In following the defamation trial against CNN by veteran Zachary Young, we have previously (here, here, and here) marveled at how bad things were going for the network. It appears that they are getting even worse. This has been a brutal week as CNN figures, including host Jake Tapper, took the stand. If “this is CNN,” the judge (and possibly the jury) are not liking what they are seeing.
The report at the heart of the case aired on CNN’s “The Lead with Jake Tapper” on Nov. 11, 2021, and was shared on social media and (a different version on) CNN’s website. In the segment, Tapper told his audience ominously how CNN correspondent Alex Marquardt discovered that “Afghans trying to get out of the country face a black market full of promises, demands of exorbitant fees, and no guarantee of safety or success.”
Marquardt piled on in the segment, claiming that “desperate Afghans are being exploited” and need to pay “exorbitant, often impossible amounts” to flee the country. He then named Young and his company as an example of that startling claim.The evidence included messages from Marquardt that he wanted to “nail this Zachary Young mf**ker” and thought the story would be Young’s “funeral.” After promising to “nail” Young, CNN editor Matthew Philips responded: “gonna hold you to that cowboy!” Likewise, CNN senior editor Fuzz Hogan described Young as “a shit.”
As is often done by media, CNN allegedly gave Young only two hours to respond before the story ran. It is a typical ploy of the press to claim that they waited for a response while giving the target the smallest possible window.In this case, Young was able to respond in the short time and Marquardt messaged a colleague, “f**king Young just texted.”
In the last week, Tapper was seen on video by the jury and was mocked for claiming under oath that he “doesn’t pay attention to ratings,” a claim that could make him unique as a network host. While Tapper can argue that he was referencing the following of daily numbers, critics hammered him by showing repeated clips where he discussed ratings.
However, the most damaging testimony may have come from top producers who told the jurors that they opposed the modest apology given to Young on air. Since Young seemed to do well before the jury, the testimony of senior editor Fuzz Hogan, CNN correspondent Alex Marquardt, CNN producer Michael Conte, CNN’s executive vice president of editorial Virginia Moseley, and CNN supervising producer Michael Callahan undermined any effort to portray the network as seeking to amend a wrong or reduce damage to Young.
Arguably, the worst moment came with an argument by CNN’s lead attorney, David Axelrod. Axelrod introduced a document that he claimed was a smoking gun and showed that Young was a liar. Pointing dramatically at Young and waiving the document in the air, Axelrod declared that he had the proof:
“Plaintiff’s entire case, sitting right there, is that after the publications, he couldn’t get any work…Mr. Young knew, when he filed this lawsuit that he had entered into a new consulting agreement with a government contractor one month after CNN’s publication. This entire lawsuit was a fraud on this court. It was a fraud on CNN. This man knew it. I don’t know what they know. But when his came up in discovery, CNN’s counsel asked Mr. Young about the Helios connection, and he completely lied in his deposition. Over and over again, he made up some incredible ruse that Helios just had his security clearance because it was a company that held security clearances. It makes no sense. He knew at that time that he had a consulting agreement with Helios Global and he didn’t disclose it. It was an outright lie.”
However, it turned out that the document merely was Young’s application to maintain his security clearance.
Young’s attorney, Vel Freedman, later laid waste to CNN. He told the court that Young had lost his security clearance back in 2022 and that he hadn’t been aware of that until he double-checked after his testimony in the case. Freedman asked for the right to present a witness who would testify on the issue and Axelrod objected. Judge Henry had had enough and blew up at CNN. He read back Axelrod’s comments and said “You called him a liar multiple times there.” He told Axelrod that he owed an apology to the plaintiff. After telling CNN that “this isn’t Kindergarten, ” he added “Right now, your credibility with me, Mr. Axelrod, is about none.”
That is never a good thing to hear from a judge.
Axelrod apologized but the damage is clearly considerable.
The most chilling aspect from a litigation perspective? Axelrod replaced the earlier lead counsel who also imploded in court over ill-considered arguments.
None of this bodes well for the network. Alienating the judge is obviously never good, but it also could have a material impact if there is an award that CNN wants reduced by a order of remittitur. In addition, having top producers expressing a lack of regret and even opposition to the on-air apology could push such damages higher for a jury. Both sides are arguing that “this is CNN,” but these moments are building a more negative view of what that is.
Jonathan Turley is the Shapiro Professor of Public Interest Law at George Washington University. He is the author of “The Indispensable Right: Free Speech in an Age of Rage.”
Couldn’t happen to a nicer company! I honestly don’t think CNN is going to be around for much longer, not in its current form, anyway; it’s loss after loss, and all by their own hand. Won’t miss ’em. I was repulsed by them over a decade ago when their employees started getting visibly intoxicated on air covering New Year’s. They’re a joke.
CNN: Communist Nonsensical Noise
Especially nice to hear that Axlegrease got a healthy dose of humiliation.
James,
Oh, they have been a joke for years if not over a decade. It reflects in their ratings. The Food Network gets more viewers than they do. They might get some viewers and credibility back if they hired Martha Stewart . . . nah! She has too much class to be associated with CNN!
@Upstate
Which might be saying something! 😂
I remember when I was serving during Desert Shield/Desert Storm, CNN was a go to source for information regarding the war. Watching Peter Arnett and Bernard Shaw reporting from their hotel room while the bombs were falling kept us glued to our TV’s when we weren’t on duty. Times have certainly changed.
All I want from any news source I watch, read, or listen to are the facts. Let me decide how it affects me and how I should feel about it. I do not need spin. I do not need my emotions toyed with. Bring back factual reporting.
When the Ships are sinking in the Harbor (The end of the Biden Media Phy-Ops Cabal). The Rats will; bite, claw, drown, … each other as the Sea of Red Ink floods the lower decks. The ‘Majors’ are Bankrupt because Phy-Ops doesn’t Sell advertising dollars. Yet they believe the new Administration will fill the time slots with Good News. Keeping the Casino’s Patrons attention tuned-in on their Cruise Boat.
Wall Street is getting ready for a sweeping round of Mergers and Acquisitions, Expect the some of the Sinking Boats to lash together to stay afloat for Four-More-Years. That doesn’t change the fact the Boats are still sinking. An infusion of cash will not plug the holes. A change in ‘Formula’ and ‘Design’ are required. Unfortunately ‘The Board Rooms’ of the Majors are hypnotized with eyes wide open to Wall Street’s demands and the Governments sub-surface operations that keep the cash flow running, so long as the Gift Horse is paid.
The Sheeple on the Animal Farm are just a Captured Audience that will always look toward the Greener Grass that lays beyond the fences of the Pen that hold them prisoner. What ever you think of the next Emerging-Generation, You can bet Change is gonna come, killing the present Format, in order for something new to grow.
What? CNN shooting itself in both feet was not enough, now they are aiming for their own kneecaps? Oh well.
“Alienating the judge is obviously never good,…”
Sure it is. Trump loves to alienate judges. Turley never chastised Trump lawyers for making similar grandiose performances in court.
When will Turley discuss Fox News’ Smartmatic defamation case? I hear it could be another multi-billion dollar settlement or an actual trial. Will Turley…analyze it?
There is a distinction between a litigant and a lawyer.
@George: When will Turley discuss Fox News’ Smartmatic defamation case?
He already did George, you pathological insulting liar, numerous times. And just as you’re doing again with this deflection, your response was to smear him with lies and your BBBBUUUTTTT… MUH TRUMP!!!
Today’s column was a metaphor Professor Turley used to finally respond to you George:
Your Credibility with Me is about None
Old Airborne Dog
Obsessed much?
So…Where’s your proof?
Like Jill Biden’s lament that the ending of Joe Biden’s presidency is not what she expected, the CNN case with Axelrod is literally their own doing. No doubt the majority of Americans were gleeful at the Judge’s comment to Axelrod and his credibility.
Watching yesterday Senate Democrats roast with such vigor AG Nominee Pam Bondi was breathtaking, especially from Adam Schiff. Happily Pam Bondi shot back to Schiff, “You were censured by Congress for comments like this”, which not surprisingly, Politico took exception to her “crossing the line” comment. Crossing the line. As if!
At the same time, Bondi tangled with some of Trump’s harshest critics on the committee. Her combativeness sometimes crossed lines that pending nominees rarely cross, such as when she mentioned California Democratic Sen. Adam Schiff’s censure by the House for his handling of Trump-related investigations.
Politico
The MSM/Democrats have learned nothing.
Napalm would be too good for them. Give em hell, Judge William Henry!
Wstovir,
Bondi and Hegseth particularly but some other appointees seem to know exactly what they are doing.
