Author: Stop the Donald Trump

Trump’s Disturbing Push for Indefinite Presidency Undermines Democracy

President Donald Trump has again trivialized the boundaries of presidential terms, recently joking to FIFA President Gianni Infantino about extending his presidency until the 2026 World Cup in North America. This comment reflects a disturbing propensity for Trump to flout democratic norms and hint at a desire for an authoritarian permanence in power.

During a public interaction with Infantino, Trump facetiously suggested that he would require an extension of his second term, implying that the press and public would not object. This incident is not isolated; Trump has previously made light of the concept of staying in office longer than is constitutionally permitted, showcasing a troubling disregard for the democratic process and rule of law.

In May, Trump endorsed an idea put forth by Jerry Falwell Jr., a prominent evangelical leader, who proposed that he should have his term extended due to a politically motivated investigation into his campaign’s ties to Russia. This rhetoric undermines the integrity of elections and promotes a narrative of victimhood among Trump supporters, further emboldening his autocratic tendencies.

Trump’s past comments, including his admiration for Chinese President Xi Jinping’s unlimited term and his musings about remaining in office for “10 or 14 years,” reveal a frightening ambivalence towards democratic principles. These statements raise concerns that extend beyond mere joking; they reflect a deeper agenda to normalize the idea of an indefinite presidency.

While Trump’s remarks are cloaked in humor, they evoke genuine concern among Democrats and political analysts alike, who fear that he may not accept the outcome of the 2024 election should it entail his removal from office. Such sentiments reiterate the necessity of defending democracy against figures like Trump, whose cavalier approach to presidential limits poses a real threat to American governance.

(h/t: https://www.politico.com/story/2019/09/09/trump-jokes-extended-term-2024-1486897)

Trump Calls Himself ‘Chosen One’ and Insults Jewish Voters

President Donald Trump has proclaimed himself as the “chosen one” during a recent discussion regarding his ongoing trade war with China. Speaking to reporters outside the White House, Trump dramatically looked up at the sky and asserted his self-importance in the confrontation with Beijing. He indicated that the trade war was a necessary action that previous presidents should have undertaken, distancing himself from any personal responsibility.

Trump’s comments came in a context that highlighted not only his arrogance but also an unsettling theme of religious self-aggrandizement. Hours prior, he had tweeted that Jewish people in Israel see him as akin to “the King of Israel” and even compared himself to “the second coming of God.” This flagrant misuse of religious rhetoric aligns with historical patterns of Trump employing inflammatory language to rally support and deflect criticism, particularly against those who oppose him.

His claims about the trade war have sparked rising concerns regarding the economic implications of his tariffs. The Trump administration has implemented significant financial penalties, including 25% tariffs on $250 billion worth of Chinese goods, with plans for an additional 10% tariff on $300 billion of imports set to take effect soon. Such measures threaten to destabilize the economy while serving as a distraction from his administration’s inadequacies.

Moreover, Trump’s notion of being the “chosen one” signifies a troubling trend among Republicans who frequently elevate their leaders to quasi-mythical status. This elevation not only undermines democratic principles but also encourages a cult-like worship among his supporters that could threaten the very fabric of American governance and civil discourse.

Furthermore, utilizing divisive language suggesting disloyalty among Jewish voters who choose to support Democrats backs Trump’s regressive agenda. His actions and words not only sow discord but equally spotlight the ethical and moral bankruptcy prevalent in Republican politics, undermining democracy in a national landscape too often shaped by privilege and power.

(h/t: https://www.businessinsider.com/trump-looked-at-sky-said-hes-chosen-one-china-2019-8)

Trump Cancels Non-Existent Trip To Demark After Their Leader Laughs At Him

Donald Trump candidly demonstrated his self-centered approach to foreign diplomacy when he abruptly announced the cancellation of his planned state visit to Denmark. This decision came after Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen labeled Trump’s desire to purchase Greenland as “absurd.” The American president, known for his fragile ego, reacted to her comments with outrage rather than fostering diplomatic dialogue.

Previously, Trump had invited himself to Denmark, a stark reflection of his disregard for traditional diplomatic etiquette. Following the rejection of his Greenland proposal, he escalated the situation by retaliating against the Danish leader, further straining relations with an important ally. This incident underscores Trump’s habitual pattern of impulsive and reactionary behavior in international politics.

Frederiksen’s response to Trump’s suggestion was not merely a personal affront but rather a justified resistance against imperialistic demands that lack foundation in mutual respect. Trump’s offensive language, including branding the prime minister as “nasty,” reveals an alarming trend of disrespect toward female leaders and highlights the toxic masculinity that often characterizes his communication style.

The fallout from this diplomatic spat was not just personal; it resonated across the political landscape, with his actions showcasing the potential for drastic miscalculations in U.S. foreign policy. Under Trump, the United States has seen its relationships with democratic nations deteriorate while cozying up to authoritarian figures, a worrying shift indicative of the present Republican regime’s values.

Ultimately, Trump’s impetuousness and insensitivity signify a damaging precedent for American diplomacy. He prioritizes personal pride over international collaboration, reflecting a broader trend of Republican politics, which often favors divisiveness over unity and self-interest over genuine governance. This is emblematic of a political era that undermines the foundational principles of democracy and global cooperation.

