This article contains a partial record of discussions at the Current Events Club on April 17. Its objective is to encourage attendance at meetings, which occur every Tuesday at 10:30 a.m. in Drendel Ballroom.
James Comey’s book and TV interview with George Stephanoupolous received attention. People who saw the interview felt Comey came across as self-serving. Most people panned his performance. One member did point out the exposure would help with book sales.
The raid on Michael Cohen’s effects was viewed as the beginning of the end for Trump’s presidency. It is doubtful that the special prosecutor will ever find evidence of “Russia collusion” but an examination of Trump’s past business and other dealings will probably find “dirt.”
The consensus view about Trump pardoning Scooter Libby seemed to be that it was intended to be a signal to others to not reveal damaging information about the president. After all, he’d have their back. Members did point out that the president can only issue pardons for federal crimes.
Several members were critical of Sean Hannity for not having mentioned the client/lawyer relationship with Cohen. Others felt this was a trivial issue, given the substance and amount of legal advice Cohen provided Hannity.
A question was raised about James Comey drafting a letter of exoneration before the FBI had even interviewed Hillary Clinton about the email scandal. This would seem to be critical information regarding the alleged FBI collusion to help her. Surprisingly, the members did not care.
The members, once again, tried to understand the bromance Mr. Trump has with Vladimir Putin. UN ambassador Nikki Haley announced new sanctions would be implemented against Russia. Next day, Trump canceled them. If you think you know why, come to the next meeting and fill in the members on this topic.
The very low box office interest in the movie Chappaquiddick came up. Many members said they would not care to see the movie because they were aware of the facts when they played out. Furthermore, nobody could come up with a good reason why this movie was even made.
It was pointed out that Mr. Trump makes, or rather made, a lot of money from the licensing of his name. Think Trump steaks, Trump vodka, Trump ties, Trump shirts, etc. The associated business are severing the relationship as quickly as possible. Of the 19 that existed when he was elected, only two remain.
The projected impact of the tax “reform” on the taxes to be paid by us was discussed. Because of the several changes that were made, you will receive a lower tax bill next year if you do not itemize. If you itemize, it is most probable that you will have to pay more next year. Of course, if you are very rich, the new brackets and rates will save you money because their impact will overwhelm the effect of deductions.
Other items were discussed. You had to be there.
