long enough to enjoy his life. Thank goodness.
I agre
I agre
Do you have receipts for this? Any tangible proof? I’d be interested to know about this other than hearsay.
The January 6th committee has all the proof. Watch the hearings.
I have yet to see any proof come out of that soap opera. I’ve seen hearsay, colluded hearsay, and outright lying....but no proof. No one is showing tweets, messages between cellphones, emails, or has any recorded messages proving anything. If I’m going to believe what they are selling, I want to see solid proof.
Taking the amber heard approach eh? Everyone is lying under oath except the people you like? Also, they've shown TONS of actual evidence, texts, emails, etc. And testimony under oath from trumps inner circle, all corroborating the evidence and facts.
Actually you are quite pretentious. I never said I liked any of them. Also, I actually work for a living so I don’t have time to concern myself with some television production about a bunch of degenerates who legally steal from me everyday and their infighting. I supposed we will have to see what comes of this, but I implore you in the future to not assume things about people. Thanks!
Do you have receipts for this? Any tangible proof? I’d be interested to know about this other than hearsay.
Do you WATCH these hearings or listen with your eyes closed. If you are blind, i am sorry to know that, but at each hearing they have shown letters, hand written notes, twitters, emails, and recorded conversations.
I’ll refer you to my previous reply. I was simply asking if anyone HERE has proof. I’ve personally seen how the media and politicians can make things up that look very official to ruin someone’s life that has a different political view than themselves. I research EVERYTHING!
In other words you refuse to believe what the January 6 Committee supplies, but if your Fascist Party says it's true you believe every word - and demand people like myself, Robert Reich, Daniel Solomon who have no access to Federal files display the original emails, letters, and tweets. You live in a strange world Will.
Who said I was a Fascist? You seem to be having issues with having a valuable conversation here. I’m an Independent and don’t trust any of them. You shouldn’t make assumptions about people you don’t know.
I continue to be stunned by these hearings - how beautifully they are presented to us and how clear the insights are, albeit deeply disturbing. I was especially struck by the words of one of the witnesses today, referring to the events of January 6th. "Call things what they are!" he implored us. Call things what they are .... as Prof Reich asked us several days ago ... these are not "conservatives". Indeed. These are radical reactionaries.
As usual, Dr. Reich did a fine job summarizing a several hour meeting in just a few paragraphs. The thing that struck me was the general gullibility of the Trump supporters, Trump's awareness of that, and his willingness to use those people for his anti-American, anti-constitutional attempt to grab power. The scary part is that those people are all still in place, many of them actually running for high-level office. Why is the 14th Amendment not being invoked to stop them and to help Trump supporters become more aware and less willing to be puppets to "leaders" who only want to use them, not improve their situation one iota? I am clearly missing something!
A great many of Trump's supporters are not gullible, they are complicit, because they believe that the ends justify the means.
Complicit! Exactly! Those who aren't gullible support the con - shills at a gambling casino.
The Repugnicans will not support Trump's prosecution as they think they can still use him to grab power over our country. They are all Fascists and have no ethics or honor of any kind. Justice is a foreign concept to them.
How sad you feel that way.
Yes, true. I wish it wasn't true and I pine away for republicans like Eisenhower and others. Those were people with a core of ethics, honesty and honor.
Lauritis. Those were the days during Eisenhower. Unfortunately today we have over 8 billion people on the planet and over 330 million in America. They can all communicate with each other. The technology revolution has changed our world.
Sadder that it's true for the majority of Republicans
Change the constitution that no one over the age of 70 can run as a candidate to be President. That will stop Trump.
And Biden. Those over 70 do have the life knowledge of recent history. They may use it for the good of the nation or self interests. If nothing else their age will limit their time in power. I have just turned 70 and my political views are much more rational than when I was in my 30s, then my self interests were dominate. The value of life experiences can be an asset or deficit and we need to carefully judge the character of the candidate.
Exactly so.
"Changing the Constitution" is not something easily accomplished. It would require that an amendment be proposed and passed by two-thirds of BOTH houses of Congress, OR, if two thirds of the States request one, a Constitutional Convention. That amendment must then be ratified by three-fourths of the State's legislatures, or by three-fourths of conventions called in each State for ratification. I can't see such a thing happening in the current political situation.
Perhaps the Universal blanket pardon can be challenged. That however would undoubtedly go to the Supreme Court. :-(
TL Mills. You are correct. It would take a lot for the amendment to be ratified but the timing right now is perfect. Many politicians and citizens know changes need to be made. This would also prevent Trump and Biden from running for office again. Which would be a blessing for the USA. To quote Elon Musk yesterday: "The world has a "serious issue with gerontocracy" – meaning the government is controlled by old people. Former president Donald Trump is 76 years old. He would be 78 in 2024, and he would be 82 by the end of a second term, if he were elected. President Joe Biden is 79 years old. He would be 81 should he run for reelection in 2024, and he would be 85 at the end of his second term, if he's reelected. Timing is PERFECT FOR THIS ADMENDMENT!