(h/t: https://www.thedailybeast.com/trump-invited-himself-to-denmark-before-canceling-trip-danes-say/?via=twitter_page)

Trump’s Delusional Quest for a Forever Presidency Threatens American Democracy

During a recent rally in Montoursville, Pennsylvania, President Trump expressed a delusional vision of a potential fifth term in office, purposefully sidestepping the constitutional limits established by the 22nd Amendment, which prohibits anyone from serving more than two terms. His statement, “If we really like it a lot — and things keep going like they’re going — we’ll do what we have to do: we’ll do a three and a four and a five,” blatantly disregards democratic principles and highlights his autocratic ambitions.

While attempting to rally support, Trump utilized typical Republican rhetoric to attack Democrats, labeling them “socialist wackos” and claiming their policies would harm rural communities. His absurd assertions included accusations of supporting “lax immigration enforcement” and the “destruction of the Second Amendment.” These statements not only misconstrue the opposition’s policies but also aim to incite fear among his followers, diverting attention from the genuine issues facing American society.

Trump’s rally also served as a platform to claim credit for programs he did not create, including the Veterans Choice initiative initially established under President Obama. By misrepresenting facts, Trump reinforces a personal narrative that positions him as a champion of American values, while in reality, he is perpetuating misinformation to consolidate power.

As the 2020 election approaches, Trump’s actions and rhetoric reveal a pattern of behavior aligned with fascistic principles. By undermining trust in democratic institutions and promoting unilateral political narratives, he is creating a divide that jeopardizes the fabric of American democracy. Additionally, local Republican figures continue to support his vision, further illustrating the party’s descent into authoritarianism.

In summary, Trump’s calls for a potential “forever presidency” reflect a profound disregard for democratic norms and an unsettling ambition for absolute power. His repeated attempts to consolidate support in pivotal states like Pennsylvania, marked by falsehoods and inflammatory rhetoric, exemplify the dangers posed by his administration and the Republican Party’s complicity in this troubling trajectory.

(h/t: https://www.cbsnews.com/news/donald-trump-rally-pennsylvania-today-watch-live-stream-speech-montoursville-2019-05-20-live-updates/)

Trump’s NLRB Appointments Threaten Labor Rights

The U.S. Senate committee has approved two nominees to the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) as part of President Donald Trump’s ongoing strategy to reshape labor policies. Marvin Kaplan and William Emanuel, both of whom have records opposing union interests, are poised to gain seats on the five-member board. Their confirmation would establish a Republican majority that could reverse pro-labor rulings implemented during the Obama administration.

Under previous leadership, the NLRB made significant strides in favor of workers, including easier pathways for union formation and protections against mandatory arbitration agreements. These changes were crucial for enhancing worker rights in sectors like fast food and education, where union representation had dwindled.

Emanuel, a long-time lawyer for management-side employment law firms, has been accused of aggressively defending companies against worker rights claims. His clients have included major corporations facing allegations of labor violations, raising concerns about his potential conflicts of interest when adjudicating labor disputes.

Kaplan has similarly been criticized for his legislative efforts aimed at undermining the NLRB’s authority, including attempts to repeal rules that facilitate quicker union elections. These actions signal a broader trend under Trump’s administration that prioritizes corporate interests over labor rights.

As Trump continues to appoint individuals with anti-labor histories, the implications for organized labor could be severe, potentially stifling workers’ ability to unionize and weakening existing labor protections. The upcoming Senate confirmation vote will determine whether these nominees will reshape the NLRB’s direction further.

Trump Proposes to Weaken Apprenticeships

The Trump administration is advancing a proposal that could significantly weaken apprenticeship programs in the United States. The U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) has introduced a framework for a new category of apprenticeships known as Industry Recognized Apprenticeship Programs (IRAPs). This initiative raises concerns regarding the quality and integrity of apprenticeship training.

Historically, Registered Apprenticeships have been recognized for their rigorous standards, combining paid on-the-job training with classroom instruction. These programs, which have been federally regulated, achieve better outcomes for participants, with median annual earnings around $60,000. However, the new IRAP framework, which could be implemented without oversight from the DOL, may dilute these standards.

Under the proposed system, IRAPs would not adhere to the established guidelines that ensure quality training and fair labor practices. Certification could be granted by various third-party entities, leading to inconsistencies and potential exploitation of apprentices. This shift has drawn criticism from labor advocates, including the Center for Law and Social Policy (CLASP), which argues that it could exacerbate existing disparities in access to quality training, particularly among underrepresented groups.

Critics of the IRAP system contend that it reflects a misguided solution to non-existent problems within the Registered Apprenticeship framework. The existing model has seen significant federal investment aimed at expanding access and improving equity. The DOL’s pivot toward IRAPs is seen as a departure from efforts to enhance the quality and accessibility of traditional apprenticeships.

The IRAP proposal also raises concerns about potential conflicts of interest, as third-party certifiers could both create and oversee their training programs. This could undermine accountability and lead to a proliferation of low-quality apprenticeship opportunities. Additionally, the new framework may exempt apprentices from vital labor protections, further jeopardizing their rights and earning potential.

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