The release of a ‘hot mic’ recording yesterday of Donald Trump bragging about objectifying women and sexually assaulting them shouldn’t come as a shock. The only shock for me was that it was actually released. You have only to listen to Trump’s remarks about women over the years, his tweetstorm attack on Alicia Machado, former Miss Universe, as well as his attacks on Rosie O’Donnell, Carly Fiorina, Hillary Clinton and a host of other women, to know this is a man who objectifies women. They are objects for him to covet (if they meet his ‘standards’ of beauty) and he feels he has a right to them. If they don’t meet his standards, well then, they are fat, they are ugly, they are flat-chested, their boobs aren’t big enough, they are smart and powerful and therefore a threat that has to be demeaned, they don’t fall prey to his supposed charm, power, and ‘stardom,’ so they must be losers – a word he loves to use.
What Donald Trump has done for years, apparently, is nothing less than sexual assault. Ivanka Trump insists that her father isn’t a ‘groper.’ Sadly, Ivanka, he is.
He’s also a predator.
My message to Trump supporters is this:
It took this to shock you? It took this, among hundreds and hundreds of offensive remarks, to finally step up and say “Enough!”? (And unbelievably, this won’t even be enough for many of you.)
The vilification of Muslims wasn’t enough?
The building of a wall wasn’t enough?
The proposal to ban all Muslim immigrants wasn’t enough?
The assumption that all Syrians are potential terrorists wasn’t enough?
The obvious bigotry and discrimination against African Americans wasn’t enough?
The portrait of Mexicans as rapists and drug dealers wasn’t enough?
The obvious admiration for Vladimir Putin wasn’t enough?
The financial ties to Russian Oligarchs wasn’t enough?
The financial dealing in Cuba when it was illegal wasn’t enough?
The attack on Gold Star parents wasn’t enough?
The renting of office space to an Iranian Bank that was funding terrorists and stealing nuclear secrets wasn’t enough?
The non-payment of taxes for approximately 20 years wasn’t enough?
The refusal to release his taxes at all wasn’t enough?
The representation of Donald Trump by Donald Trump as the most successful business man, which is clearly a lie given what we know about his financial dealings, wasn’t enough?
The refusal to pay small businesses for work they had done, in some cases, bankrupting those business owners, wasn’t enough?
The refusal to take responsibility for any of his lies – and they number in the thousands – wasn’t enough?
The blaming and shaming of Hillary Clinton because of her husband’s affairs wasn’t enough?
The spreading of lies about HRC’s health, her stamina, even implying she’d had an affair – that wasn’t enough?
The insistence that he saw Muslims in New Jersey cheering on 9/11 (which has been completely debunked) – that wasn’t enough?
The fact that those who worked on The Apprentice have spoken of an atmosphere in which Trump constantly talked about contestant’s boobs and other body parts and asked men if they would want to f___ them? That wasn’t enough?
The obvious lack of knowledge about the world and international relations, the nuclear arsenal, the denial that he supported the war in Iraq, the assumption that every member nation of NATO should pay the United States money, as if the U.S. is a Mafia Don demanding payment – that wasn’t enough?
The complete lack of desire to learn anything new, to try to expand his knowledge of the world, to read a book – that wasn’t enough?
The blaming of others for his misdeeds, his misstatements – that wasn’t enough?
The bigotry, sexism, xenophobia, and racism that permeates his being? That wasn’t enough?
The fact that white supremacists are flocking to his campaign wasn’t enough?
The not-so-subtle implication that someone should harm Hillary Clinton wasn’t enough?
The statement that Russia should hack the emails of a candidate for President of the United States wasn’t enough?
The speeches to his followers inciting violence – that wasn’t enough?
The mocking of a man with a disability wasn’t enough?
The lies upon lies upon lies (one every three minutes) – that wasn’t enough?
The spreading of conspiracy theories wasn’t enough?
The braggadocio that says he knows everything there is to know about (fill in the blank) wasn’t enough?
The narcissistic, psychologically unbalanced behavior wasn’t enough?
What we heard on the tape is vile. It is disgusting. But we’ve been hearing vile and disgusting rhetoric from this man for years.
And still you’ve supported him. Still you think him worthy of being the President of our country.
“Enough” should have been said long, long ago.
Disagreeing on policy is one thing. That happens with every election and I don’t write posts about that. But this? This is another story.