Sen Blumnethal announced that he would vote to confirm Hegseth, Fettermen is considering it.
The left and the media criticised them for “inexperience” – yet BOTH demonstrated they were much more capable of fielding questions
under the glare of TV lights, often than the senators grilling them.
They were well prepared, they were prepared fror the loaded questions that a handful of leftist senators asked.
They also KNEW how to come out on top in fiery exchanges with senators like Horoni, Fauxcahantus, and schiff.
They knew which senators they could afford to vigorously push back at and which to be respectful towards.
They KNEW exactly the level of disrepect that would enhance their testimoney – not just with Trump’s base, but also with other Senators.
If anything the few democratic senators that made fools of themselves, enhanced their chances – even with other democrats of getting all republican votes and some democratic votes.
As Bondi said brutally – she did NOT come here to say what she had to to get appointed, She came to speak the truth.
Those on the left tried to paint them as lightweights. They Proved they were formidable.
Trump’s appointments are incredibly dangerous to the left. Not only are they OBVIOUSLY very capable,
But they are young. These people will be major figures in US politics for the next 40 years.
These hearing went well for Hegseth and Bondi. They went badly for a handful of not very smart democrats who asked loded questions that Hegsoth and Bondi were well prepared for and shot down like flies.
Bondi and Hegsoth found exactly the right mixture of preparedness, respect, and combativeness and knew exactly when and with whom to use it.
Schiff was a disaster – the Democratic party should have figured out that he is an albatross arround their necks and pushed him out of politics.
Senate leadership should have known better than to put him on any prominent committees. And they and he should have know better than
to let him go after Bondi.
Horoni is a complete moron who democrats should have eased out quietly some time ago.
The efforts to get Bondi to commit to not investigating those involved in the past lawfare were hillarious
Do democrats have ANY self awareness ?
John Say,
Bondi absolutely mopped the floor with the Democrats!! It was an awesome sight to see! She owned them! I can see why Trump would pick her. She is sharp, smart and clearly capable.
Do democrats have ANY self awareness ?
Catholics start the Catholic Mass with signing ourselves with the Trinitarian formula, and proceed to confess our sins with mea culpa. The ritual is elaborate, the prayers ancient, but the theme is constant throughout. The stance continues right up to receiving Communion with that final prayer, “Lord I am not worthy that you should enter under my room”, just minutes before receiving the Body of Christ.
Think about that.
The Old Testament, and of course the Psalms, demonstrate a disposition of reverence, praise and acknowledging God’s power & might. That intuitively means we should have the proper posture: humility, looking within, comparing ourselves to God’s Truths, and proceeding accordingly. No one in God’s temporal world has bragging rights. Everything good and honorable comes from above through God’s mercy and graces.
Now pivot to our current society, and to your point, Democrats.
As far is the east is from the west, God and His teachings are on one side, and mere mortals like us are on the opposite side, and apparently some of us are even further than others, e.g. David Axelrod
The MSM/Dems will never show contrition, acknowledgement of self-errors, never mind striking of their chest with humility. It’s not in their DNA. That’s on them.
And whosoever shall not receive you, nor hear your words, when ye depart out of that house or city, shake off the dust of your feet.
KJV, Matthew 10:14
it was with some humor I read the piece on Jill Biden in the WaPo that I cited yesterday. She is clueless, as is Nancy Pelosi. As I stated above
Estovir,
That was very interesting and a interesting comparison. Thank you.
John Say,
They didn’t say anything that would indicate disloyalty to Trump. Bondi bristled at the idea of having to answer questions about hypotheticals, which is strange since her job will require her to engage with hypotheticals regularly.
Hegseth lacks the experience and character to be Secretary of Defense. This is odd because Republicans often emphasize character and experience when it comes to Democratic appointees.
However, the real test will come once they start their jobs. I suspect Hegseth won’t last long. Trump’s cabinet picks have a well-documented history of resigning or being fired for not being loyal enough or for failing to be ‘brave’ enough to break the law for Trump.
Trump is already breaking his promise to end the Ukraine war within 24 hours and to lower grocery prices. I’m sure you will hold Trump accountable for his lies, just as you did for Biden… or will you begin making excuses?
George: Did you protest when Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg (and others) responded that she would decline to answer hypotheticals, for the very reason that you frame–that they may prove not to be so hypothetical.? Please distinguish.
The distinction is a justice’s decisions tend to influence laws that can last decades of change the course of the nation. Plus their appointment is for life.
A cabinet pick’s job is literally planning future rules and regulations or contingencies by relying on hypothetical scenarios. To bristle at a line of questions that are in line with their job entails should be expected.
Garland refused to answer questions from Sen. Tom Cotton on the death penalty, illegal immigration, and gun laws. And Bondi and Garland are not the only ones. Your shallow answer reeks of partisan bias.
“They didn’t say anything that would indicate disloyalty to Trump.”
Good, had Trump picked Bendict Arnold that would be a bad reflection on his judgement.
” Bondi bristled at the idea of having to answer questions about hypotheticals, which is strange since her job will require her to engage with hypotheticals regularly.”
False – prosecutors should NEVER be chasing hypothetical s.
The demand of Bondi – which she DID commit to, was to investigate and prosecute crimes – not people. Bondi promised that DOJ will not be looking to “Get Biden”
in the way that Democrats OPENLY promised to “Get Trump” – Bragg Willis, and James ALL promised to “Get Trump”, It was hillarious to listent ot democrat senators talking about Laventi Beria and – show me the man I will show you the crime – exactly what Smith, Bragg, Willis and James did.
“Hegseth lacks the experience and character to be Secretary of Defense.”
ROFL
As several republicans pointed out – Hegeths character and experience are superior to half the Senate.
Regardless, Hegeth did not lie under oath, he did not rape or sexually assault anyone – he is more qualified to be Sec Def that Clinton was to be president.
“This is odd because Republicans often emphasize character and experience when it comes to Democratic appointees.”
Hegseth has deployed to combat zones in the Mideast on 3 separate occasions. He has medals for valor.
That is not only indicia of character it is very relevant to being Sec Def – he KNOWS what warriers need to do their job.
Further he fielded often obnoxious questions from Democrats and handled them incredibly well.
He kept his cool under fire and he Gave back as he got in just the right degree under the circumstances to impress any sane person watching.
I have ZERO problems with senators asking tough questions. That is not what we saw. There is a difference between trying to understand how Hegseth would act as Sec Def.
While the attacks on hims as mysoginist and racist were unwaranted – it WAS reasonable to ask how he would shift towards the more meritocratic divying of assignments.
Hegseth has in the past criticized military racial policies as CREATING racism and lowering effectiveness – there is evidence he is correct about that – a REASONED discussion of that was warranted – just ranting that he is a racist was not. Hegseth has in the past spoke out against women in combat, and particularly women with children.
That was a reasonable area to inquire – but just ranting that he is a mysoginist is stupid and unproductive.
Many americans do not want women in combat. You can disagree with them but it is a valid and popular view.
Even more do not want mothers in combat. That may have super majority support.
Hegseth did not address allowing mothers in combat. He should have, and he should have been asked. But it is NOTsexist to oppose women in combat.
Hegseth did revise his overall stance – anyone who coulf meet the requirements for a specific military role would be eligable for that role.
I would not in the past we barred multiple sons from the same family from being drafted and barred multiple sons from the same family from serving together if they volunteered.
We also exempted farmers.
The US military has NEVER operated as some DEI experiment – until now. We allow, even encourage military policies that discriminate where there is good reason.
I personally do not think women should be barred from combat roles. But I think it is reasonable to remove women with young children from combat.
“However, the real test will come once they start their jobs.”
Probably not. The reality is that cabinet posts mostly require the skills you just saw Hegseth demonstrate – being cool under fire and publilc relations including appearing before congress. What is it that you think he is going to F$%K up.
“I suspect Hegseth won’t last long.”
Because ?
“Trump’s cabinet picks have a well-documented history of resigning or being fired for not being loyal enough or for failing to be ‘brave’ enough to break the law for Trump.”
Mostly they have been fired or forced to resign for creating the appearance of corruption. or for failure to do their jobs.
I would note that No one has ever had the turnover Rate that Harris did. Trump’s turnover rate was pretty normal.
Here are the promises I take seriously – though not litterally.
I expect most of them to be significantly accomplished.
https://www.donaldjtrump.com/platform
“False – prosecutors should NEVER be chasing hypothetical s.“
They always do. They prosecute on the hypothesis that a crime was committed. They hypothesize how a judge would see their argument.
Same thing with Hegseth. The military relies and makes plans for hypothetical scenarios all the time.
