REPUBLICANS: Masters of deception

Which is it, Republicans? Trump did nothing wrong, or he extorted Ukraine using taxpayer money and governmental agencies to help in his re-election?

Those who still say “nothing wrong” may think otherwise after hearing Bolton’s details of Trump’s true words and actions. Those who say Trump did wrong, but should not be impeached, cannot impose a proper remedy without Bolton’s details. Without that testimony, Republicans say that the president’s corruption (thus America’s corruption) was only inappropriate or not artful. It seems that there will not even be a censure. I am sure Trump feels the Republicans’ wrath and will mend his ways.

In the meantime, the Democratic candidates can say: “China, if you’re listening, I am concerned about American citizens corrupting your intellectual property laws. If you announce an investigation of Ivanka Trump’s abnormal receipt of trademarks, and money paid to Trump’s family business, you will be rewarded mightily by the press. If I am elected president, I can arrange better trade terms for both countries. Just remember that there is no connection between your announcement and better trade terms. No quid pro quo.”

Republicans (Trumplicans?) continually remain silent or distort reality such that the American people do not know what Trump actually says and does. This new approach of deception goes well beyond the traditional spinning of facts as practiced by both parties.

Republicans should have heard from Bolton to avoid dishonor to their party and our country.

DENNIS REUTER

Coeur d’Alene