And to all who say ‘you’ve just lost a follower.’ – God speed. To quote the great Lillian Hellman, spoken during the scourge that was McCarthyism: “I cannot and will not cut my conscience to fit this year’s fashion.”
Happy Saturday.
Well said, Claudia and if ever a blog post should go viral, this is the one!!
Thank you, Sue.
Amen, Claudia.
The man is a predator and dangerously not reality-oriented.
I appreciate your words of truth, strength, and clarity.
The fact that he is supported by so many of our citizenry is disquieting at the
very least.
P.S. I love your blog for all of its many facets- I open it first thing every morning while
I drink my tea.
It’s very disquieting, Maralyn. Thank you.
And what also isn’t enough are the comments of the Republican Party leaders voicing their ‘shock’ and disapproval of Trump’s remarks. They should be pressed by the media until they say whether or not they will vote for him. As DJT has proven over and over….Talk is Cheap.
You’re absolutely right, Kaye.
You’re sick with hatred, I feel sorry for you.
That description is misplaced and clearly a projection. Anyone who reads this blog knows I come from love and inclusion, not exclusion. But it does describe Donald Trump and those who support his beliefs. That I’ve never heard from you before this comment says a great deal.
It sounds as if YOU are sick with blindness.
Meaning yola2712 is sick with blindness. I absolutely know from reading this blog for many years that Claudia is anything BUT filled with hatred.
Thank you Belinda.
“sick with hatred” is an accurate description of Trumps mindset, words, and actions.
Yet the fact that Claudia merely complied a list of Trumps comments, and actions offends you????
Thank you, Jay.
There is no one I know who has more love for her fellow human beings, even deluded ones such as yourself, for animals and for nature, than Claudia. Turn the mirror back to yourself to see where hatred really lies. It lives in you. I will pray for you to come into the light where love, kindness, acceptance, goodness and truth reside. You should try it. I think you’d like it.
Well said, Tina!! Just wish I had said it!!
xo
Well said, your words are perfect. I wish I had your gift for words. I am forwarding your words to everyone I know. Thank You.
Best Wishes to you and Don,
Kaye
Thank you, Kaye.
It will never be enough for those who have been brainwashed by the man’s hollow promises. Some, maybe even women, will continue kiss the ground he is walking on. When the going gets tough, it is always easiest to blame the ethnic minorities, women, the disabled or anyone else different, or those with a little more success. I am always pleased to see your strong voice Claudia, it makes me hopeful for a good future.
You are so right, Christina. I shake my head at the hatred that is being spewed by this man.
Just when you think this horrible man can’t sink any lower. I just don’t understand how anyone can continue to support him. I can’t understand how this has happened to our country. The Republican Party is so hell bent on trying to keep Democrats out of office that they allowed someone like him to be their presidential candidate. Now when it’s too late, they want to withdraw their support. Too little too late!
They made a deal with the devil, Kathy. And it’s coming back to haunt them.
I can’t believe this is just now coming out! I was not surprised since nothing this man says or does surprises me anymore. I can’t figure out how he got to this point! You said it just right! This is a crazy, crazy election year!!
Janet
It surely is. I’ve never seen anything like it – and hope to never see anything like it ever again!
I couldn’t agree more. Just wonder sometimes where all of those good people are who were so judgmental of president Obama. They seem to not notice when it’s one of theirs! Well said & I know you’re not a hater.
Thank you, Jan. The woman who said I was a hater is clearly a Trump supporter. Oy.
Amen! Thank you so much for this post. You have put into words what I (and I am sure many others) have been thinking. It is beyond me that anyone could support this man. I just don’t understand it.
I don’t, either, Lorinda. I just can’t believe there are those who do.
A powerful post, Claudia. Thank you.
Gail (mercifully, from Canada)
Right about now I dearly wish my grandparents hadn’t emigrated from Canada!
I’ve been busy on Ancestry.com trying to find enough evidence to convince Canada to allow me back to the Motherland as well!
Back to Canada!
We have lots of room up here in Canada. It’s a bit frosty today, with snowflakes falling here and there but you are welcome here …. just please leave the Trump guy there!!
I promise I would never bring him with me!