Hegseth is not qualified to be SECDEF. He has been accused of rape and assault. He showed he vulnerable to blackmail. Alcoholism? That’s a lot of red flags. Clinton was elected and Republicans wanted to impeach him for having an affair.
I guess sexual assault is no longer considered a serious character flaw.
“What is it that you think he is going to F$%K up.”
Only time will tell. Given the record of Trump’s cabinet picks it won’t be long.
Do democrats have ANY self awareness ?
Catholics start the Catholic Mass with signing ourselves with the Trinitarian formula, and proceed to confess our sins with mea culpa. The ritual is elaborate, the prayers ancient, but the theme is constant throughout. The stance continues right up to receiving Communion with that final prayer, “Lord I am not worthy that you should enter under my room”, just minutes before receiving the Body of Christ.
Think about that.
The Old Testament, and of course the Psalms, demonstrate a disposition of reverence, praise and acknowledging God’s power & might. That intuitively means we should have the proper posture: humility, looking within, comparing ourselves to God’s Truths, and proceeding accordingly. No one in God’s temporal world has bragging rights. Everything good and honorable comes from above through God’s mercy and graces.
Now pivot to our current society, and to your point, Democrats.
As far is the east is from the west, God and His teachings are on one side, and mere mortals like us are on the opposite side, and apparently some of us are even further than others, e.g. David Axelrod
The MSM/Dems will never show contrition, acknowledgement of self-errors, never mind striking of their chest with humility. It’s not in their DNA. That’s on them.
And whosoever shall not receive you, nor hear your words, when ye depart out of that house or city, shake off the dust of your feet.
KJV, Matthew 10:14
it was with some humor I read the piece on Jill Biden in the WaPo that I cited yesterday. She is clueless, as is Nancy Pelosi. As I stated above
Every Democrat accusation is a confession.
It’s pathetically obvious to all but brain dead morons (ie Democrat voters)
Good for the judge to forcefully call them out.
Remember this about your Russia loving orange god when he cuts off support for Ukrainians.
Last summer, the Russian army appeared to adopt a new tactic.
They started flying dozens of drones in south Ukraine to follow cars and people in a video game-like chase. They have dropped explosives on civilian targets, wreaking havoc, according to Ukrainian officials.
In November and December, at least 16 people died in these attacks, while 144 were injured, local officials said.
Russia is not our friend. Your orange god just wants to be liked, even if it is by a dictator that kills men, women and children.
Trump will bring peace to the world. If Biden and his neocons in Congress dont force us into WWIII first.
This war could of been over just after it started at Istanbul if Biden the Butcher did not squash the deal. If Trump can help arrange a peace deal, there will be cheering on both sides of the battleline and millions of military aged men in all of the EU will sigh relief they will not have to be sent into the meat grinder that Biden supported.
Neocons? You mean Republicans? Surely you jest.
Republicans love a good war, keeps their defense donors happy and profitable.
Trump promised he would end the Ukraine war within 24 hrs. He lied. Now he’s backpedaling and sayin it would take a few months. He’s already broken a few promises and he’s not even in office yet. Shocking.
Biden is the one who squashed the deal, sent million, billions of dollars and war material to the war.
Trump has already done more good then Biden did in his entire admin. This is what real leadership, real strength looks like. This is what American’s voted for.
What deal? Trump lied. He promised to end the Ukraine war within 24 hrs. Now he’s saying it will take a few months.
What exactly has Trump done besides stop the war he promised he would stop on day one? Was his lying when he said that or not? He made sure everyone knew it will be done within 24 hrs. What’s the hold up?
The Ukrainians and Russians met in Istanbul in the spring of 2022. They had a peace deal on the table. Biden squashed it.
What is the hold up: The Russians.
Hear are Trump’s actual campaign promises.
https://www.donaldjtrump.com/platform
The 1992-2008 era GOP is calling. They say you are right about useless wars and neocons. The 2016-present GOP is another kettle of fish.
You view Trump as a cause of your problem. Trump is merely the avatar. The GOP that elected Trump three times has made it abundantly clear that useless wars will no longer be funded. Illegal immigration will no longer be tolerated. That’s why YOU GUYS now own the Neocons and the former Country Club Republicans (Now Country Club Democrats).
“That’s why YOU GUYS now own the Neocons and the former Country Club Republicans (Now Country Club Democrats).”
The neocons and the rest of the Deep State have shown more than once that they are capable of maneuvering their way back into power, by working behind the scenes, without regard to party allegiances. I have my fingers crossed that it will be different this time, but I am closely scrutinizing developments, with a jaundiced eye. Gabbard’s retrenchment on Section 702, and Mike Waltz’ recent demand that Ukraine lower its draft age from 26 to 18, may just be bits of political theater designed to influence one or another of the many, many negotiations (external and internal) that must take place once Trump is inaugurated, but I think that we should all remain closely attentive, nevertheless.
“Trump promised he would end the Ukraine war within 24 hrs. “
Five days before Trump is sworn in he got a cease fire Biden couldn’t get as President for 15 months. Your beloved President Biden caused the Ukraine war, blocked an end to the war, and kept fanning the flames bringing us the closest to WW3 in recent years. Biden did that while weakening our military. Trump hasn’t yet been inaugurated and the Putz, George Svelaz, is complaining he hasn’t stopped the Ukraine war.
There is more to be said about the cease fire, but that is for another time.
S. Meyer,
Like I said, as soon as Trump won, he was already acting presidential without being the president, making moves, talking to people, sending people to make deals like the cease fire. This is what the American people voted for. Not a president who spent nearly 40% of his time on vacation, hiding from the public and press.
Top Qatari official says Trump and his envoy pushed Hamas ceasefire deal ‘over the line’
“A top Qatari official told Just the News on Thursday night that Donald Trump’s pressure and the negotiating work of the President-elect’s envoy Steve Witkoff helped push a long stalled ceasefire and hostage release deal between Hamas and Israel “over the line.”
“There truly is no better way for an incoming administration to handle this situation,” said Mohammed Al-Khulaifi, the Minister of State at Qatar’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs.”
https://justthenews.com/politics-policy/all-things-trump/top-qatari-official-says-trump-and-his-envoy-pushed-hamas
Thanks Upstate. George Svelaz is a mindless fool but you already know that. If he turned off all his news sources and just listened to what you say on the blog he could join the ranks of normal people.
There is an excellent analysis on breakingpoints that I linked to elsewhere. Breaking points is a significantly left of center – but NOT woke left media outlet.
There are number of antitrump conspiracy theories in their analysis of the peace deal – and make no mistake, it is a 3 phase peace deal not just a cease fire.
Such as that Trump promised Netenyahu that Israel could annex the west bankm but Breakingpoints is absolutely clear this deal was made because of Trump and Witkoff.
The deal BTW is just a slighly modified version of the May 2024 deal that fell through. Trump did NOT negotiate an entirely new deal.
What he did was twist the arms of Hamas and Netenyahu to agree to the deal.
I would further note that this deal is incredibly tenuous – and like the Hezbolla cease fire several months ago WILL blow up UNLESS Trump holds BOTH Hamas and Israel to the deal.
This deal happened because Biden does not have the clout or credibility with either side to make this deal happen.
Trump is more popular with Israeli’s than Netenyahu. And more popular with palestinians than any US president since Carter.
Trump successfully courted the muslim vote in Michigan. While he is the most pro-israel president in US history he has managed to do so while at the same time being close to arab leaders and arab people.
“it is a 3 phase peace deal not just a cease fire.”
That is what people don’t seem to understand. The other parts of the deal have yet to be negotiated. How this will turn out is anyone’s guess. Every time Hamas has lost victory is taken away from Israel and without victory there is no defeat. That is why Hamas quickly arises and then attacks Israeli civilian targets. Trump is playing this very loose.
Mostly I agree with you. Frankly what Israel and Netenyahu have done in the mideast in the past 18months is incredible.
It is a bit early to say that the defeat of Hezbola and the collapse of Syria and tha massive hit to iranian power delivered by Israel will bring a lasting peace.
But there is good reason to hope.
Syria is complex – Iran is the big loser – as well as Assad, Turkey is the big winner as well as ISIS. We have traded one set of bad guys for another.
But there is reason for hope.
The new Syrian leaders appear to want to govern. It is early to say they are capable of running a pluralistic country, but there is hope.
ERodigan is NOT a good guy. But it is unlikely that he will be exporting global terrorism or disrupting the regiuon in the same was as Iran.
There is serious hope for Lebanon. Disarming Hezbola likely means Lebanon can form a working government.
At the same time – Israel’s efforts to defeat Hamas have failed. While Israel has killed off the leadership and the overwhelming majority of Hamas fighters, the war has created a new generation of Hamas warriors. Who would have guessed that obliterating everything in an urban region where 2M people live would havecreated more enemies ?