Yes, but then we wouldn't have Biden or the wisdom of the elder statesman to help us.
Elder statesmen can and often do provide guidance behind the scenes or even up front; it is just that they are no longer the office-holders at the highest level.
Even then, these elders can advise right or wrong but at least they are not the ones making the final decisions, nor with their finger on the football.
Either way, term limits are a good thing, whether time or age based, as they give the younger ones a chance to come through. I served on a board for 15 years and was pleased to stand down as term limits meant I was not eligible for reelection.
Dear Laurits. Wisdom does not matter if one can not articulate by putting a sentence together without mumbling.
In his case I agree, otherwise it’s ageist, but I feel your pain.
I don’t think there is time.
I guess you're kidding. But hey, how about no one over 50?
Jack White. I did my best work between 50 and 60. Now at age 70 I know my limitations.
Not on my watch.
No, you're not. They fall among the crowd of idiots that want to believe that what they want is true. It is not.
What you seem to be missing is that just because you have several political hacks on the left running around saying there was an insurrection, and that there were Senators and Representatives involved, doesn't make it so. The fact that the Attorney General is reluctant to prosecute makes it appear less so... especially after 18 months of "fact finding" and 12 months of obviously biased commission hearings. The commission appears to be a well orchestrated show. Make you wonder how many Hollywood writers/producers they have on staff.
Have you watched none of the hearings! If you’re a Trump supporter at this point or believe this smart, perceptive and wise commission is for show you are anything but a patriot!!
Only enough to know that what is being produced is a prime time made for TV farce that pretends to follow some kind of legal process. Our legal process is built on contention. This "wise" commission is an exercise in mob rule.
First the hearings are not legal proceedings but fact finding missions to determine thru testimony, visual documentation and documents what happened after the election that led us to the Jan. 6 riots. The commission is bipartisan in the sense that it is comprised of Congress people who are open to examining the facts and piece together a coherent string of events that led to the riots. That is not mob rule that is our representational democracy at work.
The legal process will take place when and if the AG decides there is evidence to indite.
Please note that all witnesses have been republicans with the majority serving in Trump’s administration.
Do you have evidence that any of the voluntary testimony given so far is false, that documents sited are false or that testimonies have been coerced?
It is safe to say you oppose the hearings, but I would ask you to stay curious and open Mr. McMullen our representative democracy depends on it.
John. We did the exact same thing to the witches in Salem too. Mob rule.
Rocky Thies. No. I have not watched the hearings. You see, I work for a living. Don't have a lot of time to watch TV.
I work for a living and still carved out time to watch the hearings, on my lunch, after dinner, wherever I had a few minutes. There's one hearing every 5-10 days. Make time. It's possibly the most important hearings in our country's history. You have zero excuses.
Thank you Adriane. No excuses. We make time for what's important to us. Technology allows us to watch on demand as well. If you haven't watched the hearings, you have nothing to contribute to the related discussions.
Adriane. This is a show being put on my the democrats.
It is the culmination of thousands upon thousands of hours of investigation and depositions over a years time by a bipartisan panel. It may be easier to put your head in the sand and pretend that it's all just a dog and pony show, because that means you can go on believing that you arent complicit in treason. But the facts do not lie and one can ascertain the truth by simply listening to the interviews with trumps trusted advisors and friends. Even those who are still loyal to trump did not refute the facts.
No wonder so many of your posts have little relevance to the facts of the case
Jaime. Thank you for your thoughts. I am a stupid citizen. I hope that makes you feel better now.
It's more like willful ignorance. You could do better if you tried keeping better informed.
What YOU seem to be missing is that the person in the White House would do anything to avoid having to leave that nice place. He didn't care who was hurt, or how. All he wanted was to keep the power he had.
If the commission is well-orchestrated, why does that disturb you? Are chaotic, inconclusive hearings full of peacocking fame-seekers better?
If your view of justice is a lynching by a mob then you will have your justice. I know this is the process set in motion by Pelosi but it isn't the way our system is supposed to work.
Are you implying that a cong. hearing that leads to an indictment by the DOJ is on a par with a vigilante lynch mob?
Just how do you think our system IS supposed to work?
Jan Churchwell. And you know this about Trump because how? That he wanted to keep his power? Did you actually sit down and talk with the President or just fed information from left leaning TV shows and propaganda left leaning media. You actually believe he didn't care who was hurt? I feel sorry for you. I am NOT a fan of Mr. Trump. I find people on the left and right to be very gullible. We are fed information and believe it to be true.
If you're not "a fan," why do you care what I think or say?
How do I know? It's called judgment, a component of critical thinking.