Oh no you two don’t! We need you here Claudia, making truthful lists for all to read and pass on and you Donna to vote to help keep the rest of us from having to head north as well. Loved this post and glad you had the courage to voice it!
Thank you, Verna!
I was sickened, but not surprised when I heard the video last night. I had just come home from a really pleasant evening spent with my daughter and grand son. As I listened to the video a second time, I thought to myself, we are living in a “rape is okay” culture and we all have a lot of work to do to change this. The first thing I will do is sit down with my grandson and have a talk with him about the respect we all must show for each other; that our bodies are our own and nobody, even a demented man running for president can change that. The second thing I will do is vote, on Monday, for Hilary Clinton.
Good for you, Sandy! Bravo.
You just lost a follower.
Bye bye.
That was too flip and I apologize. I’m sorry to see you go. I wish you only the best.
I tried to send you an email but your email address is apparently not valid.
Too bad you are leaving because then you will be a lost soul forever. You could learn a lot from Claudia and those who follow her.
Thank you, Tina.
Powerful post. Couldn’t agree with you more.
Thank you, Betsy.
I agree with you 100% and think you should write anything you want to on your blog. I’m not a Trump supporter. I think he’s an embarrassment and beyond that it frightens me that he and Hillary are the best candidates our country has to offer. Even though I agree with you, though, I think I’d have let this post sit for awhile before I hit send, just to calm myself down a bit. I’m trying to imagine myself saying what you’ve written to friends who disagree with me politically, but whom I like and respect -as if your words were mine – and it makes me uncomfortable. You’ve chosen to make this personal. Your choice, and I support it, but I’ve read your blog for years and this makes me a little sad. You know, like a friend who sticks her foot in her mouth and who you’re frantic to defend.
Well that’s a mixed message, isn’t it Maisie? You agree with me but think I shouldn’t have posted it?
Sorry. I’m not one who just writes about safe things. I never have been.
I have no problem writing about my beliefs about this election because this election is not like any other in my lifetime. And I’ve never been one of those people who don’t talk politics. My dad (bless him) is cheering me on – he never held back when it came to Trump. Disagreeing about policy is one thing – I can respect that and usually don’t choose to write about it. But this? This is a different story.
Of course it’s personal! If you think it isn’t, you don’t know me. And you don’t need to defend me, thank you very much. I’m proud of what I wrote and what’s more, it’s what I believe. And this blog is about what I believe and live every day.
Maisie, you only have to go back to Hitler in the 1930s. So many people stood on the sidelines and said nothing. They thought their silence was enough to absolve them from culpability. But silence equals action and consent. I have lost friends because I have not been silent and they have been mute. I could not live with myself if I didn’t speak up. And don’t worry, Claudia has tons of friends, both online and in the real world more than anyone I know. She will never want for friends. And those she loses because she speaks her heart and mind were never friends she’d want anyway.
Amen, Tina. I couldn’t live with myself if I didn’t speak out. It’s too important.
Claudia, I totally agree with every word !
And, to those who stop reading this blog because of this post – – – I can only ask these two questions . . .
“What are you afraid of?
“The truth?”
I can only think they are, Regina Anne. Either that or they’ve drunk the Kool Aid and truly believe what they believe.
Damn skippy!
Thanks, Melissa!
And then you delete the comments of those that disagree…
Do you see any evidence that I deleted those comments or your comment? I haven’t.
I’m AFRAID of what’s going to happen if she’s in office… We should all be afraid.
You’re entitled to your opinion but I obviously disagree.
So it’s better to have someone in office who doesn’t know the first thing about nuclear weapons or foreign relations or humanity or just politics in general or the million other things he has no clue about when it comes to being President of the United States? Yes I am very afraid.
At least with Hillary in office we won’t have to live with the fear of being attacked by nuclear weapons from another nation.
BRAVO!!!! BRAVO!!!!
Thank you, Belinda.
Your beliefs aren’t the issue. It’s the tone of your post and your apparent distain for those who disagree with you, which surprise me. My goodness, I need to know much more about a person than their political beliefs to go after them like this. I don’t agree with you politically and it has no bearing whatsoever on my enjoyment of your blog and the respect I have for you. For the first time you’ve left me with the impression that you feel that a person is defined solely by their political beliefs. If my impression is wrong, I’m sorry, but it is, after all, mine.