There is aparently some disruption in the West Bank – but it is an internal fight between the Palestinian authorities and other palestinian groups.
Though it is my understanding that Israeli settlers in the west bank have been emboldened.
Israel’s war coalition government has shifted with a extreme right fringe group being replaced by a more moderate right group and a slightly larger majority coalition.
The Israeli’s themselves are growing tired of the war.
And there are atleast hints of Saudi Arabia joining the Abraham accords – which Israel wants badly, if something can be worked out regarding Palestine.
and the Saudi’s expectations of what that means are atleast slightly lowered.
I have no idea how to solve the palestinian problem
No nation in the world wants palestinian immigrants.
They have had multiple oportunities for autonomy and they have blown them.
There may be a peace deal in Gaza but it is unclear whether Israel has actually accomplished anything that will not bring them back to this in a decade or less.
Killing off most of Hamas only to replace them with a newer younger cadre is not a win.
Anyway we will see.
I would further note that While as a generalization – Israel is the good guys and Hamas is the bad guys.
There is plenty of questionable decision making on the part of Israel and it is as likely that Netenyahu blows this up blaming Hamas as that Hamas does.
The biggest disincentive to that is … Trump. Trump is israel’s best friend, but Trump is NOT an uncondictional friend of israel.
Wittkoff at Trump’s direction purportedly put the screws to Netenyaho to take this deal “or else” – that does not mean he was not ALSO threatening Hamas.
Biden never had either the gravatas, the leverage, or the willingness to use them to strike a deal.
This is also true in Ukraine. One should not forget that the ukraininan conflict has many more elements than the battlefield.
Russia wants more than just no Ukraine in NATO. They have massive damage to their energy infrastructure they can not fix,
and they want back on World markets.
Ukraine needs assurance that this does not happen again in 5 years and help rebuilding.
These are just a few of the levers Trump has to make a deal.
“It is a bia victort early to say that the defeat of Hezbola and the collwiapse of Syria and tha massive hit to iranian power delivered by Israel will bring a lasting peace.”
It cannot and will not bring “a lasting peace.” In the study of war, Professor Kagan points out that peace requires a victor and the loser needs to recognize defeat. In the many wars Israel has won, America has removed victory and therefore created a future war. To win the war Israel must have absolute victory and will need to have belligerents leave going back to where most came from or total control over Hamas starting with the education of the young who presently are taught to kill Jews.
“Syria is complex – Iran is the big loser – as well as Assad, Turkey is the big winner as well as ISIS. We have traded one set of bad guys for another.”
ISIS will be a short-term winner unless they mend their ways. Turkey is too hard to predict. They take advantage of the circumstances on the ground.
“Though it is my understanding that Israeli settlers in the west bank have been emboldened.”
Those settlers hold only tiny areas of Judea and Samaria. They will not be leaving.
Israel is the legal and legitimate sovereign leader of Judea, Samaria, Gaza, and Jerusalem. As stated before, Jews are the indigenous people in that area and fulfill all the boxes when it comes to who is sovereign over any land.
Not only does Biden have zero clout or credibility, NO ONE respects Tony Blinken who is a lightweight, amateur, dumass who exudes “staffer” energy, and zero leadership capacity. He’s a two bit, wannabe poser dumass.
Minor quibble Trump did not begin acting presidential, he immediately became the “acting president”
World leaders immediately knew who they had to negotiate with – and they did.
They knew who was really in charge.
This was not a change in Trump’s temperament.
It did not mostly come from Trump
It was a reflection of the fact that before Nov 5th there was a void in global leadership and after that void was filled by Trump.
S. Meyer, What are you talking about? You’re conflating the Gaza-israel cease fire with Ukraine? LOL!
Biden spent well over a year negotiating a cease-fire. Trump’s staff only got involved a few months ago. Keep in mind the cease fire occurred under Biden’s term. Also keep in mind that Israel is already breaking it by making unsubstantiated claims.
Biden didn’t cause the Ukraine war. Putin did.
Trump promised he would end it within 24hrs. Now he says it will take months. He lied to you and me. Trump gets inaugarated Monday. If Ukraine and Russia are still at war on Tuesday Trump failed and lied to you. Right? So we have some time to see if he will keep his promise. Trump is not a liar is he?
“You’re conflating the Gaza-israel cease fire with Ukraine? LOL!”
No you are conflating a man who has been President for 4 years with Trump who is not yet President.
Take note how Biden said he would end the Middle Eastern war and all his promises. As President he kept none but caused the Ukraine war and the war with Hamas and in the process destroyed the country.
Will Trump stop the Ukraine war within 24 hours of taking the Presidency. Who knows. However, he already started the ball rolling and isn’t yet President.
You are showing how great Trump is. You are actually saying that Trump will be stopping the Ukraine war, something Biden didn’t do,. Your attack recognizes Trump is a better President and will soon stop the Ukraine War so your last stand is Trump won’t do it within 24 hours. Thank you for proving yourself a fool, again.
“Biden spent well over a year negotiating a cease-fire.”
He did, and even though the currnet deal is not substantially different from the may 2024 deal
Biden could not seal the deal – not in may, not now.
All but a very few left wing nuts KNOW this deal closed because of Trump.
“Trump’s staff only got involved a few months ago.”
Correct – Wittkoff speaking with authority from Trump was the closer.
There is lots of reporting on that.
Biden’s people got nowhere for months. Neither side gave a crap about them.
“Keep in mind the cease fire occurred under Biden’s term.”
Correct, again the deal is little different from what he proposed in May 2024.
But Biden and his people did ot and could not close the deal.
“Also keep in mind that Israel is already breaking it by making unsubstantiated claims.”
Both sides are doing that – and that does not break the deal.
“Biden didn’t cause the Ukraine war. Putin did.”
Correct, But Puttin did not invade ANYBODY while Trump was president while he invaded Georgia with Bush as president,
Crimea with Obama as president and Ukraine with Biden as president.
Putin did NOT invade anybody while Trump was president because Trump was not stupid enough to poke the bear,
and because Trump diminished Putins leverage with energy.
Biden provoked Putin.
Looked and was weak,
and bad policy decisions gave Putin leverage he did not have when Trump was president.
Biden did not “cause” the war, but it would not have happened if Trump had been president.
“Trump promised he would end it within 24hrs. Now he says it will take months.”
And people will still credit Trump and be happy.
“Trump supporters take him seriously but not literally, Trump detractors take him literally but not seriously”
No one who voted for Trump beleived he would end the war in 24hrs.
That he would bring down grocery prices immediately (or at all),
That he would build the wall and get mexico to pay for it.
They do not beleive he is making Canada the state of “Gay Montana” or invading Greenland, or invading Panama,
They do beleive he is going to strenthen our ties to Canada on OUR TERMS,
That he is going to gain national security concessions from Denmark regarding Greenland.
That he is going to improve US influence over the Panama canal and diminish that of China.
Today it is not just Trump supporters that know to take Trump seriously but not litterally.
Only left wing nuts such as you still take him litterally.
The TDS is strong and you keep getting trolled.
This article is about the CNN defamation lawsuit, but it is about more – the loss of credibility of the MSM.
We are entering Trump 2,0
The future is hard to predict.
What we do know is that Trump’s 2nd term will not be like the first.
The MSM is radically diminished in power and credibility.
The deep stat has “shot its wad” and failed.
Outside of left wing nuts like you – no one is going to gie a schiff about future “Russia, Russia, Russia”
Nonsense.
As I said about – now – not just Trump supporters but MOST people take trump seriously but not literally.
When Trump mentions Canada, Greenland or the Panama canal, they KNOW not to take him litterally.
But they also KNOW that Trump’s attention is directed towards Canada, Greenland and Panama, and there will be some kind of deal.
And that is will be goof for the US.
We do not know what Resistance 2.0 will be like. It appears that many democrats like Fetterman have read the Tea leaves and
are trying to distance themselves and the democratic party from the looney left.
But that is not all democratic politicians.
We know that Biden, the Obama’s, the Clintons, Pelosi are politically disempowered and unlikely to recover.
We Know that the attacks on Bondi and Hegsoth were a disaster for those democrats who participated.
That Trump’s major nominees will all get confirmed, and nearly all of the minor ones.
We do NOT know what left wing nuts like you will do.
But we do KNOW that you have substantially less influence today.
“You don’t matter anymore”
Fixing the mess Biden left behind is going to be hard. This is much worse than the Mess Obama left.
Inflation rose again in December.
Clearing inflation may be painful. We have NEVER done so easily before.
