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Bruce Brittain's avatar

As a uniformed veteran of the Army, 1969-1972, I became an ardent “never Trumper” with his comments about John McCain in 2015. I’m still gobsmacked that any veteran who lost friends and/or family in combat (as I have) would ever, ever, think DJT (aka, Pvt. Bonespurs) qualified to be Commander in Chief. Gobsmacked!

Joe Klein's avatar

Thank you, Bruce. Your emotional knowledge of what this is all about is far too rare in our society.

Bruce Brittain's avatar

Thank you, Joe. I remain concerned for our Democratic Republic because so many of our voters are clearly media illiterate. It’s the only way that veterans, who should know better about DJT, are swept up in the MAGA world. Very disappointing.

Lucian K. Truscott IV's avatar

Strong. Another good one.

Rich Sternhell's avatar

Thank you for speaking out to defend these brave patriots. I remember well the time during our awful adventure in Vietnam when returning soldiers like John Kerry and Lucian Truscott were vilified for bringing home the truth about that horrific war. These representatives are of an honorable tradition and we need to stand up and honor their courage and patriotism.

Gerard Smith's avatar

When the constitution was being written the concept of Checks and Balances was the secret sauce. We are never going to have a King again. The new system will curb any future nonsence.

250 years later, on top of Checks and Balances are countless regulations. Let me make it clear, once Congress was established, an ongoing system was created, that doesnt know when to stop.

Its very design and function is to create never ending obstacles to everything. New laws and regulations pile on top of each other. They have to justify their salaries by doing something so you need a permit for everything. Outcome paralysis. So every year, hundred of fast boats with 4 massive outboards, race to bring drugs into the United States. Using the Joe Klein justice system they all have to be politely asked to stop. If not we will arrest you and proceed on a 7 year legal trial with countless appeals funded by drug money, to ascertain, should you be doing this. Outcome, paralysis and thousands of overdose deaths. To the hundreds of drug runners, ask them today are you still interested in drug running? Not anymore. Mission accomplished. No paralysis.

Could suppossed illegal orders sometimes work wonders?

Curtis Chase's avatar

There is a governmental agency dedicated to intercepting those fast boats - it is called the Coast Guard. My brother in law was captain of the Key West and Miami stations, among other postings, and is among those who exhibit astonishing (and quiet) competence and sobriety. They have done a great job despite being starved for funds under several Administrations. So, no, there is no need for the drama Queen antics of Trump, Hegseth and Noem, which does nothing but put Americans abroad at risk. Respect for the rule of law has served this country well, and the Reubpublican abandonment of it (and, yeah, some Dems are falling into the same trap) is putting us all in danger. With Honor Republicans, step up.

Michael Kupperburg's avatar

Very much appreciate your take on Clausewitz.