I am a bit puzzled. All that Claudia has stated on this post are things that have been said and done by one and only Donald Trump. All of the things that she has said in this post are absolutely true. I fail to see where she has shown any disdain for anyone that disagrees with her. Just maybe actually seeing the things that this man has said and done in black and white before you you’re not ready to accept the truth. These are not things that Claudia has said. These are simply the words and actions of that man. The truth is the truth. This election absolutely had better be personal to every single American.
And furthermore I am so tired of hearing someone say it’s your tone. Well this blog belongs to Claudia. She can take whatever tone she may choose to because it belongs to her. You as a reader of the blog can easily just not read what has been posted and certainly not comment if you don’t agree.
Thank you Belinda.
I’m all for tolerance but I can’t and won’t tolerate bigotry, racism, sexism or xenophobia.
I’ve not spoken about political beliefs or policy differences. If only it was normal election, I would have been happy to abstain from any posting about it. But this is different. Speaking out is a moral imperative. My disdain is for bigotry, racism, sexism and xenophobia, all of which have been thoroughly exemplified by Trump. And yes, your impression is wrong, but I support your right to express it.
Thank you for sharing your thoughts, Maizie.
A man bragging about sexual assault, past and future, is not a political issue. It is a character issue, a social justice issue, and a criminal issue. How could anyone defend this behavior or this candidate? Who would want someone with his judgement making the most important of decisions? Why in the world would the previous poster think it OK for you to be sickened by his mindset but wrong in expressing your thoughts for fear of offending? I really am very surprised by some of the responses.
I am, too, but I guess I shouldn’t be. If I offend some people, then I’ve probably done my job with this post.
The fact is, I wouldn’t have any friend who thought that way, who worked from fear and hate and thought sexual assault or xenophobia, bigotry, racism or sexism were okay – or, if not okay, were things that person was willing to look past to in order to win an election. That would be what I call a toxic relationship and certainly would cause me to lose respect for that person. How could it go on?
Maisie, what is at stake here in the results of this election is so crucial to the health of this country, world and the environment, you can’t tiptoe around the issues. Claudia won’t say this but I will. If you follow trump, you support hate, racism, fascism, xenophobia, misogyny and the rape of the planet for profit. Because trump is running on the Hate Mandate Express, and I don’t care if I offend those who hopped aboard that toxic train.
Nor do I.
You continue to hit the nail on the head, Claudia.
Thank you, Wendy.
Well said Maisie.
Thank you for sharing your thoughts, Diane.
Well said, appropriate, and appreciated. Thank you.
Thank you Beverly.
It’s snowing like mad here. It might be a good day to “make something mini”.
After watching the first debate, it seems as though the race for the White House has become some sort of classroom brawl. I may not have voted for our current Prime Minister, but at least our last election was more about the platforms of the parties than the personalities.
Interesting reference to Lillian Hellman/McCarthyism. Doesn’t it speak volumes that Roy Cohn was Donald Trump’s lawyer and mentor at one time?
It sure does, Barbara. I knew that, but had forgotten it. Thanks for reminding me. I’d be thrilled to have a debate about policy differences, it would be so refreshing! I’ve never written about previous elections. But this one, I think, demands speaking out. We must.
I agree with Barbara too. Please don’t take this negatively, it’s just my honest opinion but I do find the politics south of our border at times very confusing, with ad campaigns more about the other candidate than the real issues. I know the platforms do come up but it is such a long, drawn out process and I believe the issues do get lost in the personal attacks. At this time, I’m quite liking our current PM and hope that he continues to not just grow into his position but to also continue to listen to all of us, not just some of us. He’ll make errors and it won’t be perfect but I’m impressed he has followed thru on many of his campaign promises. Time will tell but he’s young and eager and committed and that’s refreshing.
Snowing like crazy here too. It’s been a doll house reno day here too!
I find the electoral system in America confusing too. It is undoubtedly more complex than it is here.
(Chy, I suspect we may be neighbours! I live in St. A. and would hazard a guess that you may live in S. County.)
Yes, that is exactly right Barbara. Now how did you figure that out?
I find the politics here very confusing, very misleading and there is far too much time allotted to the election cycle. I agree with you!
Can you imagine how much all of it costs? Wish there was a simpler way to hear the candidates positions and then cast your vote. In Canada, we have a much shorter system that works. Not sure the difference in processes. Thankful it’s almost done for you and that the outcome will be okay in the end.