Though Trump is all about doing things that have never been done before.
Regardless, cutting regulations, cutting taxes and securing the border are the low hanging Fruit.
They are easy and will boost the economy,
Ending the war in Ukraine is also not hard, but likely will take more than 24hrs.
We also do not know what unforeseen events the future will bring.
The Chinese economy is unstable and the outside world has no idea whether the problems are big or HUGE.
Countries with unstable economies do stupid things.
China and Russia are in the midst of Demographic collapse, that will get worse in the next 4 years.
Europe is early in the same collapse and de-industrialization.
The US is re-shoring and re-industrializing. The pacific rim is trying to capture some of China’s export trade as it flounders.
These and many more are all issues that Trump will have to deal with.
Even a Covid redux is possible as we have not addressed the problem of lab leeks and Gain of Function research.
Every president has to deal with unforeseen and sometimes unforeseable problems.
Most of the country Trusts Trump to deal with those.
Those of you on the left are paying they turn out disasterously.
Because your not getting back into power without help from heaven.
“Neocons? You mean Republicans?”
The term neocon is a reference to conservative democrats who left the democratic party because democrats were insufficiently serious about defense.
That refered to the first generation of neocons in the 60’s
Subsequently the conservative element to be considered a neocon has diminished – though many still are conservativish.
Nor is it strictly a requirement that a neocon be a republican anymore – though most are.
The Chenney’s are neocons, Frum is a neocon, Graham is a neocon. But Hillary Clinton is also effectively a neocon.
She shares the same view of the US relationship to the world and the same views regarding the US military.
Neocons are those who want the US to be the policemen of the world. Who want the US to send troops into almost every conflict in the world.
Who want massive defense spending to deliver a military that can crush the entire rest of the world.
Neocons are the “deep state” or they are their enablers.
Most have been republicans – though as I noted above – Neocons historically started as democrats and left over an insufficiently agressive stance of the democratic party during the cold war.
They represent a legitimate – though wrong view or americas role within the world.
Most have left the GOP mostly to become independents,
Though a few – such as Lindsey Graham remain republicans.
the internal conflicts in the GOP that resulted in the Tea Party and Later MAGA, reflect a power struggle in the GOP between establishment republicans – the Bushes, Romney,
neocons – like Graham, and Chenney. Religious conservatives – like Jesse Helms, libertarian republicans like Ron Paul and Rand Paul, and the insurgents that became the TP and MAGA that drew their heritage from Pat Buchanon. The Tea Party rose in prominence during the Obama presidency, and the 2015/16 GOP primary was the pivotal fight for control of the GOP. Trump took ownership of the Tea Party and rebranded it as MAGA. The TP was always populist and secular (for republicans). Regardless, Trump won the GOP primary,
and the election, but MAGA was at that time at best the plurality position in the GOP – other factions still held power and many were openly hostile to Trump – so called never trumpers, who were mostly neocons and establishment republicans.
Contra idiots like you – Trump was actually a successful president – despite ruthless opposition – sometimes from within the GOP. That and shifts in the country mean that MAGA is now the dominant GOP faction. Neocons are the fringe like Graham or their have left or been expelled like Chenney
Regardless today NeoCons are politically impotent. Harris made the political mistake of cozying up to NeoCons during her campaign.
I am not sure what strategist though that was a good idea. Neocons today are increasingly politically toxic.
While there has always been a small neocon thread within the democratic party – again Hillary is arguably a neocon.
And Democrats and neocons were uncomfortable allies in the fight against Trump – neocons are practically synonymous with the deep state,
NeoCons are as unpopular with the democratic base as with the republican base.
“Republicans love a good war, keeps their defense donors happy and profitable.”
Some due, as do democrats.
WWI, WWII, Korean, Vietnam, Libya, Syria, are all conflicts that Democrats own.
GOP conflicts are Grenada, Panama, GWI, GWII and Afghanistan were initiated by Republicans but had bipartisan support.
Large portions of both parties cozy up to defense contractors. There is a large portion of the GOP that wants a very powerful military but is very resistant to using it.
Just as the Obama wing of the Democrats wants a very weak military but is very willing to use it.
Both parties have lots of different perspectives. Trump and MAGA TEND towards a powerful military – though DoD is in DOGE’s sights. But they are resistant to using it unless absolutley necescary.
One of the groups that Trump has effectively captured from the democratic party is the antiwar democrats. People like Glenn Greenwald who is this weird left wing anti-Trump Trump supporter. Regardless his podcasts are all very worth listening too.
Regardless, pretty much since the 2012 election – Democrats have gotten the lions share of defense contractor political donations.
as well as nearly all big business donations and nearly all donations from billionaires – except a slowly growing group of Tech Billionaires which are slowly moving Trump’s way.
The Tech Billionaires – and a large minority of those in tech are libertarian – nt democrat or republican, and while Trump does not own the libertarian vote, he is getting the lions share of libertarian votes and docnations.
“Trump promised he would end the Ukraine war within 24 hrs. He lied. Now he’s backpedaling and sayin it would take a few months. He’s already broken a few promises and he’s not even in office yet. Shocking.”
Oh, the Horrors! Ride him out of town on a rail!.
Obama promised to get out of Afghanistan and Iraq in 90 days It took 12 years. Even Trump promised to get out of Afghanistan – and while our departure would not have happened without him – ultimately Biden got us out.
While he botched it, he did NOT have to leave, he could have reversed as the “generals” and neocons wanted – but he did not.
I credit him for actually leaving Afghanistan.
“The term neocon is a reference to conservative democrats who left the democratic party because democrats were insufficiently serious about defense.”
The term “neocon” is comonly referred to Republican conservatives who are staunchly conservative. The left the Democratic party to become what are commonly known as Reagan Republicans.
Neocons love war and Republicans never shied away from a war they didn’t think would be profitable. The truth is they are no longer Democrats, and of course you know that. Republicans have been neocons forever. They just realized a bit late they were in the wrong party.
John you’re a big fan of holding presidents accountable for lying. Now that it’s clear Trump lied you suddenly don’t seem to care? How convenient. You have trust issues with the government because they lie. Does this mean you don’t Trust Trump to handle the issue because he too lied in the most obvious way?
Trying to lay blame on Obama and Biden for the mess of the Afghanistan withdrawal is as disingenuous as it gets.
Trump drew down the number of troops after negotiating a deal with the Taliban without including the Afghan government. Trump left Biden with a mininal amount of troops to handle the withdrawal which Trump did not want to do while he was in office because it would have made him look bad if things went awry.
Biden got us out because he honored Trumps deal. Biden had to deal with Trumps poor planning for an orderly withdrawal. Obama couldn’t leave Afghanistan without a proper working and stable Afghan government. Plus Republicans did not want to leave Afghanistan until we had that in place. It would have been irresponsible to just pack up and leave and let extremists fill the void. You know these issues are more complex than the simple idea of just leaving and be done with it. That is how we end up with outifts like Al Qaeda and the Taliban. Obama had the fore sight to learn from our past mistakes instead of blindly leaving as if nothing ever happened. We are just as much at fault for creating the situation that we had a hard time gettin out of. BOTH parties are to blame for it.
Trump promised to end the Ukraine war within 24 hrs. He lied. Based on your past criticisms of presidents making promises you should be chastising Trump for making stupid statements he should have know are impossible to keep. Here you are unwilling to hold Trump accountable for his lie.
As used for most of the past 60 years – NeoCon is defined by their positions on the US role internationally.
While the initial NeoCons were conservative Democrats who left the democratic party for the GOP.
Their CORE value was the beleif that Democrats were FAILING with respect to the Cold War.
It is the neocon view – a muscular foreign affairs that includes a muscular military and the willingness to use it that distinguishes neocons and what drew them to the GOP – not conservatism – though most neocons are conservatives.
The Chenney’s, the Frums the Kristals, and myriads of other signature neocons are not distinguished by their conservatism – many are nominally conservative.
As I noted Hillary Clinton is arguably one of the most prominent NeoCons and she is not especially conservaitve.
But she IS the architect of the Mess in Ukraine and the Mess in North African portions of the Mid east – Egypt, Libya, that she fostered as Sec State.
The Collusion Delusion nonsense, and the idiotic Claims that Gabbard was a Russian agent are examples of neocon nonsense,
And clearly NOT confined to the GOP.
Many “Reagan republicans” are NeoCons. Not all.
“Neocons love war”
Correct. Though they are happy with the US having its fingers in small conflicts all over.
“Republicans never shied away from a war they didn’t think would be profitable.”
False. The Bushes while not actual neocons were neocon enablers and your claim is atleast partly true of them.
