John Ratcliffe as a Director of National Intelligence Nominee John Ratcliffe as a Director of National Intelligence Nominee
He was loyal to Trump, thus the White House was sure He was right for the post he’d be getting. But his résumé, even when padded, was thin. They persist in forgetting the vetting.
Aug 13, 2019 / Column / Calvin Trillin
Go Back Where You Came From: A Coincidence Go Back Where You Came From: A Coincidence
One reason the Donald is so insecure— One reason he brags and he preens— Is swells in Manhattan told him, in effect, “Go back where you came from—that’s Queens.” They wouldn’t acc…
Jul 30, 2019 / Column / Calvin Trillin
Approval Rating Approval Rating
“Trump’s approval rating has risen to the highest point in his presidency…according to a Washington Post-ABC News poll.”—Front page, The Washington Post “Accounts from a child dete…
Jul 16, 2019 / Column / Calvin Trillin
Foreign-Policy Decision Making Foreign-Policy Decision Making
Conflicting views are heard. The mood is tense. Around the president advisers cluster. But at the end he sticks to his approach— His formula of ignorance plus bluster.
Jul 2, 2019 / Column / Calvin Trillin
L’État, C’est Moi L’État, C’est Moi
Trump intends to speak at the traditionally nonpartisan Fourth of July celebration on the Mall.—news reports Though past presidents never inserted themselves In this fete, Donald T…
Jun 18, 2019 / Column / Calvin Trillin
White House Stonewall White House Stonewall
Subpoenas harass us. We throw them away. More witch hunt! We cannot abide it. We’ve said all along we’ve got nothing to hide, And that’s why we’re trying to hide it.
Jun 4, 2019 / Column / Calvin Trillin
Rudy Cancels His Trip Rudy Cancels His Trip
He isn’t going to Ukraine. Alas. We hoped and prayed in vain That he would go and then explain That there he wanted to remain.
May 17, 2019 / Column / Calvin Trillin
Zelensky’s Victory Zelensky’s Victory
A brash comedian will lead Ukraine. He won the presidential vote hands down. Among world leaders, this may be a first, Although our leader’s often called a clown.
May 2, 2019 / Column / Calvin Trillin
William Barr’s Handling of the Mueller Report William Barr’s Handling of the Mueller Report
He had the résumé and name For which such DC lawyers strive. The headline of his life has changed. It’s “William Barr; He Took a Dive.”…
Apr 29, 2019 / Column / Calvin Trillin
Welcome Herman Cain Welcome Herman Cain
The late-night comics make it plain They’re thrilled to have back Herman Cain— Reminding us of days more sane, When folks like Herman would campaign For posts we knew they’d not ob…
Apr 22, 2019 / Column / Calvin Trillin