Narcissists are missing the piece that lets them care about others. Trump checks all the boxes, and I've concluded that he is therefore a narcissist and should be viewed through that lens.
I've drawn conclusions about the kind of person he is based on his own words, as well as from other sources. I HEARD him say women like being grabbed by the pussy. I SAW him quoted at the beginning of the pandemic saying things that were all based on how sick and dying Americans reflected on HIM, the stock market, and the election. If you can't or won't make a decision about what kind of person he is based on YEARS of info about him, that's your choice. You seem to think that nobody could learn (or already know) anything about Trump before 2016. That's quite an ASSumption.
"We are fed information and believe it to be true." And you ASSume that's what I do -- but not, of course, what YOU do.
Why do you think Trump didn't concede the election as EVERY other LOSING candidate has done?
Jan. Trump did NOT concede the election because he was fed information that it was stolen. Just like you and I are fed information every day too. You can believe whatever you want. That is what makes this a great country. Our country goes too far left and then too far right. Trump was fighting fire with fire. He was the first Republican presidential candidate to do that in over 40 years and not worry about being "politically correct". We have become a nation of being TOO politically correct. Why we are in the shape we are in now. Trump style does suck. BUT! His policies were working for many Americans. As far as grabbing women by the pussy's men have talked that way for years. I can't tell you the things I have endured over my past 70 years as a woman. It is not the smart or the educated who survive in this world. It is those of us that can adapt. I remember when the F word was never used. Today it is every day language. It is in our rap music. The world has changed. Adapt.
Who fed it to him, Cecilia? He was saying as far back as July that if he lost it would be because the election was stolen. Maybe nobody fed it to him. Maybe he made it up. Maybe he LIED.
His advisors told him there was no there there. He filed dozens of challenges, none of which got to first base, even in courts where judges he'd appointed were on the bench. Insanity is doing the same thing over and over and expecting different results. I don't want to "adapt" to an insane person's style.
"Trump style does suck. BUT!"?? But, what? It either does or it doesn't. There's no "BUT!" You can't be a little bit pregnant. Some things don't allow for relativism, much as you obviously want otherwise (believe what you want, it's ok to be wrong).
If you want fascism and a roll-back of as many human rights as the RW can manage, keep adapting. I'm sure they'll be pleased to let you lie down and "adapt" again and again. Me, I'd rather stand up and say "No."
Being too PC is NOT why we're in the shape we are. Who fed that to you?
Once again you ASSume. I'm older than you and therefore have heard men talk for longer and have likely endured more. Who told you they've talked that way for years? Was it fed to you? Did you hear it yourself? I've never heard a man say that (except Trump), and what I heard was contempt for and indifference to women. Do you have any standards or do you just "adapt?"
What other Republican occupant of the WH should have complained about a stolen election?
Enjoy the slide down the slippery slope.
Never underestimate the power of denial.
John. You hit the nail on the head. The January 6th committee is political theatrics for those with nothing else to do but watch TV. Mostly retired people or educators off for their long summer vacations.
Trump is Still a Serious Danger and we cannot let a repeat of January 6Th happen agian!
Agreed
Please DOJ!! This man is out there still fomenting violence and hatred. As the former OathKeeper said….”this will destroy our democracy”.
We do not live in a “Democracy”!!! How many times must I correct people? We live in a Constitutional Republic. This fact has been stated millions of times over since the night the Republic was formed!
Donald Trump's "Wild White House Meeting " on Dec. 18, 2020 was his insurance policy.
The infamous lawyer, Roy Cohen was Donald Trump's mentor and probably taught Trump that he could avoid prosecution if he hired lawyers and accountants that would advise him that certain crimes are legal, even if they are not. He applied that excuse, with great success, in business and in his taxes.
He will soon use the "My lawyers told me" excuse, because he has been plainly exposed to be a seditionist criminal. It might work or it might not, but It should not allow him to avoid prosecution.
I'll be a'payin' attention for that. Thanks.
There is no excuse now about not charging trump for the insurrection. There is no excuse about not charging the Proud Boys and Oath Keepers as terrorist organizations. There is also no excuse for the armed forces not to recall all military members and courts martial them.
As a Viet Nam combat veteran, I sincerely agree.
Treason in the military comes with a firing squad solution!
I like hung from the yard arm better.
You might want to consider this. It's quite enlightening: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YLeMKM4ArlA It has the virtue of making clear exactly >why< it's taking so long - why Garland is seemingly "dragging his feet."
On the other hand, what we're seeing now is a committee deliberating on whether or not to press charges. It's not an impeachment and it's not a trial. They want to be able to make a solid, air-tight case to justify pressing charges with the DOJ. Note, they made a referral in passing, today, over his trying to illegally contact one of the witnesses.
I thought it was more in the nature of a very pointed comment, myself.