But while Reagan vastly increase defense spending to win the cold war.
His “invasion” was Grenada. When the Marine Barracks in Lebanon was bombed, he took responsibility andLEFT.
NeoCons would have used that to start a war.
“The truth is they are no longer Democrats, and of course you know that. R”
The Truth is that there have not been Neocons born in the Democratic party for atleast a decade.
The preimenent NeoCons today were always Republicans – until now.
Though as I noted Hillary is a pretty solid Neocon and she is a democrat and has been since after Goldwater.
Republicans have NOT been Neocons forever. Most republicans were never neocons. But from the 60’s until recently nearly all neocons eventually ended up in the GOP
With Trump’s rise to power that Changed.
“They just realized a bit late they were in the wrong party.”
False, the parties have changed – anyone but a moron would know that.
I would note that the Bushes are NOT neocons. But they were neocon adjacent.
Reagan was in myriads of ways more like Trump than a neocon. What distinguishes Reagan from Trump is that the USSR was the enemy that NeoCons fought, and China is the enemy that Trump is fighting. NeoCons TODAY are still fighting the cold war. Despite what is obvious to all – that Russia is NOT a global super power – they are a regional power – and but for half the worlds nukes not a very strong one.
“John you’re a big fan of holding presidents accountable for lying.”
Real lies of real consequence. Trump does not tell real lies of consequence.
Almost no one cares if Trump does not negotiate a peace deal in Ukraine in 24hours.
If he fails to do so in 24 months we might be concerned.
I would further note that a lie, a broken promise and an incorrect prediction are NOT the same thing.
The collusion delusion was LIE – it was a false statement about something that was at the time a known or knowable fact.
The Hunter Biden laptop is russian disinformation is a LIE – it was a false statement about something that was at the time a known or knowable fact.
The claim that Covid did not come from a lab leak was very very close to a lie, and it certainly became a lie very quickly.
The people who pissed on the lab leak thesis KNEW that it was the most likely source when they claimed it was natural.
When a natural source was not found within 2 months that became a lie.
Those here who claim inflation was 9% when Biden took office are LYING – it was 1.4%.
Lies are false statements about known or knowable FACTS.
Politicians make promises to get elected. Promises are about the future, and it is nearly always impossible to keep them – aspecially specific ones perfectly.
Trump promised to build a wall – he did everything in his power to do so. He built over 100M of new wall and repaird over 400M of failing wall.
He fell short of his promise against brutal resistance from democrats. That is not a lie. it is barely a broken promise.
as YOU say Trump promised to end the fighting in Ukraine in 24 hours – that is a promise.
But no one who voted for him is going to demand his impeachment if it takes 2 months or even 24.
In one form or another Trump kept most of his promised from 2016.
ALL Voters expect Trump to keep his 2024 promises – IN THE SAME WAY.
They do NOT have stop watches set to 24hrs on the Ukraine war.
“Now that it’s clear Trump lied ”
What is it that Trump lied about ?
I had a problem with GHWB because as VP he went to the UN and told them the Vincense was in international waters when it shot down the Irainian airliner.
When it was NOT and the US and Bush KNEW it.
That is a lie. Clinton LIED when he said “I did not have sex with that women”.
Not precisely keeping political promises about things that will be done in the future is NOT lying.
We determine whether it a moral failure by the seriousness with which the promises was persued and the extent to which it was kept.
“you suddenly don’t seem to care?”
I care a great deal about real and serious lies.
I do not give a schiff about left wing nuts pretending that absolute precision in keeping political promises is critical.
I care even less about those who are ranting that Trump lied about things that have not even happened yet.
“You have trust issues with the government because they lie.”
No I do not trust government because we should never trust those who weild great power.
We especially should not trust them if they repeatedly lie.
But even if they never lie we should never trust government.
“Does this mean you don’t Trust Trump to handle the issue because he too lied in the most obvious way?”
I expect Trump to keep most of the promises that he made IN SOME FORM. I would note that “ending the war in Ukraine in 24hrs” is NOT in agenda 47.
Regardless – do I completely Trust Trump – absolutely not. I do not completely trust anyone in government ever.
Do I trust Trump more than Biden – absolutely.
Do I have excellent reason to Trust Trump more than Biden – absolutely.
“Trying to lay blame on Obama and Biden for the mess of the Afghanistan withdrawal is as disingenuous as it gets.”
I did not mention blame. I stated facts.
Obama promised to withdraw in 90 days – after 8 years nothing had changed.
Trump promised to withdraw – after 4 years a substantial amount changed, but we were still there.
I am not aware of Biden making any Afghanistan promises.
Regardless he honored the US committement to leave – which I respect and credit him for.
But he botched the actual withdraw – that is on him. But then he had the reverse midas touch – everything he touched turned to schiff.
Even Obama has been quoted as saying never underestimate Joes ability to F$%K things up.
“Trump drew down the number of troops after negotiating a deal with the Taliban without including the Afghan government. Trump left Biden with a mininal amount of troops to handle the withdrawal”
All correct. So what ? The AFghan government was given 2 years to make their own deal with the Taliban. They didn’t even try.
“Trump did not want to do while he was in office because it would have made him look bad if things went awry.”
more mind reading. In 2018 Trump did not expect Biden or any democrat to win in 2020 when the deal with the Taliban was struck.
Your back playing idiotic games with time lines.
I would note that had Biden withdrawn in April when the US was supposed to Afghanistan PROBABLY would still have “fallen” – that is on the afghan people.
But the “withdrawal” would have been far less disorderly chaotic and dangerous. In April The Taliban controled about 1/4 of the country. In august they controlled 100%.
In april Kabul and the Bargram area were in Afghan hands, in August they were in Taliban hands.
“Biden got us out because he honored Trumps deal. Biden had to deal with Trumps poor planning for an orderly withdrawal. Obama couldn’t leave Afghanistan without a proper working and stable Afghan government. ”
All false. Biden was a vocal advocate that Afghanistant did not matter within the Obama administration.
Biden repeatedly pushed Obama to leave.
This is one of few things Biden has ever bee right about.
The major force keeping the US in Afghanistan and Iraw and …. was NEOCONS – including Hillary and including the very same deep state that Trump was at war with.
Afghanistan committed an act of war against the US. That justified the US removal of the Taliban from power.
The US was NEVER obligated to provide the Afghan people with a stable government.
This is hard for many on the left and right – but you can not impose a government – not even a good government on people.
The US government wa the creation of the america people – not the French or Spanish or dutch or …
Afghanistan will get the government that the Afghan people choose.
Trump gave the Afghan people 2 years to work that out. I would note – the Afghans did NOT have to strike a deal with the taliban. All they had to do was stand up and fight for their country. There military was well enough trained, large enough and well enough equiped to not only defend but to defeat the taliban.
The Taliban did not take over because they were popular or numerous. But because they fought for what they wanted and the rest of Afghanistan did not.
Neither Bush, not Obama, nor Trump nor Biden can make the Afghans self governing. They must do it themselves.
That is true of Afghanistan and everywhere else in the world. We can and did provide the tools for people to fight to govern themselves.
We can not make them do it.
“Plus Republicans did not want to leave Afghanistan until we had that in place.”
False and irrelevant. Obama made a promise, he did not even try to keep it.
Trump tried but did not keep it.
Biden kept the promise, but did so badly.
“It would have been irresponsible to just pack up and leave and let extremists fill the void.”
Nope. We owed the Afghan people nothing. If they wanted a country they needed to fight to keep it.
They did not. It is litterally that simple. If they could not choose to do so after nearly 2 decades of US assistance, Biden’s extra 6 months was not changing things.
“You know these issues are more complex than the simple idea of just leaving and be done with it.”
Is Afghanistan complex – yes. Can we just leave and be done with it ? Yes,
This was a massive neocon disaster, it is also a major factor in the forced departure of NeoCons from the GOP and the Democrats return to those NeoCon values.
It does not matter how complex things are in the world. You can not FORCE people to chose to govern themselves.
Outside of Germany and Japan which for their faults were still developed countries when we defeated them with long governmnt traditions.
The US has NEVER succeeded in “nation building”.
How well did Cuba work out ? Iran ? Libya ? Iraq ? and on and on.
You are literally mirroring the neocon ideology, and that traps you with the unbroken list of its failures.
“That is how we end up with outifts like Al Qaeda and the Taliban.”
no it was our meddling that did that .
Al Qeda was litterally aligned with the US until Bush I decided that US forces were going to take Kuwait back from Iraq.
Al Qeda wanted the US to provide them with material – as it did in Afghanistan when the Russians invaded and to defeat Iraq with a similar guerilla war.
