Republicans lost the courage to stand up to Russia

[struggle4progress]

Steve Chapman

If there has been any defining trait among modern Republicans, it's their ingrained distrust of Russia. For decades, the GOP made a habit of accusing its opponents of being weak-kneed and gullible about Moscow's intentions. If Donald Trump had been elected president as a Democrat, they would be painting him as the most craven appeaser since Neville Chamberlain.

But he was elected as a Republican, which has required some reorientation in the GOP. A lot of Republican voters have simply turned their worldview upside down. One recent poll found that only 1 in 4 thinks Russia should be treated mainly as a threat — with two-thirds preferring warmer ties.

... many Republicans who should have been objecting couldn't bring themselves to speak up. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell and House Speaker Paul Ryan were practically mute. When asked if the news was cause for concern, Sen. Bob Corker, chairman of the Foreign Relations Committee, said, "No."

... Many .. are just hoping Trump and those around him are not obviously guilty of major felonies ...

http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/opinion/chapman/ct-trump-russia-republicans-chapman-perspec-0716-20170714-column.html

[shraby]

1. One reason I contend that the RNC was hacked also. That material being held for blackmail purposes.

[jaysunb]

2. +1 n/t

[GeoWilliam750]

3. Only one man's vote in the United States actually matters at this point

And that belongs to Rupert Murdoch.

The question is, "Why does Rupert Murdoch so tirelessly support the Russian side of the narrative?"

His ex-wife, now very cozy with the oligarchs (and potentially Putin himself), introduced Ivanka to Jared, as well.

[Skittles]

4. THEY ARE COMPLICIT WITH RUSSIA