HEADLINES OF TOMORROW -- "Former President Trump Pleads Insanity"
WASHINGTON -- Former President Donald J. Trump today pleaded not guilty by reason of insanity in federal court to multiple charges stemming from his planning and incitement of the January 6, 2021, insurrection at the United States Capitol. Claiming that he suffers from dissociative personality disorder, commonly called a split personality, he told the court, "I don't even know that Donald Trump. Never met him."
LOL!
Don't give him any ideas!
It's OK. He doesn't read.
Thou mayst not wander in that labyrinth;
There Minotaurs and ugly treasons lurk.
Hehehehehehe
Suspicion always haunts the guilty mind.
— Henry VI Part 3, Act 5 Scene 6
I want to better understand the role of Gen Flynn in not providing support to LEO and FLEO on the ground during the insurrection. He and his General brother in the Army knew this was going to happen long before the event as did the intelligence communities. Not only did the Generals Flynn do nothing to prepare they did nothing the day of or during until long after the Capitol was engulfed in violence. WHY?
Exactly! This is an oath we Vets take to "Defend This Country Against All Threats Both Foreign And DOMESTIC"! I felt that oath come up into my throat the day this Wannabe Dictator took office!
Agreed!
They fancied they'd be elevated to "generalissimos?"
The appropriate reference for these rioters was 1861 rather than 1776. I'm finding it frustrating that Trump's possibilities for another presidency are the same as Biden's at this point.
Well, I keep calling them neo-Confederates.
Same Same Fascists.
Fascists is more a European phenomenon. Confederates were and are home-grown. They're always with us, and to deny what it is or call it something else doesn't admit that it is and has always been an active trend in US politics since the very beginning. Although fascism is one of their traits, it's not their true identity. We should never delude ourselves that they >ever< went away after the Civil War.
I live in the country in Florida and they drive up and down the road with 2 really big confederate flags flying in the back of their big old mud trucks! My neighbors are living proof of what you just stated!
Oh I forgot to mention the automatic gunfire! I am a Vietnam Vet and have some terrible problems with gunfire out of the blue. When I first moved out here I damned near started firing back it was such a shock! I mean it can be even in the dark.
I live in the FL panhandle. AND, you are exactly right.
I was struck by, in view of the number of red flags, there wasn't more of a police presence. Even if there were no threats of violence, I would have thought that a crowd of that size would have more police presence.
I feel this is the most imp question. I think the lack of preparation and lack of response immediately before and during is at the heart of the violation of our democracy.
This was staged. These are criminals battening down the hatches! This was done to purposely determine what is necessary to stop a legitimate group of people from throwing the next dictator out by force because this is what is coming next. The only way will be by force because we will all be under rule by these fascist scum and violence is their way of life.
My guns are oiled and ready, should it come to that.
The mountain of evidence that Trump led & incited a Seditious Conspiracy against the government of the the US is without question!
The price of lives, the Constitution, Our Democracy, the outrageous & criminal abuse of power was of little consequence to a man who had been entrusted as President of the US. His Sociopathic, Narcissistic, Chronic Lying & purely Criminal behavior did not matter- the goal was to get his way -power & greed.
Our Country has never been here before!
There are those who question if prosecuting an X president is worth the price that our country will pay? I believe that no matter the price, the threats that are sure to come will pale in comparison if we don’t prosecute Trump & all want to be Trump will be invited to attack our country & finally achieve the ultimate goal to Destroy our Democracy- which is the greatest threats to Authoritarianism!
Make no mistake without Democracy we the people will no longer have Human , Civil Rights or a Habitable Planet! So the price of not prosecuting is our very survival!
The day Trump is in jail is the day that the Rule of Law will again will have meaning & purpose. If not we invite a Dictator to take over our country!
So vote in numbers for the only party we have that is fighting to protect Democracy ! Unite don’t get distracted by imperfections the cost will be unimaginable! Democracy must be our guide!
This Trump Wannabe DeSantis is waiting for his moment and he clearly stated he has learned from Trump!
Yeah, he's a jerk. Don't vote for him.
You really don’t have a clue where you live, do you? We don’t live in a Democracy! We live in a Constitutional Republic.
Watching those militias form, seeing them “deploy” for Cliven Bundt, you could feel the threat in the air. After Trump won I began calling them Trump’ Troops. The formation of rogue militias is not a good sign that a society is healthy. I just wonder how high the bar is for connecting Trump directly to the January 6 insurrection. It seems to me we are already there but the lawyers keep expressing doubt that there is enough evidence. Will the country combust if Trump faces consequences?
A Tweet, a Tweet, my kingdom with a Tweet!
Omg perfect 😂
It is now plainly clear that there is no justifiable excuse for the Dept. of Justine NOT to get off their ass and indict Trump. TOO SCUMMY to JAIL?