When US troops landed in Saudi Arabia the US immediately became Al Qeda’s enemy. They saw that as no different from the Russians invading.
“Obama had the fore sight to learn from our past mistakes instead of blindly leaving as if nothing ever happened.”
No Obama was threatened by the Deep State and NeoCons and capitulated.
“We are just as much at fault for creating the situation that we had a hard time gettin out of.”
OPE, invading Afghanitan was a justified response to an act of war. When the Taliban governemnt fell – that took 90 days.
We were free to leave and let th Afghans clean up the mess they made.
The invasion of IRaq was never justified. First it was based on a lie – Iraq had no WMD programs, and next, only an actual act of war justifies an invasion.
Bush’s pre-emptive war doctrine was Garbage. What the US did in Iraq was no different than Russia invading Ukraine.
Ultimately we have more obligations in Iraq than Afghanistan – BECAUSE we broke it.
” BOTH parties are to blame for it.”
Correct.
“Trump promised to end the Ukraine war within 24 hrs.”
Agenda 47 point 8
8. Prevent world war three, restore peace in europe and in the middle east, and build a great iron dome missile defense shield over our entire country — all made in america
THAT is the Promise Trump must keep.
“He lied.”
You can not lie in a promise or future prediction about something that has not happened yet.
No matter how nitt picky you wish to be – YOU would still be lying.
I expect that you will still be saying this on Jan 21 at noon when 24hrs have passed.
Until that time YOU ARE LYING.
Arfter that you are just another left wing nut who takes Trump litterally but not seriously.
Do you doubt there will be a peace deal in Ukraine under Trump ?
Unless you are claiming the war will continue for 4 more years then you are full of schiff.
I expect Trump to GENERALLY – not precisely keep MOST of the promises in Agenda 47 – mush as he did his 2016 promises.
If he does that it will likely be only the 2nd time in US history that a president did that. The First would be Trump’s first term.
If you wish to call a president a liar who did not keep precisely every campaign promise – then every single US president ever has been a liar.
Ranked by the scale of their lies – Trump would be the most honest – better than “honest abe” and “I can not tell a lie” George.
As expected, excuses galore. Trump declared Mexico would pay for the wall. He lied. He built part of the wall when he promised to build a wall on the entire border. He makes promises he can’t keep and you make excuses when he fails to keep them instead of holding him accountable.
“as expected, excuses galore.”
No Facts.
“Trump declared Mexico would pay for the wall.”
On atleast one occasion, yes, but that was not part of his platform.
Regardless when Trump could not get the funds from Pelosi, He made Mexico defend our southern border.
I have no idea whether the Mexican’s errected a barbed wire wall on the other side of the Rio Grand, but for the rest of Trump’s presidency it was nearly impossible to get through Mexico into the US. Mexico PAID FOR THAT.
I do not require nit picking perfection.
Biden is now bragging that border crossings are lower tha during Trump. While I am not sure that is true – they are way down. Why ?
Because after Nov. 5th one of Trump’s first calls was to Sheinbaum. He told her to stop illegal immigrants passing through mexico on on Jan 20, 2025 Trump would start dismantling the Mexican economy. Mexico has slowed the rush of illegal immigrants into the US to a trickle.
AGAIN Mexico is paying for that.
I accept that as a promise kept.
Again – neither I nor most of the country take trump LITERALLY, But we do take him seriously.
He does not LITERALLY do specifically what he promises. But he accomplishes the goal he promised he would.
If Only democrats could manage 1/4 of that – Biden would have won.
Why should I hold Trump accountable ?
Does it matter to me PRECISELY how he stops illegal immigration ?
Or THAT he stops it.
Whether you like it or not – if it takes 24hrs or 12 months. Trump will deservedly get the credit.
Remember this about your Russia loving orange god when he cuts off support for Ukrainians.
We remember this about you cowardly Democrat groomer acolytes of the Pedophile In Chief:
– Allowed Putin to invade Ukraine TWICE. After Biden White House Crime LLC collected millions from Putin’s Ukrainian stooge.
– Lifted sanctions on Russia and allowed them to fund their invasion by selling oil.
Democrat Groomers want us to remember that their mentor Bribery Biden promised Putin and the world he would treat this invasion as a “minor incursion”.
As though even one yard of a foreign military invading your country is a “minor incursion”.
Yeah, your channeling confession of deflection is all the reminder we need of Bribery Biden’s Reign Of Terror And Error.
This is why you cowardly groomers only dare post your Bull Schiff Anonymously.
Old Airborne Dog
“They have dropped explosives on civilian targets, ”
To the best of my recollection (which is usually pretty damned good), the Ukrainians were the first to initiate attacks on civilian targets in every theater of that war, every step of the way.
Interesting, Turley’s been silent about Fox News continuing defamation case regarding Smartmatic. Fox News still stands to lose a couple of billion dollars more from that case. Raggin on CNN seems a bit hypocritical when Smartmatic is already very likely to win their dafamation case against Fox News.
Whataboutism says what?
The truth is sometimes…inconvenient.
George Maintains His Perfect Record Of Coming Here To Post That Whatever His Host Does, He Is Wrong And George Is Right
Interesting, Turley’s been silent about Fox News continuing defamation case regarding Smartmatic.
George, you KNOW you quite possibly have LESS credibility here than even CNN does.
So why not spare just one post to explain what you believe the deuces you drop here accomplish, other than helping you achieve self-gratification – pleasure that you can’t get through a man or woman in bed?
George, you are a cheap fake American.
Old Airborne Dog
George Svelaz wants to change the subject like he always does when he makes himself look like a fool.
“when he makes himself look like a fool.”
Constantly, IOW…
George is in no position to declare, judge, or address the content or parameters of Turley’s contract with Fox–involving ANY and ALL currently-litigated matters. George might want to look into such contractual agreements with employees or independent contractors of other NEWS organizations.
Moreover and even so, JT may simply be refraining from comment until more is developed in this current case. It appears that George frequently likes to assign intent or motive behind things, when he, in reality, has no more insight or knowledge than John Q. Public.
Lin,
Well said and spot on. Amazing the level of mind reading they can do or know things they did not witness first hand or have any kind of knowledge of.
Joe Rogan has more viewers than CNN. That by itself should say something.
Independent Bob,
The Food Network gets more views than CNN. That by itself says something!
Heh, heh, heh!
I am hoping that ABC and more specifically the Tee Vee “Entertainment” show , The View is next.
Axelrod helped deliver to us the biggest fraud ever committed against America (HRC quote) Barrack Hussein Obama. I hope he loses everything and has to go on Obamacare. Oh how the mighty are falling, just wait!
Wrong guy
No, he didn’t. David L. Axelrod, the prominent defense attorney, has never been involved in politics and played no role in the 0bama campaign or administration.
This is a great example to illustrate to journalism students the difference between Objective Journalism and Subjective Journalism and the
result = -$$$$$$$$.
Please, please, PLEEEEAAAAASE, don’t settle this. Let it go to the jury and see some huge award before they make a deal with a non-disclosure clause.
Obama famously quoted Martin Luther King, “the arc of the moral universe is long, but it bends toward justice.” He was right about that, but his definition of justice at the time was faulty. With the approaching Glorious Restoration, the universe is righting itself.
Axelrod: “This, is CNN”
Judge: “No… I am your father.”
Darren,
Good one!
How about a piece on the 2 recent SCOTUS oral arguments (Divestiture of TikTok, Texas pornography age-verification)?
Both cases lean into the free-speech claims of plaintiffs to deny The People their power under Article I to legislate on compelling interests. In the first case, it’s national security in the face of adversarial Chinese infowarfare. In the 2nd case, it’s protecting children from the corrosive effect of online pornography.
Why would a leading law professor on “free speech” not choose to write about these cases? Could it be he is reticent to concede additional exceptions to the 1st Amendment? Staying quiet, we can only guess.
pbinca, try writing your own blog instead of carping about what Professor Turley chooses to put in his. I am so tired of people that come here every day in order to complain about what the host writes every day.
I don’t watch MSNBC every day and then bang my head against the wall over what they discuss…because I am not a control freak!
It’s called fair game. Turley knows it’s part of free speech and it’s a fair question to Turley. He is after all, a free speech supporter. The two biggest free speech cases in front the court were heard and Turley has said nothing?
He clearly has a great incentive to speak about it but it would be contrary to what Republicans want and that would be…sacreligious coming from Turley. It would be seen as anti-MAGA to support the free speech rights of p0rn sites and Chinese owned TikTok.
“It’s called fair game. ”
More fair game: George is an obsessive pathological liar. One with a vicious hatred of Turley, who he hates even more than he hates Trump.