I like the shorter term, just as in Canada and England. What happens here is that every elected representative or senator is immediately starting their next campaign right after they’ve won. How can they actually be legislating when they’re trying to raise money?
Claudia,
I just say the picture of Don on the roof cleaning the gutters. Please, please don’t let him so this! I understand money is tight. We are in the same boat. But three years ago, my husband was on the roof cleaning out the gutters. As careful as he was, he slipped and fell to the ground and broke his femur in four places. He was in surgery for seven hours while the surgeon put in plates, pins and screws to repair the damaged bone. He spent the next month in the hospital and another three months in rehab. All this to save a few bucks. Oh, and the hospital costs were over $300,000 !!!!!!
Now we hire young, insured guys to do this kind of work. Never again will my sweetie be up on the roof.
I understand your worry and thank you for caring, Vanessa. Our roof is really low and Don is safe up there. The minute it gets to be too much for us, we’ll hire someone. I promise!
Thank you, once again, for writing so succinctly the very thoughts in my head about this person. I truly hesitate to call him a MAN! I cannot believe that our country has come to this low point. So very depressing.
Thanks, Dottie.
Thank you for all the facts, can t argue with those!
I’m just repeating what he’s said and done. That’s it. We have to be honest about this candidate.
All so true that it defies belief…
Yes, indeed.
I agree, this blog post should go viral….enough!
Thanks, Mary.
Thank you! Your list… if Obama had done one of those things, or even any Democrat had- the other party would have taken them down. Such a sad statement about what our 2 party system has become. I am a life long liberal Democrat and I long for the days of Republicans I respect.-Percy, Rockefeller , etc.. At least my anxiety has decreased. I am no longer in as much fear as I was for my grandchildren. But- He has done so much damage to our country. I do not need to go on. You said it all my friend.
Lani
Yes. You’re right. Anyone else would have been shunned – Republican or Democrat. This isn’t about party, it’s about what our country is founded upon.
Oh Claudia! You are marvellous. You have said what I have wished I could say. I just didn’t have the words.
If you lose readers because of this then they aren’t a true reader friend. Sometimes (not in this case) I might not agree with you, but that is why this is a great country. We can say what we want and not be afraid of retaliation.
I look forward to having Hillary in the White House.
Thank you, Trudy.
The truth apparently hurts!! It made me physically sick when I saw the tape for the first time last evening. So sad that it took THIS to become the melting point for some people in their support for him when it should have happened in June of 2015. I actually yelled at the TV last night (about midnight) when he released his “apology”. What a condescending idiot. My hope is that Hillary stands tall tomorrow night and lets him spin himself right into the ground in one of his tizzies all on his own. Silence can sometimes be the best weapon we have. Someone suggested she not even shake his hand. I would support that totally.
As would I, Chris. But I’m betting she will – “We go high.”
I’m giving you a standing ovation for this one! My daughter and l have had many discussions about this and agree there is only one choice…Hillary Clinton.
Thank you, Linda! I know you are enjoying your time with your daughter. xoxo
Thanks so much for your candid post of which I totally agree. Afraid far too many vulnerable people have been brainwashed into believing whatever the almighty says. And, now they are learning maybe he’s not so almighty. Keep up your candidness.
Thank you, Ann.
Claudia
I’ve read your blog for years – and have rarely commented- until now.
I couldn’t stay silent in the face of your bravery.
Thank you for your words, for your conviction and for taking a stand and speaking out.
The consequences of silence in this election are too great.
I truly believe that America is at a crossroads and I, for one, refuse to have the rest of the world believe Trump represents all we are, and hope to be, in our country. He does NOT!
He’s a despicable human being – in every sense, on every issue.
The only thing more disturbing than his presence on the national scene is the knowledge that some people STILL support him.
Heaven help us all!
I agree. The very fact that people still support him is incredibly troubling.
Good post. We must all state the truth as we see it. I am hoping there are more people who are smart and have not bought into his charade. As far as Hillary, people have been subjected to 30 years of propaganda about her and the democrats. I am older than you and I have seen it.
Oh, you must think I’m younger than I am, Jan! I’m going to be 64! I well remember all of it!