I expect Turley will write about those eventually.
HullBobby,
They are jealous of the good professor. He is highly successful. His book was on its fourth printing. He is highly respected and sought after. He has made many appearances on Capitol Hill. His blog gets many views by people from all over the world. Of course they have to attack him. They could not get that kind of views, respect on their own. That is why they are always complaining and attacking him.
Pbinca, Turley won’t discuss issues that are contrary to the Republican party or Fox News narrative.
Plus, he wouldn’t be caught lending his credibility or support behind p0rn sites freedom of speech. Even when they are right. It seems SCOTUS is going to twist itself into knots trying to justify supporting the Texas law. But it seems they will punt the case back to the 5th circuit because they didn’t use the correct test.
It seems the conservative justices were looking to make an excuse that content filtering controls are too difficult for parents to keep track of. That doesnt’ mean they are not effective. It’s just the idea that it’s too much work for parents to do their job. So they seem to think it’s the p0rn site’s job to do the job parents are supposed to.
Pbinca, Turley won’t discuss issues that are contrary to the Republican party or Fox News narrative.
George, Professor Turley has often posted columns critical of Trump and Republicans. Just as he posted about Fox News being found liable previously. Every single time you showed up to proclaim that Professor Turley was wrong and you were right. We watched you do it – and now you claim those columns you responded to never happened.
George: Why Won’t You Discuss Your Major Malfunction? You Are Known As A Pathological Democrat Liar Performing As Mini-Me Biden.
Old Airborne Dog
Those are rare and the criticism is mild, almost svelte.
Why don’t you discuss your major malfunction too. You seem unhinged the majority of the time. Being a democrat seems to do that to you. Don’t go woke on us Old dog.
“How about a piece on . . .”
There is a polite, respectful way to make such a request of your *host*.
Then there is your way: Hostile with the intent to smear.
Sam…ain’t free speech wonderful?
Besides, we all know Turley doesn’t read or keep track of posts on his blog. He’s rarely and I mean RARELY posted on it.
As I have said before, the “host” is always fair game.
“Sam…ain’t free speech wonderful?”
Ain’t being an obnoxious jerk debilitating?
Sam… ain’t free speech wonderful?
Indeed: we have a valuable example here as your host, Professor Turley, has never banned you for polluting his blog. Despite the fact you smear and lie about him every single day, contributing exactly nothing in the way of discussion of the topic of the day.
What is also fair game is vicious, hate filled pathological serial lying Democrats like you George, who continue to pollute not just this blog, but the human gene pool as well.
Old Airborne Dog
The WHOLE POINT of the Bill of Rights is to deny Congress the power under Article 1 to legislate on what it considers compelling interests.
CNN got caught and they are sinking fast in this case and their lawyers are sinking as well, bad to worse. Jake Tapper is like all other MSM talking -pro DEM Washington type. CNN is a sinking Network. They should cut their losses and settle this case, write a Fat check. What CNN should do is fire their entire staff and their consultants etc. They need to be sold to someone who could rebuild this network, Neutral, and report the Real news, not biased DEM reporting.
Dear Mr. Turley, this is what happens when the media becomes an advocate for a certain political party. This began when President Johnson exclaimed “I’ve lost Cronkite!!” over the Viet Nam war. Right then the media understood it’s power and began in to use it in force to sway the electorate. They became heady with importance throughout the Obama Administration as they understood any criticism of him was considered “racist”. It was easier to cozy up to Obama instead of being shamed as “racist”. The media thought their access would continue with Hillary Clinton’s election to the Presidency. When that fell flat, the media was unable to see where they went off course with their reporting. Let me give them a huge hint: stop advocating for one side and return to balanced reporting. It will end up saving you millions and embarrassment in the end.
Well said. They have been circling dung heaps for so long with their biased reporting that they could no longer even discern that they were on the verge of crashing into the dung heap even as the smell grew more profound. Once they crashed into the dung they could no longer even find an appropriate way to climb out. They no longer had the skills to be a real news organization or any type of organization. Maybe they should just relax and let nature take it’s course and allow themselves to sink out of site and disappear from existence. Maybe something better will rise to fill the wasted space of CNN.
“this is what happens when the media becomes an advocate for a certain political party.”
CNN was most recently an advocate for the Democrats, but has historically been more of an advocate for a bi-partisan faction – the Deep State. I clearly recall Bernard Shaw and Wolf Blitzer cheerleading for the bombing attacks on Iraq instigated on a totally BS justification by Bush the First. Regardless, I will be among those cheerleading as that worthless network plummets to oblivion.
@Number 6 I clearly recall Bernard Shaw and Wolf Blitzer cheerleading for the bombing attacks on Iraq instigated on a totally BS justification by Bush the First.
Okay, I’ll bite: was Saddam Hussein’s invasion of Kuwait a conspiracy theory that never happened?
Old Airborne Dog
It was a vastly exaggerated incursion that was intended by Hussein to force the resolution of a border dispute with Kuwait in Iraq’s favor, not the mission of conquest that it was disingenuously portrayed as.
NTM that Ambassador April Glaspie’s description to Iraq of the US position on the escalation of that border dispute was ridiculous diplomat doublespeak: “We have no opinion on the Arab-Arab conflicts, like your border disagreement with Kuwait… I was in the American Embassy in Kuwait during the late 1960s. The instruction we had during this period was that we should express no opinion on this issue and that the issue is not associated with America…We hope you can solve this problem using any suitable methods via Klibi (Chedli Klibi, Secretary General of the Arab League) or via President Mubarak. All that we hope is that these issues are solved quickly.”
NTM that the weakening of Iraq resulted directly in the strengthening of Islamist Iran, whether or not that consequence was intended.
The real reason was that Bush had been misinformed by CIA/NSA et al that Iraq had, or was very close to having, weapons of mass destruction. In two wars waged against Iraq, in 1991 and 2002, and in that aftermath of those wars, no such weapons were ever found. All in all, this was a typical neocon/Deep State instigation of a needless conflict to the benefit of defense contractors and the enhancement of the neocons own political power, at the expense of everyone else involved.
I think the Media knew its power long before that, but FDR made sure that he controlled the narrative. The Cronkite incident you mention is when the Media realized that it is an independent political power center.
I’ve been following this trial all week. The best CNN’s attorneys can do now is to try to minimize the monetary damages.
Why would you waste your time this when you have no direct interest in it? So you can comment here?
Maybe he likes legal issues being argued in court and that seems pretty logical to me. But hey, you came here just to complain about him??????????
The issue now for CNN is financial survival. A large award will exhaust any conceivable financial reserves for contingencies planned for a non-lawfare bulls**t world. CNN’s ranting clowns have been exposed as ratings-junkies and nothing more. There’s no journalism there. None at all.
“A large award will exhaust any conceivable financial reserves ”
Fantastic! Can’t happen soon enough! Hope the sorry, Deep State cheerleading bustards do let the virtual door smack them in the a$$ on their way out (or maybe the toilet seat on their way down the sewer pipe would be a better analogy 🙂
Not sure CNN has to succeed in the marketplace in order to survive. Don’t you think Soros and other NWO types will step up with $$$ funding to keep this large megaphone on air?
” Don’t you think Soros and other NWO types will step up with $$$ funding to keep this large megaphone on air?”
Not if CNN effectively has no audience that those jerks think they need to reach and convince. Soros is a despicable a$$hat, but he isn’t so stupid as to spend mega millions preaching to a choir that is already permanently in his orbit.
Fox News paid $787 million for defaming Dominion. It’s still has not dealt with Smartmatic and they seem less inclinced to settle given the fact that Fox News doesn’t have a good chance of winning. They could be fined far more than whatever CNN’s financial penalties could be. Turley is aware of it, but since he is a paid analyst for Fox News he cannot say anything that would jeopardize his employer’s position. Turley knows Smartmatic will win, but wouldn’t dare comment on it because he still wants those paychecks coming.
Fox News paid $787 million for defaming Dominion – failing in their attempt to use as their defense the earlier dismissal of the defamation case brought by a competing network against MSNBC, where that judge said, MSNBC’s viewers knew the host they were watching was a pathological liar, so there could be no defamation.
Fixed your deflecting comment you posted to channel your hatred of your host for you George.
Don’t kid yourself you can use your notorious lack of reading comprehension as an excuse to pretend you didn’t know the rest of the story. You are a well known serial liar
George, you have such an abject lack of even a shred of credibility that I don’t believe anyone believes your efforts are worth even the smallest paycheck.
You are a serial pathological liar, George. A reminder to those here that free speech means accepting seeing odious people posting odious lies and attacks on those providing them a forum for those odious lies.
Old Airborne Dog