I was thinking you were going to write this post when I heard the news last night. How could you not? And how can anyone defend his behavior? Bravo to you for writing this post. I can’t imagine any self respecting woman or man trying to stand up for this kind of behavior. And, the GOP politicians who condemn what he said, but are still planning on voting for him? Inexcusable! He represents the most serious kind of degenerative behavior I think I’ve ever seen in a person running for what should be the most respected position in the United States of America! I awoke this morning…and made a donation to Hillary! ;)
Good for you, Donnamae! Thank you.
I like to read about both candidates before I decide how I am going to vote. On the internet are bad things about both of them. Google “Hillary’s potty mouth” I saw quotes from her secret service men that certainly were not nice. I think both of them have said things that they regret.
Saying something and taking an action, as in Mr. Trump groping someone without permission, are too very different things. The secret service is not in the habit of talking about those they protect. They sign agreements about it. So I would be very wary of anything you read.
As for potty mouth? I hate to admit it, but I have a very salty tongue, though I have never used the word in question. I would never think to equate cussing with actual sexual assault, which is what Mr. Trump has boasted about and has admitted to doing. This isn’t about saying things he regrets, it’s about the way he treats women and how he uses them. It’s sexual assault.
I’m thinking you’re not aware of the whole story, Olivia? It’s not the word he used that has everyone outraged, it’s the action he has described and it’s one he’s proud of.
But of course you should research – good for you!
Wow, Claudia. The other day, I was actually thinking of compiling a list like you have here myself – all the factors I knew that put Trump solidly in the Must-Never-Be-President column. But you have clearly done that work already, and your list is awesome! Not to mention MUCH more complete than mine would have been. THANK YOU for taking the time to do it, and for writing this post. If you don’t mind, I’m saving it. And counting the days until this [second] “long national nightmare” ends. PS – you & Don have a wonderful weekend! 🇺🇸
Go ahead and save it. Of course, after I hit ‘publish’ I remembered many other things, including his insistence that Obama was not born here, thereby trying to delegitimize our first African American President. If people didn’t realize what Trump was made of eight years ago when he started that vile innuendo, then I guess I can see why they’re still willfully ignorant about him.
You got it! This post should be sent to all US newspapers to be posted as an editorial.
We have our HRC sign in front of the house, sticker on the car, pin on the lapel and send campaign donations when we can.
And, yes, we WILL pass judgement on anyone we know that votes for him. We will not associate with those that can somehow support such an evil & hateful man. Let me tell you, my faith is surely being tested! My husband & I have been jokingly saying we probably will never again be able to leave this GREAT liberal state of Massachusetts but we are starting to really think that will be true. We will NEVER EVER spend our $$ in any of those crazy states that support him. Even when (not if) he loses the election. Nope. No way
And Claudia, readers need to remember this is a PERSONAL blog. You can & must write about what you feel, know & believe. Isn’t that the whole point of a personal Blog? There is no right or wrong. This blog is YOU!
Note I didn’t mention his name. Cannot do it.
STAY STRONG AND KEEP THE FAITH. RIGHT ALWAYS TRIUMPHS OVER EVIL!
Luanne
We’re the same way. If someone supports that hateful rhetoric, I don’t want them in my circle of friends.
You stay strong, too, Luanne.
Brava!!! Brava!!!
While epoxied to the television last night waiting for the “apology,” I found myself looking forward to your post today. I had high expectations of you and you’ve met them. Thank you, Claudia, for such an eloquent post.
I’m glad I wrote it. I didn’t know when I would write my ‘final’ post on Trump, but last night’s news did the trick. When I woke up this morning, I knew it was the day. I don’t care if I offended anyone. I write from my heart – always. Thanks, Margaret.
It was only yesterday evening when turning on TV that I learned about these Trump comments with the open mic. Hearing it (his voice), not just reading it, turned my stomach. This really got me: “I apologize if anyone was offended.” If? IF? Who wouldn’t be?
I know – IF? Unbelievable!
Claudia, you have my undying appreciation and admiration for this post.
Thank you, Carolyn Marie.
Absolutely spot on post! The list was so long, I’m trying to remember if you included the fact he spent years as Birther-In-Chief, something of which he’s said many times he was “proud.” At this point, I think the only ones still voting for him are suffering from “Hillary Derangement Syndrome,” a close cousin to “Obama Derangement Syndrome.”
When I heard Michael Chertoff, the Bush II official who led the investigations into all the Clinton fake scandals (think Whitewater) in the nineties, say on NPR he was voting for Hillary, that to me was mindboggling. He actually admitted the right wasted time and energy on this stuff when they should have been concentrating on Bin Laden and the Middle East. That the right compromised the safety of the country by focusing on this stuff. The AM radio hate talk then proceeded to keep the Hillary hate alive for decades. If the Trump backers can’t get out of their bubble to take the time to educate themselves about what is and isn’t true about Clinton before they cast their vote, then they deserve the country they end up with. I have absolutely no patience for this “lesser of two evils” stuff.
Well done, Claudia.
No, I didn’t realize until after I had published it that I forgot the most obvious thing – Birther-in-Chief! I could have smacked myself upside the head!
I detest the ‘lesser of two evils’ statements, as well. Really??? It’s a false equivalency. It’s completely ridiculous!
You told the truth; how can anyone fault you for that? When I was reading this post earlier today, I was so upset and outraged by that one particular comment that I had leave the blog. To accuse you of hatred while defending a cretin who has endlessly spewed vicious hate is more than an intelligent person can tolerate. Whether his followers are ignorant or perverse enough to condone his actions, either prospect is appalling and speak of a darkness that cannot be ignored, You speak for me and I am grateful to you for that……..My best wishes to you and Don……Dianne
I wasn’t happy about it either, but I put it down to someone writing who is a Trump supporter and doesn’t like what I had to say, therefore accuses me of exactly what Trump is all about. I could be wrong, of course. I often am. I know that I’m not at all the person she described.
Thank you, Dianne.
A fair well written blog Claudia do not allow anyone say that you are so ‘biased’ against Donald Trump! You have merely list a few of things that this man has said and done. If he is so wonderful why would he have a list at all that contains such abhorrent comments and opinions?. On another note I cleaned out our gutters ready for a very hot summer to come! I love your blog as you are across the world from me! Hugs and love to you and Don. Janine, South Australia
How can the truth be biased?
Thanks so much for your support Janine. Summer is coming for you and winter is coming for me!
I really thought you were a kindred spirit. It saddens me that your blog has become political. I will not be reading it any longer. Wishing you a blessed life.
I hardly think 4 posts about this election makes this blog a political blog, especially given the fact that I write a post 365 days a year. That means that 361 posts are not about politics. You figure the math.
Your choice of course; I write about being anti-hunting, anti-animal abuse, animal rights, being a vegetarian, bullying, feminism, and a whole host of other topics. Sounds like you’re not all that familiar with the blog and your complaint stems from the fact that you disagree with me, rather than it being a ‘political’ blog – which is, of course, your right.
I have been following you for over 7 years and I have read every post on your blog. I do disagree with your rant about Trump, However, if it had been towards Clinton I would have disagreed with that, also.
It was a list, not a rant.
Kathy, I never answered your second comment. I’m sorry if this kind of post is upsetting to you. But I don’t apologize for writing what I feel in my heart.
I wish you all the best. Truly.
Claudia is a kindred spirit. You can be passionate about a cause and yet retain your kindness and humanity. Claudia does both beautifully.
xoxo
You are my hero! Thank you for speaking your mind and sharing your opinions, and for your wonderful book reviews!
You’re welcome, Liz. Thank you.
Well, my friend, what can I add that you haven’t presented so succinctly and brilliantly. Nothing. I rank this up there with “Kindness Matters.”
Thank you, Tina. That is high praise from you. And thank you for defending me so eloquently.
Well my sister you are indeed my hero once again. For those people who are leaving your blog because they disagree with you, wish them well and move on. This is your blog, you write about your life and this is a huge part about your life, as it should be for everyone. This is our reality in the United States, but it also affects those around the world. Simply listing not even all that he has said and done is not making anything up, creating any fiction, this is all true. For those offended all they need to do is fact check and they will see it all there in black and white. How anyone would think his behavior and beliefs are okay is beyond me, how any woman, mother, sister, aunt, daughter or friend could think this is acceptable is mind blowing. Wake up, what he says and has said will be the the reality of our life is he is elected. We will all be living in a world I want no part of.
Meredith
Ah, but they won’t fact check, will they? Because then they’d have to face the truth. We’ve seen the unwillingness to research and check facts throughout this election. Ignorance is NOT bliss.
Thank you, dear sister and fellow passionate pleader for truth. xoxo
Claudia, THANK YOU for writing your thoughts in your blog! It means so much to me! I have to hold in my questions about politics because I will get someone angry in my family or my friends.
And THANK YOU for writing this post! This is a crazy election year and I wonder how we and history will look back on this election outcome and and the following years.
Hugs,
Lottie
I think those who look back on what this election has become will not be kind. Thank you, Lottie.
Thank you for writing this, Claudia. I couldn’t agree more.
By the way, my favorite thing about your blog is the variety of topics….your garden, your cottage, books, collections, the environment…….
Your posts are always interesting !
Thank you so much, Sherry.
Aside from everything you posted on your blog today , which is right on and to a tee. The average 7 year old could speak and give a speech more eloquently than that guy. He never finishes his sentences. And he wants us to “believe him” cause “he hears things” that other people say. And Claudia, I will not stop reading your blog because you post of current events. And folks this is a time to think and reflect on what needs to be done this November. These are just my thoughts. Thank you Claudia.
Thank you very much, Genevieve. And I agree, my 5 year old nephew is more articulate than Trump!
I’m just amazed that so many people idolize him! He’s proved he’s unfit to be the leader of the free world every time he’s opened his mouth. I just shake my head in disbelief that he has gotten to this point. I am a nervous wreck that he might actually win this election. As a deeply patriotic person, the thought of him in the White House truly freaks me out. And his puppet wife who thinks it’s okay to pose nude – as our First Lady? Shock and disbelief. At any rate, good for you to call these truths to your reader’s attention.
I am a nervous wreck too, Teresa! I don’t think I will be able to take a deep breath until November 8th and that will happen only if Hillary is elected President. Thanks so much.
Well said!
Thank you, Joan.
Thank you for publishing this, Claudia.
You are most welcome, Nancy.
So sorry I am late for today or am I early for tomorrow?…I feel like I have just jumped into a fire..albeit a needed and necessary one…Thank you, Claudia for your list of Trump transgressions…and thank you ladies who jumped into the fire to support her…Although his talk with Billy Bush is no more than I would expect from him…It just proves that money cannot buy you class…Claudia..I know that you would have spoken out about this no matter who would have said it…If there are any women out there who are not offended by this sort of talk and you still want to support this…person…you had better take a look at your daughters, granddaughters, step daughters, etc…and think of what kind of future you want for them….better yet ask them what they want for themselves……
I agree, Nancy. What woman can support this man when he speaks so disparagingly of women? Unbelievable.
Amen, Claudia, amen. Thank you for this post! I can’t fathom what people are thinking that support this despicable man…. It is sad, truly beyond sad – it is tragic!
Thank you, Lily!
Thank you Claudia! I love that you put all this out there in such a way that anyone can understand. When shown all at once like this it’s hard to believe hat anyone thinks this guy should lead our country. Tina is right, he is on the Hate Express. I’m so sad that so many people think this man is the one to solve our nation’s problems. He never talks about actual issues or gives any ideas on how he would handle them. Instead, like a kid in a school yard, he calls his opponents names…..losers, dopey, stupid and other childish taunts. The other BIG lie he’s perpetuated is the “birther” movement. He blames Hillary for starting it. This guy is just unbelievable and I cannot understand why people think he would help this country. Help us do what exactly?
I know! He turns around and blames Hillary Clinton for something he started long ago. There’s no end to his deceptions, is there? Thank you, Brenda.
Thanks Claudia for the awesome post. I think anyone in their right mind would not even consider electing Donald Trump. He’s a despicable human being a bully. I wonder what the Founding Fathers are thinking? We can only hope that the election will show the true conscience of the American people. I pray for that result since the alternative is heart breaking.
It would indeed by heartbreaking, Noelle. Thank you!
You put it well. I just saw Ben Stein on SUNDAY morning pleaing for his party to dump Trump. Im not afraid of a Republican president. Many have surprised me. IE: I didnt vote for George Bush but he was a leader on 9/11. Im a Democrat whose afraid of Trump. Not a Democrat afraid of a Republican.
I pray for our Nation.
Exactly. It’s not because he’s a Republican. Although I fault the Republican Party for supporting him and enabling him. Thanks